Top 17 CSR Scholarships in India: How to Apply — Complete Guide for Indian Students

CSR Scholarships in India

In this comprehensive guide, you will find everything you need to know about the top 17 CSR scholarships in India — including the Azim Premji University Scholarship, Reliance Foundation Scholarship, Aditya Birla Scholarship, Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship, Gandhi Fellowship and others. For each scholarship, we cover eligibility, financial benefits, deadlines, application steps, and official links.

Whether you are an undergraduate student from a low-income household, a postgraduate aspirant at a premier institution, or a young leader seeking a fellowship, this guide has something for you.

What Are CSR Scholarships?

CSR scholarships are financial aid programs funded by corporations as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives to support underprivileged or meritorious students. These scholarships often target professional, technical, and higher education, offering tuition fee coverage, living expenses, and mentorship to promote educational equity. CSR stands for Corporate Social Responsibility — a framework through which companies contribute to social, environmental, and economic development beyond their core business activities.

1. Azim Premji University Undergraduate and Postgraduate Scholarships

Overview

Founded by Wipro Chairman Azim Premji, Azim Premji University in Bengaluru is one of India’s most mission-driven institutions. Its scholarship programme is deeply embedded in the university’s philosophy that financial constraints should never be a barrier to quality education. The university operates on a need-blind admissions philosophy and offers generous financial aid to students admitted to its programmes.

Eligible Courses / Level of Study

Undergraduate programmes: BA (Liberal Arts), B.Sc. (Sciences)
Postgraduate programmes: MA, M.Sc., M.Ed., PG Diploma programmes
Doctoral/Research programmes

Eligible Candidates / Who Can Apply

Students admitted to Azim Premji University programmes
Primarily need-based; family income and assets are assessed
Open to all categories — SC, ST, OBC, General — with a strong focus on first-generation learners and students from economically weaker sections
No minimum percentage cutoff for financial aid (aid is assessed post-admission)

Benefits & Opportunities

Tuition fee waivers — partial to full depending on family income
Hostel and mess fee subsidies
Book and stationery allowance
Access to mentorship programmes and career development workshops
Community learning opportunities with grassroots organisations

Stipend / Financial Value

Financial aid covers up to 100% of tuition fees for the neediest students
Hostel subsidies can reduce accommodation costs by up to 50–75%
Exact amounts vary based on annual family income assessment (typically below ₹2.5 lakh per annum receives maximum aid)

Duration

Coterminous with the duration of the enrolled programme (2–4 years for UG; 1–2 years for PG)

Application Period / Deadline

Aid applications are integrated into the university’s annual admission cycle
Admissions typically open between January and March each year
Financial aid forms submitted alongside or just after admission offer acceptance

How to Apply

Apply for admission to Azim Premji University through the official portal
After receiving an admission offer, fill out the financial aid/scholarship form
Submit income proof, family details, and supporting documents
Aid committee reviews and communicates the award before enrolment

Official Website: https://azimpremjiuniversity.edu.in

2. Reliance Foundation Scholarships

Overview

The Reliance Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Reliance Industries Limited led by Mukesh Ambani and Nita Ambani, runs one of India’s largest corporate scholarship programmes. It aims to nurture future leaders in STEM, humanities, and social sciences who will contribute to India’s development.

Eligible Courses / Level of Study

Undergraduate Scholarships: First-year students in STEM (Engineering, Natural Sciences) and Humanities & Liberal Arts at top Indian universities
Postgraduate Scholarships: Students pursuing master’s degrees in select disciplines

Eligible Candidates / Who Can Apply

Indian nationals studying in India
Must have secured admission in the first year of an eligible UG or PG programme
Family annual income: below ₹15 lakh (income cap may vary by scheme year)
Merit criteria: strong academic record (typically 60% or above in qualifying examination)
Special consideration for girls, students from rural backgrounds, and students with disabilities

Benefits & Opportunities

Annual scholarship grant for academic expenses
Access to Reliance Foundation’s mentorship network
Leadership development programmes and workshops
Internship exposure at Reliance-affiliated organisations
Digital resources and learning tools

Stipend / Financial Value

UG Scholarships: Up to ₹2,00,000 per year
PG Scholarships: Up to ₹6,00,000 per year
(Figures subject to revision; verify on official portal each cycle)

Duration

Annual; renewable based on academic performance

Application Period / Deadline

Applications typically open in July–September each academic year
Shortlisting, online test, and interview rounds follow

How to Apply

Register on the Reliance Foundation Scholarships portal
Fill the online application form with academic and financial details
Appear for the online aptitude/merit test (conducted digitally)
Shortlisted candidates attend a virtual/in-person interview
Final awardees notified via email

Official Website: https://scholarships.reliancefoundation.org

3. Aditya Birla Scholarship

Overview

The Aditya Birla Group, one of India’s largest conglomerates, runs a prestigious scholarship programme for students admitted to India’s most elite institutions. This is one of the most merit-prestigious CSR scholarships in India — being an Aditya Birla Scholar is considered a mark of distinction in corporate and academic circles.

