Delhi University (DU) is a dream institution for thousands of students across India. While the university offers quality education and prestigious degrees, the rising cost of education, accommodation, and other living expenses can burden students, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds. Fortunately, some NGOs and private organizations offer scholarships that DU students can apply for to support their academic journey.
This article highlights the top NGO and private scholarships available to Delhi University students, along with details on eligibility, application procedures, and benefits.
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Why Consider Private and NGO Scholarships?
While DU offers several internal fee concessions and university-level scholarships, NGO and private scholarships bring additional financial relief and often include mentorship, internships, and skill-building opportunities. These scholarships are especially beneficial for:
- Students from low-income families
- First-generation learners
- Women and minorities
- Students with excellent academic or extracurricular achievements
Top NGO & Private Scholarships for DU Students
Here’s a list of some of the most reputable and beneficial private scholarships DU students can apply for:
1. Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Offered By | Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation |
| Eligibility | UG/PG students with exceptional academic record |
| Benefits | Up to USD 100,000 (mainly for overseas studies) |
| Application Timeline | January – March each year |
| Website | http://www.inlaksfoundation.org |
2. Udayan Shalini Fellowship
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Offered By | Udayan Care (NGO) |
| Eligibility | Meritorious girl students from underprivileged families |
| Benefits | Financial aid + life skills mentoring |
| Application Timeline | June – August |
| Website | http://www.udayancare.org |
3. HDFC Educational Crisis Scholarship Support
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Offered By | HDFC Bank |
| Eligibility | Students facing sudden family or financial crisis |
| Benefits | ₹10,000 to ₹25,000 |
| Application Timeline | May – July |
| Website | http://www.hdfcbank.com |
4. Sitaram Jindal Foundation Scholarship
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Offered By | Sitaram Jindal Foundation |
| Eligibility | UG/PG students from low-income backgrounds |
| Benefits | ₹500 – ₹3,000 per month |
| Application Timeline | Open year-round |
| Website | http://www.sitaramjindalfoundation.org |
5. Buddy4Study Scholarships Platform
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Offered By | Multiple NGOs and corporates |
| Eligibility | Varies by scholarship |
| Benefits | ₹5,000 to ₹1 lakh |
| Application Timeline | Throughout the year |
| Website | http://www.buddy4study.com |
6. Tata Capital Pankh Scholarship
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Offered By | Tata Capital |
| Eligibility | Students from families earning below ₹4 lakh/year |
| Benefits | 80% of tuition fee or up to ₹12,000 |
| Application Timeline | October – December |
| Website | http://www.buddy4study.com |
7. Swami Dayanand Education Foundation Scholarship
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Offered By | Swami Dayanand Education Foundation |
| Eligibility | Students with 75%+ marks and family income < ₹6 lakh |
| Benefits | ₹20,000 to ₹50,000 per year |
| Application Timeline | August – October |
| Website | http://www.swamidayanand.org |
Documents Required for Most Scholarship Applications
Although each scholarship has specific document needs, some common ones include:
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Income Certificate | To prove economic need |
| Academic Mark Sheets | For performance evaluation |
| Aadhaar Card / Government ID | For identity verification |
| Admission Proof / Fee Receipt | To confirm current college enrollment |
| Bank Account Details | For disbursing scholarship money |
| Recommendation Letter (if any) | For character or merit endorsement |
| Passport-size Photos | Usually 2–4 as required |
How to Apply for NGO & Private Scholarships
Step 1: Research
- Use scholarship portals like http://Buddy4Study, http://Scholarships.gov.in, or NGO websites.
- Check DU notice boards and official student welfare websites.
Step 2: Match Eligibility
- Shortlist scholarships based on income, course level (UG/PG), gender, and marks.
Step 3: Prepare Documents
- Arrange both soft copies and hard copies of all required documents in advance.
Step 4: Register and Apply
- Create an account on the scholarship portal or NGO website.
- Fill out the online form and upload documents as per the instructions.
Step 5: Track Application
- Note down reference or application numbers.
- Some scholarships have telephonic or in-person verification.
Step 6: Disbursement
- If selected, scholarship money is either credited to your bank account or transferred to the university directly.
Tips to Strengthen Your Scholarship Application
- Apply Early: Early applications often receive more attention.
- Write Strong Personal Statements: Many NGOs ask for an essay or motivation letter; highlight your struggles, goals, and achievements.
- Keep Documents Updated: Regularly update your income certificate and mark sheets.
- Maintain Good Grades: Most private scholarships require a minimum CGPA or percentage.
- Be Honest: Do not fake income or academic records, as it may lead to disqualification.
Scholarships vs. Fellowships
| Aspect | Scholarship | Fellowship |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Financial support for education | Research, training, or advanced study |
| Based On | Need or merit | Specific project or academic goals |
| Duration | Full academic year or entire course | Fixed period (6 months – 2 years) |
| Example for DU | Tata Pankh Scholarship | Gandhi Fellowship |
Common Questions
Q1: Can DU students apply for multiple NGO scholarships at once?
Yes, students can apply for multiple scholarships, but they may receive only one based on disbursement rules.
Q2: Do these scholarships cover hostel and book expenses?
Some scholarships offer comprehensive support, including books, a hostel, and travel.
Q3: Is academic performance mandatory for NGO scholarships?
Yes, most scholarships require at least 60–75% in previous exams.
Q4: Are private scholarships open to PG students too?
Yes, several scholarships cater specifically to postgraduate students.
Final Notes
Navigating the financial challenges of higher education can be difficult, but NGO and private scholarships offer a beacon of hope for deserving students at Delhi University. These scholarships do more than just pay fees; they empower, uplift, and open doors to new opportunities.
Whether you’re a student from a financially constrained background or someone excelling in academics, extracurriculars, or leadership, there’s likely a scholarship out there tailored for you. All you need is awareness, preparation, and initiative to apply.
