Fellowships are no longer just academic opportunities — they’re career changers. The top fellowship programs in India are helping young professionals, graduates, and changemakers explore leadership, research, public policy, and the arts with full funding and mentorship.
If you’ve ever wondered what is a fellowship program and how it can accelerate your career, this guide breaks down everything you need to know — including top fellowships in India that are currently open for applications in 2025.
A fellowship program is a structured opportunity that provides funding, mentorship, and training for individuals pursuing education, leadership, or social impact goals.
Unlike scholarships, which mostly cover academic fees, fellowships combine hands-on learning, research exposure, and real-world experience.
In India, fellowship programs are bridging the gap between theory and action — helping graduates build careers in governance, innovation, art, science, and community leadership.
Benefits of fellowship programs:
- Mentorship from experts and professionals
- Monthly stipend or financial support
- National and international exposure
- Skill development and social impact experience
Below are some of the top fellowship programs in India — across leadership, public policy, research, and creative arts — that you can apply for right now. Each of these programs offers a unique way to grow your impact and career.
1. Young India Fellowship (Ashoka University)
The Young India Fellowship (YIF) is one of the top fellowships in India for multidisciplinary learning and leadership. It brings together graduates from diverse backgrounds for a one-year residential program at Ashoka University.
- Who can apply: Graduates from any field with academic excellence and leadership potential.
- Benefits: Full or partial scholarship, academic courses, leadership modules, and access to a global alumni network.
- Deadline: January 2026
- Website: youngindiafellowship.com
2. LAMP Fellowship (Legislative Assistants to Members of Parliament)
The LAMP Fellowship is a one-of-a-kind program where young Indians work directly with Members of Parliament. Fellows conduct research, write policy briefs, and contribute to discussions that shape India’s governance.
- Who can apply: Indian graduates under 25 years of age.
- Benefits: Stipend of ₹20,000/month, exposure to the legislative process, and policymaking experience.
- Deadline: Applications open till February 2026
- Website: lampfellowship.in
3. India Fellow Social Leadership Program
The India Fellow Program trains socially conscious young leaders by immersing them in India’s grassroots development sector. Over 13 months, fellows work with NGOs, attend learning modules, and receive mentorship.
- Who can apply: Age 21–30, open to all disciplines.
- Benefits: Monthly stipend, leadership training, and field experience.
- Deadline: March 2026
- Website: indiafellow.org
4. Prime Minister’s Research Fellowship (PMRF)
The Prime Minister’s Research Fellowship is among the top fellowship programs in India for researchers. It supports outstanding students to pursue PhDs in India’s premier institutes like IITs and IISc.
- Who can apply: PhD aspirants enrolled in eligible institutions.
- Benefits: ₹70,000/month stipend, contingency grants, and world-class mentorship.
- Deadline: April & October 2026
- Website: https://www.pmrf.in/
5. CSIR Junior Research Fellowship (JRF)
The CSIR JRF supports postgraduate students in Science and Technology who want to build research careers. It’s managed by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research.
- Who can apply: Postgraduates in Science/Engineering who clear CSIR-NET.
- Benefits: ₹37,000/month stipend + HRA.
- Deadline: June & December 2026
- Website: csirhrdg.res.in
6. Raman–Charpak Fellowship
A bilateral Indo-French fellowship promoting research collaboration between students of both countries. It’s perfect for PhD candidates seeking international research exposure.
- Who can apply: Indian or French PhD students enrolled in recognized universities.
- Benefits: Monthly stipend, airfare, and insurance support.
- Deadline: March 2026
- Website: www.cefipra.org
7. Teach For India Fellowship
The Teach For India Fellowship is one of the top fellowships in India for education reform. Fellows teach in under-resourced schools for two years, helping bridge the education gap.
- Who can apply: Graduates or final-year students from any discipline.
- Benefits: ₹21,000/month + housing & travel allowance.
- Deadline: Rolling till early 2026
- Website: www.teachforindia.org
8. Gandhi Fellowship Program
The Gandhi Fellowship program is a two-year leadership development initiative under Kaivalya Education Foundation. Fellows work closely with public systems to improve education and governance in India.
- Who can apply: 21–30 years old, graduates and postgraduates passionate about change.
- Benefits: ₹25,000/month stipend, mentorship, and field immersion.
- Deadline: February 2026
- Website: gandhifellowship.org
The Gandhi Fellowship program remains one of the most sought-after opportunities among India’s youth due to its focus on real-world learning and public impact.
9. Inlaks Fine Arts Award
The Inlaks Fine Arts Award is one of India’s most respected art fellowships, helping young visual artists pursue independent projects or exhibitions.
- Who can apply: Indian artists under 35.
- Benefits: Grant up to ₹3,00,000 + mentorship.
- Deadline: April 2026
- Website: inlaksfoundation.org
10. Sahapedia–UNESCO Fellowship
This fellowship supports documentation and research on India’s diverse art, heritage, and culture. Perfect for writers, researchers, and culture enthusiasts.
- Who can apply: Scholars, researchers, or independent writers.
- Benefits: ₹45,000 grant + publication opportunity.
- Deadline: May 2026
- Website: www.sahapedia.org
| Fellowship Program | Deadline | Who Can Apply | Stipend/Support |
|---|---|---|---|
| Young India Fellowship | Jan 2026 | Graduates (any discipline) | Full/Partial funding with mentorship |
| LAMP Fellowship | Applications open till Feb 2026 | Graduates under 25 years | ₹20,000/month + experience with MPs |
| India Fellow Social Leadership Program | Mar 2026 | 21–30 years, open to all backgrounds | ₹18,000–₹20,000/month + field learning |
| Prime Minister’s Research Fellowship (PMRF) | Apr & Oct 2026 | PhD aspirants in science & technology | ₹70,000/month + contingency grant |
| Gandhi Fellowship Program | Ongoing, closes Feb 2026 | Graduates aged 21–30 years | ₹25,000/month + leadership training |
| Chief Minister Fellowship Program | Varies by state (2026 cycles opening soon) | Graduates aged 21–35 years | ₹40,000–₹60,000/month + field exposure |
| Inlaks Fine Arts Award | Apr 2026 | Artists under 35 years | Up to ₹3 lakh project grant |
| Sahapedia-UNESCO Fellowship | May 2026 | Researchers, writers, and cultural workers | ₹45,000 honorarium |
With so many top fellowship programs in India, the key is to find one that aligns with your personal and professional goals.
Tips:
- Choose a fellowship that matches your skills and career path
- Check duration and commitment (6 months to 2 years)
- Study the mentor and alumni network-real value lies there
- Don’t focus only on the stipend; look for growth and exposure
Fellowships help young Indians discover clarity, community, and competence. Whether through the Gandhi Fellowship program shaping education reform or the Chief Minister Fellowship program placing minds inside government systems, these opportunities prepare a generation of thinkers and doers ready to solve India’s real challenges.
If you’re driven by curiosity and purpose, a fellowship isn’t just another credential — it’s a launchpad for transformation.
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