UGC Scholarship 2024: Apply Online, Check Eligibility, Awards and Last Date

The University Grants Commission (UGC), established in 1953, has been the cornerstone of higher education in India. One of its significant initiatives is the UGC Scholarships that aim to support economically backward students and enable them to pursue their academic dreams.

Types of UGC Scholarships for 2024

For the year 2024, UGC has announced a series of scholarships targeting various student groups:

1. Post Graduate students
2. SC/ST candidates
3. Persons with Disabilities (PWD)
4. Women candidates
5. And more

Understanding the UGC Scholarship Application Process

This guide provides detailed insights into each aspect of the UGC Scholarship application process, including:

1. How to apply online
2. Eligibility criteria for different scholarships
3. Crucial dates to remember

Rewards and Benefits of UGC Scholarships

In addition to providing necessary information, this article also highlights the significant rewards and benefits that come with these prestigious scholarships.

So whether you’re a postgraduate student or a candidate belonging to a reserved category, there’s something of value for everyone here.

Read ahead to uncover every detail about UGC Scholarship 2024 – because every dream deserves a chance!

Types of UGC Scholarships

The University Grants Commission (UGC) offers an array of scholarships catering to various student groups, including postgraduate candidates, SC/ST students, persons with disabilities (PWD), and women scholars. Each scholarship program is designed with specific objectives to promote higher education among underrepresented sections of society.

1. Post Graduate Scholarships

Post Graduate Indira Gandhi Scholarship Scheme for Single Girl Child

• Objective: To support postgraduate education among single girl children in non-professional courses.
• Eligibility: This scholarship is exclusive to single girl children who are the only child or twin daughters or fraternal daughter in the family.
• Award: The scheme offers a significant number of scholarships each year, ensuring substantial outreach.
• Benefits: Scholars receive a financial grant for a duration of two years which covers their tuition fees and educational expenses.

Post Graduate Merit Scholarship for University Rank Holder

• Objective: To incentivize meritorious students with outstanding performance at the undergraduate level to pursue postgraduate studies.
• Eligibility: Targeted at those who secured the first and second rank in their respective undergraduate programs across affiliated universities.
• Award: A commendable number of these scholarships are disbursed annually, fostering excellence in the academic community.
• Benefits: The scholarship aids recipients by providing financial assistance that helps cover academic expenses for two years.

2. Scholarships for SC/ST Candidates

UGC ensures that students belonging to Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes have ample opportunities to continue their higher education without financial constraints.

• Special Features: These scholarships often come with relaxed eligibility criteria and include several benefits like monthly stipends, contingency funds, and reader charges for PWD candidates within these categories.

3. Scholarships for PWD Candidates

Addressing inclusivity in education, UGC provides scholarships specifically designed for PWD candidates to aid them in pursuing postgraduate degrees and research opportunities.

• Tailored Benefits: Accommodations such as reader allowances and relaxation in age limits are provided under these schemes, acknowledging the unique challenges faced by PWD students.

Fellowship Scholarship

Fellowship scholarships are typically aimed at supporting doctoral research across various disciplines. They often target unemployed women Ph.D. holders and SC/ST candidates providing them with financial assistance throughout their research tenure.

Women Scholarship

For Women Candidates

• Initiatives like the Post Doctoral Fellowship to Women Candidates showcase UGC’s commitment towards promoting advanced research among women scholars.

For Single Girl Child

• The Post Graduate Indira Gandhi Scholarship Scheme mentioned earlier underscores a focused approach towards encouraging single girl children to pursue higher education without financial impediments.

The UGC’s scholarship portfolio reflects its dedication to fostering an environment where equitable access to higher education is not just an aspiration but a tangible reality. Through these programs, eligible students across different social strata can aspire for academic excellence and transformative career trajectories.

