Kotak Education Foundation Awards 1,000 Scholarships to Students

On October 12, 2026, the Kotak Education Foundation (KEF) named 1,000 students from across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region as recipients of the Kotak Junior Scholarship 2026. Designed for those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, the program provides each scholar with Rs 73,500 in financial aid distributed over 21 months. This funding supports them through Classes 11 and 12, specifically rewarding students who showed high academic promise by scoring at least 85% in their Class 10 examinations.

The scholarship is a central part of KEF’s effort to bridge gaps in educational equity. As the corporate social responsibility (CSR) arm of Kotak Mahindra Bank, the foundation focuses on opening doors for underserved communities. By combining financial assistance with active mentoring, KEF helps families manage the rising costs of schooling. The initiative looks beyond the classroom, offering structured guidance to help students navigate their personal and professional development during these formative years.

To qualify for the program, applicants undergo a selection process that weighs academic results alongside family income and residency. Candidates must live within the Mumbai Metropolitan Region and have an annual family income below Rs 3.2 lakh. Once selected, the support extends well beyond a bank transfer; students receive one-on-one mentorship, career counseling, and specific preparation for competitive entrance exams. This comprehensive strategy is intended to help them handle academic stress while preparing for the next stage of their lives.

The impact of the Kotak Junior Scholarship reaches further than the individual recipients. By backing these young scholars, the program helps build a more capable workforce that can eventually contribute to broader economic growth. It also serves as a tool for social equity, giving students from marginalized areas the resources they need to access high-quality education and career paths. By involving families and mentors, the program also helps build more resilient support networks within local communities.

Looking forward, the Kotak Education Foundation is scaling up its efforts, with plans to support a total of 5,655 scholars through various programs this year. Alongside the Kotak Junior Scholarship, the foundation manages specialized grants for young women and undergraduate students. This sustained focus on education and employability suggests a steady path for future cohorts, ensuring they have the practical resources and the guidance required to reach their academic and professional goals.