Do I need to qualify NET or GATE to apply?

No — NET/GATE qualification is not mandatory for NFSC. Admission to an MPhil/PhD programme at a UGC-recognised institution is sufficient.

Can I hold this fellowship and another fellowship at the same time?

No — a student cannot hold NFSC along with any other UGC fellowship or scholarship simultaneously.

CentralFellowships & Research GrantsNFSC

National Fellowship for Scheduled Caste Students

UGC fellowship of ₹31,000–₹35,000 per month for SC students pursuing MPhil and PhD programmes.

Apply on official portal

About this scheme

The National Fellowship for SC Students is administered by the University Grants Commission (UGC) on behalf of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. It provides financial support to SC students pursuing full-time MPhil and PhD programmes at universities and institutions recognised by UGC. Up to 2,000 fellowships are awarded each year.

Eligibility

Social category: Scheduled Caste (SC)
Course: Full-time MPhil or PhD at a UGC-recognised institution
Age: Below 35 years at the time of application
Annual family income: No income limit

Benefits

₹31,000 per month for JRF (first 2 years)
₹35,000 per month for SRF (from 3rd year onwards)
Contingency grant of ₹10,000 per year (Humanities/Social Sciences) or ₹12,000 per year (Sciences)
HRA as per institution norms

Required documents

Aadhaar Card
SC certificate from competent authority
Admission letter from UGC-recognised university for MPhil / PhD
NET / SET / GATE score card (if applicable)(optional)
Bank account details

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