BSR Fellowship Scheme for Science Students - UGC
Scholarship for BSc/MSc science students at top Indian universities · UGC BSR Fellowship
Science Ph.D. students admitted to UGC-recognised universities can receive a monthly fellowship and annual research contingency grant through this UGC scheme. Fellows receive funding for up to 5 years, with higher rates for NET/GATE-qualified candidates. Apply through your university's standard Ph.D. selection committee process.
About This Scheme
Science Ph.D. students admitted to UGC-recognised universities can receive a monthly fellowship and annual research contingency grant through this UGC scheme. Fellows receive funding for up to 5 years, with higher rates for NET/GATE-qualified candidates. Apply through your university's standard Ph.D. selection committee process.
Full official description
The “BSR Fellowship Scheme for Science Students” has been implemented by the University Grants Commission (UGC), Ministry of Education, Government of India. The objective of the Basic Scientific Research (BSR) scheme is to provide opportunities to meritorious candidates to undertake advanced studies and research leading to Ph.D. degrees in sciences. The scheme is applicable to all Departments of Sciences, Bio-Sciences, Agricultural Sciences, Engineering Sciences of the eligible Universities.
The Research Fellowship in Sciences for meritorious students BSR scheme of the UGC is open to candidates who are selected for registering to the Ph.D. programme of the university through a procedure outlined already in the UGC notification by a regular admission procedure . The registration for Ph.D. may follow after the admissions.
Benefits
- JRF (first 2 years) — GATE/NET qualified: ₹24,800/month
- JRF (first 2 years) — Others: ₹21,700/month
- SRF (subsequent years) — GATE/NET qualified: ₹27,900/month
- SRF (subsequent years) — Others: ₹24,800/month
- Annual contingency grant: ₹12,000 (JRF) / ₹25,000 (SRF)
- HRA as per Government of India city-category norms
- 30 days leave per year plus maternity/paternity leave
- Total fellowship tenure: up to 5 years
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EdTech startups targeting science undergrads and postgrads — UGC BSR Fellows are a high-intent, financially-supported cohort who are likely early adopters for research tools, online labs, or career acceleration products.
Who Can Apply (Eligibility)
- Must be registered for a Ph.D. program at a UGC-recognized university (Universities with Potential for Excellence, Centres of Advanced Study, or DSA departments)
- Selected through the university's regular Ph.D. admission procedure
- Research must be in sciences, bio-sciences, agricultural sciences, or engineering sciences
- Cannot hold any other fellowship or paid employment during the tenure
How to Apply
- Check with your university's scholarship cell for UGC BSR Fellowship applications.
- The university nominates eligible students based on merit and financial need.
- Nomination forwarded to UGC for approval.
- Scholarship disbursed through the university to the student's bank account.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main objective of the Scheme?
Its primary objective is to provide financial support for advanced studies and research leading to Ph.D. degrees in sciences.
Who is eligible to apply for the Scheme?
Candidates selected for registration in a Ph.D. programme at eligible universities (including those with Centres of Potential for Excellence/Special Assistance) can apply.
Is this fellowship open for part-time or distance Ph.D. candidates?
No, only full-time Ph.D. research candidates in eligible institutions are considered.
Does the fellowship cover all disciplines?
It covers sciences and science-related areas, including all Departments of Sciences, Bio-Sciences, Agricultural Sciences, Engineering
Sciences of the eligible Universities, as specified by UGC.
Can international students apply?
The scheme is intended for Indian nationals enrolled in eligible Indian universities.
Is House Rent Allowance (HRA) payable?
Yes; HRA is allowed based on accommodation status and government norms, except for hostel accommodations (only hostel fees reimbursed).
Are medical expenses covered?
No fixed medical allowance is provided, but fellows can use the host institution’s medical facilities.
What is the tenure of the fellowship?
The fellowship is for up to 5 years: initially 2 years as JRF, then up to 3 years as SRF upon satisfactory assessment.
How is the selection made?
The host university selects candidates through an interview by a committee as per UGC guidelines.
Where do candidates apply?
Applications are submitted to identified universities/institutions; shortlisted candidates are interviewed by the selection committee.
Can fellows accept other paid work?
No, fellows cannot accept other paid employment or scholarship during the tenure.
Under what conditions can the fellowship be cancelled?
It can be canceled due to misconduct, unsatisfactory progress, ineligibility, holding other emoluments, or fraud.
Ready to apply?
Visit the official government portal to apply for this scheme.
Apply on myScheme.gov.inDocuments Required
- Academic marksheets
- Income certificate
- Enrolment proof at a UGC-recognised university
- Bank account details