1. Introduction to Reliance Foundation Scholarships
Reliance Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Reliance Industries Limited (RIL), one of India’s largest conglomerates founded by Dhirubhai Ambani and now led by Mukesh Ambani and Nita Ambani. The Foundation works in multiple sectors including rural development, healthcare, education, environment, and women empowerment.
Education has been a core focus area, and over the last decade, Reliance Foundation has launched several initiatives to ensure equitable access to quality education for all. The Reliance Foundation Scholarships are one of its flagship programs, aimed at nurturing India’s brightest young minds by providing financial aid, mentorship, and career development opportunities.
2. Why Scholarships Are Important in India
India is home to over 315 million students, making it the largest student population in the world. However, financial challenges often prevent talented students from pursuing higher education. Scholarships like those offered by Reliance Foundation bridge this gap by:
- Reducing financial burden on families
- Encouraging merit-based education
- Supporting students from economically weaker sections
- Providing equal opportunities for rural and urban students
- Helping create a skilled workforce for the future
3. Vision and Mission of Reliance Foundation
The vision of the Reliance Foundation Scholarships is:
“To identify, nurture, and support the future leaders of India who will drive the nation’s progress in science, technology, innovation, and social impact.”
The mission includes:
- Supporting 5,100 scholars annually (5,000 UG + 100 PG)
- Awarding 50,000 scholarships over 10 years
- Promoting excellence in science, technology, engineering, and other disciplines
- Offering not just financial aid but also mentorship, networking, and professional development
4. Reliance Foundation Scholarships 2025–26 – Overview
- Scholarships available: 5,100 (UG: 5,000 | PG: 100)
- Application deadline: 4th October 2025
- Selection process: Application + Aptitude Test (UG & PG) + Interview (PG only)
- Scholarship amount:
- UG: Up to ₹2 lakh (course duration)
- PG: Up to ₹6 lakh (80% academic + 20% development)
- Application portal: scholarships.reliancefoundation.org
5. Undergraduate (UG) Scholarships – Complete Details
Eligibility
- Resident Indian citizen
- Annual household income ≤ ₹15 lakh (priority to ≤ ₹2.5 lakh)
- Minimum 60% marks in Class 12
- Enrolled in the first year of a UG course (2025–26)
Scholarship Amount & Benefits
- Up to ₹2 lakh for the full course duration
- Mentorship support
- Networking with scholars and alumni
- Access to workshops & training
Selection Process
- Application submission
- Online aptitude test (mandatory)
- Evaluation and final selection
Important Dates
- Application Start: August 2025
- Deadline: 4th October 2025
- Aptitude Test: October–November 2025
- Result Announcement: Early 2026
Step-by-Step Application Guide
- Register on the portal with mobile/email
- Fill in personal and academic details
- Upload documents (marksheets, ID, income certificate, etc.)
- Take the online aptitude test
- Submit and wait for results
6. Postgraduate (PG) Scholarships – Complete Details
Eligible Streams
- Computer Science
- Artificial Intelligence
- Mathematics & Computing
- Electrical/Electronics Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Renewable & New Energy
- Materials Science & Engineering
- Life Sciences
Scholarship Value & Benefits
- Up to ₹6 lakh per scholar
- 80% towards tuition & academic fees
- 20% for professional development (conferences, courses, etc.)
