National Fellowship and Scholarship for Higher Education of ST Students
Central scholarship and fellowship programme for meritorious Scheduled Tribe (ST) students pursuing postgraduate and research studies, with monthly stipends and contingency grants.
About this scheme
The National Fellowship and Scholarship for Higher Education of ST Students is a flagship scheme by the Ministry of Education (formerly MHRD), Government of India, designed to identify and support exceptionally meritorious Scheduled Tribe (ST) students pursuing postgraduate studies (Master's and doctoral programmes) at recognized universities and research institutions across India. The scheme aims to facilitate social mobility and promote higher education among ST communities by providing financial support, mentorship, and research opportunities. Under this scheme, qualified ST candidates receive monthly fellowships, research contingency grants, and academic support to pursue advanced studies in diverse disciplines including science, technology, humanities, social sciences, and professional fields. The fellowship enables ST students to focus entirely on their research and academic pursuits without financial constraints.
Eligibility
- Category: Must belong to a Scheduled Tribe (ST) as per the Indian Constitution and listed in the official ST list of the applicant's state/UT
- Course Level: Pursuing a full-time postgraduate degree (Master's — M.A., M.Sc., M.Com., M.Tech., etc.) or doctoral research programme (PhD) at recognized Indian universities/research institutions
- Academic Merit: Minimum 55% marks or equivalent CGPA in the qualifying examination (Bachelor's degree for Master's applicants; Master's degree for PhD applicants)
- Entrance Exam: Qualified in recognized national-level entrance examinations (NET/GATE/CSIR-NET/JAM or equivalent) or admission to a deemed university / IIT / NIT / IMSC / IISC / IISER
- Age Limit: Generally no upper age limit for pursuing postgraduate studies, but candidates should be recent graduates or currently enrolled
- Citizenship: Indian citizen
- Continuation: Continuing students who previously received similar scholarships must maintain satisfactory academic progress (minimum 55% marks per semester/year)
Benefits
- Monthly Fellowship: ₹5,000 per month for Master's students; ₹7,000 per month for PhD students
- Contingency Grant: ₹8,000 to ₹12,000 per annum for academic-related expenses (books, lab materials, conference travel)
- Accommodation Allowance: Additional support available for students pursuing research at non-home institutions
- Research Allowance: Additional grant for fieldwork, lab equipment, or specialized research materials
- No requirement of service bond or employment commitment after completion of studies
- Merit recognition and credentials for higher academic and professional pursuits
- Access to research facilities and mentorship from senior academicians
Required documents
- Completed application form (as per prescribed format)
- Bachelor's degree certificate and marksheet
- Master's degree certificate and marksheet (for PhD applicants)Required only if applying for doctoral fellowship
- Scheduled Tribe (ST) CertificateIssued by the District Revenue Officer or authorized official, confirming ST status
- Current institutional enrollment certificate / study certificate
- Entrance examination scorecardNET/GATE/CSIR-NET/JAM or equivalent
- Research Proposal (for PhD applicants)(optional)Max 2-3 pages outlining research objectives
- Letter(s) of Recommendation(optional)From faculty/research supervisor (1-2 letters)
- Statement of Purpose / Academic Goals500-750 words
- Bank Passbook (first page with account holder's name and IFSC code)
- Aadhaar Card (copy)
- Passport or PAN Card(optional)
- Domicile Certificate (state residence proof)(optional)
Frequently asked
Looking for more schemes like this?
Tell the assistant about your situation and discover everything else you may qualify for.