Maulana Azad National Fellowship: Eligibility, Application Process, Benefits

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The Maulana Azad National Fellowship, named in honour of the eminent freedom fighter and educationist Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, is a beacon of hope and opportunity for minority students in India. This prestigious fellowship, funded by the Ministry of Minority Affairs, Government of India, aims to promote higher education among minority communities and nurture talent across various disciplines.

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Eligibility Criteria for Indian Students

Indian students aspiring to become beneficiaries of the Maulana Azad National Fellowship should meet the following eligibility criteria:

  • Minority Community: Applicants must belong to one of the notified minority communities, including Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists, Parsis, and Jains.
  • Pursuing Higher Education: Candidates should be pursuing full-time regular research programs (M.Phil. or Ph.D.) in recognized universities or institutions in India.
  • Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have secured a minimum of 50% marks in their postgraduate degree.
  • Annual Income: The income of the candidate’s family from all sources should not exceed Rs. 6 lakh per annum.

Maulana Azad National Fellowship: Benefits

The Maulana Azad National Fellowship offers a comprehensive range of benefits to recipients:

  • Financial Assistance: Scholars receive financial assistance for the entire duration of their research program. The financial support includes a stipend, contingency grant, house rent allowance, and other admissible allowances.
  • Coverage of Fees: The fellowship covers all non-refundable fees charged by the university or institution, including tuition fees and maintenance fees.
  • Research Grant: Scholars receive a contingency grant to support their research-related expenses, including books, stationery, fieldwork, and travel for research purposes.

Important Dates for 2024

Aspiring Maulana Azad National Fellows should be aware of the following key dates for the scholarship application process in 2024:

  • January 2024: The online application process for the fellowship typically opens in January.
  • March 2024: The application deadline for the fellowship is usually in March. Applicants must submit their online applications by this date.
  • June 2024: Shortlisted candidates are notified and invited for interviews or examinations, which are part of the selection process.
  • July 2024: Interviews/examinations are conducted, and the final list of scholarship recipients is prepared.
  • August/September 2024: Scholarship recipients commence their research programs at their respective university.

How to Apply

To apply for the Maulana Azad National Fellowship, follow these steps:

  • Eligibility Check: Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria, including belonging to a minority community, pursuing a full-time research program, academic qualifications, and family income limits.
  • Application Portal: Visit the official website of the Maulana Azad National Fellowship when the application window is open.
  • Registration: Create an account on the scholarship portal using a valid email ID and phone number.
  • Fill Application Form: Log in to your account, complete the application form with accurate details, and upload the required documents.
  • Document Verification: Ensure all your documents, including income certificates, mark sheets, and research proposal, are valid and correct.
  • Submit Application: Review your application, and once satisfied, submit it through the online portal.
  • Interview/Examination: If shortlisted, attend the interview or examination

Apply Online 

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