The HDFC Badhte Kadam Scholarship, meaning "Growing Steps" in Hindi, celebrates every small victory on your educational path. Since its start in 2013, it has supported over 50,000 students across India, proving that potential knows no bounds. HDFC Bank, a leader in financial services, partners with the H T Parekh Foundation to bridge gaps for underprivileged youth.
This initiative targets students from Classes 9 to undergraduate levels, especially those from low-income families in rural and urban areas. It covers school fees, books, and even digital tools, ensuring no dream slips away due to costs. Whether you're in a village school or a bustling city college, this scholarship opens doors to quality education. School Dekho loves spotlighting gems like this—visit our site for more tips on student aid programs. For 2025-26, applications are set to open in early December—keep an eye on the official portal for the exact launch. At School Dekho, we're here to make your scholarship journey smooth and exciting. Let's dive in!
Key Details
Eligibility Criteria
Wondering if this scholarship fits you? Check these simple rules for 2025-26. We break them down by stage to make it easy.
For School Students (Classes 9-12):
You must attend a recognized school in India.
Secure at least 60% marks in your previous exam (relaxed to 55% for rural areas).
Your family's annual income should not exceed ₹2.5 lakhs (urban) or ₹2 lakhs (rural).
Priority for girls, orphans, or students with disabilities (over 40% as per certificate).
Age: 12-18 years.
For Undergraduate Students:
Enrolled in a full-time degree like BA, BCom, BSc, or professional courses (BTech, MBBS).
Minimum 70% in Class 12 (60% for disabilities).
Family income under ₹6 lakhs per year.
Indian citizen, no ties to HDFC employees.
Exclusions: Part-time, distance, or diploma courses don't qualify. If you meet these, you're one step closer—congratulations!
Benefits
This scholarship isn't just cash—it's a launchpad for your ambitions. Here's what you gain:
Financial Support: Up to ₹1,00,000 for professional courses; ₹30,000 for general degrees; ₹15,000-₹20,000 for school levels (based on location).
Holistic Help: Free career counseling sessions, online skill workshops, and mental health resources to keep you balanced.
Renewal Perks: Maintain 60% marks annually for continued aid—up to four years for undergrads.
Direct Transfer: Funds go straight to your Aadhaar-linked bank account via DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer) for quick access.
Over 10,000 awards are given yearly, with extra spots for girls and special needs students. Use the money for tuition, books, or even a basic laptop—whatever fuels your growth.
Number of Scholarships
HDFC aims to award around 12,000 scholarships in 2025-26, up from last year's 10,500. This growth shows their commitment to reaching more corners of India, from Himalayan villages to coastal towns. Spots fill fast, so early birds catch the worm!
Application Process
Applying is straightforward—like filling a school form, but online. No fees, all digital. Follow these steps to shine.
Steps
Head to the Portal: Visit the official HDFC Scholarship site (hdfcbank.com/scholarships)
Register Quickly: Enter your email, phone, and basic info. Create a secure password.
Complete the Form: Share your academic history, family income, and why this aid matters to you (a short essay helps!).
Upload Essentials: Attach scanned documents (more on this next section).
Review and Submit: Double-check for errors. Get a confirmation email with your application ID.
Track Progress: Log in anytime to see updates.
Pro Tip: Save drafts if needed—finish in one go or over days.
Timeline
Application Start: December 1, 2025.
Deadline: January 31, 2026.
Document Verification: February-March 2026.
Interviews/Selection: April 2026.
Disbursement: May-June 2026 onward.
Apply early to avoid last-minute glitches. For queries, email scholarships@hdfcbank.com or call 1800-266-4332.
Mode
Fully online—no paperwork hassles. Use a stable internet connection and scan docs clearly (under 2MB each).
Required Documents
Gather these proofs to speed things up. Keep copies handy—digital scans work best.
Identity Proof: Aadhaar card, birth certificate, or passport.
Academic Records: Mark sheets from Class 8/10/12 (self-attested).
