Students, Scholarships and Beyond

Since its inception, Ashoka University has been committed to making high-quality education accessible to deserving students, irrespective of their socio-economic backgrounds. Classrooms and education is only inclusive when people of all identities and walks of life can participate in them, as is understood by Ashoka. In the past decade, the University has given out ₹610 crore in scholarships, benefiting 46 per cent of its student body, with over 2000 students receiving a tuition-free education. These scholarships have empowered first-generation learners, students with disabilities and individuals from underrepresented communities, creating a vibrant and inclusive campus. 

Srija U is a Ravi Bahl Scholar and a 2021 graduate from Ashoka. For many students like her, financial aid has been life-changing. “When I got my offer letter, the financial aid document was attached with it, where I figured that I had gotten a 100% scholarship. I went to my father and I said, “You know, I have gotten into this university,” and the first question that he asked me was “how much am i paying for it?” At Ashoka, Srija discovered her passion for English literature and her desire to pursue a career in academia. This journey eventually led her to secure offers from several Ivy League schools, and she is now pursuing a PhD at Columbia University. 

Mohit Kumar, an HT Parekh Scholar from the UG batch of 2023, has a similar journey. This scholarship played a significant role in his growth, helping him refine his skills and reducing the financial burden on his family. It gave them peace of mind, knowing he was excelling in his studies and in a good place. This relief helps students focus on their studies, instead of having to worry about other factors. 

In 2023, Mohit achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Indian to receive the prestigious McCall MacBain Global Scholarship. He is now pursuing a degree in Educational Leadership at McGill University.

For first generation college students like Mohit, scholarships unlock opportunities that once felt beyond reach. Radha, another first-generation learner at Ashoka shares her joy – when she received her admission offer, her happiness was surpassed only by her parents’ excitement because it came with a scholarship. “My siblings and I are the first ones in our family to go to college,” she says proudly.

Around the world, students on scholarship can face differential treatment, and have to face additional challenges in their educational journey. At Ashoka, scholarships are a way for the student body to be more whole and complete, adding valuable additions to the university. For Nikhil Gajbhiye, a second-year student majoring in Economics and Computer Science, the scholarship brings a sense of relief and focus. It allows him to dedicate himself fully to his studies without worrying about financial constraints. “The best part is that having a scholarship has never been something that defines me here at Ashoka,” he notes, appreciating the supportive and inclusive environment.

With over 3200 students on campus from 329 Indian towns and cities, Ashoka remains committed to providing opportunities for all. In 2024-25, the University has awarded Rupees 100 crore in scholarships – continuing on its mission to break barriers and transform lives.