UPSC SETU Scholarship Test 2025
Registration (Registration is mandatory to attend the SETU Scholarship Test 2025)
SETU – Inclusive UPSC Coaching Program for Persons with Disabilities
Powered by Shankar IAS Academy & Prajaahita Foundation
Why SETU Matters
Talent is everywhere. Opportunity is limited.
Every year, thousands of persons with disabilities aspire to serve the nation through the civil services. But systemic barriers, not lack of ability, stand in their way.
SETU (Support in Education and Training for UPSC Examination) changes that. This is a pioneering inclusive UPSC coaching initiative, designed specifically to provide equitable access, personalised support, and preparation for aspirants with disabilities.
A partnership between Shankar IAS Academy, Shankar Memorial Educational & Charitable Trust, and the Prajaahita Foundation, SETU is a structured bridge between ambition and achievement.
What You Get with SETU
SETU is not just coaching. It is an ecosystem built for accessibility, equity, and success.
- ✔ Fully Funded Scholarships 30 scholarships in 2025, scaling to 400+ nationwide by 2029 Covers complete UPSC preparation at Shankar IAS Academy
- ✔ Accessible Learning Formats Braille, large print, screen reader compatible material Audio lectures and visual aids tailored for all learning needs
- ✔ Reasonable Exam Accommodations Extended exam time, scribes, sign language interpreters Accessible mock tests designed for UPSC pattern
- ✔ Hybrid Coaching Model Learn in person at Shankar IAS centres or online from home Same expert faculty, same proven results
- ✔ Mentorship and Inclusion Support Dedicated mentors from the civil services and alumni network Peer learning and guidance led by Prajaahita Foundation
Who Should Apply
- ✔ Persons with disability (PwD) as defined under the RPwD Act, 2016
- ✔ Age: Minimum 21 years. Maximum age limits (including PwD relaxations) are as follows:
- PwD (General/EWS): 42 years
- PwD + OBC: 45 years
- PwD + SC/ST: 47 years
- ✔ Graduates or final year students preparing for the UPSC Civil Services Examination.
- ✔ Aspirants determined to serve the nation and break barriers that hold others back
Why SETU Is Different
SETU has been thoughtfully designed from inception to prioritize accessibility and inclusion, rather than adapting support as an afterthought.
- Anchored by Shankar IAS Academy, a trusted name in UPSC coaching for over 20 years
- Inclusion support driven by Prajaahita Foundation, specialists in disability advocacy and education
- Fully aligned with RPwD Act, 2016 and UNCRPD principles
Application Process
- 1. Fill out the SETU Scholarship Application Form
- 2. Select your preferred Shankar IAS Academy centre or online mode
- 3. Specify any required accommodations (scribe, interpreter, assistive device)
- 4. Appear for the scholarship test at your designated centre or online
- 5. Await selection and orientation details
Application Timeline
- 1. Application Deadline: September 18, 2025
- 2. Scholarship Test: September 21 , 2025
- 3. Mode: In person at selected Shankar IAS centres across India or Online
- 4. Next Steps: for Shortlisted Candidates Interview and Orientation
SETU is supported by:
Shankar Memorial Educational & Charitable Trust
Carrying forward the enduring vision and values of Mr. Shankar, a pioneer in UPSC education and founder of Shankar IAS Academy.
Prajaahita Foundation – Inclusion Partner
Led by Sooraj Santhosh Kumar, a former UPSC aspirant and social entrepreneur, Prajaahita builds sustainable education and employment pathways for persons with disabilities across India.
Together, we are committed to building an inclusive future for India’s civil services.
Know Someone Who Needs This?
If you know someone who dreams of joining the civil services but faces barriers, please share SETU with them. Together, we can open the door to new possibilities.
Test - Venue
UPSC: 
90031 90030