Vidyadhan Scholarship Program (SDF)
Sarojini Damodaran Foundation (SDF) · Multiple States
| Scheme Name | Vidyadhan Scholarship Program (SDF) |
| Provided By | Sarojini Damodaran Foundation (SDF) |
| Eligibility Summary | Higher Secondary & Undergraduate · Multiple States residents · Family income up to ₹2 Lakh/year |
About the Program
The Vidyadhan Scholarship Program by the Sarojini Damodaran Foundation provides ₹10,000 to ₹75,000 per year along with mentorship to meritorious 10th pass students from economically challenged families across India to complete higher secondary and degree studies.
Benefits & Financial Support
₹10k+
For Classes 11 and 12, the scholarship amount is up to ₹10,000 per year. For graduation courses, the scholarship can range from ₹10,000 to ₹75,000 annually, varying based on the state, course, and duration of the program. The scholarship is disbursed directly by the Sarojini Damodaran Foundation (SDF) or through a registered external sponsor. For specific programs, educational fees might be paid directly to the institution, and expenses for books and resources reimbursed upon submission of receipts.
₹10,000/year for Class 11-12 plus continuation sponsorship up to ₹75,000/year for undergraduate degrees, plus soft-skills workshops.
Note: Minimum 80% marks in Class 10 and family income below ₹2 Lakhs.
Eligibility Criteria & Income Limit
| Education Level | Higher Secondary & Undergraduate |
| Course / Stream | Relevant courses |
| Minimum Marks | 60% |
| Income Limit | Up to ₹2 Lakh/year |
| Category / Caste | All |
| Domicile State | Multiple States |
Mandatory Documents Checklist
- ✓Class 10 / SSLC Marksheet (minimum 80% or 8.0 CGPA; 65% for differently-abled)
- ✓Income Certificate from Revenue Authority / Tahsildar (family income < ₹2,00,000)
- ✓Recent Passport-size Photograph
- ✓School / College Bonafide Certificate or admission fee receipt for Class 11
- ✓Disability Certificate from medical authority (if applicable)
Selection Process
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Candidates are selected based on academic merit and financial need
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The process typically involves an initial shortlisting based on academic performance in the 10th-grade/SSC examination and the information provided in the application form
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Shortlisted students are then invited to appear for an online screening test
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Those who qualify the test proceed to a personal interview or an additional assessment
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The exact dates, times, and locations for tests and interviews are communicated individually to the shortlisted candidates
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Family annual income generally needs to be less than ₹2 Lakhs, though some states like Goa may have higher limits (up to ₹4 Lakhs)
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Minimum marks vary by state, with a general requirement often around 90% or 9 CGPA, but for some states like Ladakh, it can be as low as 60% for general students
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Students with disabilities are eligible with a lower percentage, often 75% or 7.5 CGPA, or even lower depending on the state's specific criteria.
Renewal Policy
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The Vidyadhan Scholarship is renewed annually
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Continuation of the scholarship for the second year of intermediate studies (Class 12) and then for undergraduate degree programs is contingent upon the student's sustained good academic performance
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Scholars are generally required to attend mentoring programs organized by the Foundation
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For undergraduate studies, if students continue to perform well, they will be given scholarships for pursuing any degree course of their interest, either directly through the foundation or via external sponsors registered with the foundation.
How to Apply Online
Applications are submitted online via Online. Complete eKYC, upload scanned documents, and submit before the closing date.
- 1Create an Email Account
Ensure you have a personal email ID as it is essential for the online application process.
- 2Register Online
Visit the official Vidyadhan Scholarship portal (vidyadhan.org) and create a new account by providing your name, email ID, and generating login credentials.
- 3Activate Account
An activation email will be sent to your registered email ID. Click on the activation link to complete the registration process.
- 4Login to Portal
Log in to the portal using your registered email ID and the password you created.
- 5Select Scholarship Program
Choose the appropriate state-specific scholarship program for which you are eligible and click on 'Apply Now'.
- 6Fill Application Form
Complete the online application form with all the required personal, academic, and financial details.
- 7Upload Documents
Upload scanned copies of the mandatory documents, which typically include your 10th-grade marksheet (provisional/online marksheet is accepted if the original is unavailable), an income certificate issued by a competent authority (ration card is not accepted), a recent passport-size photograph, and a disability certificate if applicable.
- 8Submit Application
Review all the information carefully and submit your application form.
- 9Track Status
Regularly check your registered email ID for updates regarding your application status, screening test details, and interview schedules.
Common Questions (FAQs)
Is there an application fee for the Vidyadhan Scholarship Program?
No, the application for the Vidyadhan Scholarship Program is completely free of cost. Students must apply only through the official portal at vidyadhan.org. The Sarojini Damodaran Foundation (SDF) has clarified that no external person or agency has been authorized to charge a fee or select students on their behalf. Any such claim should be treated as fraudulent.
What documents are required to apply for the Vidyadhan Scholarship?
To apply for the Vidyadhan Scholarship, you will generally need scanned copies of the following documents: your 10th-grade marksheet (a provisional or online marksheet downloaded from the official SSLC/CBSE/ICSE board website is acceptable if the original is unavailable), an income certificate issued by a competent authority (ration cards are not accepted), a recent passport-size photograph, and a disability certificate (if applicable).
How is the Vidyadhan Scholarship amount disbursed to the selected students?
The scholarship amount for selected students is disbursed directly by the Sarojini Damodaran Foundation (SDF) or through a registered external sponsor. For specific programs or higher education levels, the foundation may pay educational fees directly to the institution and reimburse students for the cost of books and resources upon submission of valid receipts.
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Legal Disclaimer
IndiaScholarships.in attempts to provide accurate information manually curated from official sources. Scholarship details, timelines, and eligibility can change without notice as per the provider's discretion. Applying for a scholarship does not guarantee selection. Always verify all information on the official Sarojini Damodaran Foundation (SDF) website before final submission.