The SBI Platinum Jubilee Asha Scholarship 2026 is a major education support initiative by SBI Foundation. It helps talented students from low-income families continue their studies without financial stress, covering school, undergraduate, postgraduate, professional, and selected overseas programs.
Students can receive financial aid from ₹15,000 up to ₹20 lakh per year, depending on their course. The scheme gives preference to girls and SC/ST students, promoting equal access to quality education across India and abroad.
What is the SBI Platinum Jubilee Asha Scholarship 2026?
The SBI Platinum Jubilee Asha Scholarship 2026 is a major education support scheme by the SBI Foundation designed to help talented students continue their studies without financial stress. It offers yearly funding for school, college, and higher education based on merit and income.
Objective of the Asha Scholarship Program
(Launched by SBI Foundation under the SBIF Asha initiative)
- Provide financial assistance to deserving students from economically weaker backgrounds.
- Reduce dropout rates among school and college students due to financial difficulties.
- Support meritorious learners in continuing their academic journey without stress.
- Encourage equal access to quality education across India.
- Empower students to achieve career goals through structured scholarship support.
- Promote inclusive growth by investing in youth education.
- Strengthen community development through educational opportunities.
- Celebrate long-term commitment to education under the platinum jubilee initiative.
Why was it launched under the Platinum Jubilee initiative?
The Asha Scholarship was introduced under the Platinum Jubilee initiative to mark 75 years of the State Bank of India’s contribution to nation-building. Through SBI Foundation, the initiative aimed to celebrate this milestone by investing in education, empowering underprivileged students, and strengthening long-term social development across India.
- School Students (Classes 6–12) – Get financial help to continue education without interruption.
- Undergraduate Students – Receive support for tuition fees and academic expenses.
- Postgraduate Students – Get funding to pursue higher studies and career growth.
- Students from Low-Income Families – Gain equal access to quality education.
- Meritorious Students – Are encouraged and rewarded for strong academic performance.
- Differently-Abled Students – Receive inclusive financial assistance to continue studies.
SBI Asha Scholarship 2026 – Key Highlights
The SBI Asha Scholarship 2025 provides financial support to deserving students across different education levels. Below are the important details you should know before applying.
- Scholarship Name: SBI Asha Scholarship 2026
- Launched By: SBI Foundation
- Academic Year: 2025–26
- Beneficiaries: School students (Classes 6–12), Undergraduate & Postgraduate students
- Scholarship Amount: Varies by course and category
- Application Mode: Online
- Official Website: SBI Foundation official website
- Last Date: As per official notification (check website regularly)
SBI Platinum Jubilee Asha Scholarship 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Students must be Indian residents, enrolled in eligible classes or courses, meet minimum academic score requirements, and belong to families within specified annual income limits.
For School Students (Class 6–12)
| Criteria | Details |
| Income Limit | Annual family income should be within the prescribed limit as mentioned in the official guidelines. |
| Minimum Marks Required | Students must have secured the required minimum percentage in the previous academic year. |
| Eligible Boards | Students studying in recognized state boards, central boards, or other approved education boards across India are eligible. |
For Undergraduate Students
| Criteria | Details |
| Academic Percentage | Applicants must have achieved the required minimum marks in their previous qualifying examination (Class 12 or equivalent). |
| Recognized Institutions | Students should be enrolled in a UGC/AICTE-approved college or university in India. |
| Income Criteria | Annual family income must fall within the specified limit mentioned in the official scholarship guidelines |
For Postgraduate Students
- NIRF Ranking Condition: The student must be enrolled in an institution ranked under the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) or recognized by competent authorities.
- Course Eligibility: Applicable to full-time postgraduate degree programs approved by relevant regulatory bodies in India.
- Income Cap: The total annual family income should be within the prescribed limit as defined in the official scholarship guidelines.
For IIT Students
- Eligible IIT Campuses: Students must be enrolled in any recognized campus of the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) across India.
- Year of Study: Applicants should be pursuing a full-time undergraduate or postgraduate program in the current academic year.
- Academic Requirement: Students must meet the minimum academic performance criteria specified in the official scholarship guidelines.
For IIM Students
- Eligible IIMs: Students must be admitted to any recognized campus of the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) across India.
- Admission Criteria: Applicants should have secured admission through the prescribed selection process of the respective IIM and meet the academic and income requirements mentioned in the scholarship guidelines.
For Medical Students
| Criteria | Details |
| MBBS Eligibility | Applicants must be enrolled in a full-time MBBS program and meet the minimum academic performance required under the scholarship guidelines. |
| Recognized Colleges | Students should be studying in a medical college approved by the National Medical Commission (NMC) or other relevant regulatory authority in India. |
For Overseas Students
- Foreign University Criteria: Applicants must be admitted to a top-ranked international university included in recognized global rankings, such as QS or THE World University Rankings.
