Introduction
Education is one of the most powerful tools for transforming lives, but for many talented students in India, financial constraints often limit access to quality education. To bridge this gap, the State Bank of India (SBI), one of India’s most trusted financial institutions, has introduced the SBI Platinum Jubilee Asha Scholarship 2025.
This scholarship aims to provide significant financial assistance of up to ₹20 lakh to meritorious students pursuing higher education across India. Whether it’s engineering, medicine, management, or other professional courses, this initiative is designed to empower young minds from economically weaker backgrounds to achieve their dreams without worrying about the financial burden.
The SBI Platinum Jubilee Asha Scholarship marks a major step by the bank in celebrating its legacy of 75 years — a platinum jubilee of service, trust, and contribution toward the nation’s progress.
About SBI Platinum Jubilee Asha Scholarship 2025
The SBI Foundation, the corporate social responsibility (CSR) arm of the State Bank of India, launched this scholarship under its flagship education support program. The scholarship is meant to commemorate 75 years of SBI’s establishment, recognizing the institution’s ongoing commitment to social development, inclusivity, and nation-building.
The Asha Scholarship symbolizes “hope,” and through this initiative, SBI seeks to bring hope to thousands of students who aspire to pursue higher studies but struggle due to lack of funds.
The main objective of the SBI Platinum Jubilee Asha Scholarship 2025 is to:
- Promote quality education among deserving students.
- Support economically disadvantaged families.
- Encourage students to pursue excellence in higher education.
- Build a skilled and educated workforce for India’s future.
Key Highlights of SBI Platinum Jubilee Asha Scholarship 2025
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | SBI Platinum Jubilee Asha Scholarship 2025 |
| Launched By | State Bank of India (SBI Foundation) |
| Purpose | Financial support to deserving students for higher education |
| Financial Assistance | Up to ₹20,00,000 (₹20 Lakh) |
| Eligible Courses | Undergraduate, Postgraduate, and Professional Courses |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Official Website | www.sbifoundation.in |
| Application Deadline | To be announced (expected by March 2025) |
Scholarship Coverage – What’s Included
The SBI Platinum Jubilee Asha Scholarship 2025 is a comprehensive financial aid package covering a wide range of educational expenses. The scholarship amount, which can go up to ₹20 lakh, will be used for:
- Tuition Fees: Full or partial reimbursement of academic fees for the entire course duration.
- Hostel/Accommodation Charges: For students studying away from home.
- Books and Learning Materials: Reimbursement for prescribed textbooks, study materials, and digital learning tools.
- Research/Project Work: Assistance for final-year projects, research work, and field visits (for postgraduate or professional students).
- Travel and Living Expenses: Partial coverage for daily commuting or living costs, especially for students from rural areas.
This ensures that students can focus on learning and development without financial stress.
Eligibility Criteria for SBI Platinum Jubilee Asha Scholarship 2025
To ensure that only deserving and needy students benefit from the scholarship, the SBI Foundation has outlined specific eligibility criteria. Applicants must meet the following requirements:
1. Nationality
- The applicant must be an Indian citizen.
2. Educational Qualification
- Must have passed Class 12 with at least 75% marks from a recognized board.
- Must be enrolled in or have received admission for an undergraduate, postgraduate, or professional course (engineering, medical, law, management, etc.) at a recognized Indian institution.
3. Family Income
- The annual family income should be less than ₹6 lakh from all sources.
- Applicants from economically weaker sections (EWS), SC/ST/OBC, or minority communities will receive preference.
4. Age Limit
- The applicant should be between 17 and 25 years as of the date of application.
5. Other Conditions
- Students already receiving full scholarships from other sources are not eligible.
- Children of SBI employees may have a separate quota but must meet all merit and income criteria.
Selection Process
The selection process for the SBI Platinum Jubilee Asha Scholarship 2025 is transparent and merit-based, combined with financial need assessment. The process includes several stages:
Step 1: Online Application
Students must submit their application through the official SBI Foundation portal with accurate personal, academic, and income details.
Step 2: Document Verification
Submitted documents, such as mark sheets, income certificates, and admission proofs, will be verified by the selection committee.
Step 3: Shortlisting
Based on academic performance and financial need, a shortlist of candidates will be prepared.
Step 4: Telephonic/Virtual Interview
Shortlisted students may be invited for a brief online interview to assess their aspirations and academic goals.
Step 5: Final Selection and Disbursement
Selected candidates will be notified via email and SMS. The scholarship amount will be disbursed directly to their bank accounts or educational institution.
Documents Required
Applicants must upload the following documents while applying online:
- Recent passport-size photograph
- Class 10 and 12 mark sheets
- Latest academic year mark sheet (if pursuing higher studies)
- Admission proof (college ID, admission letter, or fee receipt)
- Income certificate issued by a competent authority
- Proof of address and identity (Aadhaar card, voter ID, etc.)
- Bank account details (passbook copy)
- Caste certificate (if applicable)
Ensure that all documents are clear, scanned, and in PDF format before submission.
Application Process: How to Apply Online
Follow these simple steps to apply for the SBI Platinum Jubilee Asha Scholarship 2025:
Step 1: Visit the Official Portal
Go to the SBI Foundation official website: www.sbifoundation.in
Step 2: Register as a New User
- Click on the “Apply Now” or “Scholarships” tab.
- Register with your email ID and mobile number.
Step 3: Fill in the Application Form
Provide all required details such as:
- Personal information
- Educational background
- Family income details
- Course and institution information
Step 4: Upload Documents
Attach all required scanned documents in the specified format and size.
