Author Note: This guide is researched and published by Sahityashala Finance , a student-focused financial literacy platform dedicated to simplifying tax compliance and financial planning for interns, freelancers, and researchers across India. 📌 Quick Answer Scholarships, fellowships, and research grants granted solely to meet the cost of education are not taxable in India under Section 10(16) of the Income Tax Act. However, payments linked to teaching assistantships, consulting, or professional services rendered are fully taxable. The Academic Jackpot: Is the Taxman Coming for Your Grant? You just cracked a prestigious national fellowship. Maybe you secured a massive research grant for your B.Sc Physics project at Motilal Nehru College, or you've been awarded a merit scholarship while preparing for your CUET PG exams to get into IIMC Delhi. Seeing a hefty amount credited to your bank account feels like a victory—until a terrifying tho...
The ₹60,000 Loophole: Are You Donating Your Tax Money to the Government? Living away from home is brutally expensive. Whether you are paying ₹15,000 a month for a cramped PG in Bengaluru or surviving in a university hostel in Delhi, a massive chunk of your hard-earned stipend or freelance income vanishes into your landlord's pockets. But here is the multi-million dollar question: Can you, as a student, claim tax deductions on your PG or hostel rent? The answer is a resounding YES , thanks to a little-known secret called Section 80GG . Let's reclaim your money. Unlock the power of Section 80GG: Learn how interns, freelancers, and students in India can claim tax deductions on their PG, flat, or hostel rent. The Big Misconception: "Students Don't Need Tax Deductions" Most Indian students believe tax planning is only for 40-year-old corporate employees. This is a massive financial blunder. Today's students are side-hustle...