SC, ST and OBC Scholarship Schemes 2025

SC, ST and OBC Scholarship Schemes 2025

National Scholarship Portal 2025-26

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NSP Scholarship 2025 has now been extended to 15 September 2025

Key NSP Deadlines for 2025-26

  • September 15, 2025

Extended deadline for schemes like the National Means Cum Merit Scholarship (NMMS) and select pre-matric scholarships for students with disabilities.

  • October 31, 2025

Deadline for various NSP scholarships, including those from the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.

How to Verify Specific Deadlines

  1. Visit the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) at scholarships.gov.in.
  2. Go to the “Schemes” section and browse or search for your desired scholarship.
  3. Review the application open and closing dates listed for each scholarship scheme.

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SC/ST/OBC Scholarship Schemes 2025

₹60,000 and ₹48,000 Programs Explained

The SC/ST/OBC Scholarship Schemes for 2025 are pivotal initiatives by the Government of India to promote educational equity for students from Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC). These schemes, offering up to ₹60,000 or ₹48,000 annually, support post-matric students, including those pursuing master’s degrees, by alleviating financial burdens. This guide covers eligibility, application processes, state-specific requirements, and the impact of these scholarships, addressing both the ₹60,000 and ₹48,000 programs.

History and Purpose of the Scholarships

Rooted in India’s constitutional mandate for social justice, the SC/ST/OBC Scholarship Schemes have evolved to address rising educational costs and reduce dropout rates among marginalized communities. Administered by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, these schemes have increased funding over time, with the 2025 programs offering ₹60,000 (up from ₹35,000–₹45,000) or ₹48,000 annually, depending on the specific scheme or state implementation. The purposes include:

  • Ensuring equal access to education for underprivileged groups
  • Reducing financial barriers to prevent dropouts
  • Promoting higher education and professional courses
  • Empowering students for social mobility and career growth

These initiatives aim to foster inclusive education and empower SC/ST/OBC students to achieve academic and professional success.

Key Features of the Schemes

The 2025 schemes provide robust financial support, covering:

  • Tuition and exam fees
  • Maintenance allowance for living expenses
  • Book grants and stationery costs
  • Hostel charges (included in ₹60,000 scheme)
  • Equipment costs for educational needs

Both schemes support diverse academic streams (Arts, Science, Commerce, Engineering, Medical, postgraduate programs) and are disbursed via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to Aadhaar-linked bank accounts. Applications are primarily online through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) or state-specific portals.

Note: The ₹60,000 scheme, as per ssieducation.co.in, offers higher funding with hostel allowances, while the ₹48,000 scheme, detailed at ssieducation.co.in, provides ₹4,000 monthly for similar expenses. Variations may reflect state-specific implementations or parallel programs like the ONGC Scholarship. Verify details on official portals.

Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility for the ₹60,000 and ₹48,000 schemes includes:

  • Category: Must belong to SC, ST, or OBC (verified by caste certificate)
  • Income: Family income not exceeding ₹2.5 lakh per annum (some states allow up to ₹3.5 lakh for ₹48,000 scheme)
  • Education: Enrolled in a recognized institution for post-matric education (Class 11 onwards, including master’s degrees)
  • Academic Performance: Must have passed the previous qualifying exam (some states require 60% marks for postgraduate courses)
  • Age: Under 30 years
  • Bank Account: Aadhaar-linked for DBT
  • Exclusivity: Cannot receive other central scholarships for the same course

Required Documents

Applicants must submit:

  • Caste certificate (SC/ST/OBC)
  • Income certificate (issued by competent authority, e.g., Circle Officer in Assam)
  • Marksheet of the previous academic year
  • Aadhaar card (linked to bank account)
  • Bank account details (passbook for DBT)
  • Bonafide certificate from the institution

State-specific documents may include:

  • Age proof or PAN card (e.g., Assam)
  • Passport-size photographs (e.g., Karnataka, Odisha)

Is a UDISE Code Required?

For school-level scholarships (up to Class 12), a UDISE code may be required to verify institutional recognition. For post-matric students (e.g., master’s degrees), colleges/universities are identified by UGC/AICTE recognition or an AISHE code. Neither scheme explicitly requires a UDISE code for higher education, but applicants must provide:

  • Proof of enrollment (e.g., bonafide certificate, student ID)
  • Institution accreditation details (if required)

Check with your institution or state portal for specific requirements.

