If you’re someone who’s ever felt that your job or degree wasn’t enough—that you wanted to do something more meaningful, then the SBI Youth for India Fellowship 2025 might be your calling.
Run by the State Bank of India Foundation, this 13-month fellowship places young urban professionals in rural India to co-create and implement development projects alongside leading NGOs. It’s not just an escape from the corporate race—it’s an opportunity to contribute to real social change in areas like education, health, sustainability, and livelihoods.
Fellowship Highlights 2025
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 13 months (full-time, on-ground rural immersion) |
| Location | Various rural regions across India |
| Stipend Amount | ₹15,000/month + travel & living costs covered |
| Host NGOs | BAIF, Barefoot College, Seva Mandir, Dhan Foundation & more |
| Batch Start | Usually August–September 2025 |
| Fellows Selected | ~100–120 fellows annually |
The fellowship is open to passionate, socially inclined youth who meet the following criteria:
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Age: 21 to 32 years (as of the application year)
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Nationality: Indian citizens or OCI cardholders
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Qualification: Bachelor’s degree (in any discipline) before the program start date
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Experience: Freshers and professionals with work experience are welcome
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Language: Comfort in English + at least one Indian language is a big plus
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Must be ready to live in rural India for 13 months
Selection Process
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Online Application
– Fill a detailed form about your background, motivation, and intent -
Essay Submission
– Write on real-life problem statements related to rural development -
Telephonic Interview
– Basic screening by the Fellowship Team -
Final Interview (Virtual or In-person)
– In-depth discussion on your fit, vision, and alignment with rural challenges
The process usually begins around March–April and wraps up by July, with onboarding in August–September.
Fellowship Benefits
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Monthly stipend of ₹15,000
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Additional allowances:
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Travel: Covered to and from the project site
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Accommodation: Provided or reimbursed
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Medical insurance and support
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Certificate of Completion from SBI Foundation
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Strong alumni network and support for post-fellowship careers
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Career pathway into development sector, policy, rural startups, and public administration
Documents Required
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Updated resume/CV
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Recent passport-size photo
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Academic certificates (scanned)
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Essays on provided themes
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Identity proof (Aadhaar/passport)
How to Apply Online
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Visit the official site: https://youthforindia.org
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Click on “Apply Now”
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Register and fill in the online form
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Submit your essay responses
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Complete the interviews if shortlisted
Tip: Apply early, as slots fill fast and selection is competitive!
Important Dates (Expected)
| Stage | Timeline (2025) |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | March 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | May–June 2025 |
| Interviews | June–July 2025 |
| Fellowship Begins | August–September 2025 |
• What is the last date to apply for SBI Youth for India Fellowship 2025?
→ Likely around May or June 2025, but apply early to improve your chances.
• Who is eligible for this fellowship?
→ Indian citizens/OCI holders aged 21–32 with a bachelor’s degree.
• Do I need rural experience to apply?
→ Not at all! Many fellows come from urban/corporate backgrounds.
• What is the stipend offered?
→ ₹15,000/month + accommodation, travel, and project expenses covered.
• Is the SBI YFI Fellowship paid?
→ Yes, and it also includes health insurance and a living allowance.
• Is it open to international students?
→ Only Indian nationals or OCI cardholders are eligible.