Who Should Apply
You don’t need to have it all figured out.
You just need to be ready to dig deeper, think harder, and act better
We’re looking for curious minds and restless hearts, people who question the status quo, care about the world, and want to work at the intersection of policy, power, and public good. Whether you’re a fresh graduate, a mid-career changemaker, or someone taking a gap year to find what truly matters, this is for you.
If you’ve got a Bachelor’s degree (or will have one by August 2025), a hunger to learn, and the courage to unlearn, you’re eligible. We welcome final-year students, working professionals, postgraduates, researchers, freelancers, UPSC aspirants, and wanderers with purpose.
There’s no single definition of a Fellow. It is simply a shared commitment to think critically, speak courageously, and build thoughtfully.
What We Are Looking For
Deep Intellectual Curiosity
We’re seeking individuals who love to ask better questions and are driven by a desire to understand complex systems, be it in policy, governance, economics, or society at large. Whether you’re an academic, a practitioner, or somewhere in between, if you thrive on interdisciplinary inquiry and rigorous exploration, this Fellowship will challenge and expand your thinking.
Drive to Apply Knowledge Practically
We value those who don’t just think deeply, but act decisively. Fellows should be excited about translating theoretical frameworks into practical interventions, conducting fieldwork, engaging with stakeholders, and developing solutions rooted in both evidence and empathy. The program offers multiple opportunities to work on real-world challenges alongside experienced mentors and institutions.
Commitment to a Purposeful Career
This Fellowship is for individuals looking to chart meaningful careers across public service, research, development, entrepreneurship, or academia. If you’re drawn to impact-led paths beyond conventional tracks and want to build a robust intellectual and ethical foundation for long-term leadership, you’ll find both the tools and community here to support that journey.
Key Facts
Process Timeline
May 2025 – Application Launch
15 September, 2025 – Start of Fellowship
15 August, 2025 – Conclusion of Fellowship
Program Fees and funding
Tuition Fee and access to academic resources: Rs. 5.5 Lakhs
Hostel Fee and utilities on campus: Rs. 1.75 Lakhs
10 merit-based Fellowships (Up to 100% tuition scholarships)
Application Process
Applications are evaluated on a rolling basis. Early Applicants will be at an advantage for admission and scholarships!
Round 1 Deadline: 22nd June 2025
Round 2 Deadline: 20th July 2025
Round 3 Deadline: 17th August 2025
Stage 1
- To register, click here
- Log into your account and start filling out your application
- Fill in your contact information and educational qualifications
- Share details of your academic and professional experiences in a detailed CV
- Show us your passion with a 500-word statement of purpose
- Submit and wait for results over email
Stage 2
- Candidates who clear Stage 1 will receive an interview call
- They will be asked to sit for a short online interview with a panel from Chanakya University to discuss the application and potential for the fellowship
- Await the interview results!
For further details, write to us at cfss@chanakyauniversity.edu.in