Just completed your 12th with a science stream and wondering how to manage college expenses? You’re not alone—thousands of students across India face the same question every year. The good news is that there are numerous scholarships specifically designed to support bright science students like you. Whether you’re aiming for engineering, medicine, or a career in pure sciences, financial help is available from both government schemes and private foundations.
These scholarships do more than just cover your fees—they recognise your hard work, potential, and passion for learning. In this blog, we’ve handpicked 25 of the best scholarships available after Class 12 for science students. Ready to explore your opportunities and take the next step in your academic journey? Let’s get started!
Table of Content
- L’Oréal India For Young Women in Science Scholarship
- J N Tata Endowment Scholarship
- Central Sector Scheme of Scholarships for College and University Students
- Fulbright-Nehru Undergraduate Scholarship
- National Entrance Screening Test (NEST) Scholarship
- Reliance Foundation Undergraduate Scholarships
- AICTE Pragati Scholarship for Girls
- North South Foundation (NSF) Scholarship
- Aditya Birla Scholarship
- Merit Cum Means Scholarship for Professional and Technical Courses
- National Level Common Entrance Examination (NLCEE) Scholarship
- Post Matric Scholarship for Students with Disabilities
- Post Matric Scholarships Scheme for Minorities
- Prime Minister’s Research Fellowship
- Foundation for Excellence
- The Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Fund (JNMF) Scholarship
- Bigyani Kanya Medha Britti Scholarship
- CSIR-NEIST Golden Jubilee Scholarship, North East
- Schindler Igniting Minds Scholarship
- Women Scientists Scheme-A (WOS-A)
- Oxford and Cambridge Society of India (OCSI) Scholarships
- Foundation for Academic Excellence and Access (FAEA) Scholarship
- QS Undergraduate Scholarship
- Sitaram Jindal Foundation Scholarship
- AICTE-Saksham Scholarship
1. L’Oréal India For Young Women in Science Scholarship
The L’Oréal India For Young Women in Science Scholarship empowers young women pursuing careers in science by providing financial support for higher education. Designed for academically talented yet financially challenged students, this initiative promotes gender equality in STEM fields. L’Oréal India’s program nurtures future women scientists, encouraging innovation and contributing to India’s scientific progress.Eligibility Criteria:
- Female students who have completed 12th grade with science subjects and are pursuing undergraduate studies in science fields.
Amount:
- Up to Rs. 2.5 lakhs per year for up to 3 years.
Deadline:
- February 2025
Application Website: Click Here To Apply
2. JN Tata Endowment Loan Scholarship
The JN Tata Endowment Loan Scholarship supports Indian students pursuing postgraduate studies abroad. Offering financial assistance as a loan scholarship helps students achieve their academic and professional goals. This prestigious program emphasizes merit and provides opportunities for advanced education, reflecting the Tata Group’s commitment to empowering talent and fostering global learning experiences.Eligibility Criteria:
- Indian students who have completed 12th grade with science subjects and secured admission to reputed foreign universities for further studies in science and technology fields.
Amount:
- Loan scholarship up to Rs. 10 lakhs.
Deadline:
- March 2025
Application Website: Click Here To Apply
3. Central Sector Scheme of Scholarships for College and University Students
The Central Sector Scheme of Scholarships for College and University Students, funded by the Indian government, supports meritorious students in undergraduate and postgraduate studies. It allocates 82,000 scholarships annually, equally for male and female students, distributed equitably across states. This financial assistance, provided through Direct Benefit Transfer, helps cover academic expenses in recognised institutions nationwide.Eligibility Criteria:
- Students who have secured above 80th percentile in Class 12 board examinations and are pursuing regular courses in colleges/universities; annual family income should not exceed ₹4,50,000.
Amount:
- ₹12,000 per annum for the first three years and ₹20,000 per annum for the fourth and fifth years.
Deadline:
- November 2025
Application Website: Click Here To Apply
4. Fulbright-Nehru Undergraduate Scholarship
The Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships, administered by the United States-India Educational Foundation (USIEF), support exceptional Indian professionals in pursuing master’s degrees at U.S. universities. These fellowships foster academic excellence, leadership growth, and cultural exchange, enhancing U.S.-India relations. Recipients gain access to a global alumni network, enhancing their professional and academic growth.Eligibility Criteria:
- Indian citizens with 55% marks, leadership, and work experience.
