The KVPY (Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojana) was one of India’s most prestigious national fellowship programs designed to encourage young science students to pursue research careers. Though KVPY has now been merged with INSPIRE-SHE, it is still remembered as a legacy exam that shaped the future of thousands of science aspirants. This blog provides a simple, SEO-friendly overview of KVPY (Legacy), its pattern, eligibility, and importance.
FILL FORM FOR COUNSELLING
What Was KVPY (Legacy)?
KVPY was a scholarship and aptitude test launched by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India). The goal of KVPY was to identify talented students with strong aptitude in science and support them through scholarships and mentorship programs.
The exam offered fellowships for students pursuing:
- B.Sc
- B.S.
- B.Stat
- B.Math
- Integrated M.Sc
- Integrated M.S.
KVPY Streams (Legacy)
KVPY was divided into three streams based on students’ class:
1. KVPY SA Stream
- For students studying in Class 11
- Tested basic science knowledge (Class 10–11 level)
2. KVPY SX Stream
- For students studying in Class 12
- Higher-level questions based on Class 11–12 science syllabus
3. KVPY SB Stream
- For students in the first year of B.Sc/BS
- Tested undergraduate-level knowledge
KVPY (Legacy) Eligibility Criteria
For SA Stream
- Must be studying in Class 11
- Required strong academic performance in science subjects
For SX Stream
- Must be in Class 12
- Interest and aptitude for pursuing pure sciences
For SB Stream
- First-year UG science students
- Must plan to pursue a career in research
KVPY (Legacy) Exam Pattern
Mode: Computer-Based Test
Type: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
Total Marks: 100
The exam consisted of four subjects:
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
- Biology
Marking Scheme
- +1 or +2 for correct answers (varied by section)
- -0.25 or -0.5 negative marking
Students could attempt any three subjects, making the paper flexible for different interest areas.
KVPY (Legacy) Syllabus Overview
The syllabus was based on Class 10, 11, and 12 NCERT topics.
Physics
- Motion
- Electricity
- Optics
- Magnetism
- Thermodynamics
Chemistry
- Organic chemistry basics
- Chemical bonding
- Atomic structure
- Thermodynamics
- Equilibrium
Mathematics
- Algebra
- Calculus
- Probability
- Geometry
- Trigonometry
Biology
- Cell biology
- Ecology
- Genetics
- Human physiology
- Biotechnology
Selection Process of KVPY (Legacy)
KVPY used a two-stage selection process:
- Aptitude Test
- Personal Interview
Both stages evaluated scientific aptitude, critical thinking, and research mindset.
Benefits of KVPY (Legacy)
- Monthly scholarships and annual contingency grants
- Direct entry into top institutes like IISc, IISERs (via KVPY channel)
- Exposure to research labs and mentorship programs
- Recognition as a top science talent in India
Why KVPY (Legacy) Still Matters?
Even though KVPY has merged with INSPIRE, it remains an important benchmark for students preparing for:
- IISER Aptitude Test (IAT)
- NEST
- TIFR GS
- Olympiads
- Research careers
The legacy of KVPY continues to inspire India’s next generation of scientists.
Conclusion
KVPY (Legacy) was a golden opportunity for science students who wanted to explore research careers. Its strong reputation, competitive exam standards, and valuable scholarships made it one of India’s most prestigious science programs. Understanding the KVPY pattern and syllabus still helps students preparing for research-based entrance exams today.