- Mentorship from experts
- Skill-building workshops
- Alumni network
Eligibility Criteria
- Resident Indian citizen
- Enrolled in the first year of a PG program (2025–26) in listed disciplines
- UG CGPA ≥ 7.5 or GATE score 550–1000
Selection Process
- Application with references & essays
- Aptitude test (online)
- Shortlisted candidates invited for virtual interview
Important Dates
- Application Start: August 2025
- Deadline: 4th October 2025
- Aptitude Test: October–November 2025
- Interview: Late 2025
- Final Results: Early 2026
Step-by-Step Application Guide
- Register on the portal
- Provide academic & personal details
- Submit 2 reference letters
- Write 2 essays (Personal Statement & Statement of Purpose)
- Upload documents
- Appear for aptitude test
- Attend interview (if shortlisted)
7. Documents Required for UG & PG Scholarships
- Recent passport-size photo
- Aadhaar Card / valid ID proof
- Class 10 & 12 mark sheets (UG applicants)
- UG degree marksheets (PG applicants)
- Income certificate (for UG)
- Admission proof (UG/PG)
- Bank account details
- Recommendation letters (PG only)
- Essays (PG only)
8. Online Application Process (Portal Walkthrough)
- Visit scholarships.reliancefoundation.org
- Click on UG or PG Scholarship tab
- Read guidelines and FAQs
- Register with your email/mobile
- Verify OTP and login
- Fill in personal, academic, and financial details
- Upload documents
- Schedule & appear for aptitude test
- Submit application
9. Reliance Foundation Aptitude Test – Pattern & Preparation Guide
- Duration: 60 minutes
- Questions: 60 (MCQs)
- Sections:
- Verbal Ability (20 Qs)
- Analytical Reasoning (20 Qs)
- Numerical Ability (20 Qs)
Preparation Tips
- Revise Class 10–12 mathematics
- Practice logical reasoning puzzles
- Improve reading comprehension speed
- Take online mock tests
10. PG Scholarship Interview Process – Tips & Guidance
- Conducted online (video call)
- Panel of 2–3 experts
- Duration: 30–45 minutes
Likely Questions
- Tell us about yourself
- Why did you choose your PG field?
- How will this scholarship help you?
- Your long-term career goals
- Questions on technical knowledge
Tips
- Be confident and clear
- Prepare a structured answer for career goals
- Showcase leadership & innovation skills
11. Common Mistakes in Applications and How to Avoid Them
- Submitting incomplete forms → Double check before final submission
- Wrong document format → Follow PDF/JPG guidelines
- Weak essays → Draft, revise, and proofread
- Missing aptitude test → Schedule carefully
- Fake information → Leads to disqualification
12. How to Write a Strong Essay & Statement of Purpose
- Personal Statement: Share your background, challenges, and motivation
- Statement of Purpose (SOP): Focus on academic goals, research interests, career vision
- Use clear language, strong examples, and future-oriented goals
13. Importance of Letters of Recommendation (PG only)
- Should come from professors or supervisors who know you well
- Must highlight academic achievements, leadership skills, and potential
- Avoid generic letters; request personalized recommendations
14. Previous Year Statistics and Insights
- Over 40,000+ applications received (2024)
- UG selection rate: ~12%
- PG selection rate: ~5%
- High competition, so quality of application is crucial
15. Comparison with Other Major Indian Scholarships
| Scholarship | Eligibility | Amount | Selection |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reliance Foundation | UG & PG | ₹2L (UG), ₹6L (PG) | Aptitude + Interview |
| Tata Scholarship | UG | ₹1.5L | Merit + Financial need |
| Aditya Birla Scholarship | UG | ₹1.8L | Academic + Interview |
| PMSSS | J&K Students | ₹1.3L | Govt criteria |
| ONGC Scholarship | PG | ₹1L | Merit + Need |
Reliance Foundation offers the highest number of scholarships with mentorship benefits.
16. Success Stories of Past Scholars
- Students from rural areas getting into IITs with full support
- First-generation learners completing PG in AI & Robotics
- Scholars presenting research in international conferences with 20% development fund support
17. Beyond Money – Non-Financial Benefits
- Mentorship from industry leaders
- Networking with peers and alumni
- Skill development workshops
- Volunteer opportunities through Reliance Foundation programs
18. Impact on Education in India
- Empowering bright students from poor backgrounds
- Boosting STEM research and innovation
- Supporting nation’s vision of Digital India and Atmanirbhar Bharat
- Helping India compete globally in AI, renewable energy, and life sciences
19. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the last date to apply?
→ 4th October 2025
Q2: Can distance learning students apply?
→ No, only full-time regular students are eligible
Q3: Can I apply for both UG and PG scholarships?
→ No, only one category depending on current enrollment
Q4: Is the aptitude test mandatory?
→ Yes, for both UG & PG
Q5: Will the scholarship cover hostel fees?
→ Yes, as part of academic fees under UG & PG
20. Final Words of Encouragement
The Reliance Foundation Scholarships 2025–26 represent one of the largest private scholarship initiatives in India, with a goal of transforming the lives of thousands of students. This program goes beyond financial support, providing mentorship, exposure, and opportunities that can shape your career and personal growth.
