If you’ve grown up or studied abroad but feel a pull toward your Indian roots and a top-tier Indian education the Indian government has a scholarship just for you. The Scholarship Programme for Diaspora Children (SPDC), run by the Ministry of External Affairs, is not just financial aid; it’s a bridge connecting young global Indians to undergraduate studies in India’s finest institutions.
With only 150 scholarships awarded each year, the SPDC is both prestigious and competitive. It’s designed specifically for students of Indian origin living overseas, making it a unique opportunity to earn an Indian degree while staying connected to your heritage.
SPDC Scholarship 2025-26: Key Highlights
The Scholarship Programme for Diaspora Children (SPDC) is a centrally funded scheme designed to enable students of Indian origin living and studying abroad to pursue undergraduate education in India. A total of 150 scholarships are available annually for admission to approved universities and institutes.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Scholarship Programme for Diaspora Children (SPDC) |
| Offered By | Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India |
| Total Scholarships | 150 |
| Eligible Categories | Children of NRIs, PIOs, OCIs & Indian Workers in ECR Countries |
| Application Mode | Through Indian Missions/Embassies |
| Last Date to Apply | 30 January 2026 |
| Minimum Academic Requirement | 60% in Class 12 or equivalent |
| Age Limit | 17–21 years as on 31 July 2025 |
| Scholarship Amount | Up to 75% of Institutional Economic Cost (max US$ 4,000 per year) |
| Official Portal | Indian Missions abroad / MEA website |
SPDC Scholarship 2025-26: Download Official Guidelines PDF
The detailed notification and application forms are available on the Ministry of External Affairs website and through Indian Embassies and High Commissions worldwide. Candidates must apply through the Indian mission in their country of residence.
Check Official Notification Here
Category-Wise Seats
Out of the 150 scholarships:
| Category | Total Seats | Female Reservation (50%) |
|---|---|---|
| Children of NRIs/PIOs/OCIs (studied abroad) | 100 | 50 |
| Children of Indian Workers in ECR countries (studied abroad) | 33 | 17 |
| Children of Indian Workers in ECR countries (studied in India) | 17 | 8 |
| Grand Total | 150 | 75 |
Note: Unfilled seats in one category may be transferred to another.
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SPDC Scholarship Eligibility Criteria 2025-26
The eligibility of the Scholarship Programme for Diaspora Children depends on several criteria, check them all below:
1. Academic Qualification:
- Must have passed Class 11 and 12 from abroad (except ECR category studied in India).
- Minimum 60% aggregate marks in Class 12.
- Admission already secured in an eligible undergraduate course in India.
2. Age Limit:
- Between 17 and 21 years as of 31 July 2025.
3. Income Limit:
- NRI/PIO/OCI category: Family monthly income ≤ US$ 5,000
- ECR workers’ children: Family monthly income ≤ US$ 3,000
4. Eligible Institutions:
- Central Universities
- NAAC ‘A’ Grade Institutions
- NITs, IIITs, SPAs (via DASA scheme)
- Other approved universities
How to Apply for SPDC Scholarship 2025-26
Step 1: Secure admission to an eligible undergraduate course in India.
Step 2: Visit the nearest Indian Embassy/High Commission/Consulate.
Step 3: Collect/submit the SPDC application form with all required documents:
- Class 11 & 12 mark sheets and passing certificates
- Proof of Indian origin (PIO/OCI card) or parent’s work permit (for ECR)
- Income proof (salary certificate/ITR)
- Admission letter from Indian institution
- Declaration forms (Appendices B & C)
Step 4: Submit before 30 January 2026.
Selection Process
Selection is based on Merit-cum-Means:
- Academic performance in Class 12
- Financial need (lower income given preference)
- Category-based reservation
Shortlisted candidates must submit an Institute Undertaking (Appendix D) within 15 days of selection.
Scholarship Amount & Renewal
First Year: Up to 75% of institutional costs (tuition + hostel + fees), capped at US$ 4,000.
Renewal in Subsequent Years: Based on academic performance:
- ≥50% marks: Full scholarship continues
- <50% but passed all subjects: 90% of scholarship
- Promoted with backlogs: 50% of scholarship
- Not promoted: Scholarship discontinued
*Medical/health science students can apply in 2nd year and receive funding for 4 years.*