State-Specific Application Requirements

The schemes are implemented through state portals with varying deadlines and criteria. Below are details for major states (for postgraduate students) are presented which are indicative only, visit concerned state website for details:

State Portal Application Period (2025-26, Tentative) Key Requirements
West Bengal Oasis Portal Mid-2025 OTR with Aadhaar; no UDISE code for colleges; ₹48,000–₹60,000
Delhi E-District Delhi Sep 2025–May 2026 OTR mandatory; UGC recognition; up to ₹24,000 for some schemes
Gujarat Digital Gujarat Jul–Sep 2025 Gujarat resident; AISHE code or enrollment proof
Karnataka SSP, NSP Jun–Nov 2025 60% marks for OBC; ₹1 lakh income for OBC; NSP ID
Odisha Odisha Scholarship Portal Deadline Jul 31, 2025 60% marks; income up to ₹6 lakh for some schemes
Assam NSP Jul–Sep 2025 Two boys per family limit; PAN card required
Maharashtra MahaDBT Jul 2025–Mar 2026 Income ₹1.5 lakh for OBC; CAP round for professional courses
Chhattisgarh Post Matric Portal TBD No UDISE code for colleges
Uttar Pradesh UP Scholarship Portal TBD Student ID or Bonafede certificate
Rajasthan SJE Rajasthan TBD Helpdesk: 1800-180-6127

Courses Covered and Payment Structure

The ₹48,000 scheme, as per ssieducation.co.in, provides ₹4,000 monthly for:

  • Post-Matric (Class 11–12): State/CBSE/ICSE schools
  • UG & PG Degrees: BA, BSc, BCom, MA, MSc, MCom
  • Technical & Professional: BTech, BE, MBBS, BEd, Law, MBA, MCA
  • Distance/Online Mode: If recognized by UGC/AICTE

The ₹60,000 scheme covers similar courses with additional hostel allowances. Payments are released quarterly after institutional verification.

Expected Number of Beneficiaries

Exact figures for 2025 are unavailable, but similar schemes benefit millions annually. For example:

  • Odisha: Thousands benefit via 20+ schemes.
  • West Bengal: Significant reach through Oasis.
  • Maharashtra: Over 1.5 million applications in 2023-24 via MahaDBT.
  • ONGC Scholarship: 2,000 students annually (1,000 SC/ST, 500 OBC, 500 General).

Nationwide, the schemes could support 5–10 lakh students, driven by increased funding and eligibility criteria.

Benefits and Impact

The schemes deliver:

  • Financial Relief: Covers tuition, hostel, and living costs.
  • Higher Enrollment: Boosts SC/ST/OBC participation.
  • Gender Equity: Additional support for girls (50% scholarships reserved for females in some schemes, e.g., ONGC).
  • Social Mobility: Enhances employability and socio-economic status.

How to Apply

  1. Visit the NSP or state-specific portal.
  2. Complete One-Time Registration (OTR) using Aadhaar.
  3. Fill out the application, upload documents, and submit.
  4. Save a printout of the form.
  5. Track status and await DBT disbursement.

Deadlines: Vary by state (e.g., March 1–April 15, 2025, for some; July 31, 2025, for Odisha). Verify on portals.

Future Scope

The government plans to:

  • Launch a unified app-based platform for tracking.
  • Offer coaching support for exams like NEET, JEE, UPSC.
  • Index amounts to inflation for future updates.

Concluding Observations

The ₹60,000 and ₹48,000 SC/ST/OBC Scholarship Schemes for 2025 are transformative steps toward educational equity, empowering marginalized students to pursue higher education. The ₹60,000 scheme offers broader coverage (e.g., hostel allowances), while the ₹48,000 scheme, often linked to programs like ONGC, provides consistent monthly support. Discrepancies in amounts and income ceilings (₹2.5 lakh vs. ₹3.5 lakh) require applicants to verify state-specific guidelines. For postgraduate students, the lack of a UDISE code requirement simplifies applications, but enrollment proof is critical. With millions of potential beneficiaries, these schemes advance social justice. Apply early, ensure proper documentation, and check official portals for success.