Amount:
- Covers tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and health insurance.
Deadline:
- May 2025
Application Website: Click Here To Apply
5. National Entrance Screening Test (NEST) Scholarship
The National Entrance Screening Test (NEST) is a national-level entrance exam for admission to the 5-year Integrated MSc programme in basic sciences, Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics, offered at NISER Bhubaneswar and UM-DAE CEBS Mumbai. Successful candidates receive financial support through the Department of Atomic Energy’s DISHA programme.Eligibility Criteria:
- Passed Class XII Science with a minimum 60% aggregate marks.
Amount:
- ₹60,000 per annum and a summer internship stipend of ₹20,000.
Deadline:
- April 2025
Application Website: Click Here To Apply
6. Reliance Foundation Undergraduate Scholarships
The Reliance Foundation Undergraduate Scholarships aim to empower first-year undergraduate students across India by providing financial assistance and holistic development opportunities. Open to students from all streams, the scholarship supports 5,000 meritorious individuals annually, helping them pursue higher education without financial constraints and fostering their growth into future leaders.Eligibility Criteria:
- First-year undergraduate students from all streams with a household income less than ₹15,00,000; selection based on merit-cum-means.
Amount:
- Up to ₹2,00,000 over the duration of the degree program.
Deadline:
- July 2025
Application Website: Click Here To Apply
7. AICTE Pragati Scholarship for Girls
The AICTE Pragati Scholarship for Girls, a government initiative by MHRD and AICTE, supports meritorious female students in their first or second year (lateral entry) of technical diploma or degree programmes in AICTE-approved institutions across India. It empowers women through financial aid, reducing barriers and promoting gender equality in technical fields.Eligibility Criteria:
- Female students in AICTE-approved courses; family income ≤ ₹8 lakh.
Amount:
- ₹50,000 annually for tuition, books, equipment, and software.
Deadline:
- November 2025
Application Website: Click Here To Apply
8. North South Foundation (NSF) Scholarship
The North South Foundation (NSF) Scholarship is a merit-cum-need-based programme supporting economically disadvantaged students in India pursuing professional courses like Engineering, Medicine, Agriculture, Nursing, and Polytechnic diplomas. Offered by the U.S.-based nonprofit North South Foundation, this scholarship empowers talented students to achieve higher education without financial barriers.Eligibility Criteria:
- Top 10% in academics; family income below ₹2,00,000 annually.
Amount:
- Up to ₹30,000 per annum.
Deadline:
- June 2025
Application Website: Click Here To Apply
9. Aditya Birla Scholarship
The Aditya Birla Scholarship is a prestigious initiative by the Aditya Birla Group, established in 1999 to honour the legacy of Mr. Aditya Vikram Birla. It aims to support exceptional students from premier Indian institutions in engineering, management, and law by providing financial assistance and fostering leadership qualities. The scholarship not only alleviates financial burdens but also offers scholars opportunities to engage with industry leaders, promoting holistic development.Eligibility Criteria:
- Top 20 entrance rankers from select IITs, IIMs, and law colleges.
Amount:
- Provides up to ₹3,00,000 annually, varying by course and institution.
Deadline:
- September 2025
Application Website: Click Here To Apply
10. Merit Cum Means Scholarship for Professional and Technical Courses
The Merit Cum Means Scholarship, a Government of India initiative by the Ministry of Minority Affairs, empowers bright students from minority communities pursuing professional and technical fields. This scheme provides crucial financial support, covering academic fees and maintenance costs, enabling deserving candidates to access quality higher education and build successful careers.Eligibility Criteria:
- Students with at least 50% marks in the previous final examination and a family income below ₹2,50,000 per annum.
Amount:
- Course fee and maintenance allowance.
Deadline:
- October 2025
Application Website: Click Here To Apply
11. National Level Common Entrance Examination (NLCEE) Scholarship
The NLCEE Scholarship, initiated by IIT, NIT, and IIM alumni in 2019, aims to discover and cultivate talented students across India. It grants significant scholarships and valuable exposure opportunities to top performers. Beyond financial aid, the programme offers prizes, awards, certificates, and unique experiences like visits to NASA and ISRO, fostering academic and personal growth.Eligibility Criteria:
- Students in classes 9–12, 12th pass, or graduates.
