Introduction
In an effort to foster diversity and inclusivity within the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), the Micron Foundation has launched the URAM Scholarship Program for the year 2023.
This initiative aims to provide crucial financial support and encouragement to women engineers and individuals with disabilities who are pursuing undergraduate degrees in Computer Science Engineering (CSE), Electronics & Electrical Engineering (EEE), and Electronics & Computer Engineering (ECE) in India.
By offering scholarships that cover a wide range of educational and career-related expenses, the program strives to break down barriers and pave the way for a more diverse and inclusive STEM community.
Eligibility Criteria
The URAM Scholarship Program has set forth specific eligibility criteria to ensure that deserving candidates are provided with the opportunity to benefit from this initiative:
Gender and Disability: To be eligible for the scholarship, applicants must either be women engineers or persons with disabilities.
Citizenship: Applicants must be citizens of India.
Academic Level: Eligible candidates must be enrolled in the pre-final year of a B.Tech. or Dual Degree program in the fields of EEE, CSE, or ECE at a recognized university in India.
Academic Performance: Women engineers are required to have a minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 7.0, while no minimum CGPA is necessary for persons with disabilities.
Income Limit: Applicants must come from families with an annual income of less than INR 5 lakhs.
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Benefits of the URAM Scholarship
The URAM Scholarship Program offers a total of 59 scholarships, each valued at INR 1 lakh. This financial aid can be utilized to cover a variety of expenses that are integral to a student’s academic and professional journey:
Tuition and Examination Fees: The scholarship can alleviate the financial burden of tuition fees and examination costs, enabling students to focus on their studies.
Hostel and Boarding Expenses: Accommodation and boarding costs can be covered, ensuring that scholars have a conducive living environment.
Hardware and Software Expenses: As technology is at the core of STEM education, the scholarship supports students in acquiring necessary hardware and software tools.
Books and Specialized Courses: Financial assistance can be directed towards purchasing study materials, textbooks, and enrolling in specialized courses that enhance skillsets.
Upskilling and Conferences: The scholarship can fund participation in workshops, seminars, and conferences, fostering networking and skill development opportunities.
Research and Project-related Expenses: For students engaged in research projects, the scholarship can provide funding for research-related expenses.
Application Process
The application process for the URAM Scholarship Program is conducted online. Interested candidates can access the application form on the Micron Foundation website. The deadline for submitting applications is September 30, 2023. The selection process is competitive and relies on various criteria:
Academic Performance: The applicant’s academic record, as reflected by their CGPA, plays a crucial role in the selection process.
Extracurricular Activities: Participation in extracurricular activities showcases a holistic profile and commitment to personal development.
Personal Statement: Candidates are often required to submit a personal statement outlining their aspirations, motivations, and how the scholarship will impact their educational journey.
Recommendation Letters: Letters of recommendation provide insights into the applicant’s character, work ethic, and potential.
Conclusion
The URAM Scholarship Program is a significant step towards fostering diversity and inclusivity in STEM education and careers in India.
By extending financial support to women engineers and individuals with disabilities, the program enables these students to overcome financial barriers and pursue their aspirations in the fields of Computer Science Engineering, Electronics & Electrical Engineering, and Electronics & Computer Engineering.
The scholarships not only cover essential academic expenses but also empower students to engage in extracurricular activities, upskilling, research, and networking opportunities. If you meet the eligibility criteria, seize the opportunity and apply for the URAM Scholarship Program before the September 30th deadline.
Your journey towards a rewarding career in STEM could be just around the corner, supported by the Micron Foundation’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and education.