References

(https://ssieducation.co.in/state-scholarship-portals-india-2025/)

(https://www.examresults.net.in/sc-st-obc-scholarship-2025/)

(https://oasis.gov.in/)

(https://scstwelfare.delhi.gov.in/)

(https://www.saptrishicollogedausa.co.in/ssp-scholarship-2025/)

(https://scholarship.odisha.gov.in/website/)

(https://ssieducation.co.in/state-scholarship-portals-india-2025/)

(https://www.kbpatelcollege.com/sc-st-obc-scholarship-yojana-2025/)

(https://www.coursejoiner.com/news/sc-st-obc-scholarship-scheme/)

From the National Scholarship Portal 2025-26

  • Portal is now open for Academic Year 2025-26 to receive applications for both Pre/Post Matric and Top Class schemes of all Ministries/Departments.

  • NPCI has launched Bharat Aadhaar Seeding Enabler (BASE) platform to facilitate Aadhaar Seeding and De-seeding activities in self-service mode for Direct Benefit Transfer(DBT) by enabling the citizens to carry out certain activities in digital mode. For more details click here

  • NSP services are now available at Common Service Centres (CSCs). Students can avail the scholarship related services by visiting the nearby CSCs. The total charges for the entire activity per candidate (including generation of Reference number, biometric -authentication, generation of One-Time Registration (OTR) number, and filing of complete application form of the candidate) is fixed at Rs 30.00 (inclusive of all applicable taxes, etc.) To locate the nearest CSC please visit the link: https://locator.csccloud.in/

