Shardashish Interschool Fellowship: Eligibility, Deadline & How to Apply

Dreaming of a master's degree at an Ivy League institution but concerned about the cost? The Shardashish Interschool Fellowship is a prestigious award designed specifically for talented students, with a strong preference for those from India, who have a clear vision to drive change and development in their home country.

Funded by the generous support of the UNM Foundation, which is committed to expanding educational opportunities in India, this fellowship aims to make a world-class education at Columbia University accessible. It is a transformative opportunity for bright individuals who face economic barriers, with the expectation that fellows will maximize their learning and later pay it forward to enable others.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through every essential detail of the Shardashish Fellowship. We will detail the eligible courses, the generous financial benefits, the strict eligibility criteria, and the integrated application process. Let this be your first step toward an Ivy League education.

This fellowship is exclusively for specific graduate programs within three schools at Columbia University in New York, USA. It is not applicable to any other universities or countries. Your choice of program is the primary determinant of eligibility.

Shardashish Interschool Fellowship Amount & Awards

The fellowship provides significant financial support based on your demonstrated need, with a maximum award of $50,000 USD (approx. INR 41.5 Lakhs) for one year. This grant is designed to reduce the economic burden of studying at an elite US institution and is an investment in future leaders committed to India's progress.

Awardees become part of a selective community of Shardashish fellows and the vast Columbia University network.

Shardashish Interschool Fellowship Benefits

Winning this fellowship provides more than just financial aid; it connects you to a powerful network and allows you to focus entirely on your studies and professional growth.

The primary eligibility requirement is a demonstrated commitment to India and its future development, coupled with genuine financial need. The fellowship has a strong preference for current residents of India. The criteria are specific and must be met in full.

Countries Eligible for the Shardashish Interschool Fellowship

This fellowship is unique in its geographic focus. While it is open to all nationalities, it has a clear and stated primary preference for applicants from one country.

The application process is integrated directly with your program application to Columbia University. There is no separate scholarship portal.

Apply for Admission: Complete and submit your application for an eligible master's program through the official Columbia University application portal.

Indicate Interest: Within the application portal, indicate your interest in being considered for the Shardashish Interschool Fellowship.

Submit Fellowship Materials: Upload all required fellowship-specific documents, including your statement of interest and financial need form, to your application portal.

Await Review: Your application for admission and for the fellowship will be reviewed by the respective school's committee.

Receive Notification: Fellowship decisions are communicated along with or after the admission decision.

Application Timeline for Shardashish Interschool Fellowship

Deadlines are strict and vary by the school you are applying to within Columbia University. It is crucial to know the correct date for your specific program.

Shardashish Interschool Fellowship Interview

The official sources do not mention a mandatory interview process for this fellowship. The selection is based primarily on the strength of your written application, supporting documents, and demonstrated financial need.

Your 1000-word statement of interest is your primary tool to make an impression. Focus on crafting a compelling and genuine narrative about your commitment to India.

From the Desk of Yocket

Securing a fellowship as prestigious and specific as the Shardashish award requires a flawless and compelling application that highlights your unique story, academic excellence, and unwavering commitment to India's development. With Yocket Premium, you gain access to experts who can help you strategize your application, refine your powerful 1000-word statement, and navigate the intricate financial need assessment.

Our personalized guidance can help you stand out in the highly competitive pool of applicants and maximize your chances of receiving this life-changing funding for your Ivy League journey.

Demonstrated financial need

Preference to residents of India 

Must have applied and been admitted to one of the specific Columbia University schools and programs

The application requires several documents that showcase your profile, goals, and financial need. The most important is a 1000-word statement of interest.

• Completed online application form via Columbia's portal.
• Academic transcripts and proof of degree completion.
• A 1000-word statement of interest explaining your commitment to India.
• List of up to three professional activities demonstrating your commitment to India's development.
• Statement of residence in India (if applicable).
• Completed financial need assessment form.
• Optional supporting materials (e.g., writing sample, extra letter of support).

Other Top Scholarships for Indian Students to Study Abroad