Applications are now open for the SBI Youth Fellowship 2025, offering a transformative opportunity for young graduates and professionals to contribute to grassroots development while building a meaningful career path. With a monthly stipend of ₹19,000 and a comprehensive benefits package, the program is designed to support fellows working on real-world challenges in rural communities across India.
Launched by the State Bank of India (SBI) in collaboration with reputed NGOs, the fellowship empowers participants to work in critical sectors like education, healthcare, sustainability, and women’s empowerment—while shaping the leaders of tomorrow.
About the SBI Youth Fellowship
Introduced in 2011, the SBI Youth Fellowship aims to narrow the gap between urban talent and rural needs. The program places selected fellows in remote communities where they collaborate on development projects and bring lasting impact to underserved regions.
The fellowship runs for 13 months, allowing participants to fully immerse themselves in the challenges and rewards of rural development work.
Who Can Apply?
Interested candidates must meet the following eligibility conditions:
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Hold a bachelor’s degree by October 1, 2025
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Be a citizen of India, Nepal, Bhutan, or be registered as an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI)
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Be aged between 21 and 32 years at the start of the program
This makes the program ideal for recent graduates, gap-year professionals, and those considering careers in development, public policy, or CSR.
Step-by-Step Application Process
The selection process consists of two stages:
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Stage 1: Online Registration and Assessment
Candidates must fill out an online application, which includes essay-based questions about their motivations and values. -
Stage 2: Personal Interview
Shortlisted applicants will attend an interview with a panel of experts who evaluate soft skills, commitment, and alignment with the program’s mission.
Selected fellows will then receive an official offer with all details regarding project locations, benefits, and onboarding.
Benefits and Financial Support
SBI has structured the fellowship to be financially accessible and professionally rewarding. Fellows will receive:
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Monthly Stipend: ₹19,000 for day-to-day living
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Travel Allowance: ₹2,000/month for commuting needs
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Project Allowance: ₹1,000/month to support work-related expenses
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Readjustment Allowance: ₹90,000 given after successful program completion
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Accommodation Support: Assistance in finding housing at the project site
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Insurance Coverage: Health and personal accident insurance
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Mentorship: Ongoing support and guidance from professionals throughout the program
Why the Fellowship Matters
The SBI Youth Fellowship is more than just a job—it’s a mission. Fellows become change agents, working directly with local communities to tackle pressing issues and design sustainable solutions.
The experience builds critical thinking, empathy, leadership, and resilience—skills that benefit not just rural India, but the fellows themselves in their future careers across development, corporate social responsibility, public policy, or entrepreneurship.
FAQs
What is the duration of the SBI Youth Fellowship 2025?
The fellowship lasts for 13 months, providing a full year of fieldwork and one month for orientation and closure.
Can fresh graduates apply for this program?
Yes, as long as the applicant completes their bachelor’s degree by October 1, 2025, they are eligible to apply.
Is the ₹90,000 readjustment allowance guaranteed?
Yes, it is provided to all fellows who complete the program successfully and fulfill the requirements.
Will accommodation be provided?
Accommodation is not directly provided, but support and guidance will be extended to help fellows find housing near their project sites.
What kind of work will fellows do?
Fellows may engage in projects related to education, women’s empowerment, healthcare, livelihood development, and sustainability, depending on the assigned location and NGO partnership.
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