Eligible Courses / Level of Study

Undergraduate Engineering (B.Tech/B.E.)
MBA / PGDM (Management)
Law (LLB/LLM at select institutions)

Eligible Candidates / Who Can Apply

Students admitted to premier institutions including IITs, IIMs, BITS Pilani, XLRI, NLUs (list is updated annually)
Based on merit — no strict income criteria; however, personality, leadership potential, and interview performance are key
Must be in the first year of the programme at the time of application
Open to all categories

Benefits & Opportunities

Annual scholarship grant
Invitation to the Aditya Birla Scholars’ Conclave — an exclusive networking event
Mentoring by senior Aditya Birla Group leaders
Potential internship and placement opportunities within the group
Certificate of scholarship (carries significant weight on résumés)

Stipend / Financial Value

Engineering scholars: ₹65,000 per year
Management scholars: ₹1,75,000 per year
Law scholars: ₹1,00,000 per year
(Amounts are indicative and subject to annual revision)

Duration

Annual; typically renewable for the duration of the programme based on performance

Application Period / Deadline

Institutions are contacted by the Aditya Birla Group directly after admissions are confirmed
Generally initiated between June and September

How to Apply

The Aditya Birla Group contacts eligible institutions directly
Institutions nominate eligible first-year students
Nominated students fill an application and appear for a personal interview with a senior Aditya Birla Group panel
Final scholars selected on merit and personality

Official Website: https://www.adityabirlascholars.net/the-scholarship/

4. Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships

Overview

The Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation, established by Swraj Paul and his family in memory of Inlaks Shivdasani, is one of India’s most prestigious private scholarship foundations. It supports exceptional young Indians to pursue advanced studies at the world’s best universities — primarily abroad — and is often described as India’s equivalent of the Rhodes Scholarship.

Eligible Courses / Level of Study

Postgraduate study (Master’s, MPhil, PhD) at top global universities
Fine Arts (select programmes)
Research fellowships

Eligible Candidates / Who Can Apply

Indian nationals below the age of 30 years at the time of application
Must have an undergraduate degree from a recognised Indian university with an outstanding academic record
Must have secured admission or be in the process of applying to a top international university
Open to all disciplines — arts, sciences, social sciences, humanities, law, medicine

Benefits & Opportunities

Tuition fees (partial or full depending on university)
Living expenses stipend
Return economy airfare
Health insurance
The Inlaks network — access to a global community of exceptional Indian scholars

Stipend / Financial Value

Awards vary per university and country; grants typically range from USD 100,000 over the scholarship period (equivalent)
Living stipends are set according to the cost of living at the destination university
(Exact amounts communicated upon award; verified annually)

Duration

Up to 3 years (depending on programme length)

Application Period / Deadline

Applications open approximately November–February each year
Final results announced by May–June

How to Apply

Apply online through the Inlaks Foundation portal
Submit academic transcripts, statement of purpose, two recommendation letters, and proof of university application/admission
Shortlisted candidates attend interviews (conducted in India)
Final awardees announced

Official Website: https://www.inlaksfoundation.org

5. Narotam Sekhsaria Scholarship

Overview

The Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation, associated with the Ambuja Cement legacy, runs two distinct scholarship streams: one for postgraduate study abroad and one for postgraduate study within India. It is known for a rigorous selection process and a strong alumni community.

Eligible Courses / Level of Study

Abroad stream: Master’s degree programmes at top global universities
India stream: Postgraduate and doctoral programmes at top Indian institutions (IITs, IIMs, NLUs, NIDs, etc.)

Eligible Candidates / Who Can Apply

Indian nationals (residents of India)
Age limit: generally 30 years or below
Strong academic record in undergraduate studies
All disciplines — STEM, social sciences, humanities, arts, design, law, medicine
Income is not a primary criterion — this is merit and potential based

Benefits & Opportunities

Abroad stream: Tuition fees, living expenses, airfare, health insurance — partial to full coverage
India stream: Monthly stipend and academic support
Mentoring from distinguished professionals
Access to the NS Foundation alumni network

Stipend / Financial Value

Abroad stream: Loan scholarship up to ₹30 lakh (interest-free; repayable after employment)
India stream: Up to ₹20,000 per month stipend (approximate; subject to revision)

Duration

Programme duration (1–2 years for Master’s; up to 5 years for PhD)

Application Period / Deadline

Applications open typically between December and March each year

How to Apply

Register on the NS Foundation scholarship portal
Submit online application with academic records, SOP, references
Shortlisted candidates appear for personal interviews
Awards announced and funds disbursed

Official Website: https://www.nsfoundation.co.in

6. J.N. Tata Endowment Loan Scholarship

Overview

One of India’s oldest and most respected scholarship schemes, the J.N. Tata Endowment was established in 1892 by Jamsetji Nusserwanji Tata — the founder of the Tata Group — with the express purpose of enabling bright young Indians to pursue higher education abroad. It is a loan scholarship — not a grant — but interest-free and repayable after the scholar establishes themselves professionally.

