Reliance Foundation UG PG MBA IIT IIM Scholarship Apply 2026-27: Eligibility, Amount, Courses & Application Process

Higher education in India is a transformative stepping stone for millions of students, but financial constraints often limit bright minds from achieving their true potential. The Reliance Foundation Scholarship is one of the most prestigious initiatives designed to bridge this gap. If you are looking for complete details on the Reliance Foundation UG PG Scholarship Apply process for the 2026-27 academic year, you have come to the right place.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the Reliance Foundation Undergraduate and Postgraduate Scholarships. While both programmes aim to empower the youth, they cater to different academic levels and have distinct eligibility criteria. The UG scholarship focuses on a merit-cum-means approach to support thousands of students across all subject streams. In contrast, the PG scholarship is highly competitive, merit-based, and targets a select group of students pursuing future-ready disciplines like Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, and Renewable Energy.

Whether you are a class 12 passed student entering your first year of college, an engineering aspirant, or a postgraduate student aiming for technological innovation, understanding these rules is crucial. Please note that scholarship requirements can change, and students should always verify the latest information on the official Reliance Foundation website before applying.

What is Reliance Foundation Scholarship 2026-27?

The Reliance Foundation Scholarship 2026-27 is an educational empowerment initiative designed to nurture India’s brightest talent. The primary purpose of this scholarship is to ensure that deserving Indian students have the financial backing they need to pursue higher education and contribute to the nation’s growth.

Higher education is essential for building a skilled workforce, and this scholarship supports that vision in two distinct ways. For undergraduate students, it utilizes a merit-cum-means approach. This means the selection considers both the academic brilliance of the student and the financial background of their family, ensuring that money is not a barrier to quality education.

For postgraduate students, the focus shifts toward future-ready disciplines. The foundation aims to support scholars who will lead tomorrow’s innovations in technology, engineering, and science. Beyond financial support, the Reliance Foundation Scholarship offers exceptional development opportunities, including a robust alumni network, industry exposure, and skill-building interactions, making it a holistic support system for talented Indian students.

Reliance Foundation Undergraduate Scholarship 2026-27

The Reliance Foundation Undergraduate Scholarship is a massive initiative designed to support young minds stepping into college life. Each year, the foundation aims to support up to 5,000 meritorious students across India.

The selection for this programme is strictly based on merit-cum-means criteria. This ensures that students who have performed exceptionally well in their Class 12 exams but belong to financially weaker or middle-income families receive priority. Selected students can receive scholarship support of up to ₹2 lakh over the entire duration of their degree programme.

One of the best aspects of the UG scholarship is its inclusivity. Students from any subject stream—be it Arts, Commerce, Science, or vocational studies—may apply, provided they meet the official programme conditions. To ensure the aid reaches those who need it most, the applicant’s household income must be below ₹15 lakh.

Furthermore, this programme strongly encourages applications from girls and specially-abled students, promoting diversity and equal opportunity. Beyond the monetary benefit, scholars gain access to a thriving alumni network and a support system that guides them through their academic journey. Keep in mind that students must be in their first year of study during the academic year 2026-27 to apply.

UG Scholarship At a Glance

Reliance Foundation UG Scholarship Eligibility Criteria

Before you begin your application, you must ensure you meet every single eligibility requirement. Failing to meet even one criterion can lead to the rejection of your application.

Explanation of Requirements:

To apply, you must be an Indian citizen living in India. You need to have scored at least 60% in your Class 12 board examinations. The scholarship is strictly for first-year students entering college in the 2026-27 academic year. You must be enrolled in a regular, full-time course; correspondence or part-time courses are not allowed. While any stream is eligible, your total family income (from all sources) must not exceed ₹15 lakh. Finally, appearing for and completing the mandatory online aptitude test is non-negotiable.

Who is NOT Eligible for Reliance Foundation Undergraduate Scholarship?

