Money should never stand between a bright student and their dreams. The State Bank of India gets this. Through its CSR arm, SBI Foundation, the bank has launched the Platinum Jubilee Asha Scholarship 2025. This program will support 23,230 students across India.
The timing matters. As SBI celebrates its Platinum Jubilee, it has decided to invest in young minds rather than just throw a party. That's something worth noting.
What Makes This Scholarship Different
The scholarship covers students from Class 9 all the way to postgraduate level. That's a wide net. Whether you're a school student worried about your board exam fees or a postgraduate planning to study abroad, this program might have a place for you.
The financial support ranges from Rs 15,000 to Rs 20,00,000 per year. Yes, you read that right. Twenty lakh rupees. The support continues until you complete your course. No need to reapply every year and go through the stress again.
SBI has set aside Rs 90 crore for this initiative in FY26. These numbers show serious commitment.
Who Can Apply
The scholarship welcomes applications from several categories of students. Here's the complete list:
- School students studying in Class 9 to 12
- Undergraduate and postgraduate students at top rated institutions
- Students at IITs and IIMs
- Medical students
- Students who want to study abroad
- SC/ST students pursuing master's degrees or higher education at top global universities
You need to be an Indian national to apply. That's the first requirement.
Academic Requirements
The scholarship looks for merit. You need to have scored at least 75 percent marks or maintained a 7.0 CGPA in your previous academic year. These requirements ensure the scholarship reaches students who have shown academic promise.
But merit alone won't get you through. The scholarship focuses on students from modest backgrounds.
Income Criteria
This is where many scholarships trip up applicants. The rules here are clear:
For school students (Class 9 to 12), your family's annual income should not exceed Rs 3 lakh per year.
For college and university students, the limit extends to Rs 6 lakh per year.
These limits make sense. They ensure the scholarship reaches students who actually need financial support to continue their education.
What The Scholarship Covers
The financial assistance varies based on your course and institution. Here's how it breaks down:
Students at NIRF top 300 institutions or NAAC 'A' rated colleges receive support based on their course requirements.
IIT and IIM students get funding that matches the demands of their programs.
Medical students receive support that covers their expensive education.
Students planning to study abroad get help with international education costs.
SC/ST students aiming for advanced degrees at top global universities receive focused support.
The scholarship covers educational expenses. This includes tuition fees, books, accommodation, and other study related costs. The exact amount depends on your course and needs.
How To Apply
The application process runs online. You need to visit the official portal at sbiashascholarship.co.in.
The deadline sits firm at November 15, 2025. Mark this date. Scholarship deadlines don't extend because you forgot or got busy.
The application asks for your academic records, income proof, and other standard documents. Keep these ready before you start filling the form. Nothing worse than hunting for documents halfway through an application.
What SBI's Chairman Says
Challa Sreenivasulu Setty, Chairman of SBI, shared his thoughts on the initiative. He mentioned that the bank takes pride in launching this scholarship during its Platinum Jubilee year.
The goal? Support 23,230 of India's brightest young minds from humble backgrounds. Help them reach their full potential.
He also talked about creating a strong ecosystem around these scholars. The aim is to empower them to become agents of progress. To contribute to the vision of a developed India by 2047.
These aren't just words on paper. With Rs 90 crore committed, the bank backs its words with real money.
Why This Matters
India has millions of talented students. Many of them study under streetlights because their homes lack electricity. Others drop out because their parents can't afford fees.
This scholarship won't solve every problem. But it will change lives for 23,230 students. That's 23,230 families who won't have to choose between education and eating.
The scholarship also sends a message. It tells students from modest backgrounds that their dreams matter. That someone believes in their potential.
Tips For Applicants
Start early. Don't wait until November 14 to begin your application.
Read the eligibility criteria carefully. Many applications get rejected because students don't match the basic requirements.
Keep all your documents ready. This includes mark sheets, income certificates, caste certificates (if applicable), and identity proof.
Fill the form carefully. Double check every detail before you submit.
Take a screenshot or save the confirmation page after submission. You'll need this as proof.
If you face technical issues, don't panic. Contact the helpdesk mentioned on the website.
Common Questions Students Ask
Can I apply if I'm in my first year of college?
Yes, if you meet the eligibility criteria.
Do I need to be from a specific state?
No. The scholarship is open to students from all states in India.
Will I get the money directly?
The scholarship usually transfers money to your bank account or directly to your institution. The exact process will be explained after selection.
Can I apply for other scholarships too?
Check the terms and conditions on the website. Some scholarships allow you to combine them, others don't.
The Bigger Picture
This scholarship fits into a larger story. India aims to become a developed nation by 2047. That goal needs educated citizens. It needs engineers who can build infrastructure, doctors who can provide healthcare, and thinkers who can solve complex problems.
Every student who completes their education because of this scholarship adds to that goal. They become doctors, engineers, teachers, civil servants. They contribute to their communities and the nation.
The scholarship also highlights the role of corporate social responsibility. SBI could have spent this money in many ways. They chose education. That choice deserves recognition.
Final Thoughts
If you're a student who meets the eligibility criteria, apply. Don't let self doubt stop you. Don't think you're not good enough. Let the selection committee make that decision.
The application takes time, but it costs nothing except effort. The potential reward? Financial freedom to pursue your education without worry.
The deadline is November 15, 2025. That's your target date. Mark it in your calendar. Set reminders. Tell your friends who might qualify.
This scholarship represents opportunity. For 23,230 students, it will open doors that seemed locked. Make sure you're not missing out because you didn't try.
Visit sbiashascholarship.co.in today. Read through the details. Check if you qualify. If you do, start your application. Your future self will thank you.
Education changes lives. This scholarship makes education possible for thousands of students. Simple as that.
Read more articles in News & Updates Category or in Oct 2025 Month