[Internal Link: Tata Group CSR Initiatives for Education]

Eligible Courses / Level of Study

Postgraduate study abroad (Master’s, PhD, Post-doctoral research)
Professional degrees (Medicine, Law, MBA) at top international institutions

Eligible Candidates / Who Can Apply

Indian nationals who are residents of India
Must hold a first-class Bachelor’s or Master’s degree from a recognised Indian university
Must have secured admission to a reputed foreign university before applying
Age limit: typically 45 years
Open to all disciplines, all genders, all categories

Benefits & Opportunities

Loan scholarship (interest-free) to fund tuition, living, and travel
Scholar Awards — selected scholars receive an additional outright grant
Access to the Tata Scholars’ network and legacy community

Stipend / Financial Value

Loan amount: Up to ₹10 lakh per scholar (indicative; revised periodically)
Scholar Award (outright grant): ₹1,00,000–₹4,00,000 for outstanding applicants
(Amounts subject to annual revision by the Endowment Committee)

Duration

Typically 1–3 years depending on the programme

Application Period / Deadline

Applications open February–March annually
Results typically announced by May–June

How to Apply

Apply online at the J.N. Tata Endowment portal
Provide academic records, proof of university admission abroad, statement of purpose, and references
Application reviewed by the Selection Committee
Selected scholars sign loan agreement and receive disbursement

Official Website: https://www.jntataendowment.org

7. Glow & Lovely Foundation Scholarship (Formerly Fair & Lovely Foundation)

Overview

The Glow & Lovely Foundation, formerly known as the Fair & Lovely Foundation and backed by HUL (Hindustan Unilever Limited), runs one of India’s longest-running CSR scholarship programmes for women students. The mission is to empower women pursuing higher education and entering the workforce, especially from economically weaker sections.

Eligible Courses / Level of Study

Undergraduate and postgraduate courses across all disciplines
Vocational and career-oriented programmes

Eligible Candidates / Who Can Apply

Women only (all categories — SC/ST/OBC/General)
Indian nationals
Family annual income: typically below ₹3 lakh per annum
Must have passed Class 12 (for UG scholarships) or Graduation (for PG scholarships) with minimum required percentage
Students already enrolled in courses are eligible

Benefits & Opportunities

Annual financial grant towards tuition and living expenses
Career guidance and counselling resources
Online skill-building workshops
Mentorship from HUL’s women leader network

Stipend / Financial Value

Up to ₹30,000 per year (varies by course and institution type)
(Subject to revision per application cycle)

Duration

Annual; renewable based on academic progress

Application Period / Deadline

Applications typically open on Buddy4Study and the official portal between June and October each year

How to Apply

Register and apply on Buddy4Study or the official Glow & Lovely Foundation portal
Fill the application form with personal, academic, and income details
Upload income certificate, marksheets, and institution proof
Merit-cum-means based selection

Official Website: https://www.glowandlovelyfoundation.org

8. L’Oréal India For Young Women in Science Scholarships

Overview

The L’Oréal India For Young Women in Science Scholarship, run in partnership with the UNESCO in India, is specifically designed to encourage young women to pursue careers in pure sciences. Globally, the L’Oréal-UNESCO “For Women in Science” programme is one of the most recognised science fellowships in the world. The India chapter brings that prestige to Indian students.

Eligible Courses / Level of Study

Undergraduate programmes in pure sciences — Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics, Computer Science, Environmental Science

Eligible Candidates / Who Can Apply

Women only
Students in Class 12 or first year of BSc/B.Tech in pure sciences
Must have scored 85% or above in Science and Mathematics in Class 12
Family annual income: below ₹4 lakh per annum
Open to Indian nationals from all states

Benefits & Opportunities

Annual financial grant
Access to L’Oréal India’s professional women’s network
Mentoring by leading Indian women scientists
Certificate recognised by UNESCO and L’Oréal globally

Stipend / Financial Value

₹2,50,000 per year (one of the higher-value UG science scholarships in India)
(Subject to revision; verify on official portal)

Duration

Up to 3 years (renewable annually based on academic performance)

Application Period / Deadline

Applications open typically June–September each year

How to Apply

Apply through the official L’Oréal India scholarship portal or Buddy4Study
Submit academic records, income certificate, and letter of motivation
Shortlisted candidates may appear for interview
Final awardees notified by November

Official Website: https://www.forwomeninscience.com/

9. HDFC Educational Crisis Scholarship Support

Overview

The HDFC Educational Crisis Scholarship Support (ECSS), run by the HDFC Bank Parivartan CSR initiative, is one of India’s most compassionate scholarship schemes. It is specifically designed for students who are currently enrolled in education but are facing a sudden financial crisis — such as the death or serious illness of the primary earning member, job loss, natural disaster, or other emergencies — and are at risk of dropping out.