It is equally important to know who cannot apply. You are NOT eligible if you fall into any of the following categories:

• Students in 2nd year or higher: If you have already completed your first year of college, you cannot apply.
• Past enrollments: Students who started their course in the academic year 2025-26 or earlier are not eligible.
• Online degree students: Degrees pursued entirely over the internet do not qualify.
• Hybrid degree students: Programmes that mix online and occasional campus visits are excluded.
• Remote/distance-learning students: Distance education formats are strictly not eligible.
• Other non-regular modes: Any part-time or weekend-only courses.
• Diploma students: Students who passed a diploma after Class 10 instead of regular Class 12 are ineligible.
• 2-year degree students: Students pursuing short-term 2-year undergraduate degree courses.
• 6-year degree students: Students enrolled in extra-long 6-year undergraduate degree courses.
• Test absentees: Students who do not complete the mandatory aptitude test.
• Cheaters: Students found cheating, using unfair means, or violating rules during the aptitude test will be disqualified immediately.

Reliance Foundation UG Scholarship Amount

Financial relief is the core of this initiative. For undergraduate students, the scholarship support can be up to ₹2 lakh over the duration of the degree programme.

It is important to understand that “up to ₹2 lakh” should not automatically be interpreted as ₹2 lakh paid in a single installment the moment you are selected. The funds are typically distributed to cover tuition and related academic expenses across the years of your degree. Students should check the official terms and conditions on the Reliance Foundation portal to understand the exact disbursement structure, timelines, and how the funds will be transferred.

Reliance Foundation Undergraduate Scholarship Courses

One of the most appealing aspects of the UG scholarship is its academic flexibility. Eligible students can pursue undergraduate degree courses in any subject stream, subject to the official programme rules.

Examples of eligible disciplines include, but are not limited to:

• Engineering: B.Tech, B.E.
• Science: B.Sc in various pure and applied sciences.
• Commerce: B.Com, B.Com (Hons), Accounting, Finance.
• Arts: B.A. in Humanities, Languages, Social Sciences.
• Management: BBA, BMS.
• Other Disciplines: Law (if fitting the duration rules), Architecture, Medicine (subject to course duration limits), and other regular undergraduate disciplines.

Always clearly verify whether your specific programme, especially its duration (must not be 2 years or 6 years), satisfies the official requirements before applying.

Reliance Foundation Postgraduate Scholarship 2026-27

For advanced learners, the Reliance Foundation Postgraduate Scholarship 2026-27 is a highly competitive and prestigious opportunity. Unlike the UG programme which supports 5,000 students, the PG scholarship selects only 100 outstanding students each year.

The purpose of the PG scholarship is to cultivate a generation of leaders and innovators. Therefore, it heavily focuses on future-ready technical and scientific disciplines. The foundation believes that investing in research, innovation, technology, and national development is critical for India’s future. Support is strictly provided to first-year postgraduate students pursuing specific fields.

Selected PG scholars receive much more than financial aid. They are granted incredible development opportunities. This includes expert interactions, where students can learn from industry leaders; industry exposure to understand real-world applications of their studies; and volunteering opportunities to build a sense of social responsibility. If supported by the official framework, scholars also gain immense alumni and cohort benefits.

This scholarship strongly connects with areas pivotal to tomorrow’s economy, such as Artificial Intelligence, clean energy, biotechnology, advanced manufacturing, digital infrastructure, and overall technology and innovation.

Reliance Foundation PG Scholarship Eligibility Criteria

The bar for the PG scholarship is set high. To be considered, you must meet stringent academic criteria.

Understanding the “GATE OR CGPA” Requirement:

You do not need to have both a high GATE score and a high CGPA to apply. The criteria are structured as an “OR” condition. A candidate can qualify through either stated academic route. If you have a GATE score between 550 and 1,000, you meet the academic criteria. Alternatively, if you did not take GATE but have an undergraduate CGPA of 7.5 or above (or an equivalent percentage), you also meet the criteria, subject to the official rules.

