In a significant move to boost postgraduate and research-level education in India, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has launched new UGC fellowship schemes for 2025. These scholarships are aimed at improving access to higher education, supporting financially disadvantaged students, and encouraging research in priority areas like science, technology, social sciences, and regional languages.
Whether you’re a postgraduate student, a NET-qualified aspirant, or a PhD researcher, the updated UGC scholarship 2025 schemes offer enhanced stipends, expanded categories, and simpler online applications.
Here’s a complete breakdown of the schemes, eligibility, benefits, and how to apply.
Key Highlights of UGC Fellowship Schemes 2025
UGC has introduced both updates to existing fellowships and newly launched categories for underrepresented groups. Major highlights include:
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Increased stipend amounts for select fellowships
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Introduction of a new AI & Innovation research fellowship
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Simplified UGC scholarship portal for application and tracking
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Wider inclusion of students from rural, SC/ST/OBC, and NE regions
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Fellowship for transgender and differently-abled students
These fellowships are being distributed under the broader vision of NEP 2020 and the government’s aim to make higher education more inclusive and research-driven.
Updated UGC Fellowships in 2025 – At a Glance
| Fellowship Name | Monthly Stipend | Duration | Target Group |
|---|---|---|---|
| JRF (Junior Research Fellowship) | ₹31,000 (first 2 yrs), ₹35,000 (next 3 yrs) | 5 years | NET-qualified students |
| PG Indira Gandhi Scholarship | ₹3,100 | 2 years | Single girl children |
| PG SC/ST Fellowship | ₹4,000 | 2 years | SC/ST PG students |
| Maulana Azad Fellowship | ₹25,000–₹28,000 | 5 years | Minority students |
| Transgender Students Fellowship (New) | ₹5,000 | 2 years | Transgender PG students |
| AI Research Fellowship (New) | ₹50,000 + Contingency | 3 years | PhD scholars in AI, ML, Robotics |
Note: All fellowships come with annual contingency grants and HRA (House Rent Allowance) if applicable.
Who Can Apply?
Eligibility criteria vary across fellowships. However, general rules include:
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Must be enrolled in a recognized PG or PhD program
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Should belong to the target category (SC/ST/Minority etc.)
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Minimum 60% in previous degree (relaxed for reserved categories)
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No active employment or salary for full-time research schemes
For JRF and NET-based fellowships:
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Must have qualified NET/JRF or CSIR-UGC test
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Should be pursuing full-time research in recognized institutes
New Fellowship for AI Research
A key highlight in 2025 is the launch of a new AI Research Fellowship under UGC and MeitY. It supports research in:
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Artificial Intelligence
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Machine Learning
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Cybersecurity
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Blockchain
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Smart mobility
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Healthcare analytics
Eligible students from Tier-2 and Tier-3 institutions are also encouraged to apply. This marks a strategic step to support India’s AI and innovation ecosystem.
How to Apply for UGC Fellowship 2025
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Visit UGC Scholarship Portal
Go to https://scholarship.ugc.ac.in -
Register and Log In
Use your mobile number and email ID to create a student login. -
Choose Fellowship Type
Select your relevant category: PG, NET-JRF, Minority, etc. -
Fill Application Form
Enter academic and personal details. Upload scanned documents:-
Mark sheets
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Caste certificate (if applicable)
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Admission proof
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Income certificate
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Disability/Minority/Transgender certificate (if applicable)
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Submit and Track Status
Once submitted, you can track the status on the portal. Final selection lists are published monthly. -
Document Verification
Institutes will verify submitted documents via the online portal. -
Disbursement via DBT
Selected candidates will receive funds directly into their bank accounts via DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer).
Important Dates
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Applications open: July 1, 2025
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Last date to apply: September 30, 2025
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First disbursal list: October 2025
Students are advised to apply early and keep all documents ready.
FAQs
What is the stipend amount under UGC JRF 2025?
₹31,000 per month for the first 2 years and ₹35,000 per month for the remaining 3 years, along with HRA and contingency grants.
Can I apply for more than one UGC scholarship?
No, students can apply for only one active UGC fellowship or scholarship at a time.
Is there any new fellowship for innovation or technology?
Yes, UGC has introduced an AI Research Fellowship in 2025 for full-time PhD candidates in innovation-driven fields.
Are private university students eligible?
Only if the university is UGC-approved and participates in the scholarship portal. Always check the eligibility list before applying.
Is the transgender fellowship officially active?
Yes, the Transgender Students Fellowship was launched in July 2025 to promote inclusion and academic support.
Click here to know more.