UGC Scholarship Update 2026: Aadhaar Mandatory for Payment Process

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has released an important update about the disbursal of funds. It is for students on scholarship or fellowship which is now important for taking action. From now on, payments shall be released only in those Bank Accounts that are linked with Aadhaar. Beneficiaries are advised to comply with the requirement at the earliest. Those who do not comply risk having their payments cut off.

The Aadhaar payment system is now compulsory

In the modified guidelines, UGC has made it mandatory to adopt the Aadhaar-Based Payment system (ABPS) for the disbursal of scholarships and fellowships. The system ensures that the money goes directly into Aadhaar-linked bank accounts. 

The step comes under the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system for greater transparency. And to make sure that the payments reach the students in a secure manner and without involving middlemen. 

What Students Should Do Right Now?

In order to continue availing the benefits, students have to update their particulars on the Scholarship and Fellowship Management Portal (SFMP). The important step is to link their Aadhaar number to their bank account and update it on the portal. Students who have not received the same are advised to do so urgently as not updating may result in a hold on future payments. 

Scholarship Payment Deadline 2026: Key Dates to Remember