Eligible PG Courses Under Reliance Foundation Scholarship

The postgraduate scholarship does not cover all subjects. It is strictly limited to future-ready technical and scientific disciplines. Below is the list of eligible areas:

• Computer Science
• Artificial Intelligence
• Mathematics & Computing
• Electrical Engineering
• Electronics Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Renewable & New Energy
• Material Science & Engineering
• Life Sciences

Important Note: The exact list of eligible programmes and specializations should be checked against the official programme list on the Reliance Foundation website. Do not assume your course is eligible just because it sounds similar.

Who is NOT Eligible for Reliance Foundation PG Scholarship?

To avoid wasting your time, check these exclusion criteria. You are NOT eligible for the PG scholarship if you are:

• Students in the second year of PG: The scholarship is for first-year entrants only.
• Online students: Fully virtual degrees are excluded.
• Remote students: Degrees taken from a remote campus without regular physical attendance.
• Distance-learning students: Standard correspondence courses.
• Hybrid students: Programmes that mix online learning with minimal campus time.
• Part-time students: Executive or evening PG programmes designed for working professionals.
• Other non-regular programmes: Any degree not classified as a regular, full-time campus course.
• Specific Course Exclusions: Students pursuing only Mathematics under the Mathematics & Computing bracket (always check official detailed rules).
• Test absentees: Students who do not answer the mandatory aptitude test.
• Cheaters: Students found cheating or using unauthorized help during the aptitude test.

Is Reliance Foundation Scholarship Available for MBA Students?

This is one of the most frequently asked questions. Many management students search for this scholarship, hoping to fund their MBA.

Based on the provided PG eligibility information, the scholarship specifically targets selected future-ready scientific and technical disciplines (such as AI, Computer Science, and Engineering). MBA is not included in the listed eligible PG disciplines in the provided information.

Therefore, an MBA student should not assume eligibility merely because they are a postgraduate student. Before applying, management students must strictly check the official eligible programme list for the relevant academic year on the Reliance Foundation portal. Do not apply based on assumptions.

Is Reliance Foundation Scholarship Available for IIT and IIM Students?

The prestige of an institution does not automatically override scholarship rules. Here is how eligibility works for students at premier institutes:

IIT Students

Studying at an Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) alone does not automatically guarantee eligibility. While IITs offer courses like Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, and AI, your eligibility still depends on your specific course, your year of study (must be first-year), your GATE score or CGPA, and clearing the mandatory aptitude test. If you are an IIT student pursuing a non-listed PG discipline, you may not be eligible.

IIM Students

Similarly, students at Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) should not assume eligibility simply because they study at a premier IIM. The provided PG course list focuses on technical and scientific disciplines and does not specifically establish general eligibility for IIM or standard MBA programmes.

Advice for all premier institute students: Tell students to verify their exact programme against the official scholarship list. Your institutional tag does not exempt you from the foundational rules of the scholarship.

Reliance Foundation Scholarship Aptitude Test

A unique feature of this application process is the evaluation metric. The aptitude test is mandatory where specified for both UG and PG applicants.

• Completion is crucial: Students must complete the test within the stipulated guidelines.
• No test, no scholarship: Not attempting the test can instantly make a student ineligible, regardless of how high their Class 12 marks or UG CGPA might be.
• Strict Monitoring: The test is proctored. Cheating, using AI, or seeking outside help can lead to immediate disqualification.
• Follow instructions: Students should follow official instructions carefully regarding technical requirements and test rules.

(Note: For details regarding the exact test duration, number of questions, exam pattern, negative marking, or syllabus, students must check the official source, as these parameters are subject to the foundation’s latest guidelines).

