INSPIRE Scholarship – Benefits, Eligibility, Last Date & How to Apply

Bright Minds, Big Dreams – This Scholarship is for India’s Future Scientists

Thousands of Indian students dream of becoming scientists, researchers, and innovators. But many of them face financial pressure and lack of support after Class 12, especially those from modest families. To solve this, the Government of India runs a special scholarship called INSPIRE – Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research.

This scheme motivates talented students to choose basic science subjects in their higher studies and continue a career in research. In 2025, the Department of Science & Technology (DST) has continued this scheme with a yearly scholarship of ₹80,000 for selected students.

This is more than just money. It is a boost to India’s young scientific talent who can bring solutions to tomorrow’s problems.

What is INSPIRE Scholarship Scheme?

INSPIRE (Scholarship for Higher Education – SHE) is a flagship scholarship under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India.

The goal is to encourage bright students to pursue science and research careers, instead of shifting to other popular but unrelated streams.

Every year, 10,000 students are selected across India for this scheme.

It supports students financially during their 3-year BSc and 2-year MSc programs in natural and basic sciences like:

• Physics
• Chemistry
• Mathematics
• Biology
• Earth Sciences
• Astronomy
• Statistics
• Geology

Who Can Apply?

Eligibility Criteria:

• Must be an Indian citizen
• Must be between 17–22 years old
• Should have passed Class 12 in Science stream
• Must be enrolled in BSc, BS, or Integrated MSc/MS course
• Must be in the top 1% scorers in Class 12 board exam (state or central)
• OR must be a top ranker in national exams like:
  • JEE (Top 10,000 rankers)
  • NEET (Top 10,000 rankers)
  • KVPY scholars
  • NTSE or JBNSTS fellows
  • Olympiad medalists (Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Astronomy, Maths)

Note: Engineering and medical students (BTech/MBBS) are not eligible.

What Benefits Will You Get?

Scholarship Benefits:

• ₹80,000 per year for 5 years
  • ₹60,000 as direct annual scholarship (₹5,000/month)
  • ₹20,000 for summer research/internship projects
• Financial support from 1st year of BSc till final year of MSc
• Mentorship and guidance from leading scientists
• Access to research labs and internships
• Opportunity to grow in national science programs

This support gives students the freedom to focus on learning instead of worrying about money.

What’s New in 2025?

In 2025, the INSPIRE online portal is now updated with a faster application system and e-verification of documents.

The government is planning to increase summer research opportunities under reputed institutions like IISc, IITs, IISERs, and CSIR labs.

As per MyGov, “INSPIRE has supported over 85,000 students since its launch in 2008.”

Last Date to Apply

Applications for INSPIRE Scholarship 2025 generally open in September and close by 31st October 2025.

Applicants must apply only in the year of admission to BSc course (no gap year allowed).

Shortlisted students will be notified through email/SMS and selected based on academic merit.

How to Apply – Step-by-Step Process

You can apply for INSPIRE Scholarship only through the official online portal.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Visit official site:
   👉 https://online-inspire.gov.in
2. Click on “New User – Register Here”
3. Fill basic details and create a login ID
4. Login and select “Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE)”
5. Fill the full application form with:
   • Personal details
   • Educational information
   • Bank account details
6. Upload the following documents:
   • Aadhaar card
   • Class 10 and 12 marksheets
   • Admission proof (college ID or letter)
   • Income certificate (if required)
   • Rank/award proof (JEE, NEET, Olympiad, etc.)
   • Passport-size photo
   • Undertaking form
7. Submit the form and download the confirmation copy.

You can track your status anytime through the portal login.

Internal Link Suggestion:

Planning for further studies abroad? Read our guide on National Overseas Scholarship Scheme for SC Students

Real Impact – Stories from Students

“I got 96% in 12th and took admission in Delhi University for BSc Physics. INSPIRE scholarship helped me pay hostel and tuition fees. Today, I’m doing research in quantum optics,” says Ritu, an awardee from Haryana.

“I wanted to become a scientist, but my family had financial issues. INSPIRE gave me that push. I am now pursuing MSc Chemistry at IISER Pune,” shares Ajay, from Maharashtra.

This scheme turns dreams into real achievements.

Summary at a Glance

• Scheme Name: INSPIRE Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE) / इंस्पायर स्कॉलरशिप योजना
• Ministry: Department of Science & Technology, Govt. of India
• Who Can Apply: Top 1% 12th board students, or national exam rank holders
• Eligible Courses: BSc, BS, Integrated MSc/MS in Basic Sciences
• Scholarship Amount: ₹80,000 per year (for 5 years)
• Seats per Year: 10,000 students
• Last Date (Expected): 31 October 2025
• How to Apply: https://online-inspire.gov.in

Final Words – Inspire Today, Lead Tomorrow

Science needs dreamers. India needs innovators. But most of all, young minds need support to go further.

If you or someone you know has done well in Class 12 Science and wants to study basic sciences – this scholarship is made for them.

It’s not just money. It’s recognition, motivation, and a path to a research career.

👉 Apply now. Share this with bright students in your school or village.

Because tomorrow’s Nobel winner might be sitting in your classroom today. All they need is a little INSPIRE-ation.