Engineering remains one of the most sought-after career paths in India — but it’s also one of the most expensive. From tuition and hostel fees to books, tools, and tech resources, the cost of a B.Tech or B.E. degree can be overwhelming for many families.
Thankfully, several scholarships for college students in engineering and technical studies are available in India. Whether you’re pursuing a degree in Computer Science, Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, or AI/ML, these funding programs can ease your burden while also recognizing your academic merit.
In this guide, we cover top scholarships like AICTE Pragati, Inspire, FAEA, and state-level STEM scholarships for 2025–26.
⚙️ 1. AICTE Pragati Scholarship for Girls
- Offered By: All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE)
- Level: 1st-year girl students in Diploma/Degree technical programs
- Eligibility:
- Annual family income below ₹8 lakh
- Admitted to AICTE-approved institutions
- Award:
- ₹50,000/year for tuition, books, equipment, etc.
- Total duration: 4 years (UG) or 3 years (Diploma)
- Number of Scholarships: 5,000 (Degree) + 5,000 (Diploma)
- Deadline: Expected to open in September 2025
- Apply At: aicte-pragati-saksham-gov.in
👩🔧 Empowering women in technical fields through financial support and recognition.
🔬 2. DST Inspire Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE)
- Offered By: Department of Science & Technology (DST), Govt. of India
- Level: UG students in Natural & Basic Sciences
- Eligibility:
- Class 12 passed with top 1% board marks
- Pursuing B.Sc., B.S., or integrated M.Sc./M.S. in Science disciplines
- JEE/NEET/KVPY/NTSE/International Olympiad qualifiers also eligible
- Award:
- ₹80,000/year (₹60,000 cash + ₹20,000 project expenses)
- Duration: Up to 5 years
- Deadline: October 2025 (tentative)
- Apply At: online-inspire.gov.in
🧪 Perfect for engineering-bound students focused on R&D, physics, chemistry, math, and computing.
🎓 3. FAEA Scholarship (Foundation for Academic Excellence and Access)
- Offered By: FAEA (with support from TATA, BHEL, etc.)
- Level: 1st-year UG students
- Eligibility:
- Passed Class 12 or currently in 1st year of UG
- SC/ST/OBC/BPL/EWS background
- Enrolled in professional fields like Engineering, Science, Medical
- Award:
- Covers tuition, hostel/mess, books, and travel
- Renewable yearly based on performance
- Deadline: 30 June 2025
- Apply At: faeaindia.org
🌱 Focused on students from disadvantaged backgrounds entering technical/professional courses.
🏛️ 4. State STEM Scholarships (Merit + Need Based)
Many Indian states run STEM-focused scholarships for engineering and science students. Some key examples:
➤ Karnataka SSP Post-Matric Scholarship (STEM streams)
- For SC/ST/OBC/Minority students
- Tuition + maintenance + hostel fees
- Apply at: ssp.karnataka.gov.in
➤ Gujarat MYSY Scheme
- For engineering and pharmacy students
- 50% tuition + hostel fee reimbursement
- Apply at: mysy.guj.nic.in
➤ Maharashtra MahaDBT Engineering Scholarships
- For EBC, SEBC, SC/ST, minority students
- Full or partial tuition fee based on income
- Apply at: mahadbt.maharashtra.gov.in
✅ These lesser-known state-level scholarships are high-value, easy to apply, and often have lower competition.
🧠 Other Hidden Tech Scholarships to Watch (2025–26)
| Scholarship | Who Can Apply | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Vidyadhan STEM Scholarship | Class 12 pass + UG in science | ₹10,000–₹60,000/year |
| Tata Capital Pankh | EWS Engineering students | ₹12,000–₹25,000/year |
| ONGC Scholarship | SC/ST/OBC/GEN Engg./MBBS students | ₹48,000/year |
| Reliance Foundation UG Scholarship | Engineering/Tech students (merit + need) | Up to ₹2,00,000/year |
| L&T Build India Scholarship (M.Tech) | Final-year Civil/Mech Engg. UG students | Full tuition + job offer |
📄 Documents Usually Required
- Aadhaar card & passport-size photo
- Class 10 & 12 marksheets
- Caste and income certificates
- Bonafide certificate from college
- Admission proof & fee receipt
- Bank account details (student or joint)
- Entrance exam scores (if required)
🧩 Final Thoughts
The road to an engineering or tech degree doesn’t have to be financially stressful. Whether you’re a meritorious student, a girl in STEM, or belong to an economically disadvantaged community, these scholarships for college students in technical fields can support your journey.
💡 Apply early, keep documents ready, and check both national and state-level portals. One scholarship could open the doors to your dream tech career.
