KVPY Fellowship 2026: Eligibility, Benefits, and Application Process

The Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojana (KVPY) is a flagship national fellowship program initiated and funded by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India. It aims to identify students with talent and aptitude for research, help them realize their academic potential, and encourage them to take up research careers in Basic Sciences. As of recent updates, please note that the KVPY exam has been subsumed into the INSPIRE fellowship in certain capacities, though the legacy of the program continues to support scientific excellence across the country.

What is this scheme?

KVPY is an ongoing National Program of Fellowship in Basic Sciences, initiated by the Department of Science and Technology, to encourage exceptionally high-end science students to pursue research careers in Basic Science areas. It covers basic science courses like B.Sc./B.S./B.Stat./B.Math./Int. M.Sc./M.S. in Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, and Biology.

Who is eligible?

• Stream SA: Students enrolled in XI Standard (Science subjects) with a minimum percentage in X Standard as per latest notification.
• Stream SX: Students enrolled in XII Standard (Science subjects) aspiring to join undergraduate program in Basic Sciences.
• Stream SB: Students enrolled in the 1st year of an undergraduate program in Basic Sciences (B.Sc./B.S./B.Stat./B.Math./Int. M.Sc./M.S.).
• Candidate must be an Indian Citizen.
• Must meet the minimum marks criteria in previous qualifying examinations as specified in the official annual brochure.

How much money?

The fellowship provides a monthly stipend of approximately ₹5,000 to ₹7,000 and an annual contingency grant of ₹20,000 to ₹28,000, depending on the level of study (B.Sc. or M.Sc.).

Documents needed

1. Scanned copy of recent passport size photograph
2. Scanned signature of the applicant
3. Caste/Category certificate (if applicable for SC/ST/OBC/PWD)
4. Academic transcripts and marksheets of Class X and XII
5. Valid Identity Proof (Aadhar Card/School ID)

How to apply (step by step)

1. Visit the official KVPY/INSPIRE portal to check for current application windows.
2. Complete the online registration to generate a User ID and Password.
3. Fill in the personal, academic, and contact details in the application form.
4. Upload the required scanned documents and photographs in the prescribed format.
5. Pay the application fee through the integrated online payment gateway.
6. Submit the form and download the confirmation page for future reference.

Important dates

Conclusion

The KVPY fellowship remains one of the most prestigious recognitions for science students in India. Whether you are aiming for the IISc or IISERs, or simply wish to pursue a career in pure sciences, this fellowship provides both financial stability and academic prestige. Always ensure you check the official portal for the most recent changes regarding the merger of KVPY with the INSPIRE scheme.