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How to get scholarship for higher studies in India?
1. Learn about scholarship types There are many scholarships available in India, based on different criteria: Merit-based scholarships: for students with excellent academic performance (e.g., INSPIRE Scholarship, NTSE). Need-based scholarships: for students from low-income families. Category-based sRead more
1. Learn about scholarship types
There are many scholarships available in India, based on different criteria:
Merit-based scholarships: for students with excellent academic performance (e.g., INSPIRE Scholarship, NTSE).
Need-based scholarships: for students from low-income families.
Category-based scholarships: for SC/ST/OBC/EWS students (e.g., Post Matriculation Scholarships).
Gender-based scholarships: especially for girls (e.g., AICTE Pragati Scholarship).
Special scholarships: for minorities, people with disabilities, or children of defense personnel.
2. Search for scholarships online
You can explore scholarship opportunities on trusted portals:
National Scholarship Portal (NSP): https://scholarships.gov.in
UGC Scholarships: for postgraduate and doctoral studies.
AICTE Scholarships: for students pursuing engineering and technical studies.
State Government Portals: Each state offers its own scholarships.
Private/NGO Scholarships: Reliance Foundation, Tata Trusts, Azim Premji Foundation, etc.
3. Check Eligibility Criteria
Before applying, carefully check:
Academic qualifications (grades are required).
Income threshold (some scholarships have family income thresholds).
Type of course (engineering, medicine, arts, management, etc.).
Institutional recognition (many scholarships require study at recognized universities).
4. Prepare the Necessary Documents
You will typically need:
5. Apply Online
Register on the official scholarship portal.
Enter your details carefully.
Upload scanned documents.
Submit the form before the deadline.
Keep a copy of your application for future reference.
6. Follow-up
Follow the status of your application on the portal.
Answer the questions if you need to verify the documents.
Once approved, the scholarship funds are transferred directly to your bank account.
7. Popular Scholarships for Higher Education in India
INSPIRE Scholarship (for science students)
National Scholarship Portal (NSP) Programs
Post-Matriculation Scholarships (SC/ST/OBC/Minorities)
AICTE Pragati and Saksham Scholarships
LIC Golden Jubilee Scholarship
Tata Scholarship and Reliance Foundation Scholarship
State Government Scholarships (e.g., Maharashtra, UP, Tamil Nadu, etc.)
✅ Tip: Start applying early and apply for multiple scholarships to increase your chances.
See lessHow can I prepare for UPSC exam without coaching?
1. Understand the exam format and syllabus The UPSC exam consists of three stages: Prelims (Objective, General Studies, and CSAT) Mains (Descriptive exams, including Essay, GS, and electives) Interview (Personality test) Download and read the UPSC syllabus carefully. Keep it with you while studying.Read more
1. Understand the exam format and syllabus
The UPSC exam consists of three stages:
Prelims (Objective, General Studies, and CSAT)
Mains (Descriptive exams, including Essay, GS, and electives)
Interview (Personality test)
Download and read the UPSC syllabus carefully. Keep it with you while studying.
2. Gather the right books and resources
NCERT (6th to 12th grade): History, Geography, Politics, Economics, Science
Standard books:
Politics: Laxmikant
History: Spectrum Modern History
Economics: Ramesh Singh (or any simple guide)
Geography: NCERT + GC Leong
Environment: Shankar IAS book
For current affairs: The Hindu, Indian Express, or GDP summaries
3. Create a Study Plan
Divide your time between the topics for the prelims and the main exams.
Study 6 to 8 hours a day if possible, with breaks.
Review regularly; don’t just read through the text.
4. Practice Answer Writing
For the main exam, practice writing short, clear answers.
Use simple language, relevant facts, and examples.
If possible, participate in free online answer-writing challenges.
5. Solve Past Papers and Mock Papers
Review at least 10 years of UPSC exam papers.
Take mock papers for the prelims and main exams to understand time management.
6. Keep up with current events
Read current affairs newspapers or magazines monthly.
Take short notes to review.
7. Choose Your Elective Carefully
Choose a subject you feel comfortable with and can cover well.
Use standard reference books and practice past papers.
8. Self-Discipline and Consistency
Avoid over-referencing; stick to limited material.
Revise multiple times.
Create a daily schedule and follow it strictly.
9. Use Free Online Resources
Government websites (GDP, PRS, ministerial reports).
Free YouTube lectures, UPSC blogs, and strategies for top performers.
10. Take Care of Yourself
Stay healthy, sleep well, and manage stress.
A calm and balanced mind facilitates long-term preparation.
In short: Start with NCERT exams → Move on to standard books → Review → Practice answer writing and mock exams → Keep up with current events → Be consistent.
See lessWhat is the best optional subject for the UPSC mains?
