DRDO Scholarship Scheme 2025–26: ₹1.8 Lakh Funding for Engineering Students | Eligibility & Application Process
Introduction
The DRDO Scholarship Scheme 2025–26 is a flagship initiative by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) aimed at encouraging talented engineering students to pursue higher education in critical technology and defence-related fields. Under this scheme, eligible students can receive financial assistance of up to ₹1.8 lakh per year, helping them focus on academics without financial stress.
This scholarship is especially designed to promote excellence, innovation, and research culture among engineering students who aspire to contribute to India’s defence and aerospace ecosystem.
What is the DRDO Scholarship Scheme 2025–26 Scheme?
The DRDO Scholarship Scheme is implemented through the Aeronautics Research & Development Board (AR&DB). It supports meritorious female engineering students enrolled in selected undergraduate and postgraduate programs related to aeronautics, aerospace, avionics, and allied engineering disciplines.
The objective of the scheme is to build a strong talent pool in advanced engineering areas that are crucial for national security, defence research, and technological self-reliance.
DRDO Scholarship Scheme 2025–26 Amount & Benefits
The financial support provided under the DRDO Scholarship Scheme 2025–26 is significant and competitive.
Undergraduate (UG) Students
- Scholarship Amount: Up to ₹1,20,000 per year
- Duration: Maximum of 4 years
- Coverage: Tuition fees or annual academic expenses (whichever is lower)
Postgraduate (PG) Students
- Scholarship Amount: Up to ₹1,86,000 per year
- Duration: Maximum of 2 years
📌 The scholarship is released on a yearly basis and continued only if the student maintains satisfactory academic performance.
Eligibility Criteria for DRDO Scholarship 2025–26
Before applying, candidates must carefully check the eligibility conditions.
General Eligibility
- Applicant must be an Indian citizen
- Scholarship is exclusively for female students
- Only one scholarship can be availed at a time
- Candidate must be enrolled in a full-time regular course
Eligibility for Undergraduate Students
- Must be studying in the first year of BE/B.Tech/B.Sc. Engineering
- Course should be in an eligible engineering discipline
- Admission must be through a recognized process
- Must possess a valid JEE (Main) score
Eligibility for Postgraduate Students
- Must be studying in the first year of ME/M.Tech/M.Sc. Engineering
- Admission should be through a recognized institution
- Must possess a valid GATE score
Meeting all eligibility criteria is mandatory for consideration.
Eligible Engineering Disciplines
The scholarship is available for students pursuing engineering courses such as:
- Aerospace Engineering
- Aeronautical Engineering
- Avionics Engineering
- Aircraft Engineering
- Space Engineering and Rocketry
- Other allied aeronautical disciplines
Only students from approved disciplines will be shortlisted.
Documents Required for DRDO Scholarship Scheme 2025–26 Application
Applicants should prepare the following documents in advance:
- Passport-size photograph
- Aadhaar card or government-issued ID
- Proof of admission from the institute
- Fee receipt or fee structure document
- JEE Main scorecard (UG applicants)
- GATE scorecard (PG applicants)
- Institute certificate confirming enrollment
- Final submitted application form copy
Providing correct and legible documents is essential for successful submission.
DRDO Scholarship 2025–26 Application Process
Follow these steps to apply online:
- Visit the official DRDO Recruitment and Assessment Centre (RAC) portal
- Locate the DRDO Scholarship Scheme 2025–26 section
- Register using personal, academic, and contact details
- Log in and fill out the application form carefully
- Upload required documents in the prescribed format
- Review all details before submission
- Submit the application and download the confirmation page
🔔 Applications submitted after the deadline or with incorrect details may be rejected.
Selection Process for DRDO Scholarship Scheme 2025–26
The selection process for the DRDO Scholarship Scheme is purely merit-based.
- UG applicants are shortlisted based on their JEE Main score
- PG applicants are shortlisted based on their GATE score
- Final selection depends on academic merit and document verification
Only the most deserving candidates are awarded the scholarship.
Important Dates (Expected) for DRDO Scholarship Scheme 2025–26
- Application Start: 2025
- Last Date to Apply: Expected by December 2025
- Result Announcement: As notified by DRDO
Applicants are advised to regularly check official notifications for updates.
Why You Should Apply for DRDO Scholarship Scheme 2025–26?
- High-value funding up to ₹1.8 lakh per year
- Recognition by India’s top defence research organization
- Encourages careers in aerospace and defence technology
- Reduces financial burden during higher education
- Boosts academic and professional credibility
Final Thoughts
The DRDO Scholarship Scheme 2025–26 is a golden opportunity for aspiring female engineers to receive substantial financial support and advance their careers in high-impact engineering fields. With strong merit-based selection and generous funding, this scholarship plays a crucial role in shaping the future of India’s defence and technology sector.
Eligible students should apply early, prepare documents carefully, and make the most of this prestigious opportunity.
