Introduction: Why Scholarships Matter More Than Ever in 2026
Education in India is evolving rapidly, but rising costs remain a major concern for families across income groups. From private school fees to competitive coaching, hostel expenses, and research costs, financial pressure often becomes a barrier to academic potential.
This is where Scholarships for Students in India play a life-changing role.
In 2026, India offers hundreds of scholarships funded by the central government, state governments, private foundations, corporates, minority bodies, and international institutions. These scholarships are not limited to toppers alone. Many are designed for:
Economically weaker students
First-generation learners
Girls and women
SC, ST, OBC, EWS, and minority students
Students with disabilities
Talented students in sports, arts, and research
This guide is written to help students and parents at every level, from Class 1 to PhD, clearly understand:
Which scholarships are available
Who is eligible
How much financial help is offered
How and when to apply
Section 1: Scholarships for School Students in India (Class 1 to Class 12)
Understanding School-Level Scholarships in India
School-level scholarships in India are designed to protect a child’s education at the most critical stage—when families are most vulnerable to financial pressure and dropout risks are highest.
Unlike college scholarships, school scholarships focus on:
Education continuity, not competition
Household income and social background, not only marks
Inclusion of rural, minority, and first-generation learners
In 2026, school scholarships are offered through a three-layer system:
Central Government portals
State Government scholarship portals
Private trusts, NGOs, and foundations
Most students miss scholarships not because they are ineligible—but because they don’t know where to apply or how the process works. The section ahead fixes that problem.
Major Types of School Scholarships in India
School scholarships broadly fall into three practical categories, not just academic labels.
Pre-Matric Scholarships (Class 1 to Class 10)
What Are Pre-Matric Scholarships?
Pre-Matric Scholarships are financial assistance schemes for students studying from Class 1 to Class 10 in:
Government schools
Government-aided schools
Recognized private schools
Their primary goal is to ensure that no child leaves school due to poverty, social disadvantage, or lack of resources.
Who Should Definitely Apply?
A student should not skip applying if they belong to:
SC / ST / OBC categories
Minority communities
Economically weaker sections
Single-parent or low-income households
Even average academic performers are eligible in many schemes.
Common Eligibility Criteria (Explained Simply)
Most Pre-Matric Scholarships consider:
1. Family Income Limit
Usually between ₹1 lakh to ₹2.5 lakh per year
Income certificate issued by local authority required
2. Category Eligibility
SC / ST / OBC / Minority (as per scheme)
Valid caste or community certificate needed
3. School Attendance
Student must be enrolled and attending regularly
School verification is mandatory
4. Academic Continuity
Promotion to next class required
No strict “topper” condition in most schemes
What Financial Support Is Provided?
Pre-Matric scholarships generally include:
Tuition fee reimbursement
Monthly maintenance allowance
Book and stationery assistance
Uniform support (in some states)
Money is transferred directly to the student’s bank account through DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer).
Where to Apply: Official Portals (Most Important Part)
1. National Scholarship Portal (NSP)
This is the main central portal for Pre-Matric scholarships.
Portal:
https://scholarships.gov.in
Schemes available here include:
Pre-Matric Scholarship for SC Students
Pre-Matric Scholarship for ST Students
Pre-Matric Scholarship for Minority Students
Who should use NSP?
Students whose schemes are funded by the Central Government or centrally sponsored.
2. State Scholarship Portals
Each state runs its own scholarship system. Examples:
Uttar Pradesh: https://scholarship.up.gov.in
Bihar: https://pmsonline.bih.nic.in
Rajasthan: https://sso.rajasthan.gov.in
Maharashtra: https://mahadbt.maharashtra.gov.in
Important tip:
If a scholarship is funded by the state, NSP will redirect you to the state portal.
How to Apply for Pre-Matric Scholarships (Step-by-Step)
Register on the correct portal (NSP or State portal)
Fill student details carefully (name must match Aadhaar)
Upload documents:
Aadhaar
Income certificate
Caste/community certificate
School bonafide certificate
Submit application
School verifies the application
District/State authority approves
Scholarship amount credited to bank account
Scholarships for Class 11 and Class 12 Students
Why Scholarships After Class 10 Matter Most
Class 11 is where dropouts spike sharply in India due to:
Higher school fees
Coaching and subject material costs
Pressure to start earning
Scholarships at this stage are designed to keep students in the education system and help them complete higher secondary education.
