The India Science and Research Fellowship (ISRF) 2025-26 is offered by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India. This prestigious fellowship aims to support outstanding researchers and scientists from neighbouring countries to conduct advanced research at top research laboratories and academic institutions in India. The fellowship provides a monthly allowance of ₹50,000, along with travel, contingency, and research grants. The last date to apply for ISRF 2025-26 is 31 March 2026.
The programme is administered through INSA (Indian National Science Academy), New Delhi, and selection will be based on eligibility, research proposal quality, and approval by DST.
About ISRF 2025-26 Fellowship
The ISRF fellowship promotes scientific collaboration between India and neighbouring countries by allowing researchers to work with leading Indian scientists. The programme covers multiple fields including science, engineering, medical sciences, and technology.
Selected fellows will work at premier institutes, universities, and research laboratories in India, gaining exposure to advanced facilities and collaborative projects.
Eligibility Criteria for ISRF 2025-26
Applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Must be a citizen or permanent resident of
Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, or Thailand - Must be actively engaged in research or teaching in a university or research institution
- Must have minimum qualification of
- PhD / M.Tech / M.Sc / MBBS
- OR PhD registered candidates in their home country
- Must have 3–5 years of research or teaching experience
- Must be below 45 years of age as on 31 March 2026
- Must have a valid passport
- Must not hold temporary or permanent residency visa in India
- Must not have availed ISRF fellowship in the last 5 years
ISRF 2025-26 Benefits
Selected fellows will receive the following support:
- Monthly Fellowship: ₹50,000
- One-time Contingency Grant (Fellow): ₹10,000
- Research Grant for Host Scientist: ₹20,000
- Round-trip Airfare: Economy class (shortest route)
- Local Travel: Airport to host institute by rail/road
- Visa Fee: Reimbursed
- Accommodation & Medical Facilities: As per host institute rules
These benefits make ISRF one of the most prestigious international research fellowships in India.
Documents Required
Applicants must submit the following:
- Valid passport
- Academic certificates (PhD / M.Tech / M.Sc / MBBS)
- Proof of research/teaching experience (3–5 years)
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Research proposal
All documents must be uploaded as per instructions on the official portal.
Selection Process
Selection will be based on:
- Eligibility verification
- Academic background
- Research proposal quality
- Recommendation and final approval by DST through INSA, New Delhi
The decision of DST will be final.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
| Fellowship Name | ISRF 2025-26 |
| Conducted By | DST, Government of India |
| Application Deadline | 31 March 2026 |
| Fellowship Amount | ₹50,000 per month |
| Eligible Countries | 8 neighbouring countries |
| Official Authority | INSA / DST |
Who Should Apply
This fellowship is ideal for:
- Researchers in science & engineering
- Medical researchers
- University faculty members
- PhD scholars
- Scientists working in research institutions
It is especially beneficial for candidates looking for international research collaboration with India.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
| What is ISRF 2025-26 fellowship? |
| It is a research fellowship by DST India for scientists from neighbouring countries. |
| What is the last date to apply for ISRF 2025-26? |
| 31 March 2026. |
| How much stipend is given in ISRF fellowship? |
| ₹50,000 per month. |
| Who can apply for ISRF? |
| Researchers from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. |
| What is the age limit for ISRF 2025-26? |
| Below 45 years as on 31 March 2026. |
| Is airfare included in the fellowship? |
| Yes, round-trip airfare is provided. |
| Is PhD required for ISRF? |
| PhD, M.Tech, M.Sc, MBBS or PhD registered candidates can apply. |
| Who selects the ISRF fellows? |
| DST through INSA, New Delhi. |
The ISRF 2025-26 Fellowship by DST is a prestigious opportunity for researchers from neighbouring countries to work with India’s leading scientific institutions. With a ₹50,000 monthly fellowship, airfare, and research grants, the programme offers excellent academic exposure. Eligible candidates should apply before 31 March 2026 and regularly check official notifications. Visit the official DST / INSA website for updates and bookmark this page for future fellowship alerts, for more details and apply CLICK HERE
