Dreaming of studying abroad but worried about the cost? You’re not alone! Many bright students have big dreams but face challenges like high tuition fees and living expenses. That’s where the SBIF Asha Scholarship Program comes in a wonderful initiative by the SBI Foundation that supports talented students from underprivileged backgrounds.
In this easy-to-follow guide, we’ll explain what the SBIF Asha Scholarship is all about, who can apply, how to apply for the SBI Asha Scholarship 2025, and where to find the latest and most reliable information about this and other SBI scholarships.
Let’s get started and help you move one step closer to your study-abroad dream!
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What Is the SBIF Asha Scholarship Program?
The SBIF Asha Scholarship Program for Overseas Education is a CSR initiative by the SBI Foundation under its Integrated Learning Mission. It offers financial support of up to ₹20 lakh per year to meritorious SC/ST students pursuing postgraduate or master’s degrees at top universities abroad. The scholarship covers tuition and related academic expenses, helping underprivileged students achieve their study-abroad dreams.
SBI Scholarship Benefits & Coverage
- Scholarship Amount: Up to ₹20 lakh or 50% of course-related expenses (whichever is lower)
- Duration: One academic year (non-renewable)
- Payment Mode: Direct bank transfer to the scholar’s account
Who Is Eligible?
To apply for the SBIF Asha Scholarship 2025, you must meet all of the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Indian national
- Category: Scheduled Caste (SC) or Scheduled Tribe (ST)
- Course of Study: Master’s or above (any year) at a top-ranked overseas university
- Academic Record: 75% or more marks in your previous academic year
- Family Income: Gross annual income less than ₹6 lakh (preference for ≤ ₹3 lakh).
This big amount of funding makes the SBIF Asha Scholarship Program one of the most helpful and generous scholarships from the SBI Foundation for students who want to study abroad.
Step-by-Step Application Process for SBIF Asha Scholarship 2025-26
Make sure to keep all the required documents ready (listed below). Also, remember the entire application process is 100% online, so you don’t need to send anything by post.
Step 1: Visit the Official Website
Go to sbifashascholarship.org and click on Apply Now.
Step 2: Login or Register
You will be redirected to the Buddy4Study platform. Sign in if you already have an account, or create a new one using your email, mobile number, or Google account.
Step 3: Start Your Application
Select the SBIF Asha Scholarship Program for Overseas Education 2025-26 from the list of scholarships.
Step 4: Fill Out the Application Form
Enter your personal details, academic information, and family income details carefully.
Step 5: Upload Required Documents
Prepare clear scans or PDFs of the documents and upload them.
Where to Find Correct & Updated Information
- Official Website: sbifashascholarship.org for program details and deadlines.
- Buddy4Study Portal: Application FAQs and technical support.
- SBI Foundation: Annual reports and CSR updates at sbifoundation.in.
- Helpline:
- Phone: 011-430-92248 (Ext-303), Mon–Fri, 10 AM–6 PM
- Email: [email protected]
Important Dates & Deadlines for SBIF Asha Scholarship
- Application Opens: October 1, 2025 (Appx dates)
- Application Closes: April 30, 2026
- Shortlist Announcement: June 2026
- Final Selection & Disbursement: August 2026
FAQs
Do I need an SBI bank account to receive the scholarship?
No, any valid Indian bank account will work though SBI accounts may speed up disbursal.
Is the SBIF Asha Scholarship renewable after one year?
No, it’s a one-time award for a single academic year.
What happens if I defer my admission to next year?
You’ll need to recheck eligibility and reapply in the next cycle.
Can I apply for other scholarships alongside SBIF Asha?
Yes, you can apply for multiple scholarships, but ensure deadlines don’t clash.
What if my previous year’s marks are 74%, am I eligible?
The minimum is 75%, but you may watch for relaxations or apply to other schemes.
How will I track my application status?
Log in to the Buddy4Study portal and check the “Application Status” section regularly.
What is the Reliance Foundation Scholarship for Postgraduates 2025-26?
A merit-cum-means scholarship offering up to ₹10 lakh per annum for PG studies in India apply via the official link.
Who can apply for the Gaon Ki Beti Yojana 2025?
Girls from rural families with annual income below ₹2 lakh can apply online to receive financial aid for higher education.
Conclusion & Next Steps
The SBIF Asha Scholarship is a great chance for students from SC and ST communities who want to study abroad. I have been working in the banking and BFSI industry for more than 7 to 8 years, and from my experience, I can say that scholarships like this really help students achieve their dreams. I’m not eligible for this scholarship myself, but if you belong to SC or ST, I strongly encourage you to apply and take full advantage of it. It could change your life or the life of someone you know. Don’t miss this opportunity!