Amount:
- Scholarships up to 100% tuition fee waivers; additional prizes.
Deadline:
- December 2025
Application Website: Click Here To Apply
12. Post Matric Scholarship for Students with Disabilities
The DEPwD’s Post Matric Scholarship supports students with benchmark disabilities (40%+) in post-secondary education. This central scheme offers financial aid covering living expenses, books, and disability-related costs, easing financial burdens and encouraging higher education for these students.Eligibility Criteria:
- Students with 40% or more disability; family income less than ₹2,50,000 per annum.
Amount:
- Up to ₹1.5 lakh annually; includes maintenance and allowances.
Deadline:
- October 2025
Application Website: Click Here To Apply
13. Post Matric Scholarships Scheme for Minorities
The Post Matric Scholarship Scheme for Minorities is a government initiative aimed at providing financial assistance to students from minority communities pursuing post-secondary education. It covers tuition fees and maintenance allowances to reduce financial barriers and promote higher education among economically disadvantaged students.Eligibility Criteria:
- Minimum 50% marks; annual family income below ₹2 lakh.
Amount:
- Up to ₹10,000 tuition fee and ₹1,200 monthly maintenance allowance.
Deadline:
- October 2025
Application Website: Click Here To Apply
14. Prime Minister’s Research Fellowship
The Prime Minister’s Research Fellowship (PMRF) is a prestigious initiative by the Government of India, designed to attract exceptional talent into doctoral programmes at premier institutions like IITs, IISc, and IISERs. It offers substantial financial support and research grants to foster cutting-edge research in science and technology.Eligibility Criteria:
- B.Tech./M.Tech./M.Sc. from IISc/IITs/NITs; pursuing Ph.D.
Amount:
- ₹70,000–₹80,000 per month plus research grant.
Deadline:
- April & October 2025
Application Website: Click Here To Apply
15. Foundation for Excellence
The Foundation for Excellence (FFE) Scholarship is a merit-cum-means programme supporting academically bright students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds in India. Established in 1994, it offers financial assistance, mentorship, and skill development to students pursuing professional degrees in engineering, medicine, and law, aiming to transform lives through education.Eligibility Criteria:
- First-year BE/B.Tech, MBBS, or law; income ≤ ₹3 lakh.
Amount:
- ₹50,000 annually until course completion; subject to renewal.
Deadline:
- July 2025
Application Website: Click Here To Apply
16. The Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Fund (JNMF) Scholarship
Established in 1964, the JNMF Scholarship supports full-time Ph.D. scholars in India, honoring Jawaharlal Nehru. It provides financial aid for advanced research, fostering academic excellence and national development.Eligibility Criteria:
- Graduates with first-class marks; age below 35.
Amount:
- ₹18,000 per month plus a contingency grant.
Deadline:
- May 2025
Application Website: Click Here To Apply
17. Bigyani Kanya Medha Britti Scholarship, West Bengal
The Bigyani Kanya Medha Britti Scholarship is a prestigious initiative by the Jagadis Bose National Science Talent Search (JBNSTS), Kolkata, aimed at empowering female students in West Bengal. It encourages meritorious girls to pursue higher education in Basic Science, Medicine, or Engineering by providing financial support and academic resources, fostering scientific talent and promoting gender equality in STEM fields.Eligibility Criteria:
- West Bengal residents; 12th pass with science; girls only.
Amount:
- ₹3,000 per month plus annual book grant.
Deadline:
- August 2025
Application Website: Click Here To Apply
18. CSIR-NEIST Golden Jubilee Scholarship
The CSIR-NEIST Golden Jubilee Scholarship aids North East Indian students pursuing undergraduate natural/basic sciences. Commemorating NEIST’s jubilee, it offers financial support and unique training/project opportunities at any CSIR lab, fostering scientific talent and research experience in the region.Eligibility Criteria:
- North East students; 12th pass with science; admission to B.Sc. courses.
Amount:
- ₹1,000 per month.
Deadline:
- June 2025
Application Website: Click Here To Apply
19. Schindler Igniting Minds Scholarship
The Schindler Igniting Minds (SIM) Scholarship by Schindler India supports talented, underprivileged students in diploma, engineering (BE/BTech), and ITI courses. It offers financial aid, mentorship, and industry exposure, helping them overcome economic barriers and build successful technical careers.Eligibility Criteria:
- 12th pass; enrolled in diploma engineering courses.