Eligible Courses / Level of Study

Class 1 to Class 12 (School level)
Undergraduate and Postgraduate courses
Diploma and ITI programmes
Professional courses (Engineering, Medicine, Law, MBA)

Eligible Candidates / Who Can Apply

Students currently enrolled in a recognised institution
Must be facing a sudden financial crisis (documented proof required)
Family annual income: below ₹2.5 lakh per annum post-crisis
Open to all categories, all genders
The scholarship is meant for students who were previously managing their education but are now at risk due to a sudden event

Benefits & Opportunities

One-time or annual financial grant to cover tuition and related expenses
Ensures continuity of education during crisis
No repayment required

Stipend / Financial Value

₹10,000 to ₹75,000 (depending on the level of study and extent of crisis)
(Disbursed directly to institution or student bank account)

Duration

Typically 1 year; renewal possible if crisis persists

Application Period / Deadline

Rolling applications accepted throughout the year on Buddy4Study
Applications reviewed quarterly

How to Apply

You can Apply on Buddy 4 Study (HDFC ECSS section)
Provide proof of enrolment, crisis documentation (death certificate, medical report, FIR, etc.), income proof
Application reviewed by HDFC Parivartan team
Disbursement within 4–8 weeks of selection

Official Website: https://www.parivartanecss.com/

10. Shubh Aarambh Scholarship by Mondelēz India

Overview

Mondelēz India (makers of Cadbury, Oreo, and Bournvita) runs the Shubh Aarambh Scholarship Programme as part of its CSR commitment in India. The name translates to “Auspicious Beginning” — reflecting the brand’s intent to give meritorious students from low-income backgrounds a dignified start to their higher education journey.

Eligible Courses / Level of Study

Undergraduate programmes (engineering, science, commerce, arts) at government colleges and recognised institutions
Diploma and polytechnic courses

Eligible Candidates / Who Can Apply

Students who have passed Class 10 or Class 12 with 60% or above
Family annual income: below ₹2 lakh per annum
Preference given to students from Maharashtra and other states where Mondelēz has significant operations
All categories welcome; no gender restriction

Benefits & Opportunities

Annual financial grant
Mentoring support
Access to Mondelēz’s community education resources

Stipend / Financial Value

₹20,000 to ₹50,000 per year (depending on level of study)
(Figures indicative; subject to annual revision)

Duration

Annual; renewable on merit

Application Period / Deadline

Applications open typically July–September each year via Buddy4Study

How to Apply

Register on Buddy4Study and find the Shubh Aarambh Scholarship listing
Fill the application with academic and income details
Upload marksheets, income certificate, and Aadhaar
Selection based on merit-cum-means

Official Website: Via Buddy4Study — https://www.buddy4study.com (search: Shubh Aarambh Scholarship)

11. Sitaram Jindal Foundation Scholarship

Overview

The Sitaram Jindal Foundation, established by industrialist O.P. Jindal and named after his father, runs one of India’s most accessible and wide-reaching scholarship programmes. Unlike many corporate scholarships restricted to premier institutions, the Jindal scholarship is open to students across hundreds of institutions and covers a remarkably wide range of courses.

Eligible Courses / Level of Study

Class 11 and 12 (Higher Secondary)
Undergraduate (arts, science, commerce, engineering, medicine, law, agriculture)
Postgraduate programmes
ITI and Diploma courses

Eligible Candidates / Who Can Apply

Students from economically weaker sections
Family annual income: below ₹2.5 lakh per annum (for most categories)
Minimum 55%–65% marks in the previous qualifying examination (varies by category)
Separate quotas for girls, SC/ST students, and physically challenged students
Open to students across India with some preference for states where Jindal plants are located (Karnataka, Odisha, Jharkhand, etc.)

Benefits & Opportunities

Monthly stipend credited directly to student bank account
Renewal each year on merit
No service bond or repayment obligation

Stipend / Financial Value

₹1,000–₹2,500 per month depending on course and gender (girls receive slightly higher amounts)
Annual value: approximately ₹12,000–₹30,000
(Amounts updated periodically; verify at official website)

Duration

Duration of the enrolled course

Application Period / Deadline

Applications typically open May–July each year

How to Apply

Download the application form from the Sitaram Jindal Foundation website
Fill and send by post or apply online through the portal
Attach attested copies of marksheets, income certificate, and photos
Selection communicated by post and email

Official Website: https://www.sitaramjindalfoundation.org

12. VIDYASARATHI — NSDL e-Gov Scholarship Platform

Overview

VIDYASARATHI is not a single scholarship but a CSR scholarship aggregator platform developed by NSDL e-Governance Infrastructure Limited (a subsidiary of NSDL, under the Ministry of Finance). It acts as a bridge between corporate CSR funders and student applicants, hosting dozens of scholarship programmes from companies including BPCL, HPCL, IndianOil, Titan, Sebi, and many others — all on a single digital platform.

