Pune: Despite 40 seats being available under the open category for foreign higher education scholarships, only 26 students have been selected this year, with only one of them being chosen for a Ph.D. program.

This selection comes under the scholarship scheme implemented by the Higher and Technical Education Department of Maharashtra.

The foreign higher education scholarship scheme for students in the open category was initially introduced in the 2018-19 academic year. Originally, the scheme offered 10 seats for postgraduate degrees and diplomas and another 10 seats for Ph.D. programs.

However, from the academic year 2024-25, the number of seats for postgraduate courses was increased to 30, raising the total available seats to 40.

For the 2024-25 academic year, the department carried out the selection process and released the list of eligible students. Of the 10 Ph.D. seats available, only three applications were received.

After scrutiny, two applicants were disqualified, resulting in the selection of just one candidate. For the postgraduate degrees and diploma programs, 25 students were deemed eligible for the 30 available seats.

The selected students will now pursue higher education at prestigious universities in Australia, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Ireland.

However, the scholarships granted to these students are subject to a thorough investigation by the Home Department. Should any false information be uncovered during this process, the scholarship will be revoked.

In cases where false documents or information have been submitted, further education opportunities will be barred, and the government will recover the expenses incurred, along with a 15% interest rate on the amount.

Additionally, the students receiving these scholarships are expected to return to Maharashtra after completing their education and provide their services to the state government. A bond to this effect must be signed by the selected students before they receive their scholarships.