The State Bank of India (SBI) Foundation has introduced the third edition of its prestigious Asha Scholarship Programme. This initiative aims to assist 10,000 talented students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds across India, providing substantial financial aid to support their educational aspirations.
Scholarship Categories and Eligibility Criteria
- SBI Asha Scholarship for School Students
- Eligibility: Students in Class 6 to 12, achieving 75% or more in the last academic year, with a gross annual family income up to INR 3,00,000.
- Benefits: INR 15,000 for each selected student.
- Additional Notes: 50% of the slots are reserved for female students, with preference for SC/ST candidates.
- SBI Asha Scholarship for Undergraduate Students
- Eligibility: Undergraduates from top 100 NIRF-ranked universities/colleges, scoring 75% or above, with a family income up to INR 6,00,000.
- Benefits: Up to INR 50,000.
- Additional Notes: Preference for those with incomes below INR 3,00,000, and 50% reserved for female students.
- SBI Asha Scholarship for Postgraduate Students
- Eligibility: Postgraduates from top 100 NIRF-ranked universities/colleges, with similar income criteria as undergraduate scholarships.
- Benefits: Up to INR 70,000.
- Additional Notes: Preference for low-income families and female students.
- SBI Asha Scholarship for IIT Students
- Eligibility: Undergraduates at any Indian Institute of Technology, meeting similar income and academic criteria.
- Benefits: Up to INR 2,00,000.
- Additional Notes: Preference for students from low-income families and female candidates.
- SBI Asha Scholarship for IIM Students
- Eligibility: MBA/PGDM students from any Indian Institute of Management, with similar criteria.
- Benefits: Up to INR 7,50,000.
- Additional Notes: Preference for lower-income families and female applicants.
Key Features of the Programme
- Comprehensive Coverage: The scholarship caters to students from Class 6 through postgraduate levels and includes those studying at prestigious institutions like IITs and IIMs.
- Study Abroad Option: Special provisions are available for SC and ST students pursuing advanced degrees at esteemed international institutions.
- Application Deadline: Applications must be submitted by October 1, 2024.
- Official Website: Detailed information and application forms can be accessed at sbifashascholarship.org.
Application Process and Required Documents
- Documents Needed:
- Marksheets from the previous academic year
- Government-issued ID proof (Aadhaar card)
- Current year fee receipt
- Proof of current admission
- Bank account details
- Proof of income
- Applicant’s photograph
- Caste Certificate (if applicable)
- How to Apply:
- Visit the official website and click ‘Apply Now.’
- Log in to Buddy4Study or create an account.
- Complete and submit the application form with the required documents.
Selection Process
The selection is based on academic merit and financial need, involving initial screening, telephonic interviews, and document verification. The scholarship amount is directly transferred to the students’ bank accounts.
Program Impact and Vision
Since its launch in 2022, the Asha Scholarship Programme has supported 3,198 students and disbursed over INR 3.91 crore. The SBI Foundation’s mission is to enhance access to quality education for students from underserved communities, contributing to India’s broader developmental goals.