Reliance Foundation Scholarship Selection Process

While the exact steps can vary slightly from year to year, the general selection process follows these broad stages based on the provided material:

1. Check eligibility: Ensure you meet all academic, income, and course requirements.
2. Complete online application: Fill out the detailed form on the official portal.
3. Submit required information/documents: Upload all necessary proofs and certificates.
4. Complete mandatory aptitude test: Take the online test carefully where applicable.
5. Application screening/assessment: The foundation reviews your documents, academic merit, financial need (for UG), and test scores.
6. Selection of scholars: A final merit list of 5,000 UG and 100 PG scholars is generated.
7. Scholarship/support process: Selected candidates are notified and the funding/support structure is initiated.

Clearly state that exact selection stages, interview rounds (if any), and timelines should be verified from the official notification.

Step-by-Step Guide for Reliance Foundation UG PG Scholarship Apply

Applying correctly is as important as being eligible. Follow this step-by-step guide to complete your Reliance Foundation UG PG Scholarship Apply process smoothly:

• Step 1: Visit the official Reliance Foundation scholarship portal.
• Step 2: Select the relevant UG or PG scholarship category based on your current academic status.
• Step 3: Read the eligibility criteria carefully to ensure you qualify.
• Step 4: Register on the portal and create a new applicant account.
• Step 5: Enter your personal details and previous academic records accurately.
• Step 6: Provide household income-related information where required (especially for UG).
• Step 7: Enter your current college, university, and specific course information.
• Step 8: Upload the documents requested in the official application portal.
• Step 9: Complete the mandatory aptitude test where applicable according to the scheduled timeline.
• Step 10: Review the entire application to ensure there are no spelling errors or incorrect data.
• Step 11: Submit the final application.
• Step 12: Save, screenshot, or download the acknowledgement/application details for future reference.

Documents Required for Reliance Foundation Scholarship

Keeping your paperwork ready will make the online application process seamless. Below is a list of documents that are typically requested. (Please clearly state that the final document list may vary and students should follow the official portal’s exact requirements).

Important Points Before Applying

To ensure your application is not rejected due to silly errors, use this quick checklist before hitting submit:

• Check that you are applying for the correct academic year (2026-27).
• Confirm your first-year status; senior students will be rejected.
• Check the income requirement (under ₹15 lakh for UG).
• Check course eligibility (especially for PG specific disciplines).
• Check that your mode of education is regular/full-time.
• Keep all your academic details and documents ready before starting.
• Ensure you have a stable internet connection to complete the aptitude test.
• Avoid cheating or using unfair means during the test at all costs.
• Review the application thoroughly before submission.
• Use strictly correct information; discrepancies will lead to disqualification.
• Save application/acknowledgement details safely.
• Continuously check the official website for updates regarding deadlines.

Reliance Foundation UG vs PG Scholarship – Difference

While both fall under the same foundation, they cater to very different demographics. Here is a clear comparison:

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Applying

Many brilliant students lose out on this opportunity because of avoidable errors. Be careful not to make these mistakes:

• Applying despite not being in the first year: The system will reject your application later, wasting your time.
• Choosing an ineligible course: Especially at the PG level, applying with an unlisted degree is a direct rejection.
• Entering incorrect academic details: Inflating your marks or CGPA will lead to disqualification during document verification.
• Incorrect income information: Providing false household income details to bypass the ₹15 lakh cap.
• Ignoring the aptitude test: Assuming your marks are high enough to skip the test.
• Using online/distance courses: Applying when the rules strictly require regular, full-time campus study.
• Submitting incomplete information: Leaving mandatory fields blank.
• Waiting until the last moment: Website servers often crash on the last date.
• Assuming IIT/IIM/MBA status guarantees eligibility: The institution tag does not override the official eligible programme list.
• Not checking the official programme list: Always verify the latest official PDF before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is Reliance Foundation UG PG Scholarship?

It is a scholarship initiative to support meritorious Indian students pursuing their first year of undergraduate (merit-cum-means) and postgraduate (merit-based future-ready courses) education.

