The SBI Foundation has officially opened online applications for the SBI Platinum Jubilee Asha Scholarship 2026-27, a significant corporate social responsibility effort aimed at making quality education accessible across all societal tiers. This flagship merit-cum-need initiative targets high-achieving students from low-income backgrounds, offering financial support for diverse educational pursuits.
Extensive Coverage for Academic Growth
The scholarship scheme provides dedicated coverage across multiple educational tracks. It supports students from Class 9 through 12, as well as those pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate degrees within India. The program also extends to specialized professional courses at prestigious institutions like the IITs, IIMs, and AIIMS, and even postgraduate studies abroad.
Financial grants under the expanded scheme vary significantly based on the level of academic pursuit, ranging from ₹15,000 up to a substantial ₹15,00,000 per year.
Strict Eligibility Criteria and Income Limits
Applicants must demonstrate strong academic standing to qualify. Generally, candidates are required to have secured at least 75% marks or a 7.5 CGPA in their previous academic year. However, relaxations are in place for reserved categories:
- Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) applicants: Minimum 65% marks.
- Students with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD): Minimum 60% marks.
To ensure aid reaches underprivileged households, strict annual family income caps are enforced. For school students (Classes 9-12), the limit is ₹3,00,000. For undergraduate, postgraduate, and professional study categories, the cap is set at ₹6,00,000.
International Study and Gender Parity
For students aspiring to study overseas, specific requirements apply. Candidates must hold a valid admission offer from a university ranked within the Top 200 of either the QS or Times Higher Education (THE) global rankings. Additionally, competitive test scores such as GRE, GMAT, MCAT, or LSAT are required where applicable.
In a move to promote gender parity in education, 50% of the overall scholarship slots are explicitly reserved for female applicants across all eligible categories.
Seamless Online Application Process
The entire registration and submission workflow for the SBI Asha Scholarship 2026-27 is conducted online. Interested students can apply via the official portal at sbiashascholarship.co.in or through the Buddy4Study platform.
Applicants are required to upload several key verification credentials, including:
- Mark sheets from prior academic years
- Income certificates or salary slips
- Identity proof (such as Aadhaar)
- Official admission letters
Crucially, for seamless direct benefit transfer upon shortlisting, candidates must possess an active State Bank of India bank account. Interested students are advised to complete their online submissions prior to the designated deadline, which will be specified on the application portal.