India has announced 1,000 e-scholarships for Afghan students for the 2025–26 academic year under the Special Scholarship Scheme for Afghan Nationals (SSSAN), the Ministry of External Affairs confirmed on Tuesday.

The program, implemented by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), will allow Afghan nationals to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate studies online through the government’s e-VidyaBharati (e-VB) i-learn portal. This follows similar scholarship initiatives rolled out in 2023–24 and 2024–25, reinforcing India’s long-standing commitment to supporting Afghan youth.

Afghanistan has one of the youngest populations in the world, with two-thirds under 25. Recognizing their potential as future leaders, the scheme provides Afghan nationals aged 18–35 access to courses offered by nine Indian universities, including Jamia Millia Islamia, Indira Gandhi National Open University, Anna University, and Kurukshetra University.

Students can choose from diverse disciplines such as Business Administration, Commerce, Computer Science, Political Science, Journalism, Psychology, and Mass Communication. All degrees will be recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC), with physical certificates delivered through the Indian Mission in Kabul.

Applications are open from September 1–6, 2025, via the dedicated Afghan i-learn portal. Candidates must hold a valid Afghan National ID or passport, though they may reside anywhere globally.

The scholarship covers tuition and other university fees but does not include stipends. Funds will be transferred directly to participating universities at the start of each semester.

ICCR emphasized that learners can study “anytime, anywhere” using laptops, tablets, or mobiles with internet access. The selection process includes university screening, identity verification by the Indian Mission in Kabul, and final approval by MEA and ICCR.

This initiative underscores India’s role as a hub for inclusive, technology-driven education while deepening cultural and academic ties with Afghanistan.