Scholarship for Postgraduate Students (2026): Eligibility, Amount, How to Apply & Last Date
Indian postgraduate students can secure Rs. 1,50,000/- per annum through the National Scholarship for Post Graduate Studies, with 10,000 annual slots available for 2026. This UGC-administered scholarship supports first-year, full-time PG degree students under 30, for a two-year tenure. Apply via the National Scholarship Portal to alleviate financial burdens.
Comprehensive List of Postgraduate Scholarships for Indian Students 2026
This section details key scholarships for postgraduate students in India for the 2026 academic year, offering crucial financial support. It highlights opportunities like the National Scholarship for Post Graduate Studies and the K C Mahindra Scholarship, both designed to assist Indian students pursuing higher education.
National Scholarship for Post Graduate Studies
- Scholarship Name: National Scholarship for Post Graduate Studies
- Objective: Financial assistance for Indian students pursuing Postgraduate Degrees.
- Financial Assistance: Rs. 1,50,000/- per annum.
- Annual Slots: 10,000 per annum.
- Tenure: 2 years.
- Eligibility: Indian students in first year of ‘Regular/Full Time’ PG degree. Age limit 30 years.
This scholarship, administered by the UGC, supports a significant number of students annually, providing substantial financial aid for their postgraduate studies. Further details regarding its administration and specific program recognition are outlined below.
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Application Portal | National Scholarship Portal (https://scholarships.gov.in/) |
| Administering Body | University Grants Commission (UGC), New Delhi, India |
| Program Recognition | Recognized PG degree as per UGC Notification on Specification of Degrees, 2014 |
| Website Last Updated | 16-06-2026 |
K C Mahindra Scholarship for Postgraduate Studies
- Scholarship Name: K C Mahindra Scholarship for Postgraduate Studies
- Provider: K. C. Mahindra Education Trust.
- Type: Interest-free loan scholarship.
- Scope: Supports postgraduate education globally and in India.
- Financial Assistance: Up to ₹10 lakh (Top 3), up to ₹5 lakh (Others).
- Eligibility (Academic): First-Class degree or equivalent diploma.
The K C Mahindra Scholarship offers significant interest-free loan support for Indian citizens aiming for top global or domestic universities. While applications for 2026 are closed, prospective students should note the specific commencement periods and contact details for future inquiries.
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Minimum Annual Awardees | 50 students |
| Eligibility (Citizenship) | Indian citizen |
| Eligibility (Academic Details) | Final year students eligible if marksheet by June. |
| Program Commencement (Overseas) | August 2026 – February 2027 |
| Program Commencement (Indian) | June 2026 – September 2026 |
| Application Status (2026) | Closed |
| Application Deadline (2026) | 30th April 2026, 6 pm |
| Contact for Queries | [email protected] |
Applying for Postgraduate Study Grants in India: 2026 Guide
Applying for a postgraduate study grant in India is primarily managed through the National Scholarship Portal. This platform simplifies the application process, guiding candidates through essential steps to secure funding for their studies. Following these instructions ensures a smooth experience.
- Official Application Portal: National Scholarship Portal
- Step 1: Register with Aadhaar
- Step 2: Fill application form
- Step 3: Upload documents
- Step 4: Submit and track status
National Scholarship for Postgraduate Studies (NSPGS) 2026: Eligibility and Benefits
The National Scholarship for Postgraduate Studies (NSPGS) 2026 offers significant financial assistance to Indian students pursuing advanced degrees. This program aims to reduce financial burdens, providing Rs. 1,50,000/- annually for two years to 10,000 eligible individuals.
- Scheme Name: National Scholarship for Post Graduate Studies (NSPGS)
- Objective: Financial assistance to Indian students for Postgraduate Degrees.
- Financial Assistance (Annual): Rs. 1,50,000/- per annum.
- Number of Slots: 10,000 per annum.
- Tenure: 2 years.
- Eligibility – Age Limit: 30 years.