There's no ideal UPSC optional subject: it depends on your background, interests, and access to learning resources. However, some electives are more popular and have performed better over time. Check out previous year's papers and the strategies of top candidates before finalizing your registration.Read more
There’s no ideal UPSC optional subject: it depends on your background, interests, and access to learning resources. However, some electives are more popular and have performed better over time. Check out previous year’s papers and the strategies of top candidates before finalizing your registration. Avoid choosing an elective just because it’s trendy; focus on one that matches your strengths. Here are some interesting options, however:
- Anthropology: Short syllabus, graded, ideal for science graduates
- Sociology: Easy to understand, overlaps with GS I and the dissertation
- Geography: Visual, map-based learning, overlaps with GS I and GS III
- PSIR (Political Science and International Relations): Excellent overlap with GS II and the dissertation
- Public Administration: Popular with working professionals, overlaps with GS II
- History: Useful for GS I, the dissertation, and the preliminaries
- Philosophy: Short syllabus, conceptual clarity required
- Literature: Ideal for those with a strong grasp of a language
See lessWhat are the tips for cracking the UPSC on the first attempt?
Passing the UPSC Civil Services Exam on the first attempt is entirely possible; many candidates have achieved this through a smart strategy, discipline, and consistency. Here are some key tips for success on your first attempt: Understand the Syllabus and Exam Flow Read the UPSC syllabus carefully fRead more
Passing the UPSC Civil Services Exam on the first attempt is entirely possible; many candidates have achieved this through a smart strategy, discipline, and consistency. Here are some key tips for success on your first attempt:
Understand the Syllabus and Exam Flow
Read the UPSC syllabus carefully for the prelims, mains, and interview.
Understand the UPSC’s expectations: analytical thinking, clarity, and conceptual knowledge.
Start Early with NCERT
Start your preparation with NCERT books from Grades 6 to 12.
Focus on History, Geography, Political Science, Economics, and Science to build a solid foundation.
Create a Realistic Study Plan
Make a daily, weekly, and monthly schedule.
Balance time between reading, revision, and practice exams.
Be consistent, not just intense.
Stay informed about current affairs
Read The Hindu or the Indian Express daily.
Follow monthly current affairs compilations (IAS Vision, Insights, etc.).
Practice your answers early on
Start practicing your answers for the main exams within 3 to 4 months of preparation.
Focus on clarity, structure, and adherence to the word limit.
Take practice exams regularly
Take the preliminary practice exams to improve your speed and accuracy.
Take a series of main exams to hone your writing skills.
Choose the right optional subject
Choose an optional subject based on your interests, experience, and scoring potential.
Don’t blindly follow trends: choose what works for you.
Revise several times
Revision is essential: take short notes and review them regularly.
Try to revise at least three times before the exam.
Maintain good mental and physical health
Take breaks, eat well, and sleep well.
Avoid burnout: the UPSC is a marathon, not a sprint.
Believe in yourself
Stay positive and avoid comparing yourself to others.
Trust your plan and stay focused on your journey.
Final advice: Start with a solid foundation, avoid unnecessary distractions, and be consistent. Many candidates pass the UPSC on the first attempt, not by luck, but through careful preparation.
See lessWhat are the NCERT books to be read for UPSC?
NCERT books are essential for building a strong foundation in UPSC preparation. Here I provide the list of NCERT books you need for UPSC preparation: History Class 6–8: Our Past series Class 9: India and the Contemporary World – I Class 10: India and the Contemporary World – II Class 11: Themes in WRead more
NCERT books are essential for building a strong foundation in UPSC preparation. Here I provide the list of NCERT books you need for UPSC preparation:
History
Class 6–8: Our Past series
Class 9: India and the Contemporary World – I
Class 10: India and the Contemporary World – II
Class 11: Themes in World History
Class 12: Themes in Indian History I, II & III
Old NCERTs by RS Sharma, Satish Chandra, and Bipan Chandra are also highly valued
Geography
Class 6: The Earth Our Habitat
Class 7: Our Environment
Class 8: Resource and Development
Class 9–10: Contemporary India I & II
Class 11: Fundamentals of Physical Geography, India – Physical Environment
Class 12: Fundamentals of Human Geography, India – People and Economy
Polity
Class 9: Democratic Politics – I
Class 10: Democratic Politics – II
Class 11: Indian Constitution at Work, Political Theory
Class 12: Contemporary World Politics, Politics in India Since Independence
Economics
Class 9: Economics
Class 10: Understanding Economic Development
Class 11: Indian Economic Development
Class 12: Introductory Microeconomics, Introductory Macroeconomics
Science & Environment
Class 6–10: General Science textbooks (especially for Prelims)
Class 12 Biology: Last 4 chapters (for Environment & Ecology)
Sociology & Society
Class 11: Understanding Society
Class 12: Indian Society, Social Change and Development in India
Art & Culture
Class 11: An Introduction to Indian Art
Class 12: Living Craft Traditions of India (select chapters)
See lessHow to prepare for Sainik School Entrance Exam?
1. Understand the exam format The All India Sainik Schools Entrance Examination (AISSEE) is conducted by the NTA for admission to Grades 6 and 9. Grade 6 Subjects: Mathematics – 50 points Intelligence (Reasoning) – 25 points Language – 25 points General Knowledge – 25 points Total: 125 questions, 30Read more
1. Understand the exam format
The All India Sainik Schools Entrance Examination (AISSEE) is conducted by the NTA for admission to Grades 6 and 9.
