Pune: The Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Research, Training, and Human Development Institute (SARTHI) has extended the application deadline for its 'Maharaja Sayajirao Gaikwad-SARTHI Scholarship Scheme', aimed at supporting higher education abroad for students from the Maratha, Kunbi, Maratha-Kunbi, and Kunbi-Maratha communities.
Students now have until September 9 to apply online for this scholarship, which funds postgraduate and research studies in top-ranked foreign universities.
The scholarship is targeted at meritorious students pursuing postgraduate degrees, diplomas, and Ph.D. programs in institutions ranked within the top 200 in the QS World Rankings.
The extension in the application deadline is intended to accommodate new eligibility criteria set forth by the Social Justice Department and the Special Assistance Department of Maharashtra.
In a significant move to widen access, the government has relaxed the minimum required marks from 75% to 55% in the qualifying degree examination, making the scholarship more accessible to a larger pool of students.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the scholarship, the student and their parents or guardians must be Indian citizens residing in Maharashtra. Additionally, the scholarship is only available to students who have secured admission to or are seeking admission to a foreign institution ranked within the top 200 in the QS World Rankings. Moreover, the annual income of the family or the employed candidate should not exceed ₹8 lakh.
SARTHI’s Managing Director, Ashok Kakade, emphasized that the extension aims to provide eligible students ample time to apply under the revised conditions.
The scholarship program represents a significant opportunity for students from these communities to pursue advanced studies abroad, which could otherwise be financially unattainable.
Application Process and Deadlines
Prospective students are required to complete the online application process by September 9, which includes filling out the application form on the SARTHI website and uploading necessary certificates and documents.
Following this, applicants must submit a printed copy of their online application, along with the original documents and their self-attested copies, for verification at the SARTHI office by September 10, 5 PM.
For detailed information and to apply, visit the official SARTHI website.