The STEM Scholars: Shaping the Next Generation of Innovators program is a powerful initiative created in collaboration with the Nasscom Foundation and supported by the CSR arm of Optum. This scholarship aims to support talented students from underrepresented and financially challenged backgrounds who aspire to build careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, Pharmacy, and Life Sciences.

The program not only offers financial assistance but also provides mentorship, academic motivation, and future career growth opportunities. Through this initiative, students gain the confidence, knowledge, and support needed to excel in STEM education and contribute to the country’s innovation ecosystem.

Overview Table: STEM Scholarship Program

Category	Details
Program Name	STEM Scholars: Shaping the Next Generation of Innovators
Supported By	Optum CSR Initiative
In Collaboration With	Nasscom Foundation
Eligible Courses	B.E./B.Tech, Pharmacy, Life Sciences, Integrated Engineering Programs
Eligible Years	3rd & 4th year of UG, 4th & 5th year of integrated programs
Eligible Locations	Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad
Scholarship Amount	INR 30,000
Annual Income Limit	Up to INR 8 lakh
Minimum Class 12 Marks	65%
Application Deadline	26 December 2025

About the Program

The STEM Scholars program is designed to empower students who dream of a strong career in STEM fields but face financial or social challenges. It recognizes that many capable students lack opportunities due to limited resources. Therefore, the program supports them through:

• Financial assistance for tuition, accommodation, and study materials
• Merit-based selection for deserving candidates
• Mentorship and career guidance opportunities
• Internship and future employment pathways

The program is open to students studying in government and private colleges across Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the STEM Scholars program, candidates must meet the following requirements:

Academic Eligibility

• Students must be in the 3rd or 4th year of B.E./B.Tech in Computer Science, Pharmacy, or Life Sciences.
• Students enrolled in 5-year integrated engineering programs (like B.Tech + M.Tech or B.E. + M.E.) can apply if they are in their 4th or 5th year.

Geographic Eligibility

• Applicants must be studying in educational institutions located in Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, or Hyderabad.

Social and Economic Eligibility

• Preference will be given to SC, ST, OBC, PwD, single-parent, orphan, and girl students.
• Annual family income must be up to INR 8 lakh.
• Minimum score required in Class 12 is 65%.
• Children of employees, partners, or donors of the program are not eligible.

Benefits of the STEM Scholars Program

Selected students receive a scholarship of INR 30,000 to support their education. This financial support helps cover:

• Tuition fees
• Living expenses
• Study materials and resources

The scholarship also provides non-financial benefits, such as:

• Mentorship from experienced industry professionals
• Opportunity to build academic excellence
• Exposure to internship possibilities
• Access to a larger learning community

These benefits help students strengthen their STEM skills, improve academic performance, and prepare for future career opportunities.

Operations Analyst

Required Documents

Applicants need to upload the following documents:

• Passport-size photograph
• Admission proof or college ID
• Class 12th marksheet
• Previous academic marksheet
• Address proof
• Identity proof
• Annual family income certificate
• Bank passbook
• Caste certificate (if applicable)
• Death certificate (if applying under single-parent/orphan category)

How to Apply

Students can apply through the official portal of Buddy4Study by following these steps:

1. Click on the “Apply Now” button on the program page.
2. Log in using your registered email or mobile number.
3. If not registered, create an account using email, mobile, or Google ID.
4. Open the “STEM Scholars: Shaping the Next Generation of Innovators” application form.
5. Click on “Start Application”.
6. Fill all required details carefully.
7. Upload all relevant documents.
8. Accept the terms and conditions.
9. Preview the form.
10. Submit the application if all information is correct.

Applications must be submitted before 26 December 2025.

Conclusion

The STEM Scholars: Shaping the Next Generation of Innovators program is a remarkable initiative that helps deserving students overcome financial and social challenges to pursue STEM careers. With strong support from the Nasscom Foundation and Optum's CSR initiative, the program provides financial assistance, mentorship, and long-term career benefits. Students studying in key STEM fields across major Indian cities have a valuable opportunity to grow academically and professionally. By supporting the next generation of innovators, the program contributes to building a stronger and more capable workforce for India’s future.