Step 5: Preview and Submit
Before submitting, double-check all details. Once verified, click Submit Application.
Step 6: Acknowledgment
After successful submission, you’ll receive a confirmation email and application number for future reference.
Important Dates (Tentative)
| Event | Date (Expected) |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Announcement | January 2025 |
| Application Start Date | February 2025 |
| Application Deadline | March 2025 |
| Document Verification | April 2025 |
| Shortlist Release | May 2025 |
| Final Selection | June 2025 |
| Scholarship Disbursement | July 2025 |
Applicants should regularly check the official website for updated timelines.
Benefits of the SBI Platinum Jubilee Asha Scholarship
The scholarship offers numerous benefits beyond financial support:
1. Financial Empowerment
Students receive up to ₹20 lakh, covering the entire cost of education, including fees, books, and living expenses.
2. Encouragement for Higher Education
It motivates students from weaker sections to pursue prestigious courses such as medicine, engineering, or management.
3. Merit-Based Recognition
SBI identifies and rewards academically excellent students, promoting a culture of meritocracy.
4. Social Impact
By supporting underprivileged students, the scheme contributes to a more equitable education system.
5. National Development
The scholarship indirectly supports nation-building by investing in the education of India’s youth — the foundation of the country’s future.
Courses Eligible for the Scholarship
The SBI Asha Scholarship covers a broad spectrum of disciplines, including:
- Engineering (B.Tech / B.E.)
- Medical (MBBS, BDS, Nursing)
- Law (LLB, Integrated BA-LLB)
- Commerce and Economics (B.Com, BBA, MBA)
- Science (B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D.)
- Arts and Humanities (BA, MA)
- Vocational and Skill Development Courses
- Professional and Technical Diplomas
Renewal of Scholarship
The scholarship is renewable every year based on the student’s performance and adherence to the program rules:
- Students must maintain at least 60% marks or equivalent GPA each academic year.
- They must submit progress reports annually to continue receiving support.
- If the student fails or discontinues the course, the scholarship may be revoked.
SBI’s Vision Behind the Scholarship
The State Bank of India has always been at the forefront of community development. With this scholarship, SBI aims to:
- Empower financially weak students through long-term educational support.
- Build a skilled, knowledgeable, and confident youth population ready for global opportunities.
- Promote the idea that education is a right, not a privilege.
- Strengthen its CSR vision of “Empowering Communities, Promoting Education, and Creating Opportunities.”
This initiative reflects SBI’s commitment not only to banking but to the overall progress of Indian society.
Why SBI Asha Scholarship Stands Out
While several educational grants and scholarships are available in India, the SBI Platinum Jubilee Asha Scholarship stands apart for several reasons:
- High Financial Support: Up to ₹20 lakh is rare among private and CSR scholarships.
- Comprehensive Coverage: It covers tuition, living, and research expenses.
- Merit-Cum-Need Basis: Balances academic excellence with financial need.
- National Reach: Open to students from all states and union territories.
- Transparent Process: Digital application and fair selection mechanism ensure equal opportunity.
Impact on Students and Society
Over the years, SBI Foundation’s educational initiatives have transformed countless lives. The 2025 Asha Scholarship continues this legacy by:
- Helping students from small towns and villages attend reputed institutions.
- Reducing dropout rates due to financial difficulties.
- Encouraging diversity and inclusivity in higher education.
- Creating future leaders who can contribute to India’s growth story.
Many beneficiaries of SBI’s earlier scholarships have gone on to become doctors, engineers, researchers, and entrepreneurs — showing the ripple effect of education-driven empowerment.
Tips for a Successful Application
To increase your chances of selection:
- Maintain Good Academic Performance: High grades strengthen your application.
- Provide Accurate Income Details: Ensure your income proof is authentic.
- Prepare a Strong Personal Statement: Write about your goals, challenges, and aspirations.
- Submit All Documents Clearly: Avoid blurry or incomplete uploads.
- Apply Early: Don’t wait until the deadline — early applicants are often prioritized.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply for the SBI Platinum Jubilee Asha Scholarship 2025?
Students pursuing higher education in India with an annual family income below ₹6 lakh can apply.
2. How much financial assistance is provided?
The scholarship offers up to ₹20 lakh, depending on the course and institution.
3. Is it open for all courses?
Yes, the scholarship covers undergraduate, postgraduate, and professional courses across disciplines.
4. Can I apply if I am already receiving another scholarship?
You can apply if the other scholarship does not cover your full educational expenses.
5. Is there an interview process?
Yes, shortlisted candidates may be called for a virtual interview.
6. How will I receive the scholarship amount?
Funds will be transferred directly to your or your institution’s bank account.
7. Is there any quota for reserved categories?
Yes, special consideration is given to SC/ST/OBC and minority students.
8. What is the deadline for application?
The deadline is expected around March 2025, but students should check the official website for updates.
The SBI Platinum Jubilee Asha Scholarship 2025 stands as a beacon of hope for thousands of deserving students across India. By offering financial aid of up to ₹20 lakh, this scholarship ensures that no dream is left unfulfilled due to financial hardship.
Through this initiative, the State Bank of India not only celebrates its 75 years of service but also reinforces its dedication to building a brighter, more educated future for India. Students aspiring to achieve excellence in their academic journey should seize this opportunity and apply as soon as possible.
Official Link to Apply
Apply Online: www.sbifoundation.in
Helpline: scholarship@sbifoundation.in
Support Number: 1800-11-2211 (Toll-Free)