The Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research (INSPIRE) Scholarship, also known as the Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE), is a flagship program under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India. It is designed to encourage meritorious students to pursue careers in basic and natural sciences by offering financial support at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
Whether you’re a student aspiring to explore physics, chemistry, mathematics, biology, or related fields, INSPIRE is your gateway to research and innovation.
A scholarship program to encourage meritorious students to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate studies in basic and natural sciences.
- No entrance exam required
- 10,000 scholarships awarded annually
- Focuses purely on academic merit
Eligibility Criteria
| Criteria | Description |
| Citizenship | Must be Citizen of India |
| Age Limit | 17 to 22 years at the time of application |
| Course | Enrolled in B.Sc./B.S./Integrated M.Sc./ M.S. in basic Sciences |
| Academic required | Top 1% in Class 12 exam OR -Qualified in JEE (Advanced), NEET, KVPY, NTSE Olympiads |
| Institution | Studying in recognized college/university in India |
| Note | Engineering/Medical Science/Applied Science student in eligible for the scholarship |
Scholarship Amount: ₹80,000 per year, distributed as:
Rs. 60,000 as cash scholarship (in 2 installments).
Rs. 20,000 for summer research projects/internships under guidance of recognized researchers or faculty.
Duration: Up to 5 years (starting from 1st year of undergraduate till completion of integrated master’s course).
How to apply:
The application process is completed online through the official INSPIRE PORTAL
Steps for online application:
| Step: 1 | Visit the Office Website https://online-inspire.gov.in |
| Step : 2 | Register as a new users and create an account |
| Step : 3 | Log in and complete the application form with * Personal Details * Academic Details * Bank Account info (linked with Aadhar) * Choice the Course and Institution |
| Step : 4 | Upload the required documents Class 10 and 12 mark sheets Board performance certificate (Top 1%) Enrollment proof in a science course Photograph and signature Caste/Disability certificate (if applicable) |
| Step: 5 | Submit the application and download the acknowledgement |
Important Dates:
- Application Start Date: Generally around October or November each year.
- Last Date to Apply: Usually December or January of the following year.
- Selection List Release: Within a few months after the last date.
📌 Note: Exact dates vary each year—so regularly check the official website for announcements
Key Points to be remember:
No exam required — purely merit-based.
Only for basic/natural sciences — not for engineering/medicine.
Apply only once during your first year of undergraduate course.
Candidates must maintain good academic performance each year to continue receiving the scholarship.
Conclusion:
The INSPIRE-SHE scholarship is more than just financial aid—it’s a prestigious recognition of your academic excellence and potential in science. It opens doors to premier research opportunities and supports your journey to becoming a scientist, researcher, or academician.
If you’re passionate about science and have excelled in your board exams, don’t miss this opportunity. Start preparing your documents and apply on time!