The Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Scholarship 2025 is a prestigious scholarship program launched to honor the legacy of the former President of India, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. The scholarship aims to provide financial assistance to academically meritorious students from economically weaker sections so that they can pursue higher education without financial barriers. Various state governments, universities, and charitable organizations administer scholarships under this scheme for students across multiple levels, including diploma, undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral education.
Overview of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Scholarship
- Launched By: Various State Governments, Universities, and the APJ Abdul Kalam Foundation
- Beneficiaries: Meritorious and needy students across India, with special focus on marginalized communities
- Purpose: To provide scholarships and fellowships for pursuing education in diploma, UG, PG, MPhil, PhD, and specialized training programs
- Application Mode: Mostly online through official portals of respective programs
- Academic Levels Covered: School (10th), Diploma, UG, PG, MPhil, PhD
- Reward Range: Tuition fee waivers, monthly scholarships, research grants, and other fellowships with amounts ranging from a few thousand to INR 10 lakhs for selected programs
Key Features and Types of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Scholarships
| Scholarship Name | Description | Amount / Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Scholarship (General) | Merit-cum-need scholarship for diploma/UG/PG students | Up to INR 10,000 per year (tuition reimbursement) |
| Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Scholarship Kerala | For diploma students in Kerala, with income limits and merit basis | INR 6,000 per year for 3 years |
| International Undergraduate Scholarships | For foreign students admitted in Australia | 50% tuition fee waiver for 1 year |
| Technology Innovation National Fellowship | For researchers pursuing innovation in engineering/science | Monthly fellowship INR 25,000 + INR 15 lakh research grant |
| Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Summer Training Program | Fellowship program for researchers in STEM fields | 2 months stipend INR 25,000 + travel support |
| IGNITE Awards | For school children showcasing innovation projects | Financial award + travel allowance |
| Postgraduate Scholarships | Support for PG students for tuition and living expenses | Tuition waiver plus monthly stipend |
| Fulbright Climate Fellowship | International fellowship for climate change research | Monthly stipend, travel, and other benefits |
Eligibility Criteria
Specific eligibility depends on the particular scholarship, but general guidelines include:
- Must be an Indian citizen
- Belonging to financially weaker or marginalized sections (income limits vary)
- Must have secured minimum marks in qualifying exams (example: 60-75% depending on scheme)
- Admission to recognized government or private institutions/universities
- Age limits apply for some schemes (e.g., below 25-40 years)
- Special categories and preferences (women, disabled, economically backward, meritorious students)
- For research fellowships, enrollment in MPhil/PhD with required academic performance and age restrictions
For example:
| Scholarship Variant | Eligibility Highlights |
|---|---|
| General Scholarship | Passed class 10 or 12, ₹2 lakh income limit |
| Kerala Diploma Scholarship | Kerala resident, minority communities, ₹8 lakh income ceiling |
| Technology Innovation Fellowship | Technical degree holder, research background, ≤35 years old |
| Fulbright Climate Fellowship | Research in climate change, age & academic criteria |
| PG Scholarships | Admission to PG courses, income and academic criteria |
Application Process (Generalized)
- Visit the official portal(s) of the respective scholarship/organization (e.g., official sites for Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Foundation, Kerala Minority Welfare, National Scholarship Portal, etc.)
- Carefully read eligibility and instructions
- Register on the portal with valid credentials
- Fill application forms online with personal, academic, and family income details
- Upload scanned copies of required documents (ID proof, mark sheets, income certificate, admission letter, disability certificate if applicable)
- Submit the application before the deadline
- Keep acknowledgment slip/registration number for tracking
- Track application status online via the respective portals
Refer to individual scheme websites for detailed application guidelines.
Required Documents (Common)
- Aadhaar Card or Government ID Proof
- Mark sheets and Certificates of qualifying examinations
- Income Certificate issued by competent authority
- Caste/Category certificate (if applicable)
- Admission confirmation letter/fee receipt
- Passport size photograph
- Disability certificate (for applicable scholarships)
- Signed letter or Statement of Purpose (for certain fellowships)
Selection Process
- Merit-cum-means evaluation based on academic records and financial need
- Verification of documents through institution and government authorities
- Interview or telephonic conversation in some cases
- Reservation in seats as per government norms (e.g., women, disabled, PVTG quota)
- Publication of selection lists on official portals
- Annual renewal required based on academic progress
Important Dates (Indicative for 2025)
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Start Date | Typically June-July |
| Application Deadline | Varies; usually Oct |
| Result Announcement | After academic verification |
Always confirm dates from official sources.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Who can apply for Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Scholarship?
A: Meritorious students from economically weaker sections fulfilling eligibility, including students from diploma to doctoral levels.
Q: What is the maximum scholarship amount?
A: Varies by program, ranging from INR 6,000 to several lakhs per year for fellowships.
Q: How to apply online?
A: Via respective official portals mentioned in the scholarship notification, often through the National Scholarship Portal or foundation’s website.
Q: Is there age limit?
A: Yes, depending on the scholarship, many fellowships have an age cap (e.g., 25-40 years).
Q: Can I apply for multiple Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Scholarships?
A: Usually no overlapping benefits; select one according to eligibility.