In 2025, academic and research institutions across India are offering a wide range of research fellowship programs to support science students pursuing postgraduate and doctoral studies. These fellowships are vital for nurturing innovation, funding high-potential research, and building a skilled scientific workforce in the country.
Whether you’re focused on life sciences, physical sciences, or interdisciplinary fields, there are multiple fellowships designed to fund your academic journey. Let’s explore the top fellowship opportunities available for science students in India this year.
Top Government-Backed Fellowships for Science Students
India’s central agencies like DST, CSIR, and DBT continue to provide structured fellowship programs in 2025:
-
CSIR JRF (Junior Research Fellowship): For candidates pursuing PhD in science and technology fields with a monthly stipend of ₹31,000.
-
INSPIRE Fellowship: Offered by the Department of Science & Technology (DST) for students ranked in the top 1% in Class 12 and pursuing BSc-MSc courses.
-
DBT-JRF: For students in biotechnology and life sciences; includes NET-based selection.
-
ICMR JRF: Sponsored by the Indian Council of Medical Research for life sciences and social sciences graduates.
These fellowships are often accompanied by contingency grants, hostel allowances, and travel funds for conferences.
College-Based and University-Specific Fellowships
Several Indian universities offer research fellowship grants as part of their PG and PhD programs:
-
IITs and NITs: Offer M.Tech and PhD fellowships (₹12,400–₹35,000/month) under the MHRD scheme.
-
JNU, BHU, DU: Offer UGC/CSIR fellowships based on entrance performance and departmental selection.
-
IISERs: Encourage integrated PhD applicants with financial aid and research grants.
Students are advised to apply early through the respective university portals and attach all research proposals and publications.
International Research Fellowships for Indian Students
In addition to Indian schemes, science students are eligible for prestigious global fellowships:
-
Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship: For Indian master’s and doctoral students seeking research opportunities in the USA.
-
DAAD (Germany): Funds Indian PG science students for research and higher studies in German universities.
-
Newton-Bhabha PhD Placement Program: A UK-India program supporting short-term fellowships.
-
Australia India Research Students Fellowship (AIRS): For Indian PhD scholars pursuing collaborative research with Australian institutions.
These fellowships enhance international exposure and strengthen academic networks.
Private Sector & NGO-Supported Fellowships
In 2025, corporates and foundations are also sponsoring research fellowship programs:
-
Tata Innovation Fellowship: For scientists doing research in life sciences and biotechnology.
-
Reliance Foundation Fellowship: Funds innovation-based research across science disciplines.
-
Wellcome Trust/DBT India Alliance: Supports biomedical research across early-career and intermediate levels.
-
Infosys Science Foundation: Offers awards and grants for breakthrough research work.
These fellowships are highly competitive but provide significant visibility and financial aid.
Application Process and Eligibility Criteria
Each research fellowship program has unique eligibility requirements, but general criteria include:
-
Academic performance (usually above 60–70% in graduation/postgraduation)
-
Valid GATE/NET/CSIR scores (for government fellowships)
-
Research proposal outlining goals, methodology, and outcomes
-
Recommendations from academic supervisors or professors
-
Age limit: Generally under 28–35 years depending on the fellowship
Many fellowships now accept online applications via centralized portals or institute-specific websites.
How to Choose the Right Fellowship
When selecting a research fellowship, consider the following:
-
Area of specialization – Does the fellowship align with your field?
-
Funding amount – Are the stipend and contingency grants sufficient?
-
Host institution – Does it support your research infrastructure needs?
-
Tenure – Most fellowships run for 2–5 years, depending on level.
-
Opportunities – Look for mentorship, publication support, and post-doc options.
Always cross-check deadlines, required documents, and test scores before applying.
FAQs
What is the difference between a scholarship and a research fellowship?
A scholarship is typically merit- or need-based financial aid for students, while a research fellowship supports specific research activities, often at the postgraduate or doctoral level.
Can undergraduate students apply for research fellowships?
Most fellowships are for postgraduate and doctoral students, but schemes like INSPIRE allow early UG students to apply if they meet eligibility.
How much stipend is provided under CSIR JRF?
CSIR JRF provides ₹31,000/month for the first two years and ₹35,000/month for the next three years, along with contingency grants.
Are research fellowships taxable?
Yes, fellowships above a certain threshold may be taxable depending on the institution and income level. However, many academic fellowships are exempt under Section 10(16).
Do fellowships guarantee PhD admission?
Fellowships like UGC-JRF or DBT-JRF improve your chances significantly but don’t guarantee admission. Admission depends on the university’s selection process.
Click here to know more.