- Course Requirements: The scholarship is applicable for full-time postgraduate or higher-level programs, primarily for SC/ST students, meeting the academic and income eligibility criteria.
SBI Asha Scholarship 2026 – Scholarship Amount
The SBI Foundation offers financial support to students across multiple education levels, ensuring that deserving candidates can continue their studies without financial stress. Below is the detailed breakdown:
| Category | Scholarship Amount |
| School Students | Up to ₹15,000 per year |
| Undergraduate Students | Up to ₹75,000 per year |
| Postgraduate Students | Up to ₹2,50,000 per year |
| IIT/IIM Students | IIT: ₹2,00,000; IIM: ₹5,00,000 per year |
| Medical & Overseas Students | Medical: ₹4,50,000; Overseas (SC/ST): Up to ₹20,00,000 per year |
How Scholarship Amount is Calculated:
The scholarship amount is determined based on the course, institution, and financial need of the applicant, with priority given to meritorious students from low-income families.
Disbursement Mode:
Funds are transferred directly to the student’s bank account via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), ensuring safe and timely receipt of scholarship money.
Documents Required for SBI Scholarship 2026
To apply for the SBI Foundation scholarship, students must prepare and upload the following essential documents:
| Document | Details |
| Aadhaar Card | Government-issued identity proof to verify the applicant’s identity. |
| Income Certificate | Proof of annual family income issued by a competent authority to confirm eligibility. |
| Previous Year Marksheet | Academic records showing the marks or CGPA obtained in the previous year. |
| Admission Proof | Letter or certificate confirming current enrollment in the eligible course or institution. |
| Fee Receipt | Payment receipt for tuition or course fees for the current academic year. |
| Bank Account Details | SBI bank account information for scholarship disbursement. |
| Bonafide Certificate | Certificate issued by the institution confirming the student’s enrollment and status. |
These documents ensure verification of eligibility, academic merit, and financial need, making the application process smooth and transparent.
How to Apply Online for SBI Platinum Jubilee Asha Scholarship 2026?
Applying for the SBI Foundation scholarship is fully online and straightforward. Follow these steps to ensure your application is submitted successfully:
- Visit Official Portal: Go to the SBI Asha Scholarship 2026 website to start your application.
- Register an Account: If you are a new applicant, register using your email, mobile number, or Google ID.
- Login to Account: Use your registered credentials to access the application form.
- Fill Application Form: Enter all required personal, academic, and contact details carefully.
- Upload Documents: Submit essential documents like Aadhaar, income certificate, mark sheets, and admission proof.
- Review & Submit: Check all information, accept terms and conditions, and submit your application.
- Print Confirmation: Save or print the submission confirmation for your records and future reference.
Following this step-by-step guide ensures your application is complete, accurate, and eligible for consideration under the 2026 scholarship cycle.
SBI Asha Scholarship 2026 – Selection Process
The SBI Foundation follows a clear and merit-based process to select deserving candidates for the 2026 scholarship:
- Application Screening: Initial review of eligibility, academic performance, and income criteria.
- Shortlisting Based on Merit: Candidates are shortlisted considering their marks, CGPA, and financial need.
- Document Verification: All uploaded documents are checked for authenticity and accuracy.
- Final Approval by Committee: The selection panel confirms the most deserving applicants.
- Scholarship Disbursement: Awarded funds are sent directly to the student’s bank account via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
SBI Scholarship 2026 – Last Date
Here are the key dates for the SBI Foundation Scholarship 2026 application cycle:
| Event | Date |
| Application Start Date | September 19, 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | November 30, 2026 |
| Correction Window (if applicable) | Check official portal for updates |
| Result Announcement Date | To be announced on the official website |
Applicants should apply early to avoid last-minute issues and keep track of updates on the official portal.
How to Check SBI Asha Scholarship Status?
You can easily track your SBI Foundation scholarship application status online by following these steps:
- Login to Portal: Access the official SBI Asha Scholarship website and log in with your registered credentials.
- Track Application ID: Enter your application ID to retrieve your application details.
- Check Approval Status: View the current status of your scholarship, whether shortlisted, under review, or approved.
- Helpline Support: For any queries or issues, contact the official helpline via email or phone provided on the portal.
This ensures you stay updated on your application progress without missing any important updates.
Is SBI Bank Account Mandatory?
To receive the SBI Foundation scholarship, having an SBI bank account is essential.
- Bank Account Requirement: Applicants must open and provide an active SBI account to be eligible for shortlisting and fund transfer.
- Can Other Bank Accounts Be Used?: No, funds are only disbursed to SBI accounts. Applicants without an SBI account must open one before applying.
