The Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research (INSPIRE) Scholarship is a key initiative by the Department of Science & Technology. Approved in 2008, it aims to draw bright minds towards science. This program is highly regarded. Careers in natural and basic sciences are encouraged. Students with merit get selected. An annual scholarship of Rs. 60,000 is provided. Every Month, Rs. 5,000 is transferred. A summer mentorship grant of Rs. 20,000 is also included. It is sent through DBT mode to SBI accounts. Research projects must be done. Scholars work under active researchers at recognized centres.
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About INSPIRE Scholarship
The Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research (INSPIRE) Scholarship is managed by the Department of Science & Technology. It was approved in 2008. The goal? To attract bright students to science. One of the most prestigious scholarships. Careers in natural and basic sciences are supported. Scientific research is promoted. Contributions to national development are encouraged. INSPIRE provides scholarships, internships, and awards. Different education levels are covered. School to doctoral research. Among them, the Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE) stands out. Undergraduate and postgraduate students are helped. Financial aid is given. Scientific talent grows.
Also Read:- Aspire Scholarship 2025
Key Highlights of INSPIRE Scholarship 2025
Name of the Scholarship | INSPIRE Scholarship 2025 |
Launched By | Department of Science & Technology |
Objective | To support students in science research |
Scholarship Amount | Rs. 5,000 monthly, Rs. 60,000 yearly |
Mentorship Grant | Rs. 20,000 per year |
Eligibility | Top 1% in Class 12 or top entrance ranks |
Applicable Courses | B.Sc., B.S., Int. M.Sc./M.S. |
Selection Criteria | Based on merit and document verification |
Fund Transfer | Sent through DBT to SBI accounts |
Research Requirement | Summer projects |
Application Mode | Online |
Recognition | A prestigious government-backed scholarship |
Official Website | https://online-inspire.gov.in/ |
Objective of INSPIRE Scholarship
The objective of INSPIRE Scholarship is:
- To support students in natural and basic sciences with financial aid.
- To create a research-friendly space where innovation can be explored.
- To develop scientific talent for national progress and technology growth.
- To make science careers appealing and help India in global research.
Scholarship Amount
- Rs. 5,000 per month is provided, totaling Rs. 60,000 annually.
- An additional Rs. 20,000 is given yearly as a summer mentorship grant.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Scholarship, applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Top 1% in Class 12 board exams and pursuing Natural or Basic Sciences.
- JEE or AIPMT rank within 10,000 and studying B.Sc., B.S., or Integrated M.Sc./M.S.
- Top 1% in Class 12 and enrolled in IISERs, NISER, or select institutions.
- Selected under KVPY and pursuing Bachelor’s/Master’s in Natural Sciences.
- NTSE, JBNSTS scholars, or Olympiad medallists studying Natural Sciences.
Eligibility Streams
INSPIRE Scholarship supports various science streams for higher studies:
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Earth and Atmospheric Sciences
- Environmental Science
- Geology
- Statistics
- Astronomy
- Electronics
- Other Core Science Subjects
Note: Courses like Engineering, Medicine, Military Science, Defence Studies, Agriculture, Psychology, Life Sciences (including Seed Technology and Home Science), Geography, Economics, Education (including B.Sc.-B.Ed. dual degree course), Biotechnology, Computer Science, Computer Applications, Bioinformatics, Instrumentation, Information Technology, Physical Education, and those offered through Distance Education at Open Universities or similar professional programs are not supported.
Benefits of INSPIRE Scholarship
The benefits of INSPIRE Scholarship includes:
- Rs. 5,000 per month is given.
- A Rs. 20,000 grant is added yearly.
- Scholars work on projects under experienced researchers at top institutes.
- Scientific talent is nurtured, leading to better career prospects.
- More scientists are created, boosting research and innovation.
Key Features
INSPIRE Scholarship has some unique features which are as follows:
- Only top-performing students in science are considered.
- Supports undergraduate to postgraduate studies in core sciences.
- Scholarship amount is sent directly to the scholar’s SBI account.
- Scholars must complete research projects under expert guidance.
Required Document
These documents are required to apply for the INSPIRE Scholarship:
- Class X Mark Sheet
- Class XII Certificate and Mark Sheet
- Eligibility/Advisory Note
- Endorsement Form
- Certification of Award
- Caste Certificate (if applicable)
- Recent Passport-Size Photographs
- Supporting Documents (if any)
Selection Process
The selection process for INSPIRE Scholarship includes:
- Applications are first screened to check eligibility and academic records.
- A merit list is prepared based on board exam scores and entrance ranks.
- Shortlisted students complete document verification before scholarship approval.
Application Process for INSPIRE Scholarship 2025
To apply for INSPIRE Scholarship Program 2025 follow these steps:
Step 1: Visit the official INSPIRE Scholarship Portal.

Step 2: Click on the “NEW User? Register here” option on the right-hand side of the dashboard.

Step 3: Fill the registration form and click on the “Submit” button.

Step 4: Now you will receive a confirmation mail on the registered email ID with the activation link to proceed.
Step 5: Log in using the credentials to your portal.
Step 6: Search for the “Inspire Scholarship” and click on it.
Step 7: Click on “Apply for Scholarship” option to proceed with the application process.
Step 8: Fill out the application form with all the required details.
Step 9: Attach all the supporting documents.
Step 10: Finally Submit the application form to complete the application process.
Contact Details
Address:
INSPIRE Programme Division
Department of Science and Technology,
Technology Bhavan, New Mehrauli Road,
New Delhi – 110 016.
Tel. No:
0124-6690020,0124-6690021
Email ID:
inspire[dot]prog-dst[at]nic[dot]in
Working Hours: 09:00 AM – 05:30 PM (Monday to Friday, excluding Gazetted Holidays)
FAQs
Who can apply for the INSPIRE Scholarship?
Students in the top 1% of Class 12 board exams or those securing top ranks in JEE/NEET, pursuing B.Sc., B.S., or Integrated M.Sc./M.S. in Natural and Basic Sciences.
What is the scholarship amount?
Rs. 5,000 per month and an additional Rs. 20,000 yearly as a mentorship grant.
How is the scholarship amount transferred?
Funds are directly transferred to the scholar’s SBI account through DBT mode.
Is research work mandatory?
Yes, scholars must undertake summer research projects under an expert researcher.
How are candidates selected?
Selection is based on academic merit, followed by document verification.
How to apply for the INSPIRE Scholarship?
Applications must be submitted online with required documents on the official INSPIRE website.