For Indian students dreaming of earning a master’s or postgraduate degree from a world-class university abroad, the SBIF Asha Scholarship Program for Overseas Education 2024-25 offers a life-changing opportunity. Spearheaded by the SBI Foundation, the CSR arm of the State Bank of India, this initiative is designed to empower talented students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds—specifically those from Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST)—by alleviating the financial hurdles of international education. Under the Foundation’s Integrated Learning Mission (ILM), this program champions education as a powerful tool for social upliftment and transformation.
This guide provides a deep dive into the scholarship, covering its eligibility, benefits, application process, and selection stages, equipping aspiring applicants with everything they need to seize this remarkable opportunity.
SBIF Asha Scholarship Program Highlights
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | SBIF Asha Scholarship Program for Overseas Education 2024-25 |
| Provider | SBI Foundation (via Integrated Learning Mission - ILM) |
| Scholarship Type | Merit-cum-means based |
| Eligibility | SC/ST students pursuing a master’s or postgraduate course (any year) at a top global university |
| Award | Up to INR 20,00,000 or 50% of course-related expenses (whichever is less) |
| Application Deadline | March 31, 2025 |
| Application Mode | Online |
About SBI Foundation: Beyond Banking, Building Futures
The SBI Foundation embodies the State Bank of India’s ethos of “service beyond banking.” Operating across 28 states and union territories, it drives impactful initiatives in areas like rural development, healthcare, education, livelihoods, youth empowerment, and sports. With a focus on ethical and inclusive growth, the Foundation is committed to uplifting underprivileged communities, making programs like the Asha Scholarship a cornerstone of its mission.
Who Can Apply?
This scholarship targets a specific group of deserving students. To qualify, applicants must:
- Nationality: Be Indian citizens.
- Category: Belong to Scheduled Caste (SC) or Scheduled Tribe (ST) communities.
- Course: Be enrolled in a master’s or postgraduate program (any year) at a premier international university—typically those ranked highly in global listings like QS World University Rankings or Times Higher Education.
- Academic Record: Have scored at least 75% in their most recent academic year.
- Family Income: Come from a family with an annual income of INR 6,00,000 or less, with preference for those earning up to INR 3,00,000.
- Reservation: 100% of slots are reserved for SC/ST students, reflecting the program’s dedication to equity.
Scholarship Benefits: Financial Support for Your Dreams
The SBIF Asha Scholarship offers up to INR 20,00,000 per year or 50% of course-related expenses (whichever is lower). This generous aid helps cover tuition and other academic costs, allowing students to focus on their studies rather than finances.
How to Apply: A Step-by-Step Guide
The application process is streamlined and fully online via the Buddy4Study platform. Here’s how to get started:
- Visit the Portal: Go to sbifashascholarship.org.
- Click ‘Apply Now’: Start your journey!
- Log In or Register: Use your existing Buddy4Study account or sign up with an email, phone number, or Google account.
- Fill the Form: Access the application page, click “Start Application,” and enter your details accurately.
- Upload Documents: Submit all required files (listed below).
- Review and Submit: Double-check your application, agree to the terms, and hit “Submit.”
Documents You’ll Need
Prepare these in clear, scanned copies:
- Passport-size photograph
- Aadhaar card (both sides)
- Passport
- 10th, 12th, and graduation marksheets
- Graduation degree certificate
- Master’s degree certificate (if applicable)
- Offer/acceptance letter from the university
- English proficiency test scores (IELTS/TOEFL, etc.)
- Latest fee receipt (2024-25 session)
- Fee structure
- Family income proof
- Bank passbook
- Study visa (if available)
- Caste certificate
- Disability certificate (if applicable)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- GRE/GMAT scores (if applicable)
- Education loan/other scholarship letters (if applicable)
- Death certificate/divorce decree/affidavit (if applicable)
- Orphan certificate (if applicable)
Selection Process: How Winners Are Chosen
The selection is thorough and multi-layered:
- Shortlisting: Applications are evaluated based on academic merit and financial need.
- Telephonic Interviews: Shortlisted candidates are interviewed to gauge their fit.
- Document Check: Submitted files are verified for authenticity.
- Final Decision: Academic performance, financial situation, interview results, and document validity determine the recipients.
- Disbursement: Funds are transferred directly to scholars’ bank accounts.
Track Your Application
Log into your Buddy4Study account, head to “Applied Scholarships,” and monitor your application’s status anytime.
Tips for Success
- Start Early: Don’t wait until the March 31, 2025 deadline looms.
- Organize Documents: Have everything ready to avoid delays.
- Write a Stellar SOP: Highlight your goals, background, and why you’re a perfect fit.
- Stay Updated: Check your Buddy4Study account regularly.
Contact Support
For questions about eligibility, awards, or the process, reach out:
- Phone: 011-430-92248 (Ext: 303) (Monday–Friday, 10 AM–6 PM IST)
- Email: sbiashascholarship@buddy4study.com