2. Scholarships for SC/ST Candidates

University Grants Commission (UGC) offers numerous scholarships targeting specific groups. One of these is the Post Graduate Scholarships for Professional Courses for SC/ST Candidates. This scholarship aims to uplift SC/ST candidates by financially supporting their pursuit of professional postgraduate level programs.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following conditions to be eligible:

• The candidate should belong to the SC/ST category.
• The candidate must have secured admission in a professional postgraduate course at a recognized Indian university or college.
• The candidate’s family income should not exceed the limit set by the Government of India.

Scholarship Rewards

Candidates who are selected for this scholarship receive significant financial assistance, including:

• Tuition fee reimbursement up to INR 2 lakh per annum.
• Living allowance as per actuals or INR 3,000 per month, whichever is less.

Application Process

Applications for this scholarship are accepted online through the National Scholarship Portal or the official UGC website. It’s crucial to cross-check all information before submitting it, as any mistake can lead to disqualification.

UGC Scholarships offer a gateway to higher education for socially and economically disadvantaged students. Students who meet the eligibility criteria shouldn’t miss out on applying for these scholarships. Applying in time and staying updated with the latest information can significantly increase chances of being awarded these scholarships.

3. Scholarships for PWD Candidates

In the spectrum of UGC scholarships, special consideration is given to Persons with Disabilities (PWD). A significant scholarship under this category is the National Fellowship for Persons with Disabilities. This fellowship aims to provide opportunities for PWD candidates to pursue advanced studies and research in Sciences, Engineering & Technology, Humanities, and Social Sciences.

Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for this scholarship are as follows:

1. The candidate must be a person with a disability having more than 40% disability and must have a valid certificate from the competent authority.
2. The candidate should have enrolled themselves in a full-time Ph.D./M.Phil. program in recognized universities/institutions.
3. For general candidates, a minimum of 50% marks in post-graduation is required, whereas for SC/ST/OBC/PwD candidates, the required percentage is 50%.

Rewards Provided

The rewards provided under this scheme are substantial:

• Monthly stipend: INR 16,000 for the first two years (JRF) and INR 18,000 per month thereafter (SRF).
• Contingency for Humanities/Commerce/Social Science: INR 10,000 per annum for initial two years; INR 20,500 per annum for remaining tenure.
• Contingency for Sciences/Engineering & Technology: INR 12,000 per annum for initial two years; INR 25,000 per annum for remaining tenure.
• Departmental assistance: INR 3,000 per annum.
• Reader Assistance: INR 2,000 per month in cases of physically handicapped & blind candidates.

The UGC has made commendable efforts to ensure inclusivity and equal opportunities by providing these scholarships. It encourages PWD students to achieve their academic goals without financial constraints.

Scholarship Name	Eligibility Criteria	Application Process	Benefits
UGC Merit Scholarship	– Must be enrolled in a postgraduate program – Should have obtained a first or second rank at the undergraduate level	– Online application through UGC portal – Submission of required documents	– Financial assistance for the duration of the postgraduate program – Other allowances as per UGC norms
UGC Junior Research Fellowship (JRF)	– Master’s degree with minimum 55% marks (50% for SC/ST/OBC/PWD candidates) – Age limit: 30 years (relaxable for certain categories)	– National Eligibility Test (NET) qualification – Online application through UGC NET portal	– Monthly stipend for 2 years (extendable for 3rd year) – Contingency grant and house rent allowance
UGC Postgraduate Indira Gandhi Scholarship for Single Girl Child	– Only girl child of the family – Admission to a full-time postgraduate course	– Online application through UGC portal – Verification of documents	– Scholarship amount for 2 years of postgraduate study
UGC Maulana Azad National Fellowship for Minority Students	– Belong to a minority community – Should have secured minimum 55% marks in postgraduation	– Online application through UGC portal – Submission of necessary documents	– Financial assistance for M.Phil/Ph.D. studies
UGC Ishan Uday Special Scholarship Scheme	– Students from the northeastern region – Enrolled in a UGC-approved professional course	– Online application through UGC portal – Submission of domicile and enrollment certificate	– Scholarship for tuition fees and other incidental charges

Understanding the Eligibility Criteria for UGC Scholarships

Knowing the UGC Scholarship eligibility criteria is crucial for any aspirant. It acts as a filter that decides whether an individual can apply for a particular scholarship or not.

