IIT AI Research Scholarships 2025 – How to Apply & Stipend Info

In a significant move to boost Artificial Intelligence (AI) innovation and research in India, the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) have launched the IIT AI Research Scholarships 2025 for PhD candidates. These fellowships are part of the government’s larger push toward developing AI-led technology under initiatives like Digital India, Make in India, and National Mission on AI.

The scholarships will support research in machine learning, natural language processing (NLP), robotics, computer vision, and more. The scheme is now open for registration across select IITs including IIT Madras, IIT Hyderabad, IIT Delhi, and IIT Kharagpur.

Here’s everything future researchers need to know—from eligibility criteria and stipend amounts to application deadlines and project scope.

Objective of the AI Scholarship Scheme

The purpose of the AI Research Scholarships 2025 is to:

• Promote cutting-edge PhD research in Artificial Intelligence and Deep Tech

• Encourage interdisciplinary innovation in healthcare, agriculture, defense, and education

• Support scholars with dedicated funding, infrastructure, and mentorship

• Create a pipeline of AI talent to power India’s digital future

This initiative aligns with the AI for All vision and will feed into the broader ecosystem of AI-based startups, government solutions, and smart automation systems.

Eligibility Criteria for IIT AI Scholarships

To apply for the AI Research Scholarship 2025 at IITs, candidates must meet the following eligibility conditions:

• Educational Qualification:

  • Master’s degree in Engineering/Technology (Computer Science, Electronics, Robotics, etc.) OR

  • B.Tech from an IIT with CGPA ≥ 8.0 OR

  • MSc in Mathematics/Computer Science with valid GATE/NET

• Age Limit: Generally below 35 years for general category candidates. Relaxations apply for reserved categories.

• Entrance Exam: Must have qualified GATE or UGC-NET in a relevant subject

• Research Proposal: Required during the application process – should focus on an AI-specific problem or theme

• Working Professionals: Some IITs allow part-time PhD with proof of employment and NOC from employer

Foreign nationals and NRIs may also apply under a separate quota (self-funded or sponsored).

Key Institutes Offering the Scholarship

The AI fellowship is available across multiple IITs. Some key programs include:

• IIT Madras: Robert Bosch Centre for Data Science and AI (RBCDSAI)

• IIT Hyderabad: Centre for AI and Data Science (CAIDS)

• IIT Delhi: School of Artificial Intelligence (ScAI)

• IIT Kharagpur: Centre for AI (CAI)

• IIT Kanpur: Mehta Family Centre for Engineering in Medicine

Each center offers research in specialized fields such as AI in medicine, NLP, neural networks, robotics, and autonomous systems.

Fellowship Amount and Benefits

The IIT AI Research Scholarship 2025 offers the following financial support:

Some projects funded by industry partners (Google, Bosch, Intel) may offer higher stipends or additional perks like laptops, global conference travel, and internship opportunities.

How to Apply for AI Scholarship 2025

Follow these steps to apply for the IIT AI Research Scholarship:

1. Visit the official website of the respective IIT (e.g., https://www.iitm.ac.in for IIT Madras)

2. Go to the “Admissions” section under PhD Programs

3. Click on the AI/ML Research Program and select the project area

4. Register with your basic details and academic records

5. Upload the following documents:

   • Resume/CV

   • Academic transcripts

   • GATE/NET scorecard

   • Statement of Purpose (SOP)

   • Research Proposal (max 1500 words)

6. Pay the application fee (₹300–₹500 depending on institute)

7. Submit and take note of your application ID

Most institutes conduct written tests and interviews between October–December 2024, and the selected scholars begin in January 2025.

Fields of Research Under the Program

The following domains are considered under the AI scholarship umbrella:

• Natural Language Processing (NLP)

• Computer Vision and Image Processing

• Reinforcement Learning

• Human–Computer Interaction (HCI)

• AI in Healthcare and Biomedicine

• Robotics and Automation

• AI in Cybersecurity

• Generative AI and Deep Learning Architectures

• AI for Rural Development and Public Policy

IITs encourage scholars to work on projects with real-world impact, preferably aligned with government or industry challenges.

Industry Collaboration & Global Exposure

Many IITs are collaborating with tech giants for funding and internships:

• Google Research India – AI for Social Good

• Intel – Edge Computing and Vision Systems

• Bosch – Smart Mobility and Diagnostics

• DRDO & ISRO – Defense AI applications

• TCS Research – Industrial AI and Robotics

Scholars may be sent to international partner universities or conferences (e.g., NeurIPS, ICML, CVPR) for knowledge exchange and exposure.

FAQs

Who can apply for the IIT AI Research Scholarship 2025?

Master’s degree holders in engineering, IIT BTech graduates (with CGPA ≥ 8), or MSc candidates with GATE/NET can apply.

What is the monthly stipend under the AI scholarship?

Selected scholars will receive ₹31,000 per month initially, and ₹35,000 per month as Senior Research Fellows (SRF).

Do I need to submit a research proposal?

Yes, a detailed research proposal focused on an AI problem is required during the application.

Are industry-funded AI projects eligible for higher scholarships?

Yes, candidates selected for industry-collaborated projects may receive higher stipends and added benefits like internships.

Can working professionals apply?

Yes, if your IIT offers part-time PhD, and you have an NOC from your employer, you can apply as a working professional.

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