These core details highlight the substantial support available through the NSPGS, making it a crucial opportunity for students seeking a scholarship for postgraduate students.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| General Eligibility | Indian citizen, strong undergraduate academic record, enrolled full-time in a recognized postgraduate course. |
| Admission Mode | First year PG degree programme through ‘Regular/Full Time’ mode. |
| Integrated Programmes | Scholarship for the PG component only. |
| Course Recognition | For recognized PG degree programmes as per UGC Notification on Specification of Degrees, 2014 (as amended). |
| Key Benefits | Monthly stipend, tuition fee reimbursement, allowance for books and study materials, living expenses, academic support. |
| Overall Impact | Reduced financial burden, enabling students to focus fully on studies. |
| Application Process | Online through the official national scholarship portal. |
| Selection Procedure | Merit-based on academic performance, potentially including interviews or written tests. |
| Scholarship Renewal | Contingent upon satisfactory academic performance (minimum percentage/GPA). |
| Disbursement Guidelines | Funds disbursed directly to student’s bank account or institution via Aadhaar-linked DBT. |
| Compliance Requirements | Adherence to rules like regular attendance, progress reports, and reporting enrollment changes. |
This table outlines the specific criteria for eligibility, the comprehensive benefits provided, and the procedural aspects from application to compliance, ensuring a clear understanding for prospective applicants.
Reliance Foundation Postgraduate Scholarships 2026: Courses and Application
The Reliance Foundation Postgraduate Scholarships aim to cultivate future leaders for Viksit Bharat. This initiative annually supports 100 bright first-year students across India, focusing on merit and encouraging applications from girls and specially abled individuals.
- Scholarship Name: Reliance Foundation Postgraduate Scholarships
- Aim: Nurture scientists, technologists, and changemakers for Viksit Bharat.
- Target Group: India’s brightest first-year postgraduate students from across India.
- Eligibility: First-year postgraduate students in select future-ready courses, merit-based.
- Eligible Fields: Engineering (AI, CS, Electrical, Mechanical, Chemical, Renewable, Material Science) and Life Sciences.
- Financial Grant: Up to Rs. 6 Lakhs over the degree duration.
This significant scholarship for postgraduate students offers substantial financial aid and a comprehensive development program, preparing scholars to contribute to India’s progress in critical fields.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Number of Scholars | 100 annually |
| Additional Benefits | Robust development programme, holistic opportunities, expert interactions, industry exposure, volunteering. |
| Application Status (2025-26 cycle) | Applications are now closed. |
| Application Process | Apply via the official website by completing a registration questionnaire. |
| Contact Information | Email: RF.PGScholarships@reliancefoundation.org, WhatsApp: Text “hi” to 7977 100 100, Helpline: (011) 4117 1414 |
AICTE PG Scholarship Scheme 2026 for Technical Education Students
The AICTE PG Scholarship Scheme 2026 provides significant financial assistance to eligible full-time GATE/GPAT/CEED qualified students pursuing postgraduate technical programs. This scheme aims to promote research and innovation, making higher education more accessible.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | AICTE PG Scholarship Scheme |
| Year | 2026 |
| Provider | All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), a statutory body under the Ministry of Education, Government of India. |
| Objective | To ensure the development of technical education in India, provide financial assistance, alleviate financial burden, promote research and innovation in technical and management fields, and make higher education accessible. |
| Target Students | Full-time GATE/GPAT/CEED qualified students admitted to AICTE approved postgraduate programs in AICTE approved Institutions/University Departments. |
| Eligible Programs | Master of Engineering (M.E.), Master of Technology (M.Tech), Master of Architecture (M.Arch), Master of Pharmacy (M.Pharm), and other AICTE-approved postgraduate technical programs. |
| Scholarship Amount | ₹12,400 per month per student. |
| Duration | 24 months or for the duration of the course (from commencement of classes till completion), whichever is lower. Not extendable under any circumstances. |
| Payment Method | Transferred directly to the student’s Aadhaar-linked bank account through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). |
| Key Eligibility Criteria | Valid GATE/GPAT score at the time of admission; admitted as a full-time scholar; admitted in AICTE approved Institutions/University Departments; admitted in AICTE approved programs; must have a valid Aadhaar-linked bank account; should not be receiving any other central government scholarship. |
| Dual Degree Integrated Programs Eligibility | Students in their final year are entitled from the ninth semester onwards if their CGPA is 8 or above (on a scale of 10) for their final year. |
| Ineligibility | Students admitted through management quota, sponsored candidates, part-time course students, students studying in non-AICTE-approved institutions, or students qualifying GATE/GPAT exam after the date of admission. |
| Application Mode | Online applications only. |
| Application Portal | https://pgscholarship.aicte-india.org/ |
| Selection Process | Based on GATE/CEED score and merit. The scholarship is awarded to eligible students in the order of their merit. |
| Documents Required | Admission letter, GATE/GPAT scorecard (scanned PDF copy), Aadhaar card (scanned PDF copy; students of J&K, Meghalaya, and Assam are exempted), Bank passbook copy (scanned PDF copy), Caste certificate (scanned PDF copy, if applicable), Non-Creamy Layer (NCL) certificate (scanned PDF copy, for OBC candidates only, not older than 1 year), Bonafide certificate from institution. |
| Casual Leave Entitlement | 15 days in an academic year. |
| Medical Leave Entitlement | Maximum of one month (30 days) in an academic year. |
| Maternity/Paternity Leave Entitlement | As per Govt. of India norms, once during the tenure of the award. Maximum duration of fellowship will not be extended. |
| Important Dates (Tentative 2026 Cycle) | Official Notification Release: July–August 2026; Online Application Start: August 2026; Last Date to Apply: September 2026; Institute Verification Deadline: October 2026; Stipend Disbursement: After Final Approval. |
| Relevant Links | AICTE Website: https://www.aicte-india.org/; PG Scholarship Scheme Web Portal: PG Scholarship; Apply for AICTE PG Scholarship: Apply Online. |
This table provides a comprehensive overview of the AICTE PG Scholarship Scheme 2026, detailing eligibility, benefits, application process, and key timelines for prospective scholarship for postgraduate students.