Types of Class 11–12 Scholarships
These scholarships focus on:
Science, Commerce, and Arts streams
Girls’ education
Students transitioning from government schools
Eligibility Factors (Realistic, Not Theoretical)
Most schemes consider:
Passing Class 10 from a recognized board
Enrollment in Class 11 or 12
Family income limit
Minimum percentage (often 50–60%)
Financial Benefits Provided
Support usually includes:
Monthly stipend
Annual scholarship amount
Fee reimbursement
Additional incentive for girls
Amounts vary by scheme and state.
Key Scholarship Portals to Track
National Scholarship Portal (NSP)
Schemes commonly available:
Post-Matric (for Class 11–12)
Minority scholarships
Central sector support schemes
State Portals
Same state portals as Pre-Matric, but different scheme category selected.
How to Maximize Chances at This Level
Apply as fresh applicant in Class 11
Ensure income certificate is current year
Avoid mismatches in name, DOB, or bank details
Track application status regularly
Scholarships for Meritorious School Students
What Are Merit-Based School Scholarships?
Merit scholarships reward academic excellence and talent, not financial background alone.
They are awarded based on:
Board exam performance
Competitive school-level tests
Olympiads and national talent exams
Who Benefits Most from Merit Scholarships?
Students scoring high in Class 8, 9, 10, or 12
Students from competitive boards
Students preparing for national exams early
Common Sources of Merit Scholarships
1. Government Merit Schemes
Central and state merit awards
Talent incentive programs
2. Talent Search Exams
National-level scholarship tests
Olympiad-based rewards
3. Foundation & Trust Scholarships
Offered by educational trusts and NGOs
Often combine merit + income criteria
How These Scholarships Are Paid
Lump-sum annual amount
Continued support till Class 12 (subject to performance)
Sometimes linked with mentorship or coaching support
Important Application Advice
Track exam dates carefully
Maintain academic consistency
Preserve mark sheets and certificates
Don’t ignore smaller scholarships—they add up
Why Parents and Students Must Take School Scholarships Seriously
Missing a school scholarship doesn’t just mean losing money—it often means:
Increased financial pressure
Risk of dropout
Reduced academic confidence
Early scholarships create a habit of applying, which helps students later at college and PhD levels.
Scholarships After Class 10 and Class 12 (Transition Phase)
Why This Stage Is Critical
The transition after Class 10 or 12 determines a student’s academic and professional direction. Scholarships at this stage reduce dependency on education loans.
Scholarships After Class 10
Students choosing ITI, diploma courses, vocational training, or continued schooling can apply for:
Skill development scholarships
Technical education assistance
State-specific continuation scholarships
These programs focus on employability and skill readiness.
Scholarships After Class 12
Students entering undergraduate courses benefit from scholarships based on:
Board exam marks
Entrance exam performance
Family income
Courses covered include:
Engineering
Medical
Law
Arts and humanities
Commerce and management
Scholarship amounts range from partial fee waivers to full academic support.
Undergraduate and Postgraduate Scholarships in India
Higher education is where financial pressure increases sharply in India. Tuition fees, hostel costs, books, digital tools, and competitive exam preparation make scholarships not optional, but essential for millions of students.
In 2026, undergraduate, postgraduate, and research Scholarships for Students in India are offered through four major channels:
Central Government scholarship systems
State domicile-based scholarship portals
Universities and statutory bodies
Private, corporate, and foundation programs
Understanding which level offers what kind of support helps students plan their academic journey without debt stress.
Undergraduate Scholarships (UG) in India
What Are UG Scholarships?
Undergraduate Scholarships for Students in India support students pursuing bachelor’s degrees after Class 12 in fields such as:
Engineering and Technology
Medical and Allied Health Sciences
Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
Commerce, Management, and Law
Science and Pure Research
These scholarships aim to bridge the gap between merit and affordability.
Major Categories of UG Scholarships for Students in India
1. Government-Funded National Scholarships
These are offered by the Central Government of India and are among the most reliable and widely used.