The eligibility criteria are influenced by various factors such as educational qualifications, age limits, and special requirements. For instance:

Educational Qualifications:

A majority of UGC scholarships require candidates to have a certain minimum percentage in their Undergraduate (UG) or Postgraduate (PG) courses. The minimum marks requirement often varies based on the category of the candidate (General, SC/ST/OBC, PwD). For some scholarships, enrollment in specific courses like M.Phil./Ph.D. is also mandatory.

Age Limits:

Certain fellowships and scholarships stipulate an upper age limit for applicants. This age limit can vary across different scholarships and there are relaxations for reserved categories and women.

While these form the general eligibility conditions, it’s essential to understand that specific scholarships may have additional requirements. As such, it is recommended to go through the official guidelines provided by UGC for each scholarship scheme.

For example, the National Fellowship for Scheduled Caste Students requires candidates to be enrolled in a full-time regular M.Phil./Ph.D. course at a recognized institution. On the other hand, the Post-Doctoral Fellowship is aimed at unemployed Ph.D. holders under 55 years of age (with relaxation for SC, ST, OBC and PwD candidates).

Therefore, alertness and thorough understanding are paramount while reviewing the eligibility criteria before applying for any UGC scholarship.

Application Process for UGC Scholarship 2024

The process to apply for the UGC Scholarships is straightforward and digital, ensuring a hassle-free experience for all applicants. These scholarships can be applied for through two primary online portals: the National Scholarship Portal and the Official UGC Website.

To start your application:

1. Visit either the National Scholarship Portal or the Official UGC Website.
2. Register yourself on the chosen portal by providing basic details such as your full name, date of birth, email address, and mobile number.
3. Once registered, you will receive login credentials which can be used to access the scholarship application.
4. Complete the application form with accurate information regarding personal details, academic qualifications, caste category (if applicable), and income status.
5. Upload all necessary documents in their prescribed format. This may include caste certificates, income certificates, and educational mark sheets.

As an applicant, it’s crucial to gather all required documents prior to starting the application process. This ensures a smooth and error-free submission without unnecessary back-and-forths or delays.

Remember to verify each detail provided in the application form before submission as any discrepancies found may lead to disqualification. Make sure that all uploaded documents are clearly visible and in accordance with the specified requirements.

The UGC Scholarship Application process is designed to be user-friendly yet thorough, enabling deserving candidates from various backgrounds to apply with ease while maintaining stringent standards of selection.

Key Points to Remember During the Application Process

Applying for the UGC Scholarship 2024 involves several steps and meticulous attention to detail. Here are some application tips to ensure your application is successful:

1. Accuracy is essential: Make sure to fill in all the details accurately. Cross-check all the information entered, including personal details, academic qualifications, and contact information.
2. Document Submission: Gather all necessary documents such as caste certificates, income certificates, and educational mark sheets before starting the application process. Ensure that all documents are in the prescribed format mentioned on the official UGC website or National Scholarship Portal.
3. Follow Instructions: Carefully read and follow all instructions provided on the application form. Skipping or misunderstanding an instruction can lead to errors in your application.
4. Password Protection: Keep your login credentials safe. You will need them for future access to your application or for checking your scholarship status.
5. Application Confirmation: After submitting your application, you should receive a confirmation message or email. If not received, it may indicate a problem with your submission.
6. Keep Copies: Save or print out a copy of your completed application form for future reference.

Remember, a well-prepared and carefully submitted application increases your chance of securing a UGC Scholarship.

