In a bold step to support higher education and promote academic excellence, the Government of India has announced a new fellowship scheme July 2025 for undergraduate students. Starting this academic session, eligible students will receive a ₹12,000 monthly grant, marking one of the most generous undergraduate fellowship programs in the country’s history.
This initiative is being implemented through the University Grants Commission (UGC) and aims to reduce the financial burden on students while rewarding merit and academic promise. The scheme has already been approved and will roll out from July 2025 across all central and state universities.
Key Features of the Fellowship Scheme
The fellowship scheme July 2025 has been created with inclusivity and empowerment in mind. It covers academic, living, and study material expenses for students who qualify based on merit and socio-economic background.
Highlights of the scheme:
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Monthly fellowship amount: ₹12,000
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Tenure: 3 years (renewable annually based on performance)
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Applicable courses: All UGC-recognized undergraduate programs
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Disbursal method: Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to student bank accounts
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Bonus provision: ₹5,000 annually for students maintaining 80%+ academic score
This new student grant is meant to uplift talented youth from underserved communities and motivate continued academic effort.
Eligibility Criteria and How to Apply
To qualify for this UGC initiative, applicants must fulfill a combination of academic and income-related criteria.
Eligibility details:
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Must be enrolled in a full-time undergraduate course
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Family income should not exceed ₹2.5 lakh per annum
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Minimum 85% marks in Class 12 (for general), 75% for reserved categories
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Must be registered in an institute recognized by UGC
The scholarship application will be hosted on the new UGC portal starting July 15, 2025. Students will need to upload scanned copies of mark sheets, income certificates, and a digital photograph along with their college admission proof.
| Application Step | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Portal Opens | July 15, 2025 |
| Application Closes | August 15, 2025 |
| Merit List Release | August 30, 2025 |
The education policy goal behind this fellowship is not just to offer aid but also to build a culture of academic persistence and equitable opportunity.
Impact on the Higher Education Landscape
The fellowship scheme July 2025 is expected to benefit nearly 1.2 lakh students in its first phase. By offering financial support without the burden of loans, this student grant makes higher education more accessible and attractive, especially in rural and Tier-2/3 towns.
Key benefits to the academic ecosystem:
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Encourages meritorious students to pursue full-time UG degrees
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Reduces dropout rates caused by financial constraints
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Aligns with NEP 2020’s emphasis on inclusive and flexible learning
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Supports national goals for skilling and higher education expansion
This landmark scholarship initiative is being seen as a foundational shift toward creating an education system rooted in both equity and excellence.
FAQs
What is the fellowship scheme July 2025?
It’s a new initiative by the UGC that provides a ₹12,000 monthly student grant to eligible undergraduate students starting in July 2025.
Who can apply for this UG fellowship?
Students pursuing full-time undergraduate programs in UGC-recognized institutions with qualifying academic scores and income levels are eligible.
Is the fellowship available for all courses?
Yes, it applies to all UGC-approved undergraduate programs, regardless of stream or location.
How is the scholarship amount distributed?
The scholarship is directly credited to the student’s bank account every month via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
When and where can I apply?
Applications open on July 15, 2025, through the official UGC portal. The deadline for submissions is August 15, 2025.
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