Eligible Courses / Level of Study

Ranges across all levels — Class 10 to PhD — depending on the specific corporate partner’s scholarship
STEM, professional courses, vocational training, arts, commerce

Eligible Candidates / Who Can Apply

Eligibility varies per individual scholarship listed on the platform
General focus: economically weaker sections, SC/ST/OBC students, girls, students from specific states or near specific industrial areas of partner companies
All Indian nationals can register and check eligibility

Benefits & Opportunities

Access to 50+ corporate scholarships in one place
Transparent application process with digital document submission
Direct benefit transfer to student bank accounts (linked to Aadhaar)
No middlemen involved

Stipend / Financial Value

Varies per scholarship: ₹5,000 to ₹80,000 per year depending on the corporate funder and course level

Duration

Varies per scholarship programme

Application Period / Deadline

Different scholarships have different deadlines; the platform is active throughout the year
Students should check the portal regularly for new openings

How to Apply

Register on the VIDYASARATHI portal with Aadhaar-linked bank account
Browse available scholarships matching your eligibility
Apply for multiple scholarships from one dashboard
Upload KYC and academic documents
Track application status online

Official Website: https://www.vidyasaarathi.co.in

13. LIC Golden Jubilee Scholarship Scheme

Overview

The LIC Golden Jubilee Scholarship is funded by the LIC Golden Jubilee Foundation, the CSR arm of Life Insurance Corporation of India — India’s largest public sector insurance company. It was launched to mark LIC’s 50th anniversary and continues as a flagship education welfare scheme targeting students from economically weaker sections.

Eligible Courses / Level of Study

Regular undergraduate degree/diploma courses (minimum 2-year duration)
Courses in Medicine, Engineering, Management, and other professional fields after Class 12
Vocational courses of minimum 2 years

Eligible Candidates / Who Can Apply

Indian nationals who have passed Class 12 with 60% or above
Family annual income: below ₹2.5 lakh per annum
Special relaxation for SC/ST students (50% in Class 12)
Separate quota for girls and physically challenged students
Age limit: below 25 years at time of application

Benefits & Opportunities

Direct financial grant — no repayment
Consistent annual disbursement
Covers regular study expenses

Stipend / Financial Value

₹20,000 per year for general professional/degree courses
₹10,000 per year for vocational courses
Special scholarship: ₹1,00,000 per year for exceptional students in select courses (verify annually)

Duration

Up to 3 years (for a 3-year degree course)

Application Period / Deadline

Applications open approximately June–October each year
Apply through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) or LIC’s official scholarship channel

How to Apply

Visit the National Scholarship Portal (scholarships.gov.in) or LIC’s scholarship page
Register with Aadhaar details
Submit academic, income, and bank details
Submit by deadline; selection based on merit-cum-means

Official Website: https://licindia.in (LIC CSR/Scholarship section)

14. Ratan Tata Scholarship for Indian Students at Cornell University

Overview

This is a highly prestigious and targeted scholarship established through a personal endowment by Ratan N. Tata — former Chairman of Tata Sons — at Cornell University, USA. It is designed specifically to support Indian students from modest economic backgrounds who gain admission to Cornell for postgraduate study. This scholarship has elevated the global accessibility of one of the world’s top Ivy League universities for Indian students.

Eligible Courses / Level of Study

Postgraduate (Master’s and PhD) programmes at Cornell University, USA
Across all schools at Cornell — engineering, arts, business, law, sciences, etc.

Eligible Candidates / Who Can Apply

Indian nationals only
Must be admitted to Cornell University for a postgraduate programme
Demonstrated financial need — preference for students who could not otherwise afford Cornell
No specific percentage or income cutoff publicly stated — financial need is assessed by Cornell’s financial aid office

Benefits & Opportunities

Partial to substantial coverage of tuition and living expenses at Cornell
Access to Tata Group’s global professional network
Prestige of being a “Ratan Tata Scholar” in the global alumni community

Stipend / Financial Value

Award amounts vary per student need and programme; can cover a significant portion of Cornell’s annual tuition (which exceeds USD 30,000 per year)
(Exact award communicated by Cornell’s Graduate School financial aid office)

Duration

Duration of the postgraduate programme (typically 1–2 years for Master’s; 4–5 years for PhD with assistantships)

Application Period / Deadline

Scholarship is applied for through Cornell University’s graduate financial aid system after admission
Cornell’s application deadlines vary by school — typically December–January for fall admission

How to Apply

Apply for admission to Cornell University’s graduate programme (standard process)
Indicate financial need in the financial aid section of Cornell’s graduate application
Cornell’s financial aid office identifies eligible Indian students and considers them for the Ratan Tata Scholarship
Award communicated with the admission offer or separately

Official Website: https://gradschool.cornell.edu (search: Ratan Tata Scholarship)

15. SASF Scholarship by Kotak Education Foundation

Overview

The Kotak Education Foundation (KEF), the CSR arm of Kotak Mahindra Bank, runs the Student Aid for Scholarships Fund (SASF) targeted primarily at students in Mumbai and surrounding areas, particularly from low-income urban communities. The foundation goes beyond financial aid — it embeds its scholars in a holistic development ecosystem.