Important Dates and Deadlines for UGC Scholarship

Keeping an eye on important dates and deadlines for the UGC Scholarship is crucial. It is essential to note the starting date of the application, ending date, last date for final submission, and other related deadlines. These dates are often announced on the official UGC website or through various media outlets.

Why are these dates important?

Staying updated with these dates holds great significance as missing any of these deadlines can lead to disqualification. As an applicant for the UGC Scholarship 2024, it becomes your responsibility to keep track of these important dates and adhere strictly to them.

The UGC Scholarship last date in particular is a critical deadline that needs to be remembered. This is typically the last day on which you can submit your completed application form along with all necessary documents.

Hypothetical Key Dates for UGC Scholarship 2024

Here are some hypothetical key dates for you to consider:

1. Start Date of Application: January 1, 2024
2. Last Date for Online Application: February 28, 2024
3. Last Date for Final Submission: March 15, 2024

Please note that these dates are illustrative and may differ from the actual dates announced by UGC. Hence, always refer to the official UGC portal or National Scholarship Portal for precise information.

In case of any changes in the timeline due to unforeseen circumstances, it is advisable to regularly check official notifications or announcements from UGC regarding any shift in deadlines.

Remember, being proactive about these dates can be instrumental in successfully securing a UGC Scholarship.

Aiding Educational Dreams: Rewards and Benefits of UGC Scholarships

Fellowship for Women Candidates

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has established several scholarships to support the educational aspirations of students across India. Among these, the Fellowship for Women Candidates is particularly notable, providing substantial financial aid to women pursuing advanced studies. Here are the details of the rewards and benefits that come with this scholarship:

1. Monthly Stipend

Beneficiaries receive a monthly stipend which greatly reduces their financial burden and enables them to focus on their research without monetary distractions. In the initial two years, the stipend is INR 38,800 per month, which increases to INR 46,500 per month after two years.

2. Contingency Grant

The UGC understands that research can entail various unforeseen expenses. To address this, they offer a contingency grant of INR 50,000 per annum for a span of five years. This grant supports incidental costs associated with research such as books, stationery, and travel.

3. Reader Allowance

In recognition of the challenges faced by candidates with disabilities, an additional reader allowance of INR 2,000 per month is provided to persons with disabilities (PwD), aiding them in accessing necessary resources.

This fellowship underscores UGC’s commitment to promoting gender equality in higher education and research fields. By alleviating financial constraints, it empowers women candidates to contribute significantly to academic and scientific communities.

Eligible candidates must note that these benefits are subject to terms and conditions set by UGC and may require adherence to specific guidelines during their tenure.

Applicants should ensure they meet all eligibility requirements before applying to make optimal use of the resources provided by such fellowships. These scholarships not only offer financial assistance but also open doors to greater opportunities within academia and beyond.

Post-Doctoral Fellowship for SC/ST Candidates

The University Grants Commission (UGC) offers a significant Post-Doctoral Fellowship for SC/ST Candidates, aimed at providing financial assistance to deserving scholars. This initiative supports the advancement of academic research and professional development of individuals belonging to Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes who have obtained their Ph.D. degrees.

Key Benefits of the Post-Doctoral Fellowship:

1. Monthly Stipend: The fellowship provides a generous monthly stipend to its recipients. For the first two years, candidates receive INR 38,800 per month. Following this period, the stipend is increased to INR 46,500 per month for the remaining tenure.
2. Contingency Grant: Alongside the stipend, fellows are awarded an annual contingency grant of INR 50,000. This grant is designed to cover research-related expenses such as books, travel, and other resources necessary for comprehensive post-doctoral work.
3. Reader Assistance: Recognizing the diverse needs of scholars, the program also offers an additional allowance of INR 2,000 per month for reader assistance to candidates with physical disabilities.