2. Who can apply for Reliance Foundation UG Scholarship 2026-27?

Resident Indian citizens who passed Class 12 with at least 60%, are enrolled in a 1st-year regular UG degree in 2026-27, and have a household income below ₹15 lakh can apply.

3. What is the Reliance Foundation Scholarship amount?

For UG students, the support is up to ₹2 lakh over the duration of the degree. For PG students, please refer to the official Reliance Foundation notification.

4. Is the scholarship available for first-year UG students?

Yes, the UG scholarship is exclusively for first-year undergraduate students.

5. Can students from any UG stream apply?

Yes, UG students from any subject stream can apply, provided it is a regular full-time degree (not 2 or 6 years long).

6. What is the household income limit for UG students?

The total household income from all sources must be below ₹15 lakh per annum.

7. Is the aptitude test compulsory?

Yes, the online aptitude test is mandatory for all applicants where specified.

8. Can second-year students apply?

No, students in their second year or higher are not eligible.

9. Can diploma students apply?

No, students who passed a diploma after Class 10 instead of regular Class 12 are not eligible for the UG scholarship.

10. Who can apply for Reliance Foundation PG Scholarship?

First-year PG students enrolled in specific full-time future-ready disciplines who meet the GATE or CGPA criteria can apply.

11. What GATE score is required?

For PG applicants using the GATE criteria, a score between 550 and 1,000 is required.

12. What CGPA is required for PG applicants?

For PG applicants not using GATE, an undergraduate CGPA of 7.5 or above (or equivalent normalized percentage) is required.

13. Which PG courses are eligible?

Eligible PG courses include Computer Science, AI, Mathematics & Computing, Electrical, Electronics, Chemical, Mechanical, Renewable Energy, Material Science, and Life Sciences.

14. Can MBA students apply?

MBA is not listed among the eligible PG disciplines in the provided base information. Students must check the official eligible programme list to confirm.

15. Can IIT students apply?

Yes, provided they are in their first year of an eligible PG or UG course and meet all other academic and income criteria. The IIT tag does not grant automatic eligibility.

16. Can IIM students apply?

IIM students must check the official eligible programme list, as standard management/MBA degrees are not explicitly listed in the core future-ready PG scientific disciplines.

17. Are online/distance students eligible?

No, students pursuing online, distance, remote, or hybrid degrees are strictly not eligible.

18. How can I apply online?

You can apply online by visiting the official Reliance Foundation scholarship portal, registering, filling out your details, uploading documents, and taking the aptitude test.

19. What documents are required?

Generally, Class 10/12 mark sheets, UG mark sheets (for PG applicants), college admission proofs, identity proof, and family income proofs are required.

20. Where can I check the latest scholarship updates?

You should regularly visit the official Reliance Foundation website to check for the latest announcements, deadlines, and criteria changes.

Important Disclaimer

Scholarship eligibility, eligible programmes, application dates, selection criteria and other conditions may change. Students should verify the latest information, application deadline, eligible course list and other requirements on the official Reliance Foundation website before submitting an application.

Conclusion

Securing financial aid can entirely change the trajectory of a student’s academic and professional life. The Reliance Foundation Undergraduate and Postgraduate Scholarships represent a golden opportunity for the youth of India. With up to 5,000 UG scholars receiving support of up to ₹2 lakh, and 100 PG scholars being groomed for future technological leadership, the impact of this programme is massive.

Whether you are aiming for the UG scholarship, which requires a household income below ₹15 lakh, or the PG scholarship, which demands rigorous academic criteria like a 7.5+ CGPA or a strong GATE score, preparation is key. Always remember the importance of checking your exact eligibility, especially regarding eligible courses, and take the mandatory aptitude test very seriously. Do not rely on assumptions; always use official information. If you are ready to take the next step in your education, ensure you complete the Reliance Foundation UG PG Scholarship Apply process before the official deadline.