AICTE Scholarships 2026-27: Funding Technical Education and Research

The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) has announced various scholarships. These schemes support students, researchers, and faculty for the 2026-27 academic year. This guide details key opportunities.

AICTE Student Scholarships

AICTE offers several vital scholarships for technical education. These are Pragati, Saksham, and Swanath schemes. All applications for these schemes are submitted through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP). The tentative deadline for applications is October 31, 2026.

Pragati Scholarship for Girls: This scheme supports girl students pursuing technical diploma or degree courses. Up to two girls per family can apply. An annual family income below ₹8 lakh is required. Selected students receive ₹50,000 per year. This amount covers fees, books, and other educational expenses.

Saksham Scholarship for Specially-Abled Students: This scholarship aids specially-abled students in technical programs. Applicants need a minimum 40% disability. The annual family income limit is ₹8 lakh. Beneficiaries get ₹50,000 annually. This payment supports their educational costs.

Swanarth Scholarship Scheme: This scheme assists students from vulnerable backgrounds. Eligible candidates include orphans or wards of COVID-19 deceased parents. Wards of martyred armed forces personnel also qualify. The family income should not exceed ₹8 lakh per annum. A scholarship of ₹50,000 per year is provided.

Common Eligibility for Student Scholarships: Applicants must be Indian nationals. They should be admitted to the first or second year (lateral entry) of an AICTE-approved technical diploma or degree course. Students should not be receiving other government scholarships.

AICTE Postgraduate (PG) Scholarship

This scholarship is for students pursuing AICTE-approved PG programs. It targets M.Tech, M.E., M.Arch, and M.Pharm courses. Applicants need a valid GATE/GPAT/CEED score. The scholarship provides ₹12,400 per month. It lasts for 24 months or the course duration. Applications for 2026-27 are expected to open in September 2026. Apply through the AICTE PG Scholarship Portal.

AICTE Fellowships

AICTE also offers fellowships for advanced studies and faculty development.

AICTE Doctoral Fellowship (ADF): This fellowship supports full-time PhD scholars in technical disciplines. Eligibility includes admission to an AICTE-approved PhD program. A maximum age of 30 years applies, with relaxations. Fellows receive ₹37,000-₹42,000 monthly. An annual contingency grant of ₹15,000 is also provided. The 2026-27 application window may open in early 2027.

AICTE Industry Fellowship Programme (IFP): This program is for faculty members of technical institutions. It aims to bridge the gap between academia and industry. The application deadline for 2026-27 was extended to July 5, 2026. Eligible faculty receive ₹1,00,000 per month. This is in addition to their regular institutional salary.

Important Application Information

All scholarship disbursements happen through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). Applicants must ensure their Aadhaar is linked to a general savings bank account. Joint or minor accounts are not accepted. Keep your income and other relevant certificates ready. This ensures a smooth application process.