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

Sharda Hindu Scholarship

A Merit-Based National Scholarship for Hindu Students

The Sharda Hindu Scholarship, established by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America (VHPA), recognizes exceptional Hindu high school seniors entering college. Sharda is unique as the first—and perhaps the only—national scholarship created specifically for deserving students from the Hindu community.

This scholarship honors those who embody the ideals of Maa Sharda—the divine source of knowledge, creativity, and wisdom—through academic excellence, spiritual depth, and cultural engagement.

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Selection Criteria

Successful candidates will demonstrate:

  • Outstanding academic achievement
  • A sustained record of seva (selfless service) toward society
  • Active engagement with Hindu heritage and culture
  • 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 received 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 their contact information is accurate and monitored.
  • In rare circumstances, VHPA may reach out 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 not subject to appeal. VHPA will make every effort to ensure a transparent and timely process.