At BITSoM (BITS School of Management), scholarships are more than financial support—they embody our commitment to making world-class management education accessible to talented individuals from all walks of life. Under the aegis of BITS Pilani, an Institution of Eminence, we believe that excellence should not be limited by economic barriers. Our scholarships reward academic merit, address financial needs, and champion diversity, fostering an inclusive community of future leaders who drive global impact.
BITSoM offers four main types of scholarships: merit-based, need-based, diversity/women’s leadership, and entrepreneur innovator funds. These initiatives align with our values of inclusivity, academic rigor, and transformative leadership, ensuring that deserving candidates can pursue their MBA without undue financial strain. Approximately 35% of the incoming class receives some form of financial assistance.
If you're wondering, "Does BITSoM offer scholarships?" the answer is a resounding yes. Our goal is to empower students who demonstrate potential, helping them focus on innovation and growth rather than funding worries.
BITSoM Types of Scholarships
Merit-Based Scholarships
Merit scholarships at BITSoM recognize students with outstanding academic records, high entrance exam scores (such as CAT 95+ percentile, GMAT 690+, or GRE equivalents), and demonstrated leadership through extracurricular achievements. These awards are automatically considered for all applicants, with no separate form required. Typically, the top 10% of admits receive these honors, promoting a culture of excellence. Up to 100% tuition waivers are available for exceptional candidates.
Need-Based Financial Aid
For students facing financial challenges, BITSoM's need-based scholarships provide transparent and fair support. Eligibility focuses on family income not exceeding INR 18 lakhs annually (including the applicant's personal income), combined with strong academic credentials (minimum 60% in bachelor's). Applicants must complete the dedicated 'Scholarship Section' in the application form and submit supporting documents like income proofs during registration. Awards range from 25% to 75% tuition coverage, ensuring aid reaches those who need it most, without compromising on merit.
Diversity or Women-in-Leadership Scholarships
BITSoM is dedicated to promoting gender and professional diversity through targeted scholarships. Our Women’s Scholarships support female candidates showing merit and leadership potential (bachelor's with 60%+), helping to bridge representation gaps in management—aiming for 45% women in the cohort and 33% non-engineers. Awards offer up to 50% tuition waivers. While specific regional diversity awards are not highlighted, these scholarships contribute to a balanced, inclusive cohort of 160 students. No separate application is needed beyond the standard process, and awards are announced alongside merit scholarships.
Corporate/Alumni Sponsored Awards
BITSoM's Entrepreneur Innovator Fund supports candidates with demonstrated startup or innovation experience, assessed during personal interviews. Awards provide up to INR 5 lakhs, often in collaboration with industry partners for mentorship alongside funding. This fosters entrepreneurial spirit in our tech-embedded MBA curriculum.
BITSoM Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for BITSoM scholarships, candidates must first meet general MBA admission requirements: a recognized bachelor's degree (any discipline) with at least 60% aggregate (provisional for final-year students), valid scores in CAT/GMAT/GRE, and evidence of leadership potential. Scholarship-specific criteria include:
- Merit-Based: Top percentile in entrance exams (e.g., CAT 95+), GPA above 8.0/10 equivalent, and notable achievements in academics or extracurriculars.
- Need-Based: Annual family income ≤ INR 18 lakhs, verified by documents like ITRs or salary slips; minimum 60% academics required.
- Women’s/Diversity Scholarships: Female or underrepresented applicants (e.g., non-engineers) meeting merit criteria, with emphasis on potential for leadership impact.
- Entrepreneur Fund: Proven innovation via projects, startups, or relevant experience.
International students are welcome to apply, provided they fulfill the above. For precise cutoffs, refer to the latest admissions guidelines. Explore BITSoM admission details.
Scholarship Amount & Benefits
BITSoM scholarships offer flexible support, ranging from 25% to 100% tuition fee waivers (up to INR 23.85 lakhs), depending on the award type and candidate profile. With total program fees at INR 28.55 lakhs—including tuition (INR 23.85 lakhs), one-time admission fee (INR 1.50 lakhs), accommodation (INR 3.00 lakhs), and refundable security deposit (INR 20,000)—these can significantly reduce costs. Top merit recipients may secure full tuition coverage, while need-based and diversity awards provide partial aid, sometimes extending to hostel fees. The entrepreneur fund adds up to INR 5 lakhs for specific initiatives.
For example, 35% of incoming students receive financial assistance, making BITSoM's two-year residential MBA—featuring specializations in emerging domains like AI in Business, global immersions (e.g., London Business School), and corporate live projects—more attainable. Benefits extend beyond funds: recipients gain access to mentorship networks, priority for experiential learning, and a 1:8 student-faculty ratio with 80+ global experts.
For a broader view on BITSoM's programs, check out BITSoM courses and fees.
Application & Selection Process
Applying for BITSoM scholarships is seamless and integrated with admissions for the Class of 2027 (program start: May 22, 2026). Here's a step-by-step guide:
- Submit Your Application: Start by applying online via the BITSoM portal (Round 1 opens August 25, 2025; closes November 16, 2025; application fee INR 2,500). All candidates are auto-considered for merit and entrepreneur awards.
- Indicate Interest: For need-based, women’s, or diversity scholarships, complete the 'Scholarship Section' and submit an additional essay explaining your circumstances or aspirations, along with essays, LORs, and profile details.
- Provide Documents: Upload financial proofs (e.g., income certificates), degree certificates, test scorecards, and ID post-shortlisting.
- Interviews and Evaluation: Shortlisting based on profile (acads 20%, test 50%, extras 30%), followed by Written Ability Test (WAT) + Personal Interview (PI) in November-December 2025. A committee reviews holistically for fairness.
- Announcement: Awards are revealed with final offers post-interviews (January-April 2026).
- See also BITSoM placements and facilities.
Renewal and Conditions
Scholarships at BITSoM are awarded for the full two-year program but require maintaining a minimum CGPA of 8.0/10 each semester, active participation in campus activities (e.g., internships with avg. stipend INR 1.72 lakhs), and adherence to the code of conduct. Renewal is assessed annually; failure to meet standards may result in partial reduction or revocation. Need-based aid may require updated income verification. Contact admissions@bitsom.edu.in for personalized guidance.
Additional Financial Support Options
Beyond scholarships, BITSoM partners with leading banks (e.g., SBI) for education loans up to INR 50 lakhs at competitive rates (starting 7.90% p.a., up to 15-year tenure—no collateral for many). Our Financial Aid Office assists with applications. Additionally, paid summer internships, teaching assistantships, and 41 PPOs from the 2025 batch provide stipends to offset living costs, ensuring comprehensive support amid 100% placements (avg. INR 23.41 LPA).
Student Experiences
"Receiving the Women’s Scholarship transformed my journey at BITSoM. As a first-generation learner from a modest background, the 50% tuition waiver allowed me to focus on case studies and global projects without debt worries. The mentorship from faculty was invaluable—it's not just aid; it's empowerment." – Priya S., MBA Class of 2026
"BITSoM's merit scholarship covered 75% of my fees, recognizing my CAT 99.5% score and startup experience. The community here is supportive, and I've already landed an internship that aligns with my goals. It's proof that merit opens doors." – Arjun K., MBA Class of 2026