Amount:
- ₹20,000 per annum.
Deadline:
- January-March 2025
Application Website: Click Here To Apply
20. Women Scientists Scheme-A (WOS-A)
The Women Scientists Scheme-A (WOS-A), initiated by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), India, aims to empower women scientists and technologists who have experienced career breaks. By providing research grants in basic and applied sciences, WOS-A facilitates their re-entry into active research roles, promoting gender equality in science and technology.Eligibility Criteria:
- Women with postgraduate degrees; break in career.
Amount:
- ₹30,000–₹55,000 per month plus research grant.
Deadline:
- July 2025
Application Website: Click Here To Apply
21. Oxford and Cambridge Society of India (OCSI) Scholarships
The OCSI Scholarships are prestigious awards for outstanding Indian students admitted to Oxford or Cambridge. They provide part-cost financial aid, removing barriers for talented individuals pursuing undergraduate, graduate, or research programmes. This initiative fosters academic excellence, enabling deserving candidates access to world-class education at these esteemed institutions.Eligibility Criteria:
- Indian citizens under 30; admission to Oxford/Cambridge.
Amount:
- Scholarships range from ₹2,00,000 to ₹4,00,000, depending on the specific award.
Deadline:
- March 2025
Application Website: Click Here To Apply
22. Foundation for Academic Excellence and Access (FAEA) Scholarship
The FAEA Scholarship empowers talented, economically disadvantaged Indian students. It provides comprehensive financial aid for undergraduate studies in Arts, Commerce, Science, Engineering, and other professional fields. This initiative fosters academic excellence, ensures equal opportunity, and enables scholars to contribute meaningfully to society.Eligibility Criteria:
- Class 12 passed or first-year undergraduate students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Amount:
- Covers tuition, maintenance, hostel/mess, travel, clothing, and books.
Deadline:
- June 2025
Application Website: Click Here To Apply
23. QS Undergraduate Scholarship
The QS Undergraduate Scholarship is a prestigious award offered by Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) to support exceptional students commencing their undergraduate studies at universities featured in the QS World University Rankings. This scholarship aims to alleviate financial barriers and empower students to achieve their academic and professional goals.Eligibility Criteria:
- First-year undergraduate students with accepted offer from QS-ranked university.
Amount:
- $2,500 towards tuition fees; one-time award.
Deadline:
- May 2025
Application Website: Click Here To Apply
24. Sitaram Jindal Foundation Scholarship
Sitaram Jindal Foundation Scholarship is designed for academically strong Indian students who require financial assistance to pursue their education. It provides financial aid from Class 11 to postgraduate levels, including ITI, diploma, engineering, and medical courses, easing financial burdens for quality education.Eligibility Criteria:
- Students from Class 11 to postgraduate meeting specific academic criteria.
Amount:
- Monthly scholarships ranging from ₹500 to ₹3,200 based on the course.
Deadline:
- September 2025
Application Website: Click Here To Apply
25.AICTE-Saksham Scholarship
The AICTE-Saksham Scholarship empowers differentlyabled students pursuing technical education (engineering/diploma) by providing financial assistance to cover tuition, books, and assistive devices. Sponsored by AICTE, it promotes STEM inclusivity and equal opportunities for students with disabilities. The scholarship aims to reduce dropout rates and enable career growth in technical fields through substantial monetary support.Eligibility Criteria:
- 40%+ disability, income <₹8 LPA, AICTE-approved course.
Amount:
- ₹50,000/year for course fees, books, and equipment.
Deadline:
- December 2025
Application Website: Click Here To Apply
Conclusion
Embarking on a science career after 12th grade can be both exciting and financially challenging. Fortunately, numerous scholarships are available to support your academic journey, recognising your hard work and potential. By exploring these opportunities, you can alleviate financial burdens and focus on your studies. Remember, each scholarship has its own criteria and deadlines, so it’s essential to research and apply timely. Stay proactive, keep an eye on application windows, and don’t hesitate to seek guidance. Your dedication today can pave the way for a successful future in the scientific realm.About Remitha Prasanth
With 4+ years of experience in career and higher education, I help individuals navigate their academic and professional journeys. I share insights and resources on topics such as career exploration, higher education options, scholarship opportunities, and personal development.