Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojana (KVPY): Eligibility, Fellowship Amount, and Selection Process
Explore full details about the KVPY fellowship including eligibility criteria, monthly stipends up to ₹7,000, and how the scheme has integrated with INSPIRE for
The Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojana (KVPY) was established by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, to encourage students to pursue research careers in the Basic Sciences. For years, it has served as a prestigious platform for identifying scientific talent at the school and undergraduate levels. While there have been recent administrative shifts in how the fellowship is administered (merging with the INSPIRE program), it remains a primary benchmark for excellence in the Indian scientific community.
What is this scheme?
KVPY is a national-level fellowship program designed to provide financial support and mentorship to students with a high aptitude for scientific research. Traditionally managed by the Indian Institute of Science (IISC) Bangalore, the program seeks to ensure the growth of the best scientific minds for research and development in the country. Scholars receive monthly stipends and annual contingency grants through their undergraduate and postgraduate studies in Basic Sciences.
Who is eligible?
- Must be an Indian Citizen.
- Students enrolled in XI Standard (Science subjects) with a minimum percentage as specified in the latest notification.
- Students enrolled in XII Standard / (10+2) intending to pursue a B.Sc./B.S./B.Stat./B.Math./Int. M.Sc./M.S.
- Students currently in the 1st year of an undergraduate program in Basic Sciences (B.Sc./B.S./B.Stat./B.Math./Int. M.Sc./M.S.).
- Candidates must meet the minimum marks requirement in X and XII Board exams as per latest portal guidelines.
How much money?
The fellowship provides ₹5,000 to ₹7,000 per month depending on the level of study, plus an annual contingency grant ranging from ₹20,000 to ₹28,000.
Documents needed
- Scanned copy of recent passport-size photograph
- Scanned signature
- Caste certificate (if applicable)
- Medical certificate (for PwD candidates)
- Academic transcripts (Class X and XII marksheets)
How to apply (step by step)
- Visit the official KVPY/DST portal to check the current intake cycle.
- Register online by providing basic personal and academic details.
- Complete the application form and upload the required scanned documents.
- Pay the application fee through the integrated online payment gateway.
- Download the admit card once the screening/exam dates are announced.
- Appear for the national level aptitude test or follow the INSPIRE-integrated selection protocol.
- Participate in the interview process if shortlisted based on exam scores.
Important dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Commencement | As per latest notification, verify on official portal |
| Aptitude Test Date | As per latest notification, verify on official portal |
| Release of Merit List | As per latest notification, verify on official portal |
Conclusion
The KVPY fellowship remains one of the most respected accolades for science students in India. Even with its transition into the INSPIRE fellowship framework, the focus remains on nurturing quality researchers. Aspiring scientists should regularly monitor the DST and IISC portals to stay updated on the latest examination patterns and application windows.

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