The STEM Scholars a scholarship scheme that is Shaping the Next Generation of Innovators program is a purpose-driven initiative designed to expand access to high-quality STEM education to those students who are from underrepresented and economically challenged backgrounds. This scheme is Supported through the collaborative efforts of the Nasscom Foundation and the Optum CSR initiative and this scholarship strives to reduce financial barriers and enable academic excellence among eligible students. It is specifically targeting learners who are enrolled in various fields like engineering, life sciences, pharmacy or integrated engineering programs at recognized institutes across major Indian cities. This scholarship emphasizes inclusivity by giving preference to applicants from marginalized communities including SC, ST, OBC, PwD, single-parent families, orphans, and female students.
Eligibility Conditions: Who Can Apply
To qualify for the STEM Scholars Shaping the Next Generation of Innovators program, applicants must fulfill the following criteria:
- Candidate Must be enrolled in 3rd or 4th year of B.E./B.Tech programs in relevant disciplines such as Computer Science, Pharmacy, or Life Sciences.
- Those Students in 4th or 5th year of a 5-year Integrated Engineering Programme (like B.Tech + M.Tech or B.E. + M.E) are also eligible.
- Applicants should be studying at government or private institutes located in Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, or Hyderabad.
- Priority is given to candidates from SC, ST, OBC, girls, PwD, single-parent, and orphan backgrounds.
- Need of a minimum of 65% marks in Class 12th is required.
- Annual family income should not exceed INR 8 lakh from all sources of applicant.
- Children of employees, partners, or donors associated with the program are not eligible.
Scholarship Benefits and Financial Support
The STEM Scholars program offers meaningful financial backing to help students manage educational expenses effectively. Each selected scholar receives:
| Benefit Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Amount | INR 30,000 per student |
| Purpose | Helps cover tuition, living costs and study materials |
| Additional Opportunities | Mentorship and internship exposure |
| Target Audience | Students from underrepresented and economically disadvantaged groups |
Required Documents for Application
Before applying students must prepare and upload the following documents to fill application form:
- Passport size photograph
- Government ID proof (both sides)
- Latest parental income certificate
- Class 10th and 12th mark sheets
- Current academic year fee receipt (2025-26)
- Hostel or PG receipt for 2025-26 (if applicable)
- Bank passbook or cancelled cheque
- Caste certificate (if applicable)
- Previous year’s mark sheet (2024-25)
- Disability or transgender certificate (if applicable)
- Orphan certificate or letter from orphanage (if applicable)
- Home picture
Step-by-Step Application Process
Candidate need to go through following steps to apply online:
- First step is to Click on the STEM Scholars: Shaping the Next Generation of Innovators.
- Log in to Buddy4Study using your registered credentials – Click the ‘Start Application’ button to initiate the form.
- Enter all required personal and academic details and Upload all necessary documents in the designated sections.
- Finally Click ‘Preview’ to confirm that all details and Finally submit the application to complete the process.
| Activity | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Application Last Date | 26-Dec-2025 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Who is eligible for the STEM Scholars scholarship?
Applicants pursuing 3rd or 4th year of engineering or 4th/5th year of integrated engineering programs from institutes in specified Indian cities, with family income up to INR 8 lakh and minimum 65% in Class 12th, are eligible.
Q2: What does the scholarship cover?
Selected students receive INR 30,000 to support tuition, living expenses, and academic materials. Mentorship and internship opportunities may also be offered.
Q3: How can I apply for the STEM Scholars program?
Applicants must register or log into Buddy4Study, fill the online form, upload documents, preview, and submit before the deadline.
| Description | Link |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Page | https://www.buddy4study.com/scholarship/stem-scholars-shaping-the-next-generation-of-innovators |
| Contact Details | Phone: 011-430-92248 (Ext: 378) Email: stemscholars@buddy4study.in |
