Ishan Uday is the scholarship scheme launched by the University Grants Commission (UGC) to support students from the North East Region (NER) in pursuing higher education. The online registration process for the UGC Ishan Uday Scholarship is now open on the National Scholarship Portal (scholarships.gov.in). Eligible candidates can apply until 31 October 2025.
This initiative aims to provide financial assistance to economically disadvantaged students from the Northeast so they can focus on their studies without worrying about financial challenges.
About the Scholarship Scheme
Every year, under the Ishan Uday scheme, 10,000 scholarships are awarded to deserving students from the Northeast. Selected students receive ₹8,000 per month for ten months in an academic year. The scheme ensures equal support across various fields. Half of the scholarships are reserved for students in Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences, Law and Management. The other half is for students enrolled in Science, Engineering and Technology, Medical, Technical, Agriculture and Forestry programmes.

Who is Eligible
To apply for Ishan Uday, students must meet certain eligibility criteria:
- The applicant must have passed Class 12 from a recognised school in the Northeast region, including schools affiliated with CBSE, CISCE and NIOS.
- The student should be enrolled in the first year of a full-time, regular undergraduate programme at a recognised university or college in India.
- Those who have already completed an undergraduate degree are not eligible.
- Students admitted through management quota are not eligible.
- The annual income of the student’s parents should be below ₹4.50 lakh.
- The applicant must have a valid domicile certificate of a Northeast state.
- For integrated and dual degree programmes, the scholarship applies only to the undergraduate portion of the course.
The scholarship is provided for the full duration of the undergraduate programme. Renewal depends on satisfactory academic performance, good conduct and the required attendance. Each year, the scholarship continues if the student successfully completes their current academic year.
How to Apply
Candidates must apply online via the National Scholarship Portal. They should fill in all details carefully and upload the required documents, including proof of income and domicile certificate. The selection results are generally announced in November or December. Once selected, students will receive funds directly into their bank accounts.
It is important to apply early to avoid last-minute technical issues or errors that could lead to rejection.
An Initiative for Equal Educational Opportunity
The Ishan Uday scholarship is a significant effort to make higher education accessible for students from the Northeast. By providing financial aid, UGC helps ensure that deserving students can focus on learning and building their future without being held back by economic barriers.
Students and their families are encouraged to read the official guidelines on the National Scholarship Portal and apply well before the deadline. Institutions are also expected to support applicants through the process to ensure no eligible student misses out on this opportunity.
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