- Payment Transfer Method: Scholarship amounts are transferred directly to the SBI account via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), ensuring safe and timely receipt of funds.
This requirement ensures a secure and streamlined disbursement process for all selected students.
Can the SBI Asha Scholarship Be Renewed?
Yes, the SBI Foundation scholarship can be renewed, provided the student meets certain conditions:
- Renewal Eligibility: Only students who continue in the same course and meet the income and category criteria are eligible.
- Academic Performance Requirement: Students must maintain good academic performance, typically 75% marks or 7 CGPA, to qualify for renewal.
- Renewal Application Process: Eligible students must submit updated academic and financial documents through the official portal each year for review and approval.
Renewal ensures continuous support for students throughout their course duration.
Why is the SBI Asha Scholarship Trusted? (E-A-T Section)
The SBI Foundation scholarship is widely trusted due to its strong credentials and transparent processes:
- About SBI Foundation (SBIF): Established in 2015 as the CSR arm of the State Bank of India, SBIF drives social initiatives across education, healthcare, and skill development.
- CSR Initiative Credibility: As a corporate social responsibility program, the scholarship reflects SBI’s long-term commitment to supporting meritorious students from financially weaker backgrounds.
- Transparency in Fund Distribution: Scholarship funds are transferred directly to students’ bank accounts through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), ensuring accountability.
- Government and Institutional Partnerships: Collaboration with top universities, IITs, IIMs, and recognized boards reinforces legitimacy and broad reach.
- Impact Statistics: Millions of students have benefited since its inception, highlighting measurable outcomes in education and inclusive growth.
These factors establish strong expertise, authority, and trustworthiness, making the SBI Asha Scholarship a reliable and prestigious program for deserving students.
Comparison – SBI Asha Scholarship vs Other Indian Scholarships
The SBI Asha Scholarship 2026 is designed to support meritorious students from low-income families, offering higher financial aid and broader coverage than many other Indian scholarships. Its focus on top institutions, inclusivity, and transparency makes it a preferred choice for students nationwide.
| Feature | SBI Asha Scholarship | Other Indian Scholarships |
| Unique Benefits | Prioritizes girls, SC/ST students, and meritorious candidates | General eligibility, limited focus on gender or category |
| Scholarship Amount | Up to INR 20,00,000 per year | Typically INR 10,000 – 5,00,000 |
| Coverage for Top Institutions | Supports IITs, IIMs, medical colleges, and select overseas PG programs | Mostly Indian universities and colleges |
| Income Flexibility | Annual family income up to INR 6,00,000, with SC/ST relaxation | Stricter income limits, less flexible |
| Disbursement Method | Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to SBI account | Varies; often slower or offline methods |
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Applying
When applying for the SBI Foundation scholarship, avoid these common errors to ensure smooth processing:
- Wrong Documents Upload: Ensure all required documents are accurate, clear, and properly attested before uploading.
- Incorrect Income Certificate: Submit the correct income certificate issued by the relevant government authority; wrong or incomplete certificates may lead to rejection.
- Late Submission: Complete and submit the application before the last date to avoid disqualification.
- Invalid Bank Details: Provide accurate SBI account details to ensure timely scholarship disbursement via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
Following these tips prevents delays and increases your chances of successful scholarship approval.
Conclusion
The SBI Platinum Jubilee Asha Scholarship 2026 is a golden opportunity for meritorious students from economically weaker backgrounds. It ensures financial support across school, undergraduate, postgraduate, medical, IIT/IIM, and select overseas programs, helping students continue their education without stress.
With transparent selection, high scholarship amounts, and a focus on inclusivity, this program empowers deserving students to achieve academic excellence and build a secure, promising future.
Frequently Asked Questions?
What is the selection process?
The selection is merit-based and considers academic performance and financial background. Shortlisted candidates undergo document verification and sometimes telephonic interviews before final approval.
How will I receive scholarship funds?
Funds are transferred directly to the applicant’s SBI bank account via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), ensuring safe and timely receipt of scholarship money.
Is SBI bank account compulsory?
Yes, having an active SBI account is mandatory for shortlisting and disbursement. Other bank accounts cannot be used for receiving funds.
What if my college is not in the NIRF top 300?
Applicants from colleges outside the NIRF top 300 are generally ineligible for undergraduate and postgraduate scholarships, except for school-level or other eligible categories.
What is the scholarship amount for school students?
School students can receive up to ₹15,000 per year, which can be used for tuition, books, and other academic expenses.
Can I apply if studying in a government school?
Yes, students from government schools can apply. If no fee receipt is available, an alternative document like a bonafide certificate may be submitted.
How long does verification take?
Document and eligibility verification usually takes a few weeks after the application deadline. Applicants are informed of the results via email and the official portal.
