Ashoka University has opened applications for its popular Young India Fellowship (YIF) for the upcoming Class of 2026-27. A big change this year is that all students selected for this batch will receive scholarships. The fellowship will now also offer an official Postgraduate Diploma in Interdisciplinary Studies .
Students who want to apply for this one-year program should note the important deadlines. The priority deadline for the first round of applications is December 8, 2025 . The final deadline for the first round is January 19, 2026 . Applying early might be helpful.
Key Dates for Young India Fellowship 2026-27
Here are the important dates for the first round of applications:
| Application Stage | Date |
| First Round Priority Deadline | December 8, 2025 |
| First Round Final Deadline | January 19, 2026 |
The Young India Fellowship is a residential program, meaning students live on campus for the entire year. It brings together talented students from many different backgrounds. The program aims to give them broad knowledge, new ways of thinking, and leadership tools. This helps them understand and solve major problems in the world, working towards making it better.
Scholarships for All Selected Fellows
Ashoka University wants to make the YIF program open to more bright students. Because of this, with help from HDFC Bank, every student chosen for the Class of 2026-27 will get a scholarship. This financial support covers parts of the program fees.
The scholarships can cover from 25% to 100% of the costs. These costs include tuition fees, living on campus (residence), and meals. Some students may also get extra money called stipends if they need more financial help.
For students who show outstanding potential, there is a special Chancellor’s Scholarship . About 10 exceptional candidates will receive this award. It covers their full tuition fees and residence costs. This scholarship is given to those who demonstrate excellent abilities and promise.
New Postgraduate Diploma
Previously, YIF was a fellowship. Now, students who complete the program will earn a Postgraduate Diploma in Interdisciplinary Studies . "Interdisciplinary" means that students will study many different subjects together. This can include arts, sciences, humanities, and social sciences. This approach helps students connect ideas from various fields and think more broadly. This new diploma makes the learning experience more formal and officially recognised.
Who Can Apply?
The Young India Fellowship welcomes a diverse group of applicants. Key requirements are:
- Applicants must have a recognised undergraduate degree in any subject.
- This degree must be completed by July 2026 or earlier.
- Students who are currently in their final year of college can also apply.
- There is no age limit for applicants.
- Students of all nationalities, from different academic, professional, geographical, and economic backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
Ashoka University plans to admit around 100 Fellows into the Class of 2026-27.
Application Process
The application process for the Young India Fellowship is simple. All interested students need to fill out an online application form. There is no fee to apply.
Leaders at Ashoka University spoke about the YIF. Pramath Raj Sinha, Founder and Chairperson, Board of Trustees, said YIF holds a special place as it started the university. He said it represents the best of Ashoka. Somak Raychaudhury, Vice Chancellor, noted that YIF has successfully created leaders. Many alumni are now doing well in their fields across the world.
In the previous batch, Class of 2025-26, the university provided significant support:
- 59% of Fellows received full tuition waivers or more.
- 32% received full funding, covering tuition, residence, and meals.
- 24% of those fully funded also got extra financial support.
- 17 Fellows were awarded the Chancellor’s Scholarship.
