The Research Fellowship in Sciences for Meritorious Students (RFSMS) is a prestigious fellowship scheme launched by the University Grants Commission (UGC). This scheme is designed to support meritorious Ph.D. scholars in science disciplines by providing financial assistance for advanced research leading to a Ph.D. degree.
Objective of RFSMS Scheme
The main objective of the RFSMS fellowship is to encourage talented students to pursue high-quality research in science at reputed universities and research centres recognized by the UGC. The scheme aims to strengthen India’s research ecosystem by supporting deserving scholars during their doctoral studies.
Who Can Apply for RFSMS Fellowship?
The scheme is open to candidates who:
- Are registered for a Ph.D. in Science subjects
- Are studying in UGC-recognized institutions, such as:
- Universities with Potential for Excellence (UPE)
- Centres with Potential for Excellence (CPE)
- Centres of Advanced Studies (CAS)
- Departments of Special Assistance (DSA) identified by UGC
Only candidates fulfilling these conditions are eligible to apply.
Benefits of RFSMS Fellowship
Fellowship Duration
- Initially awarded for 2 years
- After evaluation by an Expert Committee, the fellowship may be:
- Extended for 3 more years if progress is satisfactory
- Extended by 1 additional year for improvement if progress is unsatisfactory
- Maximum total duration: 5 years (no further extension allowed)
Financial Assistance Under RFSMS
- Monthly Fellowship: ₹8,000 per month
- Annual Contingency Grant: ₹6,000 per year
These funds help research scholars meet their academic and research-related expenses.
Leave Rules for Research Fellows
- 30 days of leave per year, excluding public holidays
- Women candidates are eligible for 135 days of maternity leave at full fellowship rates (once during the tenure)
- Leave without fellowship:
- Up to 1 academic year for temporary teaching assignments (same city/town)
- Up to 3 months in other special cases
- Leave must be approved by UGC through the institution
Grounds for Cancellation of Fellowship
The RFSMS fellowship may be cancelled if:
- The fellow is involved in misconduct
- Research progress is unsatisfactory
- The fellow fails in Ph.D./M.Phil. related examinations
- The candidate is later found ineligible
Application Process for RFSMS Fellowship
Mode of Application: Offline
Step-by-step process:
- Download the application form from the official UGC scheme guidelines
- Fill in all required details carefully
- Attach the necessary supporting documents
- Submit the completed application to the respective university/institution
Selection Process
Selection is done by the university through an interview process conducted by a Selection Committee consisting of:
- One eminent scientist (nominated by the Vice-Chancellor)
- Head of the Department
- One Professor and one Reader from the department
- Two external subject experts nominated by the Vice-Chancellor
Release of Fellowship Grant
- UGC releases the fellowship grant yearly in lump sum to the university/institution
- The institution pays the fellowship amount to the selected fellows
- Subsequent installments are released after submission of:
- Utilization Certificate
- Statement of Expenditure (duly signed by Registrar/Finance Officer)
Documents Required
Applicants must submit the following documents:
- Proof of Identity
- Proof of Address
- Proof of Date of Birth
- Educational Qualification Certificates
- Proof of Ph.D. registration in eligible UGC-recognized institutions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does submitting an application guarantee the fellowship?
No, the fellowship is awarded only after selection by the university committee.
Who is responsible for incorrect information in the application?
The applicant is fully responsible. Incorrect or incomplete details can lead to cancellation.
Is there any application fee?
No, there is no application fee.
What is the mode of payment?
The fellowship amount is paid through the respective university/institution.
Is there a validity period for the scheme?
Yes, the fellowship is valid for a maximum of five years.
Who should candidates contact for queries?
Applicants should contact their university or UGC office for scheme-related doubts.
Conclusion
The UGC Research Fellowship in Sciences for Meritorious Students (RFSMS) is an excellent opportunity for science scholars aiming to pursue doctoral research with financial support. Eligible candidates should apply through their institutions and take advantage of this fellowship to advance their academic and research careers.