The Prathibha Scholarship Programme is an initiative by the Kerala State Council for Science, Technology, and Environment (KSCSTE) to support meritorious students of Kerala origin who have excelled in the Higher Secondary Examination and wish to pursue Undergraduate (UG) and Postgraduate (PG) degrees in Basic and Natural Sciences.
This scholarship encourages students to build a career in Science by providing financial aid, mentoring, and research opportunities. Additionally, selected scholars can attend science enrichment programmes and summer internships through the Student Programme for Excellence in Experimental Design (SPEED) initiative.
Benefits
- Financial Assistance for UG and PG studies:
- UG Course / First 3 Years of Integrated PG Course
- 1st Year: ₹12,000/-
- 2nd Year: ₹18,000/-
- 3rd Year: ₹24,000/-
- PG Course (for eligible UG scholars)
- 1st Year / 4th Year of Integrated PG: ₹40,000/-
- 2nd Year / 5th Year of Integrated PG: ₹60,000/-
- UG Course / First 3 Years of Integrated PG Course
- Participation in Science Enrichment Programmes and Summer Internships
- Eight Prathibha Scholars (two each from Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics) can attend summer programmes at IISER-Trivandrum.
Eligibility Criteria
- The applicant must be a Kerala resident.
- Must have completed the Higher Secondary Examination (HSE) from Kerala.
- Must have scored:
- Minimum 90% in aggregate (all subjects) and 90% in science subjects (For SC/ST students: Minimum 80%).
- Must have secured admission for a 3-year B.Sc. / 5-year Integrated M.Sc. / 5-year Integrated BS-MS in Basic or Natural Science in any recognized university in India.
- Only students at the UG level are eligible for fresh applications.
- Selection is based strictly on merit (marks obtained in science subjects in HSE).
- 50% of scholarships are reserved for female students.
- 10% of scholarships are reserved for SC/ST students.
Application Process
Online Registration
- Visit the Prathibha Scholarship Web Portal before the deadline.
- Ensure you have:
- A valid email ID and mobile number (for the entire selection process).
- A passport-size photograph (150W × 200H pixels).
- Enter your Name, Date of Birth, Email ID, and HSE Roll Number to start registration.
- Enter the OTP received on your mobile, create a password, and continue.
- A unique Application Number will be generated and sent via SMS/email for future login.
Application Submission
- Log in to the Prathibha Scholarship Web Portal.
- Fill in the application form online.
- The Kerala State Council for Science, Technology & Environment (KSCSTE) will prepare a Provisional Selection List (PSL) based on applications.
- Selected students must upload documents for verification.
- A Final Rank List (FRL) will be published after verification.
Selection Procedure
- Ranking is based on total marks secured in Science subjects in HSE.
- Students are grouped into three subject categories:
- Mathematical Sciences (30%)
- Physical Sciences (40%)
- Life Sciences (30%)
- Students in Triple-main degree courses can choose their subject category.
- Tie-breaking criteria (priority order):
- Mathematical Sciences: Marks in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, then overall marks.
- Physical Sciences: Marks in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Biology, then overall marks.
- Life Sciences: Marks in Biology, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, then overall marks.
- The Provisional Rank List (PSL) is published online in March/April.
Documents Required
- Identity proof (Aadhaar, Voter ID, etc.).
- Passport-size photograph.
- Duly signed Student Data-sheet (endorsed by the Head of Institution).
- Self-attested copy of HSE Marksheet.
- Community Certificate (for SC/ST applicants).
- Proof of Kerala origin.
- Signed Terms & Conditions document.
- E-payment form (for fund transfer).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the objective of the Prathibha Scholarship Programme?
The scholarship aims to motivate bright students in Kerala to pursue higher education and careers in Basic/Natural Sciences.
Q: How many years is the scholarship valid?
The scholarship is applicable for a maximum of five years (UG + PG).
Q: How much financial assistance is provided?
- UG (3 years): ₹12,000 – ₹24,000 per year
- PG (2 years): ₹40,000 – ₹60,000 per year
Q: Is this scheme only for Kerala residents?
Yes, only students from Kerala are eligible.
Q: Is the scholarship renewable for PG studies?
Yes, if the student completes UG with at least 75% marks.
Q: Is there a reservation for SC/ST students?
Yes, 10% of scholarships are reserved for SC/ST students.
Q: How many students are selected for the IISER summer programme?
Eight students (two from Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics).
Q: When can students apply?
Applications open after HSE results and close before UG admissions end.
Q: How can I apply for the scholarship?
Visit the Prathibha Scholarship Web Portal and complete online registration.
Sources & References
Official Website
Scheme Guidelines
Terms & Conditions
Confirmation Data Sheet
Instruction for Scholarship Renewal
Instruction for Continuation of Scholarship
Login Portal