The Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research (INSPIRE) Scholarship is a prestigious initiative by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India. Aimed at attracting talented youth to study science and pursue research careers, the INSPIRE Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE) offers financial support to students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate courses in natural and basic sciences.
INSPIRE Scholarship 2025 at Glance
| Scholarship Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | INSPIRE Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE) |
| Launched By | Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India |
| Target Group | Students aged 17–22 years pursuing B.Sc., B.S., M.Sc., or M.S. degrees in natural and basic sciences |
| Annual Scholarships | 12,000 |
| Scholarship Amount | ₹80,000 per annum (₹60,000 as annual scholarship + ₹20,000 for summer research projects) |
| Official Website | online-inspire.gov.in |
Eligibility Criteria for INSPIRE Scholarship 2025
To be eligible for the INSPIRE Scholarship 2025, applicants must meet the following criteria
Academic Performance
- Be among the top 1% of successful students in Class XII board examinations from any recognized state or central board in India.
- Students who have secured ranks within the top 10,000 in JEE (Main), JEE (Advanced), or NEET are also eligible.
Course Enrollment
- Must be enrolled in B.Sc., B.S., M.Sc., or M.S. courses in natural and basic sciences at recognized institutions in India.
- Professional courses like engineering, medicine, and technology are not covered under this scholarship.
Age Limit
- Applicants should be between 17 to 22 years of age at the time of application.
Any Other Recognitions
- Students who are recipients of prestigious awards such as the KVPY, NTSE, JBNSTS scholarships, or International Olympiad medalists and are pursuing courses in natural and basic sciences are eligible.
Scholarship Benefits
- Annual Scholarship: ₹60,000 per annum, disbursed at ₹5,000 per month.
- Summer Research Grant: ₹20,000 per annum for undertaking summer research projects under recognized research institutions.
- Total Annual Support: ₹80,000.
- Duration: The scholarship is tenable for the duration of the course, typically up to five years, subject to annual performance review.
Application Process [Steps]
Step 1: Registration
- Visit the official INSPIRE portal: online-inspire.gov.in.
- Click on the “New User? Register here” link and complete the registration process with valid email ID and mobile number.
Step 2: Filling the Application Form
- Log in with the registered credentials.
- Fill in personal details, academic qualifications, and other required information.
Step 3: Document Upload
Upload scanned copies of necessary documents, including
- Passport-sized photograph
- Class XII mark sheet
- Certificate of enrollment in the current course
- Endorsement certificate signed by the Principal of the College/Director of the Institute/Registrar of the University
- Any other relevant certificates (e.g., JEE/NEET rank certificate, KVPY/NTSE/JBNSTS award letters)
Step 4: Submission
- Review the application form and submitted documents.
- Submit the application online.
- Take a printout of the submitted application for future reference.
Also Read: Cadence Scholarship 2025–26
Important Dates
| Events | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Start Date | Tentatively in September 2025 |
| Application End Date | Tentatively in October 2025 |
| Result Announcement: | Approximately four months after the application deadline |
Note: Exact dates will be announced on the official INSPIRE portal. Applicants are advised to regularly check the website for updates.
Renewal Criteria
To continue receiving the scholarship in subsequent years, scholars must
- Academic Performance: Maintain a minimum of 60% marks or a GPA of 7.0 on a 10-point scale in the annual examinations.
- Annual Performance Report: Submit a performance report signed by the Head of the Institution.
- Submission Deadline: Renewal documents should be submitted before 30th June each year.
Contact Information
For any queries or assistance regarding the INSPIRE Scholarship:
- Helpline Numbers: 0124-6690020, 0124-6690021
- Email: support[at]online-inspire[dot]gov[dot]in
- Official Website: online-inspire.gov.in
FAQs
What is the INSPIRE Scholarship?
A government scholarship by DST to support students in basic and natural sciences.
Who is eligible to apply for the INSPIRE Scholarship?
Indian students aged 17–22 pursuing B.Sc., B.S., M.Sc., or M.S. in natural sciences with top 1% board exam marks or top ranks in competitive exams.
What documents are required for the application?
Photograph, Class X & XII marksheets, caste certificate (if applicable), and an endorsement form.
What is the amount and duration of the scholarship?
₹80,000 per year for up to 5 years or till the course ends.
What are the renewal criteria?
Maintain 60% marks or 7.0 CGPA and submit an annual performance report.
Are there additional benefits with the scholarship?
Yes, including mentorship, workshops, and research opportunities.
Conclusion
The INSPIRE Scholarship 2025 is a significant opportunity for meritorious students aiming to pursue careers in science and research. By providing substantial financial support and mentorship, the scholarship encourages young minds to delve into the world of scientific exploration and innovation. Eligible students should seize this opportunity to further their academic pursuits in the field of natural and basic sciences.
