INSPIRE Scholarship SHE 2026: Apply for BSc/MSc Support
- Published 14 September 2026
- Last updated Updated 2 hours ago
- 5 min read
- students
- 0 views
Complete guide to INSPIRE Scholarship (SHE) for science students. Check eligibility, ₹80,000 annual benefit, and application steps on the official portal.
The Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research (INSPIRE) scholarship is a flagship program by the Department of Science and Technology (DST). It specifically targets meritorious students pursuing basic and natural science courses at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
Designed to attract young talent toward scientific research, the Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE) component provides significant financial backing. If you are a top-tier student in your Class 12 boards, this scheme offers a pathway to sustain your academic journey without financial hurdles.
Info
This scheme is administered by Department of Science and Technology (DST), Ministry of Science and Technology. Applications are accepted only through the official portal.
What is this scheme?
The INSPIRE Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE) is a competitive national-level program aimed at students aged 17 to 22 years. It focuses on subjects like Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Biology, and other natural sciences. The program ensures that students who have performed exceptionally well in their board exams or competitive tests like JEE and NEET (within specific ranks) continue their education in science.
Unlike general scholarships, INSPIRE SHE includes a unique mentorship component. Recipient students are expected to undertake research projects under the guidance of established scientists. This hands-on experience bridges the gap between classroom learning and active scientific innovation, fostering a culture of research in India.
Objective
The scheme aims to attract meritorious youth to study basic sciences at the bachelor's and master's levels. It seeks to build a critical human resource pool for strengthening the Indian science and technology system.
Key features
- Annual scholarship for 5 years or until course completion.
- Performance-based renewal every academic year.
- Includes a mandatory summer research project component.
- Open to top 1% performers in Class 12 board examinations.
- Covers a wide range of Basic and Natural Science subjects.
Financial benefits
Eligible students receive a total of ₹80,000 per year. This includes a monthly stipend of ₹5,000 and an annual mentorship grant of ₹20,000 for research projects.
| Benefit | Amount |
|---|---|
| Annual Scholarship Amount | ₹60,000 |
| Summer Research Mentorship | ₹20,000 |
| Total Annual Benefit | ₹80,000 |
Who is eligible?
- Must be within the top 1% of successful candidates in Class 12 board exams.
- Must be enrolled in a regular BSc, BS, or Integrated MSc/MS program.
- Age must be between 17 and 22 years at the time of application.
- Top 10,000 rankers in JEE (Main), JEE (Advanced), or NEET (AIPMT) are eligible.
- Students of KVPY, NTSE, JBNSTS, and International Olympiad medalists qualify.
- Course must be in Natural or Basic sciences (e.g., Physics, Geology, Statistics).
Required documents
- ☑ Class 12 Marksheet
- ☑ Class 10 Certificate (for DOB)
- ☑ Endorsement Certificate signed by College Principal/Director
- ☑ Eligibility Note/Advisory Note from Board
- ☑ Aadhaar Card
- ☑ Caste Certificate (if applicable)
Tip
Keep scanned copies (PDF/JPG, under 200 KB each) ready before you start the online form.
How to apply — step by step
- Visit the official INSPIRE online portal and click on 'New User Registration'.
- Enter your basic details to generate a User ID and Password.
- Log in and fill out the SHE application form with academic information.
- Upload scanned copies of all required documents in the specified format.
- Download the Endorsement Certificate and get it signed by your HOD or Principal.
- Review all entered data and submit the application online.
- Print a copy of the submitted application for your personal records.
Important dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Start Date | As per latest notification, verify on official portal |
| Application Deadline | As per latest notification, verify on official portal |
Important
Deadline: applications close on As per latest notification, verify on official portal. Apply well before the last date — portals get slow on the final day.
Important links
| Resource | Link |
|---|---|
| Official INSPIRE Portal | Official INSPIRE Portal |
| DST Official Website | DST Official Website |
| Helpline | 0120-4676260 |
| inspire.prog-dst@nic.in |
Conclusion
The INSPIRE SHE scholarship is a prestigious opportunity for Indian students to pursue their passion for science without financial constraints. By providing both a stipend and research exposure, the DST empowers the next generation of scientists. Ensure you meet the board cut-offs and keep your documentation ready for the next application cycle. Stay updated on the latest government schemes, deadlines, and eligibility criteria by signing up for the YojanaRadar newsletter today to never miss an opportunity for your academic growth.
Good to know
Track this and hundreds of other government schemes automatically — create your free YojanaRadar profile and get alerts before every deadline.
Comments (0)
Sign up to join the conversation.