General Eligibility Criteria for Postgraduate Study Funding in India 2026
General eligibility criteria for postgraduate study funding in India 2026 primarily focus on providing financial assistance to Indian students facing financial barriers. These awards cover tuition fees, living expenses, and academic materials, with various options available at state and national levels.
- Nationality: Candidates must be Indian citizens.
- Eligible Programs: M.Tech, MBA, M.Sc., MA, M.Com, or other master-level courses.
- Academic Qualification: A First-Class degree or equivalent diploma is often required.
- Enrollment Status: Eligible if admitted in the first year of a PG degree program.
- Age Limit: Some scholarships, like the National Scholarship, specify an age limit of 30 years.
- Financial Need: Many scholarships target students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
Beyond these general requirements, specific scholarships for postgraduate students may have unique criteria and benefits. Two notable examples are detailed below.
| Scholarship Name | Key Detail | Value |
|---|---|---|
| National Scholarship for Post Graduate Studies (UGC) | Slots | 10,000 per annum |
| National Scholarship for Post Graduate Studies (UGC) | Tenure | 2 years |
| National Scholarship for Post Graduate Studies (UGC) | Financial Assistance | Rs. 1,50,000/- per annum |
| K. C. Mahindra Scholarship for Postgraduate Studies | Number of Awards | Minimum 50 interest-free loan scholarships |
| K. C. Mahindra Scholarship for Postgraduate Studies | Loan Amounts | Up to ₹10 lakh (top 3), up to ₹5 lakh (others) |
| K. C. Mahindra Scholarship for Postgraduate Studies | Enrollment Period (India) | June 2026 to September 2026 |
| K. C. Mahindra Scholarship for Postgraduate Studies | Application Deadline (2026) | 30th April 2026, 6 pm |
These examples highlight the varied support available, from annual slots and financial assistance to specific loan amounts and application timelines for a scholarship for postgraduate students.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical academic requirements for postgraduate scholarships in India for the 2026 intake?
Most postgraduate scholarships for 2026 will require a strong undergraduate academic record, often a minimum of 60-70% aggregate marks or a CGPA of 7.0-8.0 on a 10-point scale, depending on the institution and scholarship provider. Some specialized scholarships may also look for specific subject scores or research experience.
Beyond academic merit, what other factors significantly boost a postgraduate scholarship application in India?
Demonstrated research aptitude, relevant work experience (if applicable to the course), strong letters of recommendation, a compelling statement of purpose outlining your academic and career goals, and participation in extracurricular activities or community service can significantly strengthen your application.
Are there specific scholarships available for postgraduate students pursuing non-STEM fields like humanities or social sciences in India?
Yes, many scholarships cater to non-STEM fields, including those offered by government bodies like the UGC, various university-specific grants, and private foundations. Examples include scholarships for research in social sciences, literature, history, and public policy studies.
What is the typical scholarship amount or coverage for postgraduate studies in India, and does it vary by discipline?
Scholarship amounts vary widely; some cover only tuition fees (ranging from ₹50,000 to ₹3,00,000 annually), while others are full scholarships including living expenses, often providing a monthly stipend of ₹8,000-₹25,000. The coverage can indeed vary, with some STEM and research-intensive programs potentially offering higher stipends.
When is the general application timeline for postgraduate scholarships for the 2026 academic year in India?
While specific dates vary, most major postgraduate scholarship applications for the 2026 academic year in India typically open between August and November 2025, with deadlines often falling between December 2025 and March 2026. It’s crucial to check individual scholarship websites for precise dates well in advance.
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