Overview of Scholarship Programs
Advanced College of Science and Technology Visakhapatnam is committed to providing financial support to deserving students through a comprehensive scholarship system. These scholarships aim to reduce the financial burden associated with higher education while encouraging academic excellence and innovation.
The college offers both merit-based and need-based scholarships, ensuring that talented individuals from all backgrounds have access to quality education. The scholarship committee evaluates applications based on criteria such as academic performance, financial status, extracurricular achievements, and community involvement.
Institute-Wide Scholarships
These scholarships are funded by the college administration and awarded annually to students demonstrating outstanding academic performance or exceptional potential in their chosen field of study.
MCM Scholarship (Merit Cum Means)
The MCM Scholarship, named after the institution's founder, is one of the most prestigious awards given to students who excel academically while also showing financial hardship. This scholarship covers up to 100% of tuition fees and provides a monthly stipend for living expenses.
- Eligibility Criteria: Students must have scored above 90% in their qualifying examination and must be from economically disadvantaged families.
- Amount: Full tuition fee waiver plus INR 5,000 per month for living expenses
- Application Process: Submit application forms along with supporting documents by the last week of July each year
President's Scholarship
This scholarship is awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional leadership qualities and active participation in social service activities. Recipients are recognized for their commitment to community development and ethical values.
- Eligibility Criteria: Minimum 85% aggregate in qualifying examination and demonstrated involvement in community service projects
- Amount: INR 2,00,000 per annum for four years
- Application Process: Application form available on the college website; interviews conducted by selection committee
Vice-Chancellor's Excellence Award
This award recognizes students who achieve academic excellence in their respective branches and contribute significantly to campus life through extracurricular activities or research projects.
- Eligibility Criteria: Top 10% rank holders in each branch with active participation in student organizations
- Amount: INR 1,50,000 per annum for two years
- Application Process: Self-nomination or nomination by faculty members; evaluation based on academic records and extracurricular achievements
Alumni Donor Scholarships
Several alumni have established scholarships in memory of their loved ones or as recognition of their own educational journey. These donor-funded scholarships are designed to support students from specific regions, branches, or categories based on the donors' intentions.
Rajesh Kumar Memorial Scholarship
Established by a distinguished alumnus, this scholarship supports students pursuing Computer Science and Engineering with an emphasis on research and innovation.
- Eligibility Criteria: Students from rural areas with high academic scores in computer science subjects
- Amount: INR 1,00,000 per year for three years
- Application Process: Application form submitted via college portal; selection based on merit and need assessment
Anjali Sharma Trust Scholarship
This scholarship was founded by a prominent alumnus to encourage female students studying engineering. It aims to promote gender equality in STEM fields.
- Eligibility Criteria: Female students from economically backward families with consistent academic performance
- Amount: INR 75,000 per year for four years
- Application Process: Application forms available at the women's hostel office; interviews conducted by trust representatives
Dr. Suresh Reddy Foundation Scholarship
Named after a prominent alumnus, this scholarship supports students interested in renewable energy and sustainable technologies.
- Eligibility Criteria: Students pursuing Environmental Engineering or related disciplines with demonstrated interest in green energy projects
- Amount: INR 1,25,000 per year for three years
- Application Process: Submit application along with project proposal by October each year
Government and Corporate Scholarships
The college actively promotes awareness about government-funded scholarships that students can apply for to reduce their financial burden. These scholarships are offered by central and state governments, as well as private organizations.
Prime Minister's Scholarship (PMKVY)
This scholarship is provided by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship to support vocational training and skill development programs.
- Eligibility Criteria: Students aged between 18-35 years with minimum educational qualification of Class 10
- Amount: INR 2,00,000 for completion of certification courses
- Application Process: Apply through the official PMKVY portal; eligibility verified by respective training providers
National Scholarship Portal
The National Scholarship Portal offers various scholarships including those for SC/ST, OBC, and minority communities. Students can apply online with minimal documentation.
- Eligibility Criteria: Varies by category; generally based on caste, income, and educational qualifications
- Amount: Varies from INR 10,000 to INR 30,000 per year depending on the scholarship
- Application Process: Register on the portal; submit required documents within specified deadlines
Infosys Foundation Scholarship
This scholarship is offered by Infosys to support students pursuing degrees in STEM fields. The program emphasizes academic excellence and leadership potential.
- Eligibility Criteria: Students scoring above 80% in Class 12 with interest in computing and technology
- Amount: INR 50,000 per semester for four years
- Application Process: Apply through the Infosys website; shortlisted candidates undergo interview rounds
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) Scholarship
TCS offers scholarships to students excelling in engineering disciplines, particularly those with an interest in software development and IT consulting.
- Eligibility Criteria: Students studying in first year of engineering with 75% aggregate in Class 12
- Amount: INR 30,000 per semester for three years
- Application Process: Online application through TCS website; selection based on academic performance and aptitude tests
Wipro Scholars Program
This program is aimed at supporting students who wish to pursue research or entrepreneurship in technology-related fields.
- Eligibility Criteria: Students with demonstrated interest in innovation and problem-solving abilities
- Amount: INR 25,000 per semester for two years
- Application Process: Submit proposal outlining research idea or entrepreneurial plan; evaluation by expert panel
Application Process and Guidelines
Applying for scholarships at ACST Visakhapatnam requires careful preparation of documents and adherence to specific guidelines. The following steps outline the typical application process:
- Research Scholarships: Identify available scholarships matching your profile and eligibility criteria.
- Gather Documents: Collect necessary documents such as mark sheets, income certificates, identity proof, and recommendation letters.
- Fill Application Form: Complete the application form accurately and provide truthful information about your background and achievements.
- Submit Before Deadline: Ensure timely submission of applications to avoid disqualification due to late entries.
- Interview or Assessment: Selected candidates may be called for interviews or assessments conducted by scholarship committees.
The college provides guidance and assistance throughout the application process, helping students understand requirements and improve their chances of receiving financial support.
Renewal and Maintenance Requirements
Scholarship recipients are expected to maintain certain academic standards and fulfill specific obligations to continue receiving support. Renewal criteria typically include:
- Maintaining a minimum CGPA of 7.0 or above
- Participating in community service or extracurricular activities
- Submitting annual progress reports and financial statements
- Attending orientation sessions organized by the scholarship committee
Failure to meet these requirements may lead to suspension or termination of the scholarship award.
Support for Scholarship Recipients
The college ensures that scholarship recipients receive ongoing support through mentorship programs, career counseling, and academic assistance. This holistic approach helps students make the most of their educational opportunities while fulfilling their responsibilities as scholarship beneficiaries.