Eligible Courses / Level of Study

Class 9 to Class 12 (secondary and higher secondary)
Undergraduate courses (all streams)
Diploma and vocational courses
Professional courses (Engineering, Nursing, Pharmacy, etc.)

Eligible Candidates / Who Can Apply

Students residing in Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, and Thane districts (primary target area)
Family annual income: below ₹2.5 lakh per annum
Minimum 50%–60% in previous class/exam
SC/ST/OBC students, girls, first-generation learners — priority given

Benefits & Opportunities

Annual financial grant
Career counselling and life skills training
Volunteer mentoring from Kotak Bank employees
Placement and internship assistance for older scholars
Academic coaching support

Stipend / Financial Value

₹5,000 to ₹30,000 per year depending on level and course
(Varies per intake; updated annually)

Duration

Annual; renewed based on performance and continued financial need

Application Period / Deadline

Applications open June–August each year via Kotak Education Foundation portal

How to Apply

Apply through the Kotak Education Foundation website or through school/college guidance counsellors
Fill the application with income, academic, and personal details
Home/community visit may be conducted by KEF volunteers for verification
Scholars selected and informed before the academic year begins

Official Website: https://www.kotakeducationfoundation.org/

16. Vidyadhan Scholarship by Sarojini Damodaran Foundation

Overview

The Vidyadhan Scholarship, run by the Sarojini Damodaran Foundation — founded by Infosys co-founder Kris Gopalakrishnan and his wife Sudha Gopalakrishnan — is a flagship merit-cum-means scholarship programme. It operates on the belief that talent is equally distributed but opportunity is not, and uses a strong selection and support model to identify and nurture meritorious students.

Eligible Courses / Level of Study

Undergraduate courses in science, engineering, medicine, arts, commerce
Class 11 and 12 transitions
Post-matriculation level in some states

Eligible Candidates / Who Can Apply

Students from Karnataka (primary focus) and some other south Indian states
Family annual income: below ₹2 lakh per annum
Minimum 80% in Class 10 for UG scholarship eligibility
All categories welcome; strong focus on first-generation learners and rural students

Benefits & Opportunities

Annual scholarship grant
Mentoring and life skills workshops conducted by foundation volunteers
Alumni network access (Vidyadhan Scholars community)
Career guidance and placement support for final-year scholars

Stipend / Financial Value

₹15,000 to ₹30,000 per year (depending on course and institution)
(Some top-performing scholars receive enhanced grants)

Duration

Duration of the enrolled undergraduate programme (3–4 years)

Application Period / Deadline

Applications open May–July each year (post Class 10 board results)

How to Apply

Apply online at the Vidyadhan portal
Submit Class 10 marks, income certificate, and community/school recommendation
Shortlisted students appear for in-person counselling/interview at district level
Final scholars announced before the new academic year

Official Website: https://www.vidyadhan.org

17. Raman Kant Munjal Scholarship by Hero Group

Overview

The Raman Kant Munjal Foundation, named after the late Raman Kant Munjal and backed by the Hero Group (Hero MotoCorp), runs a scholarship programme that reflects the Hero Group’s long-standing commitment to education and community development — particularly in Haryana and surrounding states where the Hero Group’s industrial presence is strongest.

Eligible Courses / Level of Study

Undergraduate programmes (engineering, medicine, arts, commerce, science)
Class 11 and 12 scholarships
Vocational training scholarships

Eligible Candidates / Who Can Apply

Students from Haryana, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Rajasthan (key focus states)
Family annual income: below ₹3 lakh per annum
Minimum 60% in previous qualifying examination
SC/ST/OBC students and girls receive preference
Children of Hero Group employees may have separate scholarship tracks

Benefits & Opportunities

Annual financial grant
Preference for students pursuing engineering and technical education (aligned with Hero’s industry focus)
Community mentoring and career support

Stipend / Financial Value

₹15,000 to ₹40,000 per year depending on level and discipline
(Revised periodically; confirm on official portal)

Duration

Annual; renewable on academic merit

Application Period / Deadline

Applications typically open June–September each year

How to Apply

Apply via the Raman Kant Munjal Foundation portal or Buddy4Study
Submit academic documents, income certificate, and domicile proof
Merit-cum-means selection process
Disbursement before the start of the academic semester

Official Website: https://rkmfoundation.org/

18. Gandhi Fellowship

The Gandhi Fellowship occupies a unique and powerful space in India’s scholarship and fellowship ecosystem. It is not a conventional academic scholarship. It is a two-year paid fellowship run by the Piramal Foundation — the philanthropic arm of the Piramal Group — that places young Indian graduates in rural government schools as Fellow-Principals or school transformation leaders.

