Applications for the 2026 starts on January 1, 2026. Application Deadline: April 15th, 2026

Nachiketa Hindu Scholarship

A Means-Based National Scholarship for Hindu Students

The Nachiketa Hindu Scholarship, established by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America (VHPA), supports exceptional Hindu high school seniors entering college who face significant financial challenges. While many scholarships are offered by corporations, foundations, and faith-based organizations, few originate within the Hindu community. Nachiketa is therefore unique as one of the first national scholarships dedicated to assisting deserving Hindu students with demonstrated financial need.

Inspired by Nachiketa, the young truth-seeker from the Katha Upanishad, this scholarship reflects the values of perseverance, sincerity, and the pursuit of higher knowledge despite material hardship. His story reminds us that inner strength and determination can help overcome obstacles in the quest for wisdom and self-realization.

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Selection Criteria

Successful candidates will demonstrate:

  • Strong academic ability
  • Active participation in community service
  • Active engagement with Hindu heritage and culture
  • Be able to provide sufficient documentation to establish financial hardship
  • Willingness to mentor younger high school students in their college preparation journey

Award Structure

  • Total Value: $2,000, disbursed in four annual installments of $500
  • Renewal Conditions: Each installment is payable upon successful completion of the academic year with a minimum GPA of 2.75 (B-) on a 4.0 scale, along with verifiable participation in Hindu Dharma–related activities on campus

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

  • Be a citizen or permanent legal resident of the United States
  • Be graduating from a U.S. high school and enrolling in a U.S. college/university undergraduate program in the same calendar year
  • Be committed to upholding Hindu traditions and values in their personal and academic life

Application Requirements

  • Applicants must complete the online application form in full, following all prompts and uploading all required documents.
  • All application materials must be submitted by the stated deadline.
  • Incomplete or late submissions will not be considered.

Communication and Notification

  • Applicants will receive confirmation once their application is received and under review.
  • All official notifications, including final decisions, will be sent via email. Applicants must ensure that their contact information is accurate and regularly monitored.
  • In rare circumstances, VHPA may contact applicants by phone for clarification or follow-up.

Selection Process and Timeline

  • VHPA and the Scholarship Selection Committee will make every reasonable effort to keep applicants informed throughout the review process.
  • Final results will typically be communicated by June 30 of the award year, barring extenuating circumstances.

Award Payment

  • Scholarship funds will be sent directly to the recipient’s college.
  • Awardees will be notified once payment has been issued.
  • The first installment is typically processed before the end of August of the award year.

Continuation of Scholarship

  • Returning recipients will receive a reminder on May 1 each year.
  • Official academic transcripts and any other required documents must be submitted by June 15 annually to remain eligible for continued funding.

Final Decision

The decision of the Scholarship Selection Committee is final and cannot be appealed. VHPA is committed to maintaining a transparent and timely selection process.