The UGC Scholarship rewards are structured thoughtfully to alleviate financial barriers that might impede scholarly pursuits. With these benefits in place, the Post-Doctoral Fellowship for SC/ST Candidates significantly contributes to nurturing a supportive environment for post-doctoral research among historically underrepresented communities in academia.

Scholarship Name	Rewards
Post Graduate Indira Gandhi Scholarship Scheme for Single Girl Child	INR 36,200 per annum for a period of 2 years
Post Graduate Merit Scholarship for University Rank Holder	INR 3,100 per month for a period of 2 years
Post Graduate Scholarships for Professional Courses for SC/ST Candidates	INR 7,800 per month for a period of 2 years for ME/MTech students. INR 4,500 per month for a period of 2 years for other professional courses.
Special Scholarship Scheme Ishan Uday for NER	Students pursuing general degree courses will receive INR 5,400 per month. Students pursuing technical/ professional/ medical courses will receive INR 7,800 per month. Note: The scholarship award is tenable for one year which can be renewed each year for the degree course subject to your good conduct and maintenance of prescribed attendance.
Swami Vivekananda Single Girl Child Scholarship for Research in Social Sciences	Fellowship of INR 25,000 per month for the initial 2 years and INR 28,000 per month for the remaining tenure. A contingency grant of INR 10,000 per annum for the initial 2 years and IR 20,500 per annum for the remaining tenure. Escort and reader assistance of INR 2,000 per month (for persons with disabilities).
Emeritus Fellowship	An honorarium of INR 31,000 per month for 2 years. A contingency of INR 50,000 per annum
Dr. S. Radharkrishnan Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Humanities and Social Sciences	Fellowship of INR 38,800 for the first year, INR 40,300 for the second year, and INR 41,900 for the third year. A contingency of INR 50,000 per annum for 3 years. Escorts and readers assistance of INR 2,000 per month for PwD (Persons with Disabilities) candidates.
Dr. D. S. Kothari Postdoctoral Fellowship Scheme	Normal Fellowship of INR 43,400, INR 45,000, and INR 46,500 for the first, second, and third year respectively. Higher fellowship of INR 46,500 for the first, second and third years. Contingency grant of INR 1 Lakh per annum.
Post-Doctoral Fellowship to Women Candidates	Fellowship of INR 38,800 per month for the first 2 years and INR 46,500 per month after two years. A contingency of INR 50,000 per annum for 5 years. Escorts and reader allowance of INR 2,000 per month (for PwD applicants).
Post-Doctoral Fellowship to SC/ST Candidates	Fellowship of INR 38,800 per month for the first 2 years and INR 46,500 per month after two years. A contingency of INR 50,000 per annum for 5 years. Escorts and reader allowance of INR 2,000 per month (for PwD applicants).
National Fellowship for Scheduled Caste Students	Fellowship in Social Sciences, Humanities, and Sciences include JRF of INR 25,000 per month for the initial two years and SRF of INR 28,000 per month for the remaining tenure. Contingency for Humanities and Social Sciences is INR 10,000 per annum for the initial 2 years and INR 20,500 per annum for the remaining tenure. Contingency for Science, Engineering & Technology is INR 12,000 per annum for the initial 2 years and INR 25,000 per annum for the remaining tenure. Escorts and reader assistance of INR 2,000 per month (for blind and physically handicapped students).
National Fellowship for Higher Education of ST Students	Fellowship in Social Sciences, Humanities, and Sciences include JRF of INR 25,000 per month for the initial two years and SRF of INR 28,000 per month for the remaining tenure. Contingency for Humanities and Social Sciences is INR 10,000 per annum for the initial 2 years and INR 20,500 per annum for the remaining tenure. Contingency for Science, Engineering & Technology is INR 12,000 per annum for the initial 2 years and INR 25,000 per annum for the remaining tenure. Escorts and reader assistance of INR 2,000 per month (for blind and physically handicapped students).
National Fellowship for Persons with Disabilities	The fellowship amount includes – Monthly stipend of INR 16,000 for the initial 2 years and for the remaining tenure INR 18,000 per month. Contingency allowance for Humanities, Commerce, and Social Science is INR 10,000 per annum for the initial 2 years and INR 20,500 for the remaining tenure. The contingency allowance for Science Engineering & Technology is INR 12,000 and INR 25,000 for the remaining tenure. Departmental assistance of INR 3,000 per annum HRA as per the rules of Institution/University Escorts/reader assistance of INR 2,000 per month (for blind and physically disabled candidates)
Maulana Azad National Fellowship for Minority Students	Fellowship of INR 25,000 per month (JRF) for the initial two years and INR 28,000 per month (SRF) for the remaining tenure. The contingency for Humanities, Social Sciences, and commerce is INR 10,000 per annum for the initial 2 years and INR 20,500 per annum for the remaining tenure. The contingency for Science is INR 12,000 per annum for the initial 2 years and INR 25,000 per annum for the remaining tenure. Escorts and reader assistance of INR 2,000 per month (for blind and physically handicapped students).
National Fellowship for OBC Candidate	Fellowship in Social Sciences, Humanities, and Sciences include JRF of INR 25,000 per month for the initial two years and SRF of INR 28,000 per month for the remaining tenure. The contingency for Humanities and Social Sciences is INR 10,000 per annum for the initial 2 years and INR 20,500 per annum for the remaining tenure. Contingency for Science, Engineering & Technology is INR 12,000 per annum for the initial 2 years and INR 25,000 per annum for the remaining tenure. Escorts and reader assistance of INR 2,000 per month (for blind and physically handicapped students).

