Pursuing higher education often comes with significant financial challenges, especially for students from economically weaker backgrounds. Recognizing this, the Government of India, along with various state governments, offers multiple scholarship programs to support deserving students across different educational levels. These scholarships aim to ensure that financial constraints do not stand in the way of a student’s academic growth.
From providing assistance at the school level to funding postgraduate and doctoral studies, these government scholarships are designed to reduce the financial burden on students and their families. This article gives a detailed overview of major government scholarships for Indian students, their eligibility criteria, benefits, application procedures, and important deadlines.
Overview of Government Scholarships
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Benefits | Application Deadline |
| National Means Cum Merit Scholarship (NMMS) | Class 8-12 students, family income < ₹3.5 lakh/year | ₹12,000 per year | August 2025 |
| Post-Matric Scholarship for SC/ST/OBC | SC/ST/OBC students in Class 11, UG, PG, or PhD | Tuition fee + stipend up to ₹1,200/month | September 2025 |
| National Fellowship for ST Students | ST students in UG, PG, or PhD | ₹25,000/month for PhD students | October 2025 |
| AICTE Pragati & Saksham Scholarships | Female & differently-abled technical students | ₹50,000 per year | November 2025 |
| Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme (PMSS) | Children of ex-servicemen, CAPF personnel | ₹3,000/month boys, ₹3,500/month girls | December 2025 |
| Mukhyamantri Medhavi Vidyarthi Yojana (MP) | MP students with 75% (MP Board) or 85% (CBSE/ICSE) | Full tuition fee coverage | September 2025 |
| WB Swami Vivekananda Scholarship | WB students in UG/PG courses | ₹5,000 – ₹8,000 per month | September 2025 |
Central Government Scholarships
National Means Cum Merit Scholarship (NMMS)
This scheme is meant for students from economically disadvantaged families studying in government schools. To qualify, students must have scored at least 55% in Class 7 and have a family income below ₹3.5 lakh annually. Selected students receive ₹12,000 per year from Class 8 to Class 12. Applications are submitted through the National Scholarship Portal.
Post-Matric Scholarship for SC/ST/OBC Students
This scholarship helps SC, ST, and OBC students who are continuing their education at the higher secondary, undergraduate, postgraduate, or doctoral level. Eligibility depends on annual family income—below ₹2.5 lakh for SC/ST students and below ₹1 lakh for OBC students. The scheme covers tuition fees and provides a stipend for both hostellers and day scholars. Applications close in September and are accepted on the National Scholarship Portal.
National Fellowship for ST Students
This fellowship supports ST students pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, or doctoral programs in recognized institutions. PhD students are awarded ₹25,000 per month, while postgraduate students receive ₹18,000 per month. Applications are submitted via the National Scholarship Portal by October.
AICTE Pragati & Saksham Scholarships
The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) offers two scholarships. The Pragati Scholarship supports female students in technical education, while the Saksham Scholarship is for differently-abled students enrolled in technical courses. Both provide ₹50,000 per year to cover tuition fees and educational expenses. Candidates must apply through the AICTE portal before November.
Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme (PMSS)
The PMSS targets children of ex-servicemen, CAPF, and police personnel. Eligible students pursuing professional courses such as engineering, medical, law, or management receive ₹3,000 per month for boys and ₹3,500 per month for girls. Applications are accepted through the Kendriya Sainik Board portal, with a deadline in December.
State Government Scholarships
Mukhyamantri Medhavi Vidyarthi Yojana (MP)
The Madhya Pradesh government launched this scholarship to reward academically bright students. Eligibility criteria include 75% marks in MP Board exams or 85% in CBSE/ICSE exams. The scheme covers full tuition fees for professional courses like engineering, medicine, law, and management. Applications are processed through the MP Scholarship Portal, with a deadline in September.
RTE Scholarship (Maharashtra)
Under the Right to Education Act, Maharashtra provides this scholarship for students from low-income families studying in private schools. Eligibility includes an annual family income below ₹1 lakh. The scholarship covers 100% of tuition fees. Applications can be made through the Maharashtra RTE Portal, typically closing in April.
West Bengal Swami Vivekananda Scholarship
This merit-cum-means scholarship is for students from West Bengal enrolled in undergraduate, postgraduate, or technical courses. Eligible students receive ₹5,000 to ₹8,000 per month based on their level of education. Applications are submitted through the WBMDFP portal before the September deadline.
How to Apply for Scholarships
Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for government scholarships:
- Visit the official scholarship portal such as the National Scholarship Portal, AICTE portal, or respective state portals.
- Register using Aadhaar number, email ID, and mobile number.
- Fill in the required personal, academic, and bank account details.
- Upload necessary documents like income certificate, caste certificate (if applicable), Aadhaar card, previous year’s marksheets, and bank passbook.
- Submit the application and keep a copy of the confirmation receipt for reference.
Tips to Maximize Scholarship Success
- Apply early to avoid last-minute problems.
- Thoroughly review eligibility criteria before applying.
- Ensure all documents are correct, scanned properly, and uploaded in the correct format.
- Regularly check official portals for deadline updates or changes.
- Recheck the application form carefully to avoid any mistakes leading to rejection.
Conclusion
Government scholarships for Indian students play a crucial role in making education accessible and affordable. These financial aid programs benefit students from various backgrounds and help reduce the financial stress associated with higher education. By applying on time, fulfilling the eligibility criteria, and ensuring proper documentation, students can secure the financial support needed to achieve their academic aspirations.
FAQs
Who can apply for government scholarships in India?
Government scholarships are open to school, undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral students based on merit, financial need, and reserved category criteria.
Where should students apply for government scholarships?
Students can apply through the National Scholarship Portal (scholarships.gov.in) or respective state scholarship portals depending on the scheme.
Are scholarships available for general category students?
Yes, several scholarships based on merit are available for general category students, such as Pragati Scholarship and various state-level schemes.
Can students apply for multiple scholarships?
Yes, students can apply for multiple scholarships, but it’s essential to check individual scholarship guidelines as some may not allow combining multiple benefits.
What documents are usually required for scholarship applications?
Typical documents include Aadhaar card, income certificate, caste certificate (if applicable), previous academic marksheets, and a bank account passbook.
