Study in India (SII) Scheme 2026: Fee Waivers for UG & PG Admission
- Jan 31
- 4 min read
Introduction
You are an NRI student planning your study abroad journey back to India. You have checked the DASA scheme for NITs, but perhaps your JEE rank isn't high enough. You then looked at top private universities like Symbiosis or SRM, but the "NRI Fee" is exorbitant.
Is there a middle ground? Yes.
It is called the Study in India (SII) Scheme.
Unlike DASA, which focuses on government colleges, the SII portal connects NRI students to India's top private and government universities with massive financial benefits. Through the SII Scholarship, you can get up to a 100% Tuition Fee Waiver for both UG admission and PG admission.
In this guide, we explain how to bypass the "Donation" trap and use the SII portal to secure your seat.
Highlights: SII Scheme at a Glance
Feature | Details |
Scheme Name | Study in India (SII) |
Run By | Ministry of Education, Govt of India |
Primary Benefit | Fee Waivers (100%, 50%, 25%) |
Institutes Covered | 160+ Top Institutes (Private & Govt) |
Selection Basis | PRAGATI Exam (SAT-style test) |
Target Audience | NRIs looking for UG / PG Admission |
Courses | Engineering, Management, Arts, PhD |
1. What is the Study in India (SII) Scheme?
The SII portal is a "Single Window" for international and NRI students. Instead of applying to 10 different private universities separately for your UG admission, you register once on the SII portal.
The "Supernumerary" Advantage:
Just like DASA, the seats offered under SII are extra seats.
No Capitation Fee: You pay zero "donation."
No JEE Advanced: You don't need to crack the hardest exam in the world. You just need to take the PRAGATI exam (which is much easier).
2. The "Fee Waiver" Categories (G1 to G4)
This is the biggest draw. When you apply through SII for UG admission or PG admission, universities offer seats under four specific financial categories.
G1 Seat: 100% Tuition Fee Waiver. (You pay ₹0 for tuition).
G2 Seat: 50% Tuition Fee Waiver.
G3 Seat: 25% Tuition Fee Waiver.
G4 Seat: 0% Waiver. (You pay the standard International/NRI fee).
Strategy: Even a G4 seat is valuable because it guarantees admission into a top college without paying a "Management Quota" donation.
3. Eligibility Criteria 2026 (UG & PG)
The eligibility covers a wide range of courses, making it a flexible option for study abroad in India.
For UG Admission (B.Tech, BBA, BCA)
Academic: 10+2 (Class 12) pass from any recognized board.
Minimum Marks: Usually 60% aggregate, but top colleges may ask for higher.
Exam: You must appear for the PRAGATI Exam (Performance Rating of Applicants for Global Aptitude Test for India).
Academic: A valid Bachelor's Degree with 50-60% marks.
Exam: PRAGATI Exam is generally for UG scholarships. For PG admission, scholarships are often merit-based on your UG marks or specific university tests.
Note for Gulf Students: Even if you studied in a CBSE school in Dubai or Riyadh, you are considered an "International Student" under this scheme because of your NRI status.
4. The PRAGATI Exam (Your Ticket to Free Education)
To get the G1 (100% Waiver) seats for UG admission, you need a high rank in the PRAGATI exam (formerly IISAT).
Format: Computer-Based Test (CBT).
Pattern: Similar to the SAT (Verbal, Quant, Logical Reasoning).
Difficulty: Moderate (Easier than JEE Main).
Score Validity: Used only for SII counseling.
Who gets the scholarship?
The top scorers in the PRAGATI exam are prioritized for the G1 and G2 seats. If you score low, you might only get a G3 or G4 offer.
5. Which Universities are on SII?
The list changes every year, but it includes NIRF Top 100 institutions suitable for premium UG admission. Some popular names include:
Private: Symbiosis International (Pune), SRM (Chennai), VIT (Vellore), Kalinga (KIIT), Amity University.
Govt: Jamia Millia Islamia, NIT Silchar, NIT Warangal (specific courses).
6. Documents Required for Registration
The process is entirely online.
Passport: Scan of the photo page.
Photo & Signature: Digital format.
Transcripts: Class 10 and 12 mark sheets (or predicted grades).
Citizenship Proof: NRI certificate or Parent's employment proof.
FAQs
Q1. Is SII better than DASA for UG admission?
Ans: It depends. If you want an NIT/IIIT, DASA/CIWG is better. If you are open to Private Universities (like Symbiosis or SRM) or want non-engineering courses, SII is better.
Q2. Can I apply for both SII and DASA?
Ans: Yes! They are separate portals. Smart students apply for DASA (for NITs) and SII (as a backup for private colleges).
Q3. Is the PRAGATI exam mandatory for PG admission?
Ans: Usually no. PRAGATI is primarily for UG admission scholarships. PG admission waivers are often based on your Bachelor's marks.
Q4. Does SII cover hostel fees?
Ans: Generally, No. The G1 waiver is for Tuition Fees only.
Q5. Can OCI cardholders apply?
Ans: Yes, OCI cardholders are eligible and treated as International Students.
Q6. When does registration start?
Ans: Usually in April/May 2026.
Q7. Is this for MBBS/Medical?
Ans: No. Medical UG admission in India is strictly through NEET.
Conclusion
The Study in India (SII) scheme is the most underrated pathway for UG admission and PG admission for NRIs. It breaks the myth that "Private Colleges = High Donation."
If you can crack the SAT-level PRAGATI exam, you can walk into a premium university campus for free.
Next Step: Are you preparing for the entrance test?
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