The Kotak Junior Scholarship Program 2025 – 26 is an inspiring initiative by the Kotak Education Foundation (KEF), the CSR arm of the Kotak Mahindra Group. This annual scholarship supports high-achieving students in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), providing financial aid and mentorship during Classes 11 and 12. With a holistic focus on education and livelihood, the program supports bright minds who seek to continue their academic and career journey but may face financial constraints.
Objective of the Scholarship
The goals of the program are multifaceted:
- Encourage academic excellence among underprivileged students in Mumbai’s high school system.
- Reduce dropout rates after Class 10 by offsetting financial pressure.
- Offer structured mentorship, academic coaching, and exposure to various career pathways.
- Empower students from diverse backgrounds to complete secondary education and unlock future opportunities.
Scholarship Overview
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Kotak Junior Scholarship Program 2025–26 |
| Launched by | Kotak Education Foundation (KEF) |
| Who It’s For | Class 10 pass-outs entering Class 11 in MMR |
| Streams Covered | Arts, Commerce, Science |
| Location Eligibility | Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) |
| Required Class 10 Score | 85% or above (SSC/CBSE/ICSE) |
| Family Income Cap | ₹3,20,000 per annum |
| Duration | Two academic years: Class 11 & 12 |
| Award Amount | ₹3,500 per month × 21 months = ₹73,500 |
| Additional Benefits | Mentorship, academic support, career guidance, exposure visits |
| Application Deadline | 7 July 2025 |
| Mode of Application | Online |
| Apply Here | www.b4s.in/xmes/KJSP3 |
Who Is Eligible?
1. Academic Excellence
Applicants must have scored a minimum of 85% overall in their Class 10 board exams (SSC/CBSE/ICSE) held in 2025. This ensures selection of high-performing students who are likely to benefit most from continued guidance and support.
2. Residential and Educational Criteria
Eligible students must have:
- Secured admission into Class 11 (Arts, Commerce or Science stream) for the 2025–26 academic year.
- Current residence and school admission within the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR).
The MMR includes:
- Mumbai City & Suburban including Navi Mumbai
- Thane, Kalyan, Dombivli, Ulhasnagar, Bhiwandi, Ambernath, Badlapur, Murbad, Shahapur
- Vasai, Virar, Palghar
- Raigad District (Panvel, Uran, Karjat, Khalapur, Pen, Alibag)
- Mira-Bhayandar & Navi Mumbai Municipal areas
3. Financial Condition
The total family income from all sources must not exceed ₹3,20,000 per annum. This criterion ensures support is directed to families facing financial challenges.
4. Exclusions
- Applicants whose parents or guardians are employees of the Kotak Education Foundation or Buddy4Study are not eligible.
- Applicants must be entering Class 11 for the first time; repeaters or lateral entrants are not considered.
Scholarship Benefits
Financial Support
Selected scholars will receive ₹3,500 every month for 21 months, spanning the duration of Classes 11 and 12. The total scholarship amount granted per student is ₹73,500, disbursed regularly to ensure continuous support through critical academic years.
Mentorship & Career Guidance
The program goes beyond financial aid:
- One-on-one mentorship is provided by KEF team members and corporate mentors.
- Academic coaching helps strengthen subject fundamentals and exam strategies.
- Career guidance sessions introduce scholars to diverse pathways including higher education, skill-based diplomas, and vocational training.
- Exposure visits to universities, industries, and workplace environments broaden students’ horizons and offer real-world context to academic concepts.
Application Timeline
- Applications open now for eligible students
- Deadline: 7 July 2025 – applicants should apply early to avoid last-minute complications
- Scholarship disbursement begins by August 2025 after final selection of recipients
How to Apply
Candidates must complete the application process online. Follow these steps:
- Visit www.b4s.in/xmes/KJSP3 and click “Apply Now” to begin registration.
- Provide personal details including name, address, contact information.
- Enter academic information including board exam scores and school details.
- Confirm admission into a Class 11 institution within the MMR.
- Upload scanned copies of supporting documents.
- Submit the application and save the confirmation reference for future correspondence.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and upload clear copies of the following:
- Class 10 board exam mark sheet (showing marks ≥85%)
- Admission confirmation or provisional letter for Class 11 (2025–26 batch)
- Income proof certificate from a gazetted officer or competent authority (for ≤₹3,20,000 annual income)
- Photo Identity (e.g., Aadhaar) and proof of residence (e.g., utility bill, ration card)
- Passport-size photograph
- Declaration of non-employment with Kotak Education Foundation or Buddy4Study
Selection Process
Initial Shortlisting
- Online applications are assessed for completeness and eligibility, especially academic score, admission status, income, and MMR residency.
Document Verification
- The KEF team verifies uploaded documents and may request originals during later stages.
Assessment and Interview
- Shortlisted candidates may be invited for telephonic interviews or written assessments to gauge:
- Subject knowledge and academic readiness
- Financial need and personal motivation
- Commitment to continued education and willingness to engage with mentorship
Final Selection
- Successful candidates receive an official nomination letter and begin receiving monthly scholarship funds from August 2025 onwards.
Why the Program Matters
The Class 11 and 12 years are pivotal in shaping a student’s academic and career trajectory. Rigorous subjects, board exams, and career decisions can overwhelm even capable students in financially constrained families. The Kotak Junior Scholarship supports them in two critical ways:
- Reduces Financial Stress – Monthly scholarship installments ensure that students, from marginalized backgrounds, can continue education without interruption.
- Promotes Academic Resilience – Through mentoring and support, students stay motivated with a long-term vision for future success.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Missing the application deadline (7 July 2025)
- Applying without verified Class 11 admission
- Submitting unclear/blurred documents
- Ineligibility due to high family income or MMR location outside defined zones
- Exclusion if parents/guardians are KEF or Buddy4Study staff
FAQs
Q1: Can students applying for repeat Class 11 admissions apply?
A1: No. The scholarship is only for students entering Class 11 for the first time in the 2025–26 academic year.
Q2: Are students from outside Mumbai but attending online schools eligible?
A2: No. Both residence and school admission must be within the specified MMR boundaries.
Q3: Is hostel accommodation supported?
A3: No. Accommodation costs are not covered. The scholarship is disbursed directly to students’ bank accounts.
Q4: Is the ₹3,500 monthly award taxable?
A4: No. Scholarship funds granted for study purposes are generally non-taxable as per Indian Income Tax rules.
Q5: Can beneficiaries receive other scholarships simultaneously?
A5: Yes, as long as those scholarships do not cover the same duration or expenses covered here. Multiple grants can be accepted if there is no overlap.
Q6: What if I miss July 7 form submission?
A6: The portal may close or reject late entries. Contact KEF early if you have technical issues before the deadline.
Conclusion
The Kotak Junior Scholarship Program 2025–26 is an exemplary model of educational empowerment, focusing on youth transitioning to higher secondary education in MMR. By nurturing students with academic promise and financial need, it plays a vital role in shaping well-rounded individuals who can aspire higher, beyond Class 12.
If you are a Class 10 board topper (85%+), from low-income background (≤₹3.2 lakh p.a.), and beginning Class 11 in the MMR, don’t miss out on this outstanding opportunity. Apply by 7 July 2025 and secure both financial support and career-building mentorship.
Apply Now: www.b4s.in/xmes/KJSP3