What Makes Gandhi Fellowship Different?

Most CSR scholarships give you money to study. Gandhi Fellowship gives you a stipend to act — to spend two years in some of India’s most underserved communities, working with government school principals to improve learning outcomes, enroll out-of-school children, and build community engagement.

It draws its name and spirit from Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of grassroots change — the idea that true leaders serve at the village level before they aspire to the national stage.

Eligible Candidates

Young Indian graduates (any discipline) between the age of 20 and 26 years
Must have completed their undergraduate degree
No prior development sector experience required — the fellowship looks for raw leadership potential, empathy, and a commitment to social change
Open to students from all states, all economic backgrounds, and all disciplines
Candidates who are toppers or first-class graduates from regular backgrounds are as welcome as students from IITs and IIMs — the fellowship is deliberately non-elitist

What Does the Fellowship Involve?

Year 1: Placed in a cluster of government schools in a rural district; work alongside a school principal to drive change. Live in the community you serve.
Year 2: Continue in the community with greater responsibility and leadership of change processes.
Intensive training modules in leadership, systems thinking, problem-solving, and self-awareness
Monthly check-ins with mentors and a cohort of 200+ fellows across India

Financial Support

Monthly stipend: ₹15,000–₹18,000 (with accommodation and travel support; total package approximately ₹20,000–₹25,000 per month)
Accommodation arranged by the Piramal Foundation in the placement district
Health and accidental insurance coverage
(Stipend figures subject to revision per batch; verify on official portal)

Duration

2 years (fixed-term fellowship; not renewable but alumni can explore Piramal Foundation careers)

Alumni Legacy

Gandhi Fellowship alumni go on to extraordinary careers — many have founded NGOs, joined the IAS and IPS, entered development finance, pursued education policy at state and national levels, and joined organisations like Teach For India, Ashoka, and the United Nations. The fellowship is widely considered India’s most credible social leadership credential for young graduates.

Application Period / Deadline

Applications open once a year, typically January–March
A rigorous three-stage selection process: written application → group assessment → personal interview

How to Apply

Register on the Gandhi Fellowship official website
Fill the detailed online application (essays, background, motivation)
Appear for a Group Assessment Day conducted in multiple cities
Final interview round
Selected fellows receive placement details and training schedule

Official Website: https://www.gandhifellowship.org

H2: How to Find and Apply for CSR Scholarships in India — Pro Tips

Knowing about scholarships is only half the battle. Knowing where to find them and how to apply smart is what separates successful applicants from the rest.

1. Use Aggregator Platforms Actively Rather than visiting dozens of corporate websites individually, use these platforms:

Buddy4Study (buddy4study.com) — India’s largest scholarship search engine; lists 5,000+ scholarships including most CSR ones covered in this guide
You can also visit regularly to this Platform i.e ScholarshipGrow . Apart from mentioning the scholarships, we promote scholarship education through our blogposts.
VIDYASARATHI (vidyasaarathi.co.in) — NSDL’s platform with 50+ corporate partners; apply to multiple scholarships from one dashboard
National Scholarship Portal (scholarships.gov.in) — Government-managed; also carries some corporate and PSU scholarships like LIC Golden Jubilee

2. Prepare Your Document Kit Early Nearly every CSR scholarship asks for the same documents. Prepare a folder — physical and digital — with:

Aadhaar Card
Income Certificate (issued by Tahsildar/SDM, not older than 6 months)
Previous year marksheets (attested)
Bank account details (linked to Aadhaar)
Category/caste certificate if applicable
Bonafide certificate from current institution
Passport-size photographs

3. Apply to Multiple Scholarships Simultaneously. Most CSR scholarships do not have clauses preventing you from holding multiple awards. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, apply to as many as you are eligible for. However, some specifically award only one scholarship per student across their portfolio.

4. Never Miss a Deadline — Create a Scholarship Calendar CSR scholarship cycles are predictable year-on-year. Create a simple calendar for June–October (when most open) and set reminders. A missed deadline cannot be retrieved.

5. Write a Genuine Statement of Purpose (SOP) For merit-based scholarships (Inlaks, Narotam Sekhsaria, Reliance Foundation PG), a well-written SOP is the single biggest differentiator. Be specific about your background, your goals, and why this scholarship — not another — aligns with what you want to do with your life.

6. Follow Up and Track Applications Once applied, regularly check the scholarship portal for status updates. Some scholarships send communications only via email — ensure you check spam folders.

