Top Scholarships for MBBS Aspirants in 2025: Financial Aid Opportunities on National Doctors’ Day

National Doctors’ Day 2025 is more than a tribute to the medical fraternity—it’s a reminder of the dreams and struggles of thousands of aspiring doctors in India. This year, nearly 23 lakh students registered for NEET-UG 2025, hoping to secure a seat in medical colleges across the country. Many of these students come from financially disadvantaged backgrounds, yet they compete with relentless dedication.

The government, NGOs, and private institutions have stepped up to ease their financial challenges by offering scholarships tailored for MBBS aspirants. These scholarships help cover tuition fees and assist with living expenses, books, and more—making medical education more inclusive and accessible.

Here is a detailed look at the top scholarships available to MBBS aspirants in 2025.

1. Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Protsahan Yojana (PM-USP CSSS)

A flagship initiative by the Ministry of Education, Government of India, the PM-USP CSSS aims to support meritorious students from economically weaker sections by helping cover everyday academic expenses.

Eligibility:

• Awarded based on Higher Secondary/Class 12 board exam results.
• Open to students pursuing graduate or postgraduate degrees in general or professional fields, including MBBS.
• Prioritises students from SC/ST, OBC, minority communities, and EWS, as per the Central Reservation Policy.

Application Process:

• All fresh and renew applications must be submitted via the National Scholarships Portal at scholarships.gov.in.
• Required documents and credentials are verified using DigiLocker.

Scholarship Disbursement:

• Funds are transferred directly to beneficiaries' bank accounts via DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer).
• The amount varies depending on course duration and level.

2. ONGC Scholarship Scheme

Managed by the ONGC Foundation, this scholarship supports students from SC/ST, OBC, and EWS categories pursuing professional courses such as MBBS, Engineering, MBA, Geology, and Geophysics.

Eligibility:

• Open to students in their first year of MBBS, Engineering, MBA, or Geology/Geophysics.
• Explicitly reserved for SC/ST, OBC, and General-EWS candidates.
• Students must be studying in UGC-recognised institutes.

Scholarship Amount:

• Under the 2019-20 batch, 500 OBC students were awarded ₹48,000 annually.
• Scholarship amounts may vary year-to-year, but generally cover tuition and basic academic expenses.

3. All India Pre-Medical Scholarship Test (AIPMST - Secondary)

The AIPMST (Secondary) is a pre-medical scholarship test for students seeking admission into MBBS, BDS, BAMS, BHMS, and BUMS courses. Students can qualify for scholarships covering tuition fees or receive electronic devices like laptops based on performance in this entrance test.

Scholarship Tiers:

• Section A: Top 1,000 students scoring ≥90% receive 2-year tuition fee coverage.
• Section B: Next 5,000 students with scores between 80%–90% get 1-year tuition fee coverage.
• Section C: 10,000 students scoring between 70%–80% receive a standard laptop.
• Section D: Students scoring below 70% are also awarded a standard laptop.

Additionally, students not eligible for MBBS or equivalent courses can apply under the AIPMST Primary stream for admission and scholarship support in health sciences programs offered by participating colleges.

4. Vidyavridhi Medical Scholarship by Yashoda Foundation

A targeted initiative by the Yashoda Hospitals Group, the Vidyavridhi Medical Scholarship aims to empower financially challenged MBBS students in Hyderabad.

Key Features:

• Covers tuition fees and provides financial support ranging from ₹10,000 to ₹50,000 annually.
• Scholarship is awarded for four academic years.
• Open to ten new students annually, with the option to renew annually.

Application Process:

• Candidates must complete an online New Student Registration Form.
• To demonstrate need and merit, you must submit academic records, family income certificates, and other personal details.

Why These Scholarships Matter

In a country where medical education can cost anywhere between ₹10 to ₹80 lakh in private institutions, these scholarships serve as lifelines for students with talent but limited financial resources. With the right academic performance, students can enter prestigious medical colleges and graduate without the overwhelming burden of debt.

By recognising these initiatives on National Doctors’ Day 2025, we acknowledge the doctors who serve society and the future doctors who need our support to get there.

How to Maximise Your Chances

If you're an MBBS aspirant or a parent of one, here’s what you can do:

• Stay updated with official websites like scholarships.gov.in and respective scholarship portals.
• Prepare and organise necessary documents—income certificates, caste certificates, and academic scorecards.
• Apply early and track application status regularly.
• Don’t limit yourself to one scholarship—apply for all that you’re eligible for.

Conclusion

National Doctors’ Day is not just about celebrating established professionals but also about enabling the dreams of aspiring medical students. Financial hurdles can be overcome with the availability of scholarships like PM-USP CSSS, ONGC Foundation Scholarship, AIPMST, and Vidyavridhi. Every deserving student should be allowed to pursue medicine—these programs make that goal more attainable.