SBI Bank Scholarships 2025: Online Application Process, Eligibility, and Benefits
The State Bank of India (SBI), the largest public sector bank in India, is widely recognized not only for its banking services but also for its contribution to the education sector through various scholarship programs. These scholarships aim to support economically weaker students in pursuing their studies without financial constraints. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the SBI scholarship schemes for the year 2025, including online application procedures, eligibility criteria, required documents, scholarship benefits, and more.
Table of Contents
- Introduction to SBI Scholarships
- Key SBI Scholarship Programs
- SBI Foundation Youth for India Fellowship
- SBI Asha Scholarship Program
- SBI General Suraksha Support Scholarship
- Eligibility Criteria
- Step-by-Step Online Application Process
- Important Documents Required
- Selection Process
- Scholarship Amount and Benefits
- Important Dates
- Renewal Criteria
- Contact Information
- FAQs
- Final Thoughts
1. Introduction to SBI Scholarships
SBI scholarships are designed to uplift talented but underprivileged students by providing financial aid. These schemes are part of SBI’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative through the SBI Foundation and SBI General Insurance. They cover students from various academic levels, including school students, undergraduates, postgraduates, and even those pursuing professional courses.
2. Key SBI Scholarship Programs
SBI offers several scholarship schemes, some of which are active every year based on funding and program goals. The major schemes include:
- SBI Asha Scholarship for school students
- SBI General Suraksha Support Scholarship
- SBI Youth for India Fellowship
- SBI Life Scholarship Programs (in partnership)
- Special COVID-19 Scholarship (only for specific years)
3. SBI Foundation Youth for India Fellowship
This is a prestigious 13-month fellowship program by SBI Foundation for young graduates who wish to contribute to rural development. Though not a traditional scholarship, it offers a stipend and covers expenses for graduates working on development projects in rural India.
Eligibility:
- Indian citizen or OCI
- Age 21–32 years
- Graduate from a recognized university
Benefits:
- Monthly stipend of ₹15,000
- Additional ₹1,000 per month for travel
- Project funding support
- Certificate from SBI Foundation
Application Link: https://youthforindia.org
4. SBI Asha Scholarship Program
This scholarship supports students from Class 6 to Class 12 who come from low-income families. The objective is to ensure that school students can continue their education without dropout due to financial limitations.
Eligibility:
- Students of Class 6 to 12
- Annual family income below ₹3 lakh
- Must have scored at least 75% marks in the previous class
Benefits:
- ₹10,000 per year for school expenses
Application Mode: Online
5. SBI General Suraksha Support Scholarship
Initiated by SBI General Insurance, this scholarship helps children who have lost their earning parent(s) or whose family income has been severely impacted due to crises like COVID-19.
Eligibility:
- Class 1 to Undergraduate level
- Must have lost a parent or primary earning member
- Annual income less than ₹4 lakh
Benefits:
- ₹10,000 to ₹50,000 depending on the level of education
Application Process: Through Buddy4Study portal
6. Eligibility Criteria (General Overview)
To apply for any SBI scholarship, students must generally meet the following conditions:
| Criteria | Description |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be an Indian citizen |
| Academic Performance | Minimum 75% marks in last qualifying exam |
| Income Limit | Family income should be within ₹3 to ₹4 lakh per annum (varies by scheme) |
| Course | Full-time school or degree courses |
| Institution Type | Recognized government or private institutions |
7. Step-by-Step Online Application Process
You can apply for most SBI scholarships through platforms like Buddy4Study, the SBI Foundation website, or official fellowship portals.
Common Steps:
- Visit https://www.buddy4study.com
- Search for the relevant “SBI Scholarship”
- Click on “Apply Now”
- Register using your email ID or phone number
- Fill out the scholarship application form:
- Personal information
- Educational details
- Income certificate
- Upload all required documents
- Review and submit the application
- Keep a copy of the acknowledgment for future reference
8. Important Documents Required
The following documents are generally required:
- Aadhaar card
- Previous academic year’s mark sheet
- Passport size photograph
- Family income certificate (issued by authority)
- Bank passbook (student’s name and IFSC)
- School/College ID card or Bonafide Certificate
- Death certificate of parent (for Suraksha Support)
- Caste certificate (if applicable)
9. Selection Process
The selection for SBI scholarships typically involves the following stages:
- Initial Screening: Based on academic performance and income
- Document Verification: All submitted documents are verified by the concerned authorities
- Telephonic Interview (if required): To assess student’s intent and background
- Final Shortlist and Disbursement: Selected candidates receive funds directly in their bank account
10. Scholarship Amount and Benefits
Each scholarship program offers different benefits. Here’s a snapshot:
| Scholarship Name | Amount Per Year |
|---|---|
| SBI Asha Scholarship | ₹10,000 (one-time) |
| SBI General Suraksha Support | ₹10,000–₹50,000 |
| Youth for India Fellowship | ₹15,000/month + benefits |
| SBI Life Co-sponsored schemes | Varies |
11. Important Dates (Tentative for 2025)
| Event | Date Range |
|---|---|
| Application Start Date | June 2025 (tentative) |
| Last Date to Apply | August 31, 2025 |
| Verification Period | September to October 2025 |
| Disbursement of Scholarship | November to December 2025 |
Please note: These dates vary by program and should be confirmed from the official portal or notification.
12. Renewal Criteria (If Applicable)
Some SBI scholarships may be renewed for future academic years, subject to:
- Satisfactory academic performance (usually above 60%)
- Submission of continued education proof
- No involvement in misconduct
Applicants need to submit a renewal form along with new academic records and attendance certificate.
13. Contact Information
SBI Foundation
- Website: https://www.sbifoundation.in
- Email: info@sbifoundation.co.in
Buddy4Study Platform
- Website: https://www.buddy4study.com
- Support Email: help@buddy4study.com
For Youth for India:
- Website: https://www.youthforindia.org
- Support Email: info@youthforindia.org
14. FAQs
Q1: Is there any application fee?
A: No, applying for any SBI scholarship is free of cost.
Q2: Can a student from a private school apply?
A: Yes, provided the school is recognized by a government board.
Q3: Can I apply for more than one SBI scholarship?
A: Usually not. You can apply only for one scheme that best matches your eligibility.
Q4: Will the scholarship cover hostel or book expenses?
A: Most SBI scholarships are one-time assistance and may not cover all expenses.
Apply link
The SBI Bank scholarships are a great opportunity for financially weaker students to pursue their academic dreams without the burden of fees. Whether you’re a school student needing assistance for uniforms and books, or a graduate interested in contributing to rural development through the Youth for India Fellowship, there’s a program that fits.
Students and parents are advised to regularly check the SBI Foundation and Buddy4Study websites for updated notifications. Ensure all documents are genuine and correct before submitting your application to avoid rejection.
If you’re truly in need and eligible, don’t hesitate to apply—these scholarships are designed for you.