H2: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) — CSR Scholarships in India

Q1. What is a CSR scholarship in India? A CSR scholarship in India is a financial grant provided by a company, business house, or corporate foundation as part of its mandatory or voluntary Corporate Social Responsibility activities under India’s Companies Act, 2013. These scholarships are designed to support students from economically weaker sections, meritorious students at premier institutions, women, SC/ST/OBC communities, and others who may not otherwise afford quality higher education. They range from a few thousand rupees annually to several lakhs, depending on the company and programme.

Q2. Which Indian company gives the best scholarship? This depends on what “best” means for you. For highest financial value: Reliance Foundation (up to ₹6L/year for PG) and L’Oréal India (₹2.5L/year for science students) rank highly. For prestige and network: Aditya Birla Scholarship and Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation are unmatched. For widest reach and accessibility: Sitaram Jindal Foundation and LIC Golden Jubilee Scholarship cover the largest number of students annually. For holistic development: Gandhi Fellowship (Piramal Foundation) stands apart entirely.

Q3. Can I apply to multiple CSR scholarships at the same time? Yes, in most cases you can. Unlike some government scholarships that bar concurrent awards, most CSR scholarships allow simultaneous applications and even simultaneous receipt of awards — unless their terms explicitly prohibit it. Always read the terms and conditions of each scholarship before applying to confirm this.

Q4. Are CSR scholarships taxable in India? Under Section 10(16) of the Income Tax Act, 1961, scholarships granted to meet the cost of education are exempt from income tax in India. This means that scholarship amounts received for tuition fees, books, and related education expenses are generally not taxable. However, if a fellowship (like Gandhi Fellowship) provides a monthly stipend that covers living costs broadly, the taxability may differ — consult a tax professional if you receive a high-value award.

Q5. What is the income limit for most corporate scholarships in India? The majority of CSR scholarships in India target students with a family annual income below ₹2.5 lakh to ₹5 lakh per annum. However, this varies significantly:

HDFC ECSS: below ₹2.5 lakh (post-crisis)
Sitaram Jindal: below ₹2.5 lakh
Glow & Lovely: below ₹3 lakh
Reliance Foundation: below ₹15 lakh (broader income bracket)
Aditya Birla Scholarship: no income criterion (pure merit)
Gandhi Fellowship: no income criterion (social leadership potential) Always check the specific scholarship’s terms for the exact income threshold in the current academic year.

Q6. What is the Gandhi Fellowship and how is it different from regular scholarships? The Gandhi Fellowship is a two-year paid social leadership fellowship run by the Piramal Foundation. Unlike conventional scholarships that fund your academic study, the Gandhi Fellowship pays you a stipend (₹15,000–₹18,000/month) to live and work in rural communities alongside government school principals, driving grassroots education transformation. It selects graduates (any background) based on leadership potential and social commitment — not academic rank or family income. It is widely regarded as one of India’s most credible fellowships for young people seeking careers in social impact, public policy, education, and development.

Q7. How do I know if a CSR scholarship is legitimate? A legitimate CSR scholarship will: (a) have an official company or foundation website, (b) never ask for application fees, (c) disburse funds directly to your bank account or institution — not through third parties, and (d) be listed on trusted aggregators like Buddy4Study, VIDYASARATHI, or the National Scholarship Portal. Be cautious of any “scholarship” that asks for payment or personal banking credentials beyond standard Aadhaar-linked bank details.

Your Scholarship Journey Starts Today

The landscape of CSR scholarships in India is rich, diverse, and — if you know where to look — remarkably accessible. From Wipro’s need-blind education philosophy at Azim Premji University, to HUL’s commitment to women’s economic independence through the Glow & Lovely Foundation, to the Piramal Foundation’s audacious bet on grassroots leadership through the Gandhi Fellowship, India’s corporate sector is quietly funding thousands of student futures every year.

The scholarships covered in this guide represent different philosophies of giving. Some reward academic merit. Some address financial crisis. Some are designed for women, some for students from specific states, and some — like Gandhi Fellowship — for anyone with the courage to serve.

Your role is simple: identify which scholarships you are eligible for, gather your documents, mark your deadlines, and apply — not to one, but to every single one you qualify for.

Start now. Deadlines for most of these scholarships open between June and October each year. By the time you are reading this, the next cycle may already be approaching.

Bookmark the official websites and aggregator platforms listed in this guide. Register on Buddy4Study, VIDYASARATHI, and the National Scholarship Portal today — before you even decide which scholarships to apply for.

Every scholarship you apply to is a conversation with a future version of yourself — one who had the courage to ask for the opportunity they deserved.

Apply. Follow up. Transform.

Disclaimer: Scholarship details, stipend amounts, eligibility criteria, and deadlines are subject to change each academic year. Always verify the latest information on the official scholarship website before applying. This guide is intended for informational purposes and does not guarantee scholarship awards.