INSPIRE Scholarship (SHE) 2026: Application Guide, Eligibility & Benefits for Science Students
Explore the INSPIRE Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE). Learn about eligibility for the top 1% board performers, ₹80,000 annual grant, and application proce
The Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research (INSPIRE) Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE) is a flagship program of the Department of Science and Technology (DST). Designed to attract talented youth to study basic and natural sciences at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels, this scheme provides substantial financial support to meritorious students pursuing careers in research and innovation.
What is this scheme?
The INSPIRE Scholarship (SHE) is a component of the INSPIRE program aimed at providing financial assistance to students in the age group of 17-22 years. It offers 12,000 scholarships annually to meritorious students who are among the top 1% of their respective Class 12 board examinations and are pursuing courses in Natural and Basic Sciences. The scholarship supports students from BSc/BS/MS/MSc programs for a maximum period of five years.
Who is eligible?
- Must be a citizen of India.
- Student must be within the age group of 17-22 years.
- Must be among the top 1% of successful candidates in the Class 12 Board Examination (State or Central).
- Must be enrolled in a regular course in Natural or Basic Sciences at the BSc, BS, or Integrated MS/MSc level.
- Students who have secured ranks in JEE (Main or Advanced), NEET (AIPMT), and are pursuing Basic Sciences are also eligible.
- KVPY, NTSE, JBNSTS scholars and International Olympiad medalists pursuing undergraduate courses in Natural Sciences.
How much money?
The scholarship value is ₹80,000 per annum. This includes a cash scholarship of ₹60,000 (₹5,000 per month) and a summer mentorship grant of ₹20,000 for research projects.
Documents needed
- Passport size photograph
- Class 12 Markshet (Mandatory)
- Class 10 Marksheet/Certificate (for DOB proof)
- Endorsement Form signed by the Head of the Institution
- Eligibility Note/Advisory Note (if provided by the Board)
- Certificate specifying Rank or Award (for JEE/NEET/KVPY/Olympiad applicants)
- Aadhar Card
- Bank Passbook linked with Aadhar
How to apply (step by step)
- Register on the official INSPIRE online portal (online-inspire.gov.in).
- Login using the generated credentials and navigate to the 'Scholarship' link.
- Fill in all personal, academic, and enrollment details accurately.
- Upload scanned copies of all required documents in the specified format (PDF/JPEG).
- Download the Endorsement Form, get it signed by your College Principal/Director/Registrar, and upload it.
- Review the application carefully and click on the 'Submit' button.
- Take a printout of the submitted application for future reference.
Important dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opening Date | As per latest notification, verify on official portal |
| Last Date to Apply | As per latest notification, verify on official portal |
| Release of Cut-off/Selection List | As per latest notification, verify on official portal |
Conclusion
The INSPIRE Scholarship (SHE) is a transformative opportunity for science enthusiasts to pursue their academic dreams without financial constraints. By supporting the top talent in the country, the DST ensures a steady pipeline of researchers who will contribute to India's scientific growth. Eligible students should keep a close watch on the official portal and prepare their documents well in advance to ensure a smooth application process.
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