Published – September 25, 2026
The INSPIRE Scholarship for Higher Education (INSPIRE-SHE) is a Government of India scholarship for meritorious students who choose to pursue higher education in basic and natural sciences. The scheme is part of the Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research (INSPIRE) programme managed by the Department of Science & Technology (DST).
The scholarship aims to encourage talented students to continue their studies in science and develop an interest in research.
INSPIRE-SHE Scholarship for Higher Education
| Particular | Details |
| Scholarship | INSPIRE-SHE |
| Conducted by | Department of Science & Technology |
| Government | Government of India |
| Scholarships offered | 12,000 per year |
| Scholarship amount | ₹60,000 per year |
| Mentorship support | ₹20,000 per year |
| Total annual support | ₹80,000 |
| Duration | Up to 5 years |
| Application mode | Online |
Who Can Apply for INSPIRE-SHE?
Students who have performed exceptionally well in their Class 12 examination and have taken admission to an eligible science programme can apply, subject to the scheme’s qualifying conditions.
One major eligibility route is being among the top 1% of Class 12 students in a recognised State or Central Board examination. INSPIRE also provides eligibility through certain recognised national-level competitive examination and admission routes.
Generally, applicants should be in the 17–22 years age group.
Students must also be admitted to an eligible science course during the relevant academic year. Merely obtaining high marks in Class 12 does not automatically guarantee eligibility.
Students looking for more financial support after Class 12 can also explore scholarships for UG students in India based on their course, academic performance and eligibility.
Which Courses Are Covered?
INSPIRE-SHE scholarship for higher education supports students pursuing eligible basic and natural science programmes such as:
| Category | Eligible subjects |
| Core Sciences | Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Biology, Statistics |
| Earth & Space Sciences | Geology, Geophysics, Geochemistry, Astronomy, Astrophysics |
| Life Sciences | Botany, Zoology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Anthropology |
| Other Sciences | Atmospheric Sciences, Oceanic Sciences, Electronics |
Eligible programmes generally include B.Sc., B.S., Integrated M.Sc. and Integrated M.S. in the applicable science subjects.
Professional programmes such as Engineering, Medicine, Agriculture, Computer Science, Biotechnology and Computer Applications are generally not covered under INSPIRE-SHE.
Students pursuing eligible B.Sc., B.S., Integrated M.Sc. or Integrated M.S. programmes may be considered.
Professional courses such as engineering, medicine, agriculture, computer science, biotechnology and computer applications are generally not covered under INSPIRE-SHE.
Students interested in science and technology courses can also explore scholarships for women in STEM available for eligible courses
How Much Financial Support Is Available?
Selected students can receive ₹60,000 per year as the scholarship amount.
An additional ₹20,000 per year is provided as a mentorship grant connected with the student’s summer research project. This makes the total annual support ₹80,000.
The scholarship can continue for up to five years, depending on the duration of the eligible programme and the student’s academic performance.
Research Project Requirement
INSPIRE-SHE also gives students an opportunity to gain research experience. Scholars are expected to undertake a summer research project under an eligible research mentor or institution.
The research component is an important part of the scheme because INSPIRE is designed to encourage students to consider scientific research as a future career.
How to Apply for INSPIRE-SHE?
Students can apply through the official INSPIRE online portal when the application window is announced.
Application steps
- Visit the official INSPIRE portal.
- Register or log in to your account.
- Select the INSPIRE-SHE application.
- Enter personal and academic details.
- Provide Class 12 and course information.
- Upload the required documents.
- Check the information carefully.
- Submit the application online.
- Save the application details for future reference.
Official portal: INSPIRE Online Portal
Documents Required
Applicants should keep their
- Class 12 marksheet
- proof of admission
- date-of-birth proof
- Photograph
- bank details
And other documents specified in the official application instructions ready.
Important Note
INSPIRE-SHE scholarship for higher education is specifically focused on basic and natural sciences, so students should check whether their course and subject are included before applying. The latest official notification should always be checked for the applicable year’s eligibility conditions and application dates.
The scholarship is also subject to continuation requirements, including satisfactory academic performance and submission of the required documents.
