STEM Scholars: Shaping the Next Generation of Innovators, in collaboration with the Nasscom Foundation and supported by the Optum CSR Initiative, is a prestigious scholarship programme designed to empower students from underrepresented and economically disadvantaged backgrounds. The initiative supports students pursuing STEM education by reducing financial barriers and promoting academic excellence through merit-based selection.
The programme is open to eligible students studying in Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad, and aims to nurture future innovators by combining financial support, mentorship, and internship opportunities.
About the STEM Scholars Program
The STEM Scholars programme focuses on enabling deserving students to continue higher education in Engineering, Pharmacy, and Life Sciences. Along with financial assistance, the programme provides structured exposure to career guidance, industry mentorship, and professional development opportunities, helping students transition successfully into the workforce.
STEM Scholars 2026 – Important Dates
- Application Deadline: 11 January 2026
STEM Scholars Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Open to 3rd and 4th year students pursuing B.E./B.Tech in Computer Science, Pharmacy, or Life Sciences.
- Open to students enrolled in a 5-year Integrated Engineering Programme (e.g., B.Tech + M.Tech, B.E. + M.E), provided they are in the 4th or 5th year.
- Applicants must be studying in government or private institutes located in Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, or Hyderabad.
- Preference will be given to applicants from SC, ST, OBC, PwD, single-parent families, orphans, and girl students.
- Minimum 65% marks in Class 12.
- Annual family income from all sources must not exceed ₹8 lakh.
- Children of employees, partners, or donors associated with the programme are not eligible.
STEM Scholars Scholarship Benefits
Selected students will receive:
- ₹30,000 scholarship amount as financial assistance
- Support towards tuition fees, study materials, and academic needs
- Access to mentorship and internship opportunities to enhance career growth
Documents Required for STEM Scholars Application
Applicants must upload the following documents during the application process:
- Passport-size photograph
- Proof of identity (both sides)
- Latest parental income proof
- Class 10 marksheet
- Class 12 marksheet
- Previous year marksheet (Academic Year 2024–25)
- Latest college fee receipt (Academic Year 2025–26)
- Fee structure (Academic Year 2025–26)
- Hostel/PG receipt for 2025–26 (if applicable)
- Bank passbook or cancelled cheque
- Caste certificate (if applicable)
- Disability certificate (if applicable)
- Transgender certificate (if applicable)
- Death certificate (if applicable)
- Orphan certificate or letter from orphanage (if applicable)
- Home photograph
Quick Reference Summary
| Scholarship Detail | Information |
| Scholarship Name | STEM Scholars Program 2026 |
| Supported By | Optum CSR Initiative |
| Collaborator | Nasscom Foundation |
| Scholarship Amount | ₹30,000 |
| Eligible Courses | B.E./B.Tech, Pharmacy, Life Sciences, Integrated Engineering |
| Eligible Cities | Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad |
| Income Limit | Up to ₹8 lakh per annum |
| Application Deadline | 11 January 2026 |
Why Apply for STEM Scholars 2026?
The STEM Scholars programme not only offers financial relief but also creates a supportive ecosystem for students to thrive academically and professionally. By focusing on inclusion, diversity, and innovation, the programme helps bridge educational gaps and prepares students to contribute meaningfully to the STEM ecosystem in India.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
| What is the STEM Scholars Program? |
| It is a scholarship initiative supporting students from underrepresented backgrounds pursuing STEM education. |
| Who can apply for STEM Scholars 2026? |
| Eligible 3rd/4th year B.E./B.Tech students, integrated engineering students in 4th/5th year, and Pharmacy/Life Sciences students. |
| What is the scholarship amount? |
| Selected students receive ₹30,000 as financial support. |
| What is the income limit for applicants? |
| Annual family income should not exceed ₹8 lakh. |
| Which cities are eligible? |
| Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad. |
| Is preference given to any category? |
| Yes, preference is given to SC, ST, OBC, PwD, single-parent, orphan, and girl students. |
| What is the last date to apply? |
| 11 January 2026. |
| Are children of employees or donors eligible? |
| No, they are not eligible. |
The STEM Scholars Scholarship 2026 is a valuable opportunity for deserving students aiming to build strong careers in STEM fields. With financial assistance, mentorship, and professional exposure, the programme plays a crucial role in shaping India’s next generation of innovators. Eligible students are encouraged to apply well before the 11 January 2026 deadline and ensure all documents are uploaded correctly. For official updates and application links, visit the programme’s authorised portal and bookmark this page for future reference, for more details and apply CLICK HERE
