INSPIRE Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE) 2026: Eligibility, How to Apply, Scholarship Amount and Benefits

Ever imagined turning your passion for science into a career without worrying about expenses? That’s exactly what the INSPIRE Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE) by the Government of India makes possible. It supports brilliant students who love exploring the world of science and research, helping them pursue higher education confidently.

I’m Riten, the founder of Fueler. My mission has always been to help talented people build careers through their skills and real work. Just like how Fueler believes in giving creators visibility, the INSPIRE scholarship believes in giving young science enthusiasts a fair chance to grow. It’s one of those rare initiatives that truly invest in students who dare to be curious and innovative.

What is the INSPIRE Scholarship for Higher Education?

The INSPIRE (Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research) Scholarship for Higher Education, managed by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, aims to promote a culture of scientific exploration in India. It provides financial support to students pursuing basic and natural sciences at recognized Indian institutions.

Each year, about 12,000 meritorious students across the country are selected under this program. It’s designed to encourage youth to continue studies in fields like Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Biology, and Earth Sciences and eventually build careers in research and innovation.

Eligibility Criteria for INSPIRE-SHE 2026

To qualify, applicants must meet a few key conditions that ensure the scholarship helps truly deserving science students:

• Students must have scored at least 75 percent in their Class 12 board examination or be within the top 1 percent of their board in science subjects. This ensures the scholarship goes to academically strong candidates.
• They should be enrolled in a regular full-time B.Sc., B.S., M.Sc., or integrated M.S./M.Sc. program in any recognized Indian college or university focusing on natural and basic sciences.
• The scholarship does not apply to professional or technical courses such as Engineering, Medicine, or Architecture.
• Students qualifying within the top 10,000 ranks in JEE Main, NEET, or who are KVPY fellowship holders also fall within the eligible category for INSPIRE-SHE.
• Applicants must hold Indian nationality and be studying in India during the entire course duration.

This well-defined eligibility structure filters students passionate about pure sciences rather than professional streams.

Scholarship Amount and Duration

The INSPIRE-SHE scholarship is awarded for up to 5 years, supporting students throughout their undergraduate and postgraduate education. Its financial components include:

• A total annual scholarship value of ₹80,000 per student, directly transferred through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mode.
• Out of this, ₹60,000 per year is given as the main scholarship grant to support academic costs and living expenses.
• The remaining ₹20,000 can be claimed specifically for conducting summer projects or internships in recognized research institutions or universities, allowing scholars to gain practical research experience.
• The scholarship continues each year based on consistent academic performance and submission of yearly progress reports to the DST.

This structure ensures students remain focused on their studies while having consistent financial backing throughout their degree.

Benefits of the INSPIRE-SHE Scholarship

The scholarship is not just a financial help, it opens doors for long-term academic and career growth in science.

• It relieves students from financial burden, letting them concentrate fully on academic excellence and research work.
• Scholars get direct exposure to India’s top scientific institutions through internships and mentorship programs.
• The recognition of being an INSPIRE Scholar enhances credibility and academic standing when applying for further studies or research positions.
• Many past scholars have gone on to contribute to national research institutes, academia, and scientific innovation, showing the program’s real-world success.

How to Apply for INSPIRE Scholarship 2026

The entire application process is online, simple, and transparent. Here’s how you can apply step by step:

• Visit the official INSPIRE website: https://online-inspire.gov.in.
• Click on “New User? Register Here” and create your account using a valid email ID.
• After verifying your email, log in and select the “INSPIRE-SHE” scholarship option.
• Fill in all required details such as personal, academic, and contact information carefully.
• Upload scanned documents including your Class 12 marksheet, proof of admission, and a passport-size photograph.
• Cross-check all details and submit the form. Save the acknowledgment slip for reference.

No application fee is needed, and selection is made purely on academic merit—no exams or interviews are conducted.

Important Dates for INSPIRE-SHE 2026

• Application Start: September or early October 2026
• Application Deadline: Last week of December 2026
• Selection and Verification: January to March 2027
• Scholarship Disbursement: May to June 2027

Applicants are advised to keep checking the official portal for updates, as dates can slightly vary every year.

Final Thoughts

The INSPIRE Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE) continues to stand as one of India’s most impactful government-funded initiatives. It’s not just about providing money, it’s about inspiring a generation to think, experiment, and innovate.

For students passionate about science, this is an incredible opportunity to study without financial constraints and gain exposure through research projects. If you’re serious about pursuing scientific studies, this is a chance that can shape your entire career.

At Fueler, we believe in encouraging young creators and learners to take every step that brings them closer to their goals. The INSPIRE scholarship is one such step you just need to take.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who provides the INSPIRE-SHE scholarship?

It is offered by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India.

2. Can students from engineering or medical fields apply?

No, it’s exclusively for students studying basic and natural sciences, not professional or technical courses.

3. How many students are selected each year?

Approximately 12,000 students across India qualify for this scholarship annually based on academic performance.

4. What is the total scholarship value?

Students receive ₹80,000 per year for up to five years, amounting to as much as ₹4,00,000 over the full duration.

5. Is there any entrance exam for selection?

No. The selection is merit-based and determined by board performance or national exam rankings.

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