Kotak Junior Scholarship Program 2025–26
The Kotak Junior Scholarship Program 2025–26, an initiative by the Kotak Education Foundation (KEF)—the CSR arm of Kotak Mahindra Group—is designed to support academically meritorious but financially underprivileged students from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). This program provides financial assistance, mentorship, academic support, and exposure opportunities to Class 11 students to help them build a strong foundation for future success.
Purpose of the Scholarship
Higher secondary education (Class 11 and 12) plays a critical role in shaping students’ careers. Recognizing this, KEF has created a program that goes beyond financial help. It offers holistic support including career counseling, skill-building, and academic mentorship, thus ensuring deserving students don’t drop out due to financial stress.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Kotak Junior Scholarship 2025–26, students must meet the following criteria:
Academic Excellence: Minimum 85% marks in the Class 10 board exams (SSC/CBSE/ICSE) conducted in 2025.
Admission Confirmation: Must have secured admission into Class 11 in Science, Commerce, or Arts stream for the academic year 2025–26.
Geographical Requirement: Applicant must be a permanent resident of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, which includes areas such as Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Thane, Kalyan, Dombivli, Ulhasnagar, Vasai, Virar, Palghar, Panvel, Karjat, Mira Bhayandar, and others.
Family Income: Annual household income must not exceed ₹3.2 lakh.
Exclusion: Children of employees of Kotak Education Foundation or Buddy4Study are not eligible.
Scholarship Benefits
Selected students will receive the following:
Monthly Financial Aid: ₹3,500 per month for 21 months (Class 11 and 12), totaling ₹73,500.
Academic Support: Access to resources and help in improving learning outcomes.
Career Guidance: One-on-one counseling sessions for career planning.
Mentorship: Continuous guidance from professionals and experts.
Exposure Visits: Opportunities to visit workplaces, institutions, and interact with leaders.
All benefits are strictly for educational purposes, such as school fees, books, and stationery.
Documents Required
Applicants need to upload the following documents during online application:
Class 10 marksheet (2025)
Admission proof for Class 11
Aadhaar cards of student and parents
PAN card of earning parent/guardian
Family income certificate or ration card
Bank details of the student
School leaving certificate
Recent passport-size photo
IT return documents (if applicable)
Death certificate (if a single parent)
Students can apply online through the Buddy4Study portal by following these steps:
Visit: www.buddy4study.com
Search for “Kotak Junior Scholarship 2025–26”
Click on “Apply Now”
Register or log in to the portal
Fill the application form and upload required documents
Submit the application and note your application ID
Important Date
Application Deadline: July 30, 2025
Students are advised to apply early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Selection Process
After applications are submitted, a screening process will shortlist students. Some candidates may be called for document verification or interviews. Final selection will be based on merit, financial need, and verification outcomes.
📞 Contact for Queries
Phone: 011-430-92248 (Ext-325)
Email: kotakjunior@buddy4study.com
Support Time: Monday to Friday – 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM IST
Conclusion
The Kotak Junior Scholarship Program is a life-changing opportunity for students from low-income backgrounds in MMR. With academic brilliance and the right support, these students can aim higher and achieve their dreams. This scholarship not only provides financial aid but also builds confidence, clarity, and career direction.