The prestigious Colgate Keep India Smiling Scholarship program for 2024 has been officially announced, targeting students studying Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) and Master of Dental Surgery (MDS) courses. This initiative aims to support deserving students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds in their academic journey to become skilled dental professionals. The deadline to apply for the scholarship is 31st October 2024, and students can apply through the Buddy4Study platform.
The scholarship is designed to encourage academic excellence in dental studies, providing a one-time financial award to deserving students. The program includes both BDS and MDS students, with a special focus on students from certain states like Maharashtra, Goa, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh.
Eligibility Criteria for BDS Students
The Colgate Keep India Smiling Scholarship 2024-25 for BDS students is open to Indian nationals who are currently enrolled in any year of the BDS program. The following are the main eligibility requirements:
• Applicants must have passed the Class 12 Board exam with at least 65%.
• Students in the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th year of BDS must obtain at least 60% in the previous semester.
• Students must study in a recognized government or private institution.
• Annual family income of the applicant should be less than INR 8 lakh.
• Preference will be given to students from Maharashtra, Goa, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh. Children of employees of Buddy4Study or Colgate India are not eligible for this scholarship.
Benefits for BDS Students
BDS students selected in this program will receive a one-time financial award of INR 75,000. This scholarship can reduce the financial burden of studying dentistry, especially for students from weaker economic sections.
Eligibility Criteria for MDS Students
For MDS students, the scholarship is open to those who are currently enrolled in a recognized institution for a Master of Dental Surgery course. Eligibility criteria are as follows:
• Applicants must clear Class 12 Board exam with minimum 65%.
• They should have secured more than 60% in BDS degree.
• Family annual income should be less than INR 8 lakh.
• Like the BDS scholarship, preference will be given to students from the states of Maharashtra, Goa, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh.
Benefits for MDS Students
MDS students selected for the scholarship will also receive a one-time financial award of INR 75,000. This support is intended to help them continue their advanced dental studies without financial barriers.
Application Process
To apply for the Colgate Keep India Smiling Scholarship, students must follow these steps:
1. Visit the Buddy4Study website and log in with your user ID. If not registered, students can register using their email, mobile number, or Google account.
2. After logging in, navigate to the ‘Colgate Keep India Smiling Scholarship 2024-25’ application page.
3. Click the ‘Start Application’ button and fill all the required details.
4. Upload required documents, including Aadhaar card, passport size photograph, proof of income, and academic records.
5. After reviewing the application, click ‘Submit’ to complete the process.
Direct Link to Apply for Colgate Keep India Smiling Scholarship 2024
Required documents
BDS and MDS applicants must submit the following documents as part of their application:
• Aadhaar card or other valid photo ID.
• Passport size photo.
• Proof of income, such as a pay slip or income certificate.
• Proof of admission (KTP or bonafide certificate).
• Fees for the current academic year of receipt.
• Bank account details for scholarship disbursement.
• Markleet or class card from previous class.
• Disability certificate (if applicable).
Key Dates and Next Steps
The application window for BDS and MDS students closes on 31 October 2024. Students are advised to apply early and ensure that all required documents are submitted. Once the application is processed, selected students will be notified via the Buddy4Study platform.
This scholarship program is an excellent opportunity for deserving students to continue their dental education with financial support from Colgate. The initiative not only promotes academic excellence but also ensures that talented students from disadvantaged backgrounds have the opportunity to pursue their professional goals in the field of dentistry.
