Scholarship Programme for Diaspora Children (SPDC) 2025–26: Eligibility, Selection Process, and Application Details

The Government of India, through the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), has opened applications for the Scholarship Programme for Diaspora Children (SPDC) for the academic year 2025–26. The scheme supports children of NRIs, PIOs, OCIs, and Indian workers in ECR countries who wish to pursue undergraduate education in India.

Launched in 2006, SPDC aims to promote India as a global education hub while easing the financial burden on Indian diaspora families. Selected students can receive up to USD 4,000 per year, covering a major portion of tuition and institutional costs.

What is the SPDC Scholarship?

SPDC is a flagship scholarship scheme of the Ministry of External Affairs designed specifically for Indian-origin students living abroad. The scholarship is awarded for the entire duration of an undergraduate degree, subject to satisfactory academic performance each year.

The scheme covers both professional and non-professional UG courses offered by recognised Indian institutions, including Central Universities, NITs, and NAAC ‘A’ grade colleges.

Total Number of Scholarships (2025–26)

A total of 150 scholarships are offered every year under SPDC.

• 100 slots for children of NRIs / PIOs / OCIs

• 50 slots reserved for children of Indian workers in ECR countries

• Out of ECR slots, 17 seats are reserved for students who have studied in India

• 50% of total scholarships are reserved for female candidates

Unfilled seats in any category may be transferred to other eligible categories.

Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)

Eligible Categories

Applicants must fall under one of the following:

• Children of NRIs / PIOs / OCIs who studied outside India

• Children of Indian workers in ECR countries, studied either abroad or in India

Children of Indian government employees, PSUs, banks, or financial institutions posted abroad are not eligible.

Age Limit

Applicants must be 17 to 21 years old as on 31 July 2025.

Educational Qualification

• Must have passed Class 11 and 12

• Minimum 60% aggregate marks in Class 12 or equivalent

• For most categories, schooling must be completed outside India

• Children of Indian workers in ECR countries may apply even if they studied in India (AIU-recognised system)

Family Income Limit

• NRIs / PIOs / OCIs: Monthly household income ≤ USD 5,000

• Indian workers in ECR countries: Monthly household income ≤ USD 3,000

Income proof from employer or self-declaration (where applicable) is mandatory.

Courses Covered Under SPDC

SPDC supports a wide range of undergraduate programmes, including:

• Engineering, Architecture & Technology (B.Tech, B.E., B.Arch)

• Medicine & Allied Courses (MBBS, BDS, BAMS, BHMS, etc.)

• Law (LLB)

• Commerce, Management, Humanities & Liberal Arts

• Computer Applications, Journalism, Hotel Management

• Nursing, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy, Agriculture & Sciences

(Medical courses can apply from the 2nd year onwards)

Scholarship Amount & Financial Support

• Covers 75% of Institutional Economic Cost (IEC)

• Maximum cap: USD 4,000 per year

• IEC includes tuition fee, hostel fee, and institutional charges

• Food and personal living expenses are not included

Continuation of scholarship depends on yearly academic performance.

How to Apply for SPDC Scholarship 2025–26

1. Secure admission in an eligible undergraduate course in India

2. Fill the SPDC application form in English only

3. Submit the completed application along with documents to the Indian Embassy / High Commission / Consulate in your country of residence

Online-only or distance learning courses are not eligible.

Important Documents Required

• Class 11 & 12 marksheets and passing certificates

• Proof of NRI / OCI / PIO / ECR status

• Parent’s income certificate or ITR/self-declaration

• Passport copy

• Declarations signed by applicant and parents

• Admission proof from Indian institution

Incomplete or incorrect applications are rejected.

Selection Process

Selection is based on Merit-cum-Means:

• Higher academic merit preferred

• In case of tie, applicant from lower-income family gets priority

Shortlisted candidates must confirm acceptance within 7 days of result publication.

Last Date to Apply

📅 30 January 2026

Late applications will not be considered under any circumstances.

Official Contact for Queries

📧 [email protected]
(Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India)

SDPC Guidelines & Official Notification

SPDC Application Form