Inspire SHE (KVPY) 2026: Application Form, Dates, Eligibility, Pattern, Syllabus, Preparation Tips

The application process for Inspire SHE 2026 is set to commence in August 2026. Organized by the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Inspire (Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research) aims to attract talent to the field of science. SHE (Scholarship for Higher Education) is a vital component of Inspire, designed to support students pursuing studies in basic and natural science subjects at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

Under this program, scholarships are provided to meritorious candidates interested in pursuing a research career. Additionally, the Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojana (KVPY) has been integrated into the Inspire SHE initiative. KVPY fellows can now register with Inspire SHE to avail of scholarships for undergraduate and postgraduate research programs.

Here, students can find comprehensive information regarding Inspire SHE 2026, including details about important dates, the application process, eligibility criteria, cut-off marks, selection procedure, and more.

Inspire SHE (KVPY) 2026 Highlights

Inspire SHE (KVPY) 2026 Highlights showcase the key features of the program, highlighting its significance in nurturing scientific talent and fostering research aspirations among meritorious students.

Inspire SHE (KVPY) 2026 Important Dates

Here are the important dates for Inspire SHE (KVPY) 2026, providing applicants with the timeline for application submission, merit list releases, and other crucial events.

Inspire SHE (KVPY) 2026 Application Form

The online application process for Inspire SHE 2026 is set to commence in the second week of September 2026. Applicants are reminded that registration can only be done online. It’s imperative to thoroughly review the guidelines before initiating the application process and ensure that all necessary documents are prepared. 

• The online application process for Inspire SHE 2026 will be initiated in the second week of September 2026.
• Registration is exclusively available through online mode, and candidates must adhere to this method.
• Thoroughly review the complete guidelines provided before commencing the application form filling.
• Ensure all necessary documents are prepared and readily available during the registration process.
• Candidates are advised against sending any documents by post to the authority; only online submission is accepted.
• The deadline for completing the application and submitting it online is by the last week of November 2026.
• Incomplete application forms will be promptly rejected, and the authority will not entertain any claims or representations.
• All relevant documents, as prescribed by the authority, must be uploaded along with the application form.
• Verify the accuracy and completeness of the uploaded documents before final submission.
• Follow all instructions diligently to ensure a smooth and successful application process.

Documents Required

How to Fill Inspire SHE (KVPY) 2026 Application Form?

Learn the step-by-step process for filling the Inspire SHE (KVPY) 2026 Application Form efficiently and accurately in just a few simple steps.

• Visit the Online Portal: Access the official website provided above.
• Login to Your Account: Use your registered email ID as the username and enter your password to log in.
• Register for Scholarship: Complete the registration process by providing the required details such as email, name, date of birth, and verification code.
• Access Scholarship Section: After logging in, navigate to the ‘Scholarship’ section and click on ‘Apply for Scholarship.’
• Fill Personal Particulars and Upload Documents: Enter personal information and upload necessary documents like photographs, mark sheets, program enrollment details, and endorsement certificates.
• Provide Academic Details: Select your state/central board, board roll number, and national-level exam scores or rank certificates. Save the information and proceed.
• Enter Contact Details: Fill in your contact and permanent address details accurately.
• Review and Confirm Details: Before submitting, carefully review all the entered information as editing may not be possible after submission.
• Print Application Form: After confirming, take a printout of the application form.

Send Application by Post:

• Send the printed application form to the following address via post: The Director, National Institute of Science, Technology & Development Studies (NISTADS), Dr K S Krishnan Marg, New Delhi – 110012

Inspire SHE (KVPY) 2026 Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for Inspire SHE (KVPY) 2026 outline specific requirements for candidates seeking scholarships under this program. Applicants must meet certain criteria to be considered eligible for the scholarship.

• Age Criteria: Applicants must be between 17 to 22 years old to be eligible for the SHE scholarship.
• Academic Merit: Students must secure the top 1% aggregate marks in the Class XII examination conducted by any State/Central education board in India.
• Eligible Courses: Candidates should be pursuing courses in Natural and Basic Sciences at the B.Sc., B.S., and Int. M.Sc./M.S. levels.

Additional Eligibility Criteria:

• Top students securing 1% aggregate marks in Class XII exam and pursuing Int. M.S. courses in Natural and Basic Science at select institutions like NISER, IISER, and others.
• Students selected under KVPY (Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojana) for Bachelor/Master level programs in Natural Sciences.
• Students securing ranks in exams like JEE of IIT, and AIPMT (within the top 10,000 ranks), and presently pursuing Natural and Basic Sciences courses in India.
• NTSE Scholars, JBNSTS scholars, and International Olympiad medalists pursuing Bachelor/Master level courses in Natural Sciences are also eligible.

Inspire SHE (KVPY) Selection Procedure 2026

After submitting online applications, the selection process typically takes a minimum of four months from the last date of registration. Only candidates meeting all eligibility criteria will receive a provisional offer letter confirming their selection.

Applicants can access and download the offer letter online by logging into the website. Selected students must submit the necessary documents within the specified timeframe for further processing.

Inspire SHE (KVPY) 2026 Cut Off

To qualify for the scholarship, students must secure minimum cut-off marks or rank as specified by the authorities. Eligibility is determined by achieving or surpassing the prescribed marks in the qualifying examination.

The cut-off list, available in PDF format online, will include the top 1% cut-off marks for various boards. Applicants should refer to this list to confirm if they meet the necessary criteria for consideration for the scholarship.

Inspire SHE (KVPY) 2026 Merit List

The Inspire SHE Merit List 2026 is scheduled to be released in June/July 2026. Candidates can access the merit list online through their login credentials. It will include the names of provisionally selected candidates.

Additionally, the list of rejected students will also be uploaded on the website. Only selected candidates need to upload their documents on the portal for further consideration by the Department.

Inspire SHE 2026 Scholarship Amount

Students qualifying for Inspire SHE 2026 will receive an annual scholarship of Rs. 80,000. This scholarship is equivalent to Rs. 5,000 per month, with a total value of Rs. 60,000 for each qualifying candidate.

SHE scholars are mandated to undertake summer research projects under an active researcher in any recognized research centre across the country. Additionally, candidates will receive Rs. 20,000 as a summertime mentorship grant. Scholars need to submit a project report and certificate from their mentor upon completion of the project within the provided timeframe.

Inspire SHE 2026 FAQ’s

Sunil Kushwaha

As a dedicated Biology Science graduate, I’m passionate about sharing the latest updates in national and state entrance exams through my blog. I aim to keep aspiring students informed about exam trends, important dates, and changes in syllabi. With a keen interest in education, I strive to offer valuable insights for students navigating the competitive landscape of entrance examinations and admission tests. Stay updated with me.