Kotak Junior Scholarship Program 2025–26 is a flagship educational initiative launched by the Kotak Education Foundation (KEF) as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) under the Kotak Mahindra Group. The scholarship targets academically bright students from economically disadvantaged families, specifically those pursuing higher secondary education (Class 11 and 12) in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). With the aim to uplift underprivileged youth by supporting their educational journey, the program combines financial aid, academic mentorship, and developmental support.
This article offers a comprehensive overview of the Kotak Junior Scholarship Program, covering every essential detail—from eligibility, application process, and required documents, to benefits, FAQs, and tips for applicants.
1. Overview of the Kotak Education Foundation
Established in 2006, the Kotak Education Foundation (KEF) works toward alleviating poverty through education and livelihood programs. It targets the underprivileged youth of India, focusing primarily on the urban poor. KEF has developed numerous initiatives that span from scholarships to skill development, soft-skills training, and school transformation.
The Kotak Junior Scholarship Program is one of KEF’s prominent initiatives, aimed at Class 11 and 12 students, providing them with a stepping stone toward successful careers by reducing financial burdens.
2. Objectives of the Kotak Junior Scholarship Program
The scholarship is designed to:
- Encourage academic excellence among students from low-income families.
- Bridge the financial gap during the crucial higher secondary years.
- Empower students through mentorship and exposure programs.
- Create future leaders and professionals from marginalized communities.
3. Scholarship Benefits
The scholarship offers a holistic support package that includes financial, academic, and developmental benefits.
a. Financial Support
- Monthly stipend of ₹3,500 for a period of 21 months (across Classes 11 and 12).
- Total financial support up to ₹73,500.
- Funds are intended for:
- Tuition fees
- Books and stationery
- Internet and transport
- School supplies
b. Academic Mentoring
- Personal guidance and mentorship from KEF-assigned professionals.
- Study and career planning assistance.
c. Exposure and Development
- Visits to educational and industrial institutions.
- Workshops on life skills, career readiness, and leadership.
4. Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Kotak Junior Scholarship 2025–26, students must meet the following criteria:
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Academic Performance | Minimum 85% marks in Class 10 (SSC/CBSE/ICSE) in 2025 |
| Educational Path | Admitted to Class 11 in Science, Commerce, or Arts stream |
| Geographic Location | Must reside and study in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) |
| Family Income | Annual income must be ₹3,20,000 or less |
| Institutional Eligibility | Must be enrolled in a recognized junior college within MMR |
| Parental Employment | Children of employees of KEF or Buddy4Study are not eligible |
5. List of Accepted Locations in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR)
Eligible applicants must reside and study within MMR, which includes:
- Mumbai City
- Mumbai Suburban
- Thane
- Kalyan-Dombivli
- Ulhasnagar
- Mira-Bhayandar
- Navi Mumbai
- Panvel
- Vasai-Virar
- Bhiwandi-Nizampur
- Palghar
- Uran
- Ambernath
- Badlapur
- Karjat
6. Application Timeline and Deadlines
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Start | May 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | June 30, 2025 |
| Shortlisting | July 2025 |
| Interview/Verification | August 2025 |
| Announcement of Results | September 2025 |
| Disbursement Begins | October 2025 |
7. Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Visit Official Website
- Go to the Buddy4Study Kotak Junior Scholarship Page.
Step 2: Register/Login
- Create a Buddy4Study account using your email or phone number.
- Verify OTP and log in.
Step 3: Fill Application Form
- Personal details
- Academic background
- School and college information
- Financial background
- Bank details
Step 4: Upload Required Documents
Upload clear scans or photos of documents (see next section).
Step 5: Review and Submit
- Check all information carefully.
- Submit the application and download the acknowledgment.
8. Documents Required
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Class 10 Marksheet | Academic proof |
| Admission Proof (Class 11) | College ID card or fee receipt |
| Family Income Certificate | To verify financial need |
| Ration Card (Yellow/Orange) | Residential proof |
| Aadhar Cards (student + parents) | Identity proof |
| PAN Card (parent/guardian) | Income verification |
| School Leaving Certificate | Background verification |
| Recent Passport Photo | Identification |
| Student Bank Account (passbook or statement) | Fund transfer verification |
| ITR/Form 26AS (if applicable) | Additional income validation |
| Death Certificate (if single parent) | Verification |
9. Selection Process
a. Preliminary Shortlisting
- Based on academic and income eligibility.
b. Document Verification
- Internal verification of all uploaded documents.
c. Interview
- Telephonic or virtual interview by KEF panel.
- Questions on education, goals, and financial background.
d. Final Selection
- Selected students are notified via email, phone, and Buddy4Study dashboard.
10. Roles of Buddy4Study and KEF
Buddy4Study
- Hosts the application portal.
- Facilitates communication and status updates.
- Assists in resolving applicant queries.
Kotak Education Foundation
- Manages funding and scholarship distribution.
- Provides mentorship and exposure programs.
- Handles final selection and monitoring.
11. Responsibilities of Selected Scholars
- Maintain good academic performance throughout Class 11 and 12.
- Attend mentoring sessions and workshops.
- Submit regular updates and documents.
- Notify KEF of any changes in educational status or financial condition.
12. Renewal Process for Class 12
Scholarship for Class 12 is not automatic. Scholars must:
- Submit Class 11 marksheet.
- Provide a continued admission proof for Class 12.
- Maintain a minimum satisfactory performance (as defined by KEF).
- Re-verify documents if requested.
13. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Can I apply if I scored below 85% in Class 10?
No, the cutoff is strictly 85% or higher.
Q2. Can I apply if I live outside MMR but study in MMR?
No, both residence and educational institute must be in MMR.
Q3. What if I don’t have a PAN card?
Your parent/guardian must have a PAN card. It’s mandatory.
Q4. Can I apply if my income is slightly over ₹3,20,000?
No. The income limit is fixed.
Q5. Are diploma students eligible?
No. Only Class 11 students pursuing HSC in recognized junior colleges are eligible.
14. Student Testimonials and Impact
Many past scholars have gone on to secure admission into:
- IITs
- Mumbai University
- St. Xavier’s College
- Government Medical Colleges
Their feedback emphasizes:
- The relief of financial burden
- The importance of mentorship
- Increased confidence due to exposure programs
15. How to Prepare a Strong Application
- Double-check documents for clarity and accuracy.
- Write a strong statement of purpose explaining your goals and background.
- Ensure bank account and mobile numbers are active.
- Practice for interviews: focus on honesty, clarity, and motivation.
16. Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting blurry or incorrect documents.
- Providing inconsistent information.
- Using someone else’s bank account.
- Missing the application deadline.
- Not responding to follow-up emails or calls.
17. Contact Information
For any queries or support, contact:
- Phone: 011-430-92248 (Ext: 325)
- Email: [email protected]
- Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 10 AM to 6 PM
18. Final Thoughts and Encouragement
The Kotak Junior Scholarship Program 2025–26 is not just a financial aid initiative—it’s a transformative opportunity for students from underprivileged backgrounds to break the cycle of poverty and build a future based on education, discipline, and dreams.
If you meet the eligibility criteria and are committed to your academic journey, do not hesitate to apply. This scholarship has changed hundreds of lives—and yours could be next.