Income Certificate: From a gazetted officer or tehsildar (not older than 6 months).
Bank Details: Passbook or cancelled cheque (account in your name).
Address Proof: Ration card or electricity bill.
Category Documents: For SC/ST/OBC, disability, or orphan status (if applicable).
Photo and Signature: Recent passport-size pic and digital signature.
Affidavit: A simple declaration of no other scholarships (format on the portal).
For special cases, add a bonafide certificate from your school/college. School Dekho has free checklists—download one today!
Selection Process
HDFC picks winners fairly, blending smarts and need. Here's the path:
Initial Screening: Apps reviewed for eligibility—marks and income first.
Merit Check: Top scorers (60-70% threshold) advance; essays weigh in for passion.
Verification: Team calls or emails to confirm docs (be ready with originals).
Personal Interview: Short 15-min chat (online) about your goals—practice sharing your story!
Final List: Announced on the portal by April 2026. Winners get email alerts.
They prioritize diversity: 50% for girls, extra for rural and disabled students. If selected, celebrate— you've earned it!
Additional Information
Covered Courses
From Class 9 science to BTech circuits, it spans school upgrades and undergrad starters. Professional paths like medicine, engineering, and law get the full ₹1 lakh boost. General streams (arts, commerce) qualify too—just ensure full-time enrollment.
Exclusions
No aid for coaching, PG diplomas, or foreign studies. Avoid scams—official links only!
Tips for Applicants
Start prepping docs in November—family income certs take time.
Write a heartfelt essay: "How will this help my dreams?" Keep it 300 words.
Boost your app with extracurriculars—debate club or community service counts.
Apply to multiple scholarships via School Dekho's search tool for better odds.
Stay positive: Rejections happen; learn and retry.
Contact HDFC at the helpline for personalized advice. We're rooting for you!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the HDFC Badhte Kadam Scholarship?
It's a merit-cum-means program by HDFC Bank to fund education for low-income students from Classes 9 to UG.
Who can apply for HDFC Badhte Kadam Scholarship 2025-26?
Indian students with 60-70% marks, family income under ₹6 lakhs, in recognized schools/colleges.
What are the benefits of this scholarship?
Up to ₹1 lakh cash, plus counseling and workshops—renewable yearly.
How to apply for HDFC Badhte Kadam Scholarship?
Online via hdfcbank.com/scholarships—register, fill form, upload docs by Jan 31, 2026.
What documents are needed?
Mark sheets, income cert, Aadhaar, bank details—full list on the portal.
What is the application deadline?
January 31, 2026—mark your calendar!
Is the scholarship renewable?
Yes, if you maintain 60% marks and submit progress reports.
Can students with disabilities apply?
Absolutely—relaxed marks and priority selection.
How many scholarships are awarded?
About 12,000 for 2025-26, focusing on underserved areas.
What if I miss the deadline?
Wait for next cycle or explore others on School Dekho.
Is there an interview?
Yes, short online chat for shortlisted candidates.
How are funds disbursed?
Direct to your bank via DBT—quick and secure.
Can I apply for other scholarships too?
Yes, as long as no overlaps—declare in the form.
What courses are covered?
School fees, UG degrees in arts/science/commerce, and pro fields like engineering.
How to avoid scholarship fraud?
Use only official sites—never pay agents. Report scams to helpline.
Conclusion
The HDFC Badhte Kadam Scholarship isn't just financial help—it's a vote of confidence in your unique spark. Thousands of students like you have climbed higher, turning challenges into triumphs. Whether you're sketching your first invention or acing that math test, this program says, "You've got this." Don't let costs dim your light—apply today and step into a world of possibilities.
At School Dekho, your go-to hub for all things education, we simplify the search. From scholarship alerts to school reviews, our free tools and expert guides have helped lakhs of families. Visit School Dekho today for application support, personalized tips, and more opportunities tailored just for you. Take that first step—your future self will thank you. Dream big, apply now, and let's build tomorrow together!
.webp){kind=small}
.webp){kind=small}