Conclusion

UGC Scholarship 2024 provides an unparalleled opportunity for students with financial constraints to pursue their higher education dreams. These scholarships, bestowed by the University Grants Commission, are a beacon of hope for many deserving and ambitious students across India.

To seize this golden opportunity, it’s critical to:

1. Apply Online
2. Check Eligibility
3. Be aware of the Last Date for application submission.

Each scholarship under UGC has its specific eligibility criteria ranging from educational qualifications to age limits. Hence, a thorough understanding of these requirements is paramount to ensure a successful application.

Submitting an application is straightforward but demands diligence. From filling personal details accurately to uploading necessary documents in the prescribed format – every step needs attention to detail. Remember, even a minor mistake can lead to disqualification.

While the task might seem daunting at first, remember that meticulous preparation increases the chances of securing these prestigious scholarships significantly. With careful planning and timely action, aspirants can make their dreams come true through UGC Scholarships 2024.

The road to higher education need not be paved with financial hurdles. UGC Scholarships are a testament to this fact, empowering students across the nation and aiding them in achieving their academic aspirations.

Apply Now for UGC Scholarships 2024

Don’t miss the chance to transform your academic journey. UGC Scholarships stand out as a beacon of hope, lighting the path to higher education for students who face financial barriers. The University Grants Commission is committed to making sure that economic constraints do not hinder the bright minds of our nation from achieving their dreams.

The time to act is now! Here’s what you need to do:

1. Visit the official UGC Scholarship main website for comprehensive details about each scholarship program.
2. Navigate through the array of scholarships available and find the one that aligns with your educational aspirations and eligibility.
3. Prepare all necessary documents such as educational certificates, caste/income certificates, and identification details.
4. Register yourself on the platform and fill in your application with precision and care.
5. Submit your application before the deadline to ensure your candidacy is considered.

It’s essential to use this opportunity wisely. Ensure that you understand each scholarship’s criteria and benefits, whether it’s a fellowship for women candidates or a post-doctoral opportunity for SC/ST candidates.

Take that vital step towards an empowered future. Access the wealth of resources provided by UGC Scholarships. Apply now and pave your way to academic excellence and professional success.

Make sure to check the official UGC website or the specific scholarship program guidelines for the most accurate and up-to-date information.