SBI Youth for India Fellow

The interview process at SBI Foundation typically consists of a short online aptitude test followed by a technical interview focused on community work, problem‑solving scenarios, and motivation. The final HR round assesses cultural fit, communication skills, and willingness to live in rural areas. Candidates find the rounds moderate in difficulty; preparation should emphasize real‑world examples of teamwork, leadership, and adaptability.

SBI Foundation promotes a purpose‑driven work culture where employees are encouraged to innovate for social impact. The organization offers structured learning programs, mentorship, and a collaborative environment that balances field work with professional growth. Employees enjoy a healthy work‑life balance, supported by flexible schedules during field assignments and comprehensive welfare benefits.

Age: 21‑32 years; Indian citizens, OCI card holders, and citizens of Nepal/Bhutan are eligible. Minimum qualification: Graduate (any discipline) from a recognized university. No specific percentage requirement; candidates with a consistent academic record are preferred. No back‑log policy for the fellowship – candidates should have cleared all pending examinations before joining. Willingness to reside in rural locations for the full 13‑month duration is mandatory. No prior work experience required.

Round 1: Online application screening → Round 2: Written aptitude/analytical test → Round 3: Personal interview (technical & situational) → Round 4: HR interview (fit & motivation)

SBI Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the State Bank of India Group, has been a catalyst for inclusive development across the country for more than two decades. Leveraging the vast reach of SBI’s banking network, the Foundation funds and implements projects in education, health, livelihood, environment and social empowerment, aiming to bridge the gap between urban growth and rural needs. Its flagship initiative, the SBI Youth for India Fellowship, is designed to channel the energy and fresh perspectives of young graduates into grassroots change‑making. The fellowship is a 13‑month full‑time immersion where fellows live in rural settings, work side‑by‑side with local NGOs, and co‑create solutions that address real‑world challenges. As an SBI Youth for India Fellow, you will be posted to one of several project locations spread across India’s diverse rural landscape. Your day‑to‑day work will involve deep community engagement – conducting surveys, facilitating focus groups, and gathering data that informs project design. You will assist partner NGOs in planning and executing interventions in sectors such as rural education, sustainable agriculture, women’s empowerment, climate‑resilient practices, water & sanitation, tribal development, health & nutrition, and digital inclusion. The role demands a blend of field research, project management, and storytelling: you will document progress, prepare impact case studies, and present findings to stakeholders ranging from village leaders to senior Foundation officials. Key responsibilities include: 1. Building trust with community members and understanding their unique challenges. 2. Collaborating with NGOs to design context‑specific interventions. 3. Conducting field surveys, interviews, and data collection. 4. Analyzing findings and recommending actionable solutions. 5. Supporting the implementation of pilot projects and scaling successful models. 6. Preparing regular progress reports, visual dashboards, and impact narratives. 7. Coordinating logistics, travel, and resource allocation for field activities. 8. Facilitating community meetings, workshops, and capacity‑building sessions. 9. Liaising with local government bodies, panchayats, and other stakeholders. 10. Contributing to the Fellowship’s knowledge repository for future cohorts. The fellowship offers a competitive monthly stipend of ₹15,000‑₹20,000, along with a living allowance for accommodation and food, travel reimbursement for project work, comprehensive health insurance, and a professional development allowance for courses or certifications. Upon successful completion, fellows receive a readjustment allowance, a certificate from SBI Foundation, and access to a strong alumni network that opens doors to careers in development, policy, social entrepreneurship, and corporate CSR. Training sessions led by sector experts, exposure to real‑world problem solving, and mentorship from senior Foundation leaders make this fellowship a launchpad for anyone passionate about creating sustainable impact in rural India.