The Women Scientist Scheme-A (WOS-A) is a research grant initiative by the Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST) aimed at female candidates who wish to pursue research in science and engineering. The scheme is specifically designed for women who have had a career break of at least two years and do not hold regular employment, providing them an opportunity to re-enter the scientific profession.
This scheme supports well-defined research projects for a maximum period of three years and covers fellowships, small equipment, contingencies, travel, and consumables. It is available in five scientific disciplines:
- Physical & Mathematical Sciences (PMS)
- Chemical Sciences (CS)
- Life Sciences (LS)
- Earth & Atmospheric Sciences (EAS)
- Engineering Technology (ET)
The scheme plays a crucial role in gender mainstreaming by preventing the brain drain of women in STEM and helping them regain their professional footing.
Benefits
- ₹55,000 per month + HRA for Ph.D. or equivalent (Total project cost: Up to ₹30 lakh)
- ₹40,000 per month + HRA for M.Phil./M.Tech. or equivalent (Total project cost: Up to ₹25 lakh)
- ₹31,000 per month + HRA for M.Sc. or equivalent (Total project cost: Up to ₹20 lakh)
- Covers small equipment, contingencies, travel, consumables, etc.
- The benefits are provided for a maximum period of three years.
- Payment of the fellowship will be made through DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer).
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a female applicant.
- Must be unemployed or working in a non-regular/non-permanent position.
- Age limit: 27 to 57 years (5-year relaxation for SC/ST/OBC/Physically Challenged candidates).
- Minimum essential qualification:
- M.Sc. in Basic or Applied Sciences, B.Tech., MBBS, or other equivalent professional qualifications.
- M.Phil./M.Tech./M.Pharm./M.VSc. or equivalent qualifications.
- Ph.D. in Basic or Applied Sciences.
Exclusions
- Women in permanent positions are not eligible to apply.
Application Process
Online Application:
- Register on the WOS-A online portal: https://online-wosa.gov.in/wosa/ using an active email ID.
- After registration, a confirmation email with login credentials will be sent.
- Log in to the portal and fill out the Project Proposal Document (PPD) under WOS-A.
- Upload the required documents in the prescribed format.
- Preview the application before submission, as editing is not allowed post-submission.
- Click “Final Submit” to complete the process.
- There is no need to submit a hard copy of the application to DST.
Documents Required
- Project Proposal Document (Refer to the official format).
- Biodata of PI (Principal Investigator) – Signed.
- Mentor’s Biodata – Signed.
- Caste Certificate (if applicable for SC/ST/OBC/PH).
- Date of Birth Certificate (10th class certificate).
- Recent Photograph of PI.
- Signature of PI.
- Highest Degree Certificate.
- House Rent Allowance (if eligible) (Refer to the official format).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is there a validity period for the scheme benefits?
The scheme provides funding for a maximum of three years.
Q: Are contingencies covered under the research grant?
Yes, contingencies, travel, consumables, and small equipment are covered under the grant.
Q: What is the mode of payment of the scholarship?
The payment is made through DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer).
Q: Are temporary/contractual assignments considered a break in career?
Yes, temporary/contractual positions are considered as a career break.
Q: Will I be eligible for the scholarship if I fail to get promoted to the next semester?
No, successful academic progression is mandatory for continued support.
Q: Can I apply offline for the scholarship?
No, applications are accepted only through the online portal.
Q: Is there any application fee?
No, there is no application fee for this scheme.
Q: Which scientific disciplines are covered under this grant?
The scheme supports Physical & Mathematical Sciences, Chemical Sciences, Life Sciences, Earth & Atmospheric Sciences, and Engineering Technology.
Q: Is it possible to pursue a Ph.D. along with a WOS-A project?
No, the WOS-A project is a full-time research commitment.
Q: I am 24 years old. Can I apply for the scheme?
No, the minimum age requirement is 27 years.
Q: Do I need to complete the application in one sitting?
No, you can save progress and complete the application later.
Q: What should be the type and size of the documents to be uploaded?
Refer to the official website for document format and size specifications.
Q: How do I know if a field in the application form is mandatory?
Mandatory fields are marked with an asterisk (*) in the online form.
Q: I have a query regarding the application process. Whom should I contact?
Queries can be directed to the WOS-A Helpdesk via the official website.