They focus on:
Merit + income criteria
Category-based inclusion
National-level uniform support
Where to apply:
National Scholarship Portal (NSP)
https://scholarships.gov.in
Common UG schemes available here include:
Central Sector Scholarship for College and University Students
Minority UG scholarships
Category-specific national schemes
Who should apply:
Students studying in recognized colleges or universities with valid admission proof.
2. State Domicile Undergraduate Scholarships
Every Indian state runs its own UG scholarship programs for residents (domicile holders).
These scholarships depend on:
State residency
Family income
Course type and institution
Where to apply:
State scholarship portals, such as:
Uttar Pradesh: https://scholarship.up.gov.in
Bihar: https://pmsonline.bih.nic.in
Maharashtra: https://mahadbt.maharashtra.gov.in
Rajasthan: https://sso.rajasthan.gov.in
Important:
If you study in another state but hold domicile, you usually apply through your home state portal.
3. Private and Corporate-Funded UG Scholarships
Private Scholarships for Students in India are increasingly popular because they:
Have simpler application processes
Offer higher financial assistance
Focus on talent, not just category
They are offered by:
Corporate CSR initiatives
Educational trusts
Industry foundations
These scholarships often support:
First-generation learners
High-potential students
Girls and underrepresented groups
What Expenses Do UG Scholarships Cover?
Most undergraduate Scholarships for Students in India cover one or more of the following:
Tuition fee reimbursement
Hostel and mess charges
Monthly maintenance allowance
Books, laptop, or study material support
Funds are usually transferred directly to the student’s bank account.
How to Apply for UG Scholarships (Practical Steps)
Confirm eligibility (course, income, marks)
Register on NSP or State portal
Upload required documents:
Admission proof
Income certificate
Mark sheets
Bank details
Submit application before deadline
Track verification status regularly
Pro tip:
Always apply in your first year of UG to maximize benefits over multiple years.
Postgraduate Scholarships (PG) in India
What Are PG Scholarships?
Postgraduate scholarships support students pursuing:
Master’s degrees (MA, MSc, MCom, etc.)
Professional PG courses (MBA, MTech, LLM, MD)
Integrated UG-PG programs
These scholarships are designed to help students study full-time without financial compromise.
Key Eligibility Requirements for PG Scholarships
Most PG Scholarships for Students in India require:
Graduation from a recognized institution
Minimum qualifying marks (often 55–60%)
Admission into a recognized PG program
Some scholarships also consider:
Entrance exam performance
Research orientation or academic intent
Major Sources of PG Scholarships
1. National Scholarship Portal (NSP)
PG-level schemes on NSP include:
Central sector PG scholarships
Minority PG scholarships
Category-specific continuation schemes
2. University and Statutory Body Scholarships
Many universities provide:
Department-level scholarships
Merit-based tuition waivers
Research assistantships
These are usually advertised on:
University websites
Admission portals
Department notice boards
What Financial Support Do PG Scholarships Offer?
Postgraduate Scholarships for Students in India are more generous than UG schemes and may include:
Monthly stipend
Tuition fee coverage
Hostel and contingency support
This allows students to focus on academics rather than part-time work.
How to Improve Selection Chances at PG Level
Maintain strong UG academic record
Prepare a clear statement of purpose (if required)
Apply early and accurately
Avoid document mismatches
PhD and Research Scholarships in India
Why Research Scholarships Are Critical
Doctoral education is a long-term commitment, often lasting 3 to 5 years. Without financial stability, research quality suffers.
PhD scholarships ensure that scholars can:
Focus on innovation
Publish research
Participate in academic conferences
Types of PhD and Research Scholarships for Students in India
Fellowship-Based PhD Scholarships
These are the most common and structured research funding options.
They typically provide:
Monthly research fellowship
Annual contingency grant
Academic travel and conference support
Fellowships are usually awarded for a fixed duration with performance reviews.
Where to Apply for PhD Fellowships
Applications are usually handled through:
Central fellowship portals
University research offices
National testing agencies
Selection is based on:
Academic performance
Entrance test or interview
Research proposal quality
Subject-Specific Research Scholarships
These Scholarships for Students in India focus on specific disciplines such as:
Science and Technology
Social Sciences
Humanities
Medical and Health Research
They are designed to promote domain-specific excellence and innovation.
