Inspire Scholarship Scheme: Eligibility and Benefits Explained

The INSPIRE Scholarship Scheme, run by the Department of Science and Technology, supports meritorious students pursuing a Bachelor's or integrated Master's degree in Basic and Natural Sciences, offering an annual scholarship of ₹80,000 for up to 5 years, aimed at encouraging talented students to take up research careers in core science subjects.

What Is the INSPIRE Scholarship Scheme?

INSPIRE (Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research) is a national scheme designed to attract talented students toward pursuing science as a career and eventually taking up research. The Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE) component of INSPIRE specifically supports undergraduate and integrated postgraduate students in core science subjects such as Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Biology and other natural sciences.

Who Is Eligible for INSPIRE Scholarship?

• Students who ranked in the top 1% in their respective Class 12 board examination, or secured a specified rank in national exams like JEE Main, NEET or state-level exams as an alternative eligibility route
• Enrollment in a recognised Bachelor's or integrated Master's programme in Basic or Natural Sciences (not applicable, engineering, medicine or professional courses)
• Continued enrollment in a science stream throughout the scholarship duration to maintain eligibility for renewal

What Are the Scholarship Benefits?

How Do You Apply for INSPIRE Scholarship?

• Register on the official INSPIRE scheme portal with your Class 12 board result details or qualifying national exam rank
• Provide proof of admission to a recognised Bachelor's or integrated Master's programme in Basic or Natural Sciences
• Submit required documents including academic certificates, bank account details and institution enrollment proof
• Renew the scholarship annually by submitting updated academic performance and continued enrollment proof in a science subject

What Are the Renewal Conditions?

To continue receiving the scholarship each subsequent year, a student must maintain satisfactory academic performance and remain enrolled in a Basic or Natural Science programme; students who switch to a non-science stream or professional course after the first year become ineligible for continued INSPIRE scholarship support.

Why Does INSPIRE Specifically Target Science Students?

The scheme was designed to counter a trend of talented students moving away from pure sciences toward engineering and medical courses, by making a science-focused Bachelor's and Master's financially attractive and by connecting students with mentorship opportunities that build a pathway toward research careers in national laboratories, universities and research institutions.

Explore our scholarship listings for other central and state schemes, compare colleges offering Basic and Natural Sciences programmes, and check eligibility on the official INSPIRE Scheme website.