Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojana (KVPY): Eligibility, Rewards, and Status Update 2026

The Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojana (KVPY) was established by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) to identify and encourage students with a high aptitude for research in basic sciences. While the program has undergone significant structural changes recently, it remains a landmark initiative for fostering scientific temperament in India.

What is this scheme?

KVPY was a national-level fellowship program aimed at providing monthly stipends and annual contingency grants to students pursuing undergraduate to post-graduate studies in basic science subjects. It was designed to motivate students to take up research careers and ensure the growth of the best scientific minds for research and development in the country. Note: In a recent policy shift, the DST has integrated KVPY with the INSPIRE scheme.

Who is eligible?

• Must be an Indian Citizen.
• Students enrolled in XI Standard (Science subjects) with a minimum percentage requirement as per latest notification.
• Students enrolled in XII Standard (Science subjects) intending to join undergraduate programs in Basic Sciences.
• Students in their first year of B.Sc./B.S./B.Stat./B.Math./Int. M.Sc./Int. M.S.
• A minimum aggregate of 60% (50% for SC/ST/PWD) in Maths and Science subjects in the X Standard Board Examination.

How much money?

Fellowship: Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 7,000 per month; Contingency Grant: Rs. 20,000 to Rs. 28,000 per annum depending on the level of study.

Documents needed

1. Scanned copy of Photograph and Signature
2. Caste/Category Certificate (if applicable)
3. Medical Certificate (for PWD candidates)
4. Academic transcripts (Class X and XII)
5. School/College identity proof

How to apply (step by step)

1. Visit the official KVPY/INSPIRE portal to check for active application windows.
2. Complete the registration process using a valid email ID and mobile number.
3. Fill in the personal, academic, and contact details in the application form.
4. Upload the required scanned documents in the prescribed format.
5. Pay the application fee (if applicable) through the online payment gateway.
6. Submit the application and download the confirmation page for future reference.

Important dates

Conclusion

The KVPY fellowship has long been the gold standard for aspiring scientists in India. Despite its integration into the INSPIRE program, the core objective remains to support the brightest minds in science. Students are advised to monitor the official DST website frequently for updates regarding fellowship cycles and eligibility adjustments.