The Emeritus Fellowship is a scheme by the Ministry of Education that provides superannuated teachers with the opportunity to continue active research in their field of specialization at recognized universities, colleges, or institutions in India.
Eligible institutions include:
- Universities/Colleges/Institutes under Section 2(f) & 12(b) of the UGC Act, 1956.
- Deemed Universities under Section 3 of the UGC Act, 1956 that receive UGC grants.
- State/Central Government-funded Universities & Institutions.
- Institutes of National Importance.
Number of Fellowships Available:
- 100 slots for Science streams.
- 100 slots for Humanities, Social Sciences, and Languages.
- Total: 200 slots at any given time.
Joining & Tenure
- The candidate must join within 3 months of the award letter date, or the award will be canceled.
- The fellowship duration is 2 years (non-extendable).
Feedback & Completion
- Research work must be submitted in the INFLIBNET Centre repository.
- A comprehensive research report must be submitted at the end of the tenure.
- A Completion Certificate will be issued upon submission of the final research work.
Transfer of Research Place
- Allowed only once with approval from UGC and intimation to the designated agency.
Resignation
- If a Fellow resigns, their grant is released only until the date of resignation.
Benefits
| Component | Financial Assistance |
|---|---|
| Honorarium | ₹31,000 per month for 2 years (non-extendable) |
| Contingency Grant (non-lapsable) | ₹50,000 per year for research expenses, stationery, travel within India, books, journals, and consumables |
| Foreign Visit (Research-related) | Allowed once per year with prior approval from the host institution & UGC (no financial liability on UGC) |
| Medical Facilities & Other Benefits | Same as university faculty, but housing is not provided |
Eligibility
- Target Group: Highly qualified and experienced superannuated teachers.
- Selection is based on quality of research and published work during the applicant’s career.
- Age Limit:
- Can continue research up to 70 years of age or 2 years, whichever comes first.
- Extension is not allowed.
Exclusions & Cancellation
- The award can be canceled if:
- The awardee does not meet eligibility criteria.
- False information is provided.
- Misconduct is observed.
- Research progress is unsatisfactory.
Application Process
Online Application Steps
- Visit the UGC Portal: https://www.ugc.ac.in/
- Click on Scholarships/Fellowships > Apply Online.
- Fill out the registration form with username & password.
- Attach required documents.
- Submit the application.
Important Notes
- Strictly follow application guidelines; incomplete applications will be rejected.
- Undertaking Certificate from the research center must be uploaded:
- Multiple applications: Only the latest submission will be considered.
Selection Procedure
- Fellowships are awarded based on the recommendations of an Expert Committee constituted by UGC.
- The awardee cannot hold another job while receiving the fellowship.
- The award is effective from April 1 of the selection year or the actual date of joining, whichever is later.
- UGC reserves the right to cancel or withdraw the award.
Grant Release & Payment
- The fellowship amount is directly credited to the awardee’s bank account via UGC-designated bank branches.
- Required documents for fund disbursement:
- Award Letter Copy & Joining Report with photograph, address, contact details.
- Continuation Certificate (submitted every 3 months).
- Progress Report (submitted after 1 year).
- Utilization Certificate for Contingency Grants.
- Annexure Forms
Documents Required
- Aadhaar Card.
- Undertaking Certificate from the research center:
- Copy of Award Letter & Joining Report.
- Continuation Certificate (submitted quarterly).
- Utilization Certificate for Contingency Grants.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Q: Is this scheme available for all teachers?
No, it is only for superannuated teachers with proven research contributions. - Q: Is there a specific pay scale for eligibility?
No, selection is based on research work and academic contribution, not salary scale. - Q: Can school teachers apply?
No, this scheme is only for university/college teachers. - Q: Can I extend my fellowship?
No, the tenure is strictly for 2 years and non-extendable. - Q: Can I apply while holding another fellowship/job?
No, you cannot hold another post or be employed elsewhere while availing this fellowship. - Q: How do I track my application status?
Login to the UGC Portal and check the application status under the Emeritus Fellowship section.