Grade 6 Subjects:
Mathematics – 50 points
Intelligence (Reasoning) – 25 points
Language – 25 points
General Knowledge – 25 points
Total: 125 questions, 300 points
Grade 9 Subjects:
Mathematics – 50 points
Intelligence – 25 points
English – 25 points
General Science – 25 points
Social Studies – 25 points
Total: 150 questions, 400 points
2. Use the right study material
NCERT books (especially for Grades 6 and 9)
Sainik School Admission Guides from Arihant, MTG, or Oswaal
Sample Papers and Previous Year Question Papers
3. Focus on Key Subjects
Math: Practice daily; build a solid foundation in arithmetic, geometry, and word problems.
Intelligence/Reasoning: Solve puzzles, coding-decoding questions, and analogies regularly.
Language Arts/English: Improve grammar, comprehension, and vocabulary.
Science/Social Studies: Read NCERT and General Knowledge books (Lucent/Manorama Kids)
4. Create a Daily Schedule
Allot 2 to 3 hours daily for preparation.
Allot more time for weaker subjects.
Include time for revision and practice tests.
5. Practice with Practice Tests and Past Papers
Take weekly practice tests.
Solve the past 5 years’ worth of papers.
Review your mistakes and improve.
See lessWhich is the best institute for the UPSC in Delhi?
Delhi is a hub for UPSC preparation, and several institutes enjoy excellent reputations for their results, faculty, and student support. Here are some of the top-rated UPSC coaching institutes in Delhi in 2025: Vajiram & Ravi – Renowned for its experienced faculty and consistent results. LocatedRead more
Delhi is a hub for UPSC preparation, and several institutes enjoy excellent reputations for their results, faculty, and student support. Here are some of the top-rated UPSC coaching institutes in Delhi in 2025:
Vajiram & Ravi – Renowned for its experienced faculty and consistent results. Located in Old Rajinder Nagar. Fees range from ₹1.5 to ₹2.5 lakh.
See lessVision IAS – Famous for its test series and current affairs materials. Also located in Old Rajinder Nagar. Fees range from ₹2.35 lakh.
Drishti IAS – Offers courses in Hindi and English. Popular with Hindi-medium students. Located in Karol Bagh and Mukherjee Nagar.
First IAS Institute – Increasingly popular thanks to its small groups and personalized mentoring. Fees range from ₹48,000 to ₹2.87 lakh.
IAS by Rau – One of the oldest and most respected names in the industry.
IAS Next – Backed by the Made Easy Group, renowned for its structured content and test series.
IAS KSG – Focuses on answer writing and interview preparation.
Why upsc is considered the toughest exam in the whole world?
UPSC is called the toughest because it’s not just about studying a lot. You’re competing with lakhs of people who are all working really hard. The syllabus is huge, and you need to remember things from Polity, History, Economy, Current Affairs — everything. It’s like preparing for 10 different examsRead more
UPSC is called the toughest because it’s not just about studying a lot. You’re competing with lakhs of people who are all working really hard. The syllabus is huge, and you need to remember things from Polity, History, Economy, Current Affairs — everything. It’s like preparing for 10 different exams at once.
Even if you know everything, you can still fail because the questions are unpredictable. You might clear Prelims but get stuck in Mains. Or do well in Mains and mess up the interview. One small mistake and you’re out — and you have to wait a whole year to try again.
Also, it takes years — not months. You have to stay motivated through failures, delays, and uncertainty. That’s why people say it’s the toughest. It’s not just about brains — it’s about patience, consistency, and mental strength.
See lessHow much time is needed to prepare for UPSC?
10 to 14 months of intensive preparation is enough for most candidates to pass the UPSC on the first attempt. Some study for more than two years without success, because it's not a question of time, but of strategy. All you need is daily study (6 to 8 hours), mastery of NCERT standards and referenceRead more
10 to 14 months of intensive preparation is enough for most candidates to pass the UPSC on the first attempt. Some study for more than two years without success, because it’s not a question of time, but of strategy. All you need is daily study (6 to 8 hours), mastery of NCERT standards and reference books, and regular practice of practice tests and answer writing.
See lessWhich is comparatively a good choice for an optional subject in the UPSC?
Some good and popular optional subjects (comparatively easier & scoring) are: Anthropology – Short syllabus, easy to understand, good scoring trend. Sociology – Easy to grasp, overlaps with GS and Essay papers. PSIR (Political Science & International Relations) – Good overlap with GS2 and esRead more
Some good and popular optional subjects (comparatively easier & scoring) are:
Anthropology – Short syllabus, easy to understand, good scoring trend.
Sociology – Easy to grasp, overlaps with GS and Essay papers.
PSIR (Political Science & International Relations) – Good overlap with GS2 and essay, very popular.
Geography – Conceptual + diagram-based answers, moderate syllabus.
History – Familiar to many, good for humanities students.
If you’re from a science/engineering background, Anthropology or PSIR are often safe bets.
See less