FAQs on SC/ST/OBC Scholarship Schemes 2025

  1. What are the SC/ST/OBC Scholarship Schemes for 2025?
    The SC/ST/OBC Scholarship Schemes for 2025 are government initiatives by the Government of India to provide financial assistance to students from Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC). These schemes aim to support economically disadvantaged students in pursuing education from pre-matric to postgraduate levels, with financial aid up to ₹48,000 or ₹60,000 annually, depending on the specific program. Examples include Pre-Matric, Post-Matric, Merit-cum-Means, and ONGC Scholarships.
  2. Who is eligible to apply for these scholarships?
    Eligibility typically includes:
  • Category: Students must belong to SC, ST, or OBC categories and possess a valid caste certificate.
  • Citizenship: Applicants must be Indian nationals.
  • Age: Generally, applicants should be under 30 years old (specific schemes may vary).
  • Education: Students must be enrolled in recognized institutions, from pre-matric (Class 9-10) to postgraduate levels, or in professional courses (e.g., IITs, IIMs for Top Class Education Scholarships).
  • Income: Parental/guardian income should not exceed ₹2.5 lakh per annum for most schemes.
  • Academic Performance: Some schemes, like merit-based scholarships, require a minimum of 60% marks in the previous qualifying exam (e.g., 12th grade).
    Specific eligibility criteria vary by scheme, so students should check the guidelines on the National Scholarship Portal (scholarships.gov.in).
  1. How much financial assistance is provided under these scholarships?
  • Up to ₹48,000 annually: Schemes like the ONGC Scholarship and Post-Matric Scholarships provide up to ₹48,000 per year to cover tuition fees, books, hostel charges, and other educational expenses.
  • Up to ₹60,000 annually: Certain programs, possibly including National Fellowships for OBC or Top Class Education Scholarships, may offer up to ₹60,000 for students in premier institutions or pursuing higher studies like M.Phil./PhD.
    The exact amount depends on the scheme, educational level, and institution.
  1. What types of scholarships are available under these schemes?
    The schemes include:
  • Pre-Matric Scholarship: For students in Classes 9 and 10, offering monthly stipends (up to ₹500) and ad-hoc grants (e.g., ₹500 per year).
  • Post-Matric Scholarship: For students in Classes 11, 12, and undergraduate/postgraduate courses, providing maintenance allowances (up to ₹750/month) and other benefits.
  • Merit-cum-Means Scholarship: For students in technical or professional courses.
  • Top Class Education Scholarship: For students in premier institutions like IITs or IIMs.
  • National Fellowship for OBC: For M.Phil./PhD students, offering higher financial aid.
  • National Overseas Scholarship: For OBC students pursuing Master’s or PhD abroad.
  1. What documents are required to apply for these scholarships?
    Commonly required documents include:
  • Aadhaar Card (linked to a bank account) for identity verification.
  • Caste Certificate to confirm SC/ST/OBC status.
  • Income Certificate to prove family income is below ₹2.5 lakh per annum.
  • Age Proof Certificate (e.g., birth certificate).
  • Educational Qualification Certificates and mark sheets to verify academic background.
  • Bank Account Passbook for direct benefit transfer.
  • Passport-sized photographs.
  • PAN Card (if applicable, for financial purposes).
    Some schemes may require additional documents, so check specific guidelines.
  1. How can I apply for the SC/ST/OBC Scholarships in 2025?
    To apply:
  • Visit the official National Scholarship Portal
  • Click on “New Registration” and complete the one-time registration (OTR) process.
  • Log in and select the relevant scholarship scheme (e.g., Pre-Matric, Post-Matric, or ONGC Scholarship).
  • Read the guidelines and eligibility criteria carefully.
  • Fill out the online application form with personal, academic, and bank details.
  • Upload all required documents (e.g., caste certificate, income certificate).
  • Submit the application and take a printout for future reference.
    Applications can also be submitted through state-specific portals (e.g., e-district Delhi, scholarship.odisha.gov.in) for certain schemes.
  1. What are the important deadlines for the 2025 scholarship applications?
    Deadlines vary by scheme and state but, based on available data:
  • Student Submission: Typically closes between November 15, 2024, and January 19, 2025, for schemes on the National Scholarship Portal.
  • Institute Verification: Often closes by January 23, 2025.
  • Defective Application Verification: May extend to January 23, 2025.
  • DNO/SNO/MNO Verification: Usually completes by January 31, 2025.
  • For Delhi-specific schemes, the last date to apply via the E-District Delhi Portal is May 31, 2025.
    Always check the specific scheme’s deadlines on scholarships.gov.in or state portals, as extensions may occur.
  1. Do I need to renew the scholarship every year?
    Yes, most scholarships require annual renewal. Students must submit updated applications each year, including recent academic records and income certificates, to continue receiving benefits. Renewal processes are typically similar to the initial application, conducted through the National Scholarship Portal or state portals.
  2. What are the benefits of these scholarships?
  • Financial Support: Covers tuition fees, books, hostel charges, and other educational expenses, reducing financial burdens.
  • Uninterrupted Education: Ensures students can continue studies without financial constraints.
  • Career Opportunities: Enables access to higher education and professional courses, fostering better career prospects.
  • Empowerment: Supports students from marginalized communities to achieve their academic and professional goals.
  1. Can students from states other than Delhi apply for these scholarships?
    Yes, these scholarships are available nationwide through the National Scholarship Portal     (scholarships.gov.in) and state-specific portals (e.g., scholarship.odisha.gov.in, scholarship.up.gov.in, cmscholarship.goa.gov.in). Each state may have additional schemes or specific application processes, but the core eligibility criteria remain similar. Students should apply through their respective state portals or the NSP, depending on the scheme.
  2. Are there any restrictions on the number of scholarship recipients per family?
    For some schemes, such as the OBC Scholarship in Assam, only two male children from the same parents/guardian can receive scholarships. However, this restriction does not apply to female students, allowing all eligible girls from a family to apply. Always verify specific scheme guidelines for family restrictions.
  1. How is the scholarship amount disbursed?
    The scholarship amount is directly transferred to the student’s bank account via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), facilitated through the Bharat Aadhaar Seeding Enabler (BASE) platform. The Aadhaar card must be linked to the bank account for seamless transactions.
  2. What happens if I miss the application deadline?
    Missing the deadline typically disqualifies you for that academic year’s scholarship. However, some schemes may announce extensions (e.g., Delhi’s E-District Portal extended deadlines in past years). Monitor the National Scholarship Portal or state portals for updates on deadlines or reopenings.
  3. Can I apply for multiple scholarship schemes?
    Generally, students cannot avail of multiple scholarships simultaneously under the same category (e.g., two Post-Matric scholarships). However, you can apply for different schemes if eligible (e.g., a state-specific scholarship and a merit-based one), provided they don’t overlap. Check the specific guidelines for each scheme to confirm.
  1. Where can I get help if I face issues during the application process?
  • National Scholarship Portal: Contact the NSP helpdesk via the portal or email.
  • State Portals: Reach out to state-specific helplines (e.g., West Bengal: +91-84 20 02 3311).
  • Institution: Consult your school/college’s scholarship coordinator.
  • Official Websites: Refer to scholarships.gov.in or state portals for FAQs and guidelines.

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