New Delhi, November 2025
The prestigious Young India Fellowship (YIF) — a one-year, fully residential postgraduate program in Liberal Studies at Ashoka University — has officially opened scholarship applications for the 2026–27 academic session. The fellowship is known for attracting some of the brightest young minds across India and preparing them for leadership, research, public policy, entrepreneurship, social impact, and diverse career pathways.
What is the Young India Fellowship?
The YIF is a multidisciplinary program designed for recent graduates and early-career professionals who wish to:
- Explore diverse academic disciplines
- Build strong analytical, communication, and leadership skills
- Learn from distinguished faculty and global educators
- Join a vibrant community of scholars, thinkers, and innovators
The fellowship emphasizes broad-based education, critical thinking, and collaborative learning — enabling students to develop both intellectual depth and professional readiness.
Scholarship Opportunities
Ashoka University is offering need-based financial aid and full/partial scholarships for eligible candidates applying to the 2026–27 cycle. Scholarships may cover:
- Tuition fees
- Residence and meal costs
- Additional financial support (depending on the need assessment)
The fellowship remains committed to ensuring that financial constraints do not limit deserving students from joining the program.
Who Can Apply?
The YIF welcomes applications from individuals who are:
- Final-year undergraduate students OR recent graduates
- Aged typically between 21–28 years
- From any academic background — sciences, arts, commerce, engineering, law, or professional courses
- Passionate about learning, problem-solving, and social impact
Work experience is not mandatory, but applicants with internships or professional exposure are also encouraged to apply.
Selection Process
The YIF selection procedure is known for its holistic approach and includes:
- Online Application Submission
- Essay Responses & Statement of Purpose
- Telephonic/Online Assessment
- Personal Interview Round
Candidates are evaluated on academic curiosity, leadership potential, communication skills, and overall fit with the program’s values.
Program Highlights
- One-year fully residential program
- Courses taught by globally renowned faculty
- Experiential learning through the Experiential Learning Module (ELM)
- Strong peer-learning environment
- Access to Ashoka University’s academic resources
- Lifelong membership in the Ashoka Alumni Network
How to Apply
Interested candidates can apply for the scholarship and admission through the official Ashoka University portal. Applicants must fill in personal details, upload academic documents, submit essays, and complete the scholarship section as part of the application.
Why YIF Matters
Over the years, the Young India Fellowship has shaped thousands of leaders across fields such as:
- Public policy and governance
- Social entrepreneurship
- Corporate leadership
- Journalism and media
- Research and academia
- Development sector
The fellowship empowers students to think deeply, act ethically, and lead with empathy — qualities essential for shaping India’s future.
Disclaimer:
This article is intended solely for informational and educational purposes. Applicants should visit the official Ashoka University website for the latest details on eligibility, deadlines, and scholarship requirements.
