The Research Fellowship in Sciences for Meritorious Students (RFSMS) is a scheme under the University Grants Commission (UGC) aimed at providing financial support to meritorious students pursuing Ph.D. in Science at select universities. The scheme is open to candidates registered for Ph.D. in Science at institutions recognized as Universities with Potential for Excellence (UPE), Centres with Potential for Excellence (CPE), Centres of Advance Studies (CAS), and Departments of Special Assistance (DSA) identified by the UGC.
Objectives
- Provide financial assistance to meritorious students pursuing Ph.D. in Science disciplines.
- Encourage advanced research and innovation in scientific fields.
- Support the academic excellence of research students in premier institutions.
Benefits
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Fellowship | ₹8,000/- per month |
| Contingency Grant | ₹6,000/- per annum |
| Initial Fellowship Tenure | 2 years |
| Extension Criteria | Based on research progress, extendable for 3 more years |
| Total Fellowship Duration | Maximum of 5 years (No further extension) |
Financial support for Ph.D. research.
Opportunity for women researchers to avail maternity leave.
Encouragement for students to continue their research work uninterrupted.
Leave Provisions
- Research Fellows are eligible for 30 days leave per year in addition to public holidays.
- Maternity leave of 135 days at full fellowship rates is available once during the tenure.
- Special leave (without fellowship) for up to 1 academic year for temporary teaching assignments in the same city.
- Additional leave (without fellowship) up to 3 months, recommended by the Supervisor and Institution.
Eligibility Criteria
- Nationality: Open to Indian nationals only.
- Educational Qualification:
- Candidates must be registered for a Ph.D. in Science disciplines.
- The Ph.D. must be pursued at recognized universities/institutions under:
- Universities with Potential for Excellence (UPE).
- Centres with Potential for Excellence (CPE).
- Centres of Advance Studies (CAS).
- Departments of Special Assistance (DSA) identified by UGC.
- Age Limit: No specific age limit, but candidates must meet the university’s Ph.D. enrollment criteria.
Exclusions
The fellowship is liable for cancellation in the following cases:
- Misconduct or disciplinary action against the candidate.
- Unsatisfactory progress of research work or failure in Ph.D. examinations.
- If the candidate fails to meet eligibility criteria at any stage.
Application Process
Offline Application Submission
- Download the Application Form:
- The application form is available in the scheme guidelines (obtainable from the respective institution or UGC).
- Fill in Required Details:
- Provide personal details, academic qualifications, and research information.
- Attach Supporting Documents (See Documents Required section below).
- Submit the Completed Application to the respective university/institution.
Selection Process
- Selection by the University
- The university will shortlist eligible Research Fellows through an interview process conducted by a Selection Committee.
- Selection Committee Members:
- Eminent Scientist (Nominated by Vice-Chancellor).
- Head of the Department.
- One Professor and One Reader from the department (Nominated by Vice-Chancellor).
- Two External Experts (Nominated by Vice-Chancellor).
- Final Approval by UGC
- The university forwards the selected candidates’ details to UGC for final approval.
- Award & Fellowship Disbursement
- UGC releases the first installment of the fellowship to the university.
- Universities disburse the fellowship amount to selected candidates via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
Procedure for Release of Grant
- First Installment
- UGC releases the first-year grant in a lump sum upon receiving:
- Candidate’s Name & Bio-data.
- Joining Report from the university.
- UGC releases the first-year grant in a lump sum upon receiving:
- Subsequent Installments
- The university submits a Utilization Certificate (UC) and Statement of Expenditure (SoE) for the previous installment.
- Upon verification, UGC releases the next installment.
Documents Required
- Proof of Identity (Aadhaar Card/PAN Card).
- Proof of Address (Passport/Voter ID/Ration Card).
- Date of Birth Certificate.
- Educational Qualification Certificates (B.Sc., M.Sc., and Ph.D. enrollment proof).
- Proof of Registration for Ph.D. in Science subjects at UGC-recognized universities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Does the submission of an application form guarantee the award of a fellowship?
No, submission does not guarantee selection. The university will shortlist candidates based on merit and research potential.
Q: What happens if a candidate submits false or incomplete information?
Providing incorrect information will lead to immediate cancellation of the fellowship.
Q: What is “Aadhaar Seeding”?
It refers to linking an applicant’s Aadhaar number with their bank account for direct transfer of funds.
Q: What is the mode of payment for the fellowship?
The amount is disbursed via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) into the candidate’s bank account.
Q: Is there an application fee?
No, there is no application fee for this fellowship.
Q: Can I edit my application after submission?
No, after submission, no changes can be made. Ensure that all details are correct before submitting.
Q: Who should I contact for doubts regarding the fellowship?
Applicants should contact their university’s fellowship office or the UGC’s official helpdesk.