NIFT Scholarships 2025–26: Your Complete Guide

Many aspiring designers dream of pursuing education at the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT). NIFT has a reputation of being one of India’s premier fashion institutes and attracts creative minds from across the country. Nevertheless, some students find it difficult to afford education. NIFT provides several scholarships and financial assistance programs to ensure that financial constraints do not constrain talent.

 In this comprehensive guide, we look at the most popular scholarship schemes for the 2025–2026 academic year, how to apply for NIFT scholarship, and increase their chances of getting funded

A] Overview of NIFT Scholarship Programs

• SARTHAK Financial Assistance Scheme

NIFT’s flagship support initiative for meritorious and economically underprivileged students is the Sarthak Scholarship NIFT. It is a need-based scheme, and the level of tuition fee assistance varies according to parental income.

Scholarship Categories:

Eligibility Highlights:

• For undergraduate and postgraduate students.
• Applicable across all NIFT campuses.
• Not available to NRI or NRI-sponsored students.

SARTHAK aims to democratise access to quality education in fashion by enabling students from underrepresented economic backgrounds to reach their full potential.

• UDAAN Scholarship Scheme for Foreign Studies

Udaan Scholarship NIFT is another notable opportunity to offer global exposure to talented individuals. This scheme helps fund international academic exchange programs, giving students access to top partner institutions abroad and enriching their design perspectives. Global exposure is vital in the fashion industry. To promote this, NIFT offers the UDAAN Scholarship Scheme, which financially supports deserving students participating in international academic exchange programs through NIFT’s partner institutions.

Key Features:

• A means-cum-merit-based scheme.
• Financial assistance is determined during the application process.
• Aims to enhance global exposure and broaden academic perspectives.
• Open to students selected for semester exchange or international programs.

This scheme is an invaluable opportunity for students to experience international education without the full financial burden.

B] Eligibility Criteria for NIFT Scholarships

While parental income is the primary determinant of eligibility, academic performance and student conduct also play significant roles. Here are the key NIFT scholarship criteria:

• Income should fall within the slabs specified for each scholarship.
• Good academic standing is expected. Poor grades or failing grades may disqualify candidates.
• Students must disclose if they are receiving other scholarships or financial aid. Dual funding may affect eligibility.
• The applicant should have:
  • No record of disciplinary action (on or off campus).
  • Satisfactory attendance throughout the semester.

Meeting these conditions is essential to maintaining eligibility and receiving continued support.

Aspiring designers may also benefit from art classes in Mumbai, which can enhance their creativity, drawing skills, and overall artistic foundation, skills that are invaluable in fashion and design education.

C] Application Process for NIFT Scholarships

1. Accessing the Application

Applications for scholarships for NIFT students can be accessed via the Campus Management System (CMS) portal. Students with parental income up to ₹8 Lakhs per annum, as declared during admission, will automatically be given access to the application form.

Regularly checking the CMS and official NIFT announcements is crucial to avoid missing deadlines or updates.

2. Submission Timeline

• Application opens: Last week of July
• Submission deadline: Last week of August

Late submissions are typically not accepted, so punctuality is essential.

3. Required Documentation

Students must ensure they upload complete and accurate documents, including:

• Parental Income Proof:

Latest Income Tax Returns, Form 16, or salary slips

• Academic Records: 

Certified transcripts, previous semester results

• Bank Account Details:

Preferably Aadhaar-linked, in the student’s name

• Other Documents:

Any additional documents as specified by the application form (like caste certificate, disability certificate, etc.)

Incomplete documentation is a leading cause of rejection, so review everything carefully before submission. One commonly asked question is about the amount of NIFT scholarships students may receive. The assistance may range from partial to full tuition coverage depending on the scholarship type and income category.

To support inclusivity, there is a NIFT scholarship for SC students that specifically aids individuals from the Scheduled Caste category. These scholarships offer both financial support and recognition of marginalised communities in the fashion sector.

Similarly, there is a dedicated NIFT scholarship for OBC students to assist learners from Other Backward Classes who meet the income and academic requirements. It helps bridge socio-economic disparities in design education.

NIFT is also committed to equality by offering a NIFT scholarship for general category students who may not qualify under traditional reservations but still face financial constraints. These ensure that no deserving candidate is left behind.

D] Tips for a Successful Scholarship Application

To maximise your chances of securing financial aid at NIFT, keep the following tips in mind:

1. Prepare Early

Begin collecting documents as early as possible, even before applications open.

2. Focus on Academics

Strive for high academic performance throughout the semester. It can serve as a tie-breaker in close evaluations.

3. Stay Updated

Regularly check the CMS portal and your NIFT email for application notifications and deadline reminders.

4. Be Transparent

Declare any external scholarships or aid you’re receiving. Misrepresentation can disqualify your application.

5. Seek Guidance

If you’re confused or stuck, don’t hesitate to approach the Student Affairs Office at your campus. They’re there to help.

E] Additional Financial Aid Opportunities

Beyond NIFT’s internal schemes, students can also explore external funding sources:

1. National Scholarship Portal (NSP)

An initiative by the Government of India, the NSP is a one-stop portal for multiple scholarship schemes offered by central ministries. Students from SC/ST/OBC/Minority/Disabled backgrounds can apply for financial aid under different schemes. 

Visit: scholarships.gov.in

2. State Government Scholarships

Many state governments have their own education support schemes for residents. Students should visit their respective state education portals to learn about eligibility and application deadlines.

3. Scholarships from Private Organisations

Several private companies and foundations support students at NIFT. For example:

• ITC has previously funded scholarships for NIFT students.
• HomeShop18 and similar fashion-related companies have offered need-based scholarships.
• NGOs and industry associations also run contests and sponsorship programs recognising academic and creative excellence.

Stay in touch with the Placement Cell and Alumni Network at your campus to get updates on these opportunities.

Students aiming for NIFT may also consider pre-college programs. For instance, taking NIFT coaching in Mumbai can significantly improve preparation and portfolio-building, giving candidates an edge in the competitive entrance process.

Conclusion

Studying at NIFT is a transformative journey, and financial constraints should not hold back creative potential. With structured schemes like SARTHAK and UDAAN, as well as additional support through national and external scholarships, NIFT ensures that deserving students have the opportunity to thrive.

By understanding the eligibility criteria, keeping documents in order, and staying alert for deadlines, students can confidently navigate the scholarship application process. Financial aid at NIFT isn’t just about assistance, it’s about empowering the next generation of design leaders.

Komal Ullal

Ms. Komal Ullal, a recipient of the prestigious President’s Award and Co-founder of UAF, is an expert in student profiling, enhancing artistic skills, mentoring in design thinking and an inspiring women entrepreneur. With an impressive collection of 577 awards—including 196 trophies and 109 medals—earned in drawing and painting at both national and international levels, she was featured in the Limca Book of Records in 2007 as the youngest achiever of such accolades. Her passion and dedication continue to inspire budding artists and designers worldwide.