The GATE 2025-26 scholarship official notification is now live. This merit-based program offers financial support to students who have cleared the GATE 2026 exam and secured admission in M.Tech, M.E., or M.Arch programs. The scholarship portal opened on September 1, 2025, giving eligible candidates the chance to apply for monthly financial assistance.
The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) manages this scholarship under the Ministry of Education. Students receive Rs 12,400 per month for up to two years through direct bank transfer. This guide covers everything you need to know about the application process, eligibility requirements, and benefits.
Understanding the GATE Scholarship Program
The GATE scholarship targets first-year postgraduate students in technical fields. The program aims to reduce financial barriers for talented students who want to pursue higher education. Unlike loans, this money does not need to be repaid. The scholarship continues for the entire duration of your course, provided you maintain satisfactory academic progress.
AICTE processes applications through an online portal. Both students and institutions have specific responsibilities in this process. Students must submit their applications with proper documents, while institutes verify the information and create student IDs.
Key Details of the Scholarship Program
Here are the essential facts about the GATE 2025-26 scholarship:
- Monthly stipend: Rs 12,400 for M.Tech students
- Duration: 22 months (typically two years)
- Annual contingency grant: Rs 5,000
- Payment method: Direct bank transfer to your savings account
- Eligibility: Valid GATE score and admission to AICTE-approved institution
For Ph.D. students who join directly after B.E./B.Tech./M.Sc. with a valid GATE score, the financial support structure differs. They receive Rs 37,000 per month for the first two years and Rs 42,000 per month from the third to fifth year.
Important Dates You Should Know
Missing deadlines can cost you the scholarship. Mark these dates in your calendar:
- Portal opening date: September 1, 2025
- Institute deadline for student ID creation: December 10, 2025
- Student application submission deadline: December 15, 2025
- Institute verification deadline: December 31, 2025
Your institution creates your student ID first. Only after receiving this ID can you log in and submit your application. This means you need to coordinate with your institute well before the deadline.
Who Can Apply for This Scholarship
The eligibility criteria are straightforward but strict. You must meet all these requirements:
Academic requirements:
- Valid GATE or GPAT score at the time of admission
- Enrolled in a full-time M.Tech, M.E., M.Pharma, or M.Arch course
- Studying at an AICTE-approved institution
- Enrolled in an integrated dual program (if applicable)
General requirements:
- Indian citizen with valid domicile proof
- Personal savings bank account linked to Aadhaar
- Not enrolled in any part-time courses
- Not a sponsored candidate
Students from SC, ST, OBC, EWS, and PH categories must have valid certificates issued by the appropriate authority. For OBC candidates, the certificate must include a non-creamy layer clause and should not be older than one year.
Documents You Need to Submit
Gather these documents before starting your application. All documents must be in JPEG or JPG format:
- GATE scorecard (original and valid)
- Aadhaar card (scanned copy)
- Bank passbook (showing account details)
- Category certificate (SC/ST/OBC/EWS/PH if applicable)
Your bank account must be linked to your Aadhaar card. This is not optional. The scholarship amount transfers directly to your account, and the system verifies your Aadhaar details before processing payments.
For category certificates, make sure they are current and issued by the correct authority. An expired or incorrectly issued certificate will lead to rejection of your application.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Follow these steps to complete your application:
Step 1: Get your student ID from your institute
Your institution creates a unique ID for you on the AICTE GATE scholarship portal. Contact your department or scholarship cell to ensure they create your ID before December 10, 2025.
Step 2: Visit the AICTE official website
Go to the AICTE website and find the GATE Scholarship link. The portal is separate from the main website, so look for the scholarship section specifically.
Step 3: Log in with your credentials
Use the student ID provided by your institute to log in. You will need your GATE registration number and other basic details for verification.
Step 4: Fill the application form
Enter all required information carefully. Double-check every field before moving to the next section. The form asks for personal details, academic information, bank account details, and category information if applicable.
Step 5: Upload documents
Upload all required documents in the specified format. Make sure the file size stays within limits and the images are clear and readable.
Step 6: Submit and wait for verification
After submission, your institute verifies the information. They have until December 31, 2025, to complete this verification. You can track the status of your application through the student login portal.
Using the Student Login Portal
The AICTE student login portal serves multiple purposes. After your initial application, you can use it to:
- Track your application status
- Update your profile information
- Check payment status
- Download payment receipts
- Communicate with the scholarship cell
Keep your login credentials safe. You will need them throughout your scholarship period, not just during the application process.
Common Questions About GATE Scholarships
How much money do I receive through the GATE scholarship?
Eligible M.Tech students receive Rs 12,400 per month. This amount is paid for up to 22 months or the duration of your course, whichever is shorter. You also receive an annual contingency grant of Rs 5,000. There has been a proposal to increase the monthly amount to Rs 18,000, but this has not been confirmed yet.
Can part-time students apply for this scholarship?
No. The GATE scholarship is only for students enrolled in full-time courses. Part-time and distance learning students are not eligible.
What if my category certificate expires during the application process?
Get a fresh certificate before applying. For OBC candidates, the non-creamy layer certificate must not be older than one year from the date of application.
Do I need to reapply every year?
No. Once approved, the scholarship continues for the entire duration of your course (up to two years for M.Tech). However, you must maintain satisfactory academic progress.
What happens if my bank account is not linked to Aadhaar?
Your application will be rejected or put on hold. Link your bank account to Aadhaar before applying. This process can take a few days, so do not wait until the last minute.
Tips for a Successful Application
Here are some practical tips to increase your chances of getting the scholarship:
Start early: Do not wait until the deadline approaches. Technical issues or missing documents can delay your application.
Contact your institute promptly: Make sure your institute creates your student ID well before December 10. Some institutions process hundreds of applications and need time.
Keep documents ready: Scan all documents at the right resolution. Too large files may not upload, and too small files may be unreadable.
Verify bank details: A single mistake in your account number or IFSC code will cause payment failures. Double-check these details.
Keep copies of everything: Save copies of your submitted application and all documents. You may need them for future reference.
Follow up regularly: Check your application status through the student portal. If verification is pending for too long, contact your institute.
What Happens After Approval
Once your application is verified and approved, AICTE processes your first payment. The money transfers directly to your bank account. Subsequent payments follow a monthly schedule.
You receive a notification when each payment is processed. Keep track of these payments and report any discrepancies immediately.
The scholarship continues as long as you remain enrolled in your course and maintain good academic standing. If you drop out or fail to meet academic requirements, the scholarship may be discontinued.
Final Thoughts
The GATE 2025-26 scholarship provides real financial relief for postgraduate students. Rs 12,400 per month can cover a significant portion of your living and study expenses. The application process is simple if you have all documents ready and meet the eligibility criteria.
Start your application process now if you have a valid GATE score and admission to an AICTE-approved institution. Coordinate with your institute to get your student ID created. Gather all required documents and ensure your bank account is linked to Aadhaar.
This scholarship can make your postgraduate journey much easier. Take advantage of this opportunity and submit your application before the deadline. Good preparation today means financial security for the next two years of your academic life.
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