Eligibility for Research Scholarships
Most research scholarships require:
Strong postgraduate academic record
Research aptitude
Alignment with subject priorities
Some may require:
Publications
Proposal defense
Institutional recommendation
Why PhD Scholarships Matter Long-Term
Beyond financial support, research scholarships provide:
Academic credibility
Career stability in academia
Access to research networks
They shape India’s future researchers, professors, and policy experts.
Final Note for Students
Undergraduate, postgraduate, and research scholarships are not separate silos. They are part of a continuous funding journey.
Students who apply early, stay informed, and build strong academic records benefit at every level.
Empowering Hands, Building India: PM Vishwakarma Scheme Explained
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply for Scholarships for Students in India?
Any student from Class 1 to PhD meeting eligibility criteria can apply.
2. Are scholarships only for toppers?
No. Many scholarships are need-based and category-specific.
3. Can I apply for multiple scholarships?
Yes, unless restricted by specific schemes.
4. Are scholarships taxable in India?
Educational scholarships are generally tax-free.
5. Do private scholarships exist in India?
Yes, many corporates and foundations offer scholarships.
6. Is income certificate mandatory?
For most need-based scholarships, yes.
7. Are scholarships renewed every year?
Many scholarships require annual renewal based on performance.
8. Can distance learners apply?
Some scholarships allow distance or open university students.
9. Are girls given special scholarships?
Yes, several schemes promote girls’ education.
10. When should students start applying?
Most applications open between July and December.
Conclusion: Education Should Never Stop Due to Money
Scholarships for Students in India are not charity. They are investments in talent, equality, and national growth. Whether a child is in Class 1 or pursuing a PhD, financial support exists — but awareness is the key.
If you or your child dreams of studying without financial stress, start exploring scholarships early, apply smartly, and stay consistent.
👉 Bookmark or Visit Kolee.in for Daily Updates on Scholarships, Exams, Jobs, and Education News.
Hello and warm greetings!
I’m Satyapal Yadav, the founder of Kolee.in and a passionate content writer and researcher. I began my professional journey in 2005 in the IT sector, exploring the vast world of technology. Over time, my curiosity and interest in financial markets led me to trading around 2010, which inspired me to merge my tech background with finance research and content writing.
At Kolee.in, my mission is simple: I strive to provide readers with accurate, research-backed, and easy-to-understand information to help them make informed decisions in their careers, finances, and personal lives. Over the years, I have specialized in topics including finance, government jobs, competitive exams, education, government policies, and the latest technology trends.
I firmly believe that knowledge is valuable only when it is understood deeply and applied wisely. That’s why I dedicate myself to producing content that is clear, practical, and actionable, bridging the gap between complex information and reader-friendly guidance.
When it comes to government jobs, I cover everything from state and central vacancies to competitive exam strategies, helping readers navigate their career paths with confidence. In the finance domain, I share insights on personal finance, investment strategies, and market updates, making complex topics easy to understand.
Education is another passion of mine. I provide guidance on exam preparation, scholarships, and learning strategies, helping students and professionals achieve their academic and career goals. I also explore technology trends, reviewing the latest gadgets and sharing insights on innovations in AI, apps, and emerging tech, keeping readers up-to-date in a fast-evolving digital world.
What drives me is the desire to empower my readers. I don’t just provide information—I aim to help people make smart choices, whether it’s pursuing the right government job, planning their finances, or staying ahead with technology and education updates.
All content on Kolee.in is carefully researched and reader-focused. This ensures that readers get valuable information that is easy to navigate and understand. My writing emphasizes clarity, authenticity, and relevance, making it trustworthy for students, job seekers, finance enthusiasts, and tech-savvy readers alike.
I’ve spent years learning, researching, and refining my approach to content creation, combining my IT and finance experience with my passion for education and technology. Every article I write is designed to inform, inspire, and guide—helping readers make practical and confident decisions in their personal and professional lives.
Through Kolee.in, I aim to build a platform that bridges the gap between complex data and everyday readers, turning knowledge into actionable insights. I want my readers to feel empowered, confident, and informed every time they visit the site.
Thank you for stopping by! I hope the content you find here helps you achieve your goals, stay informed, a
nd make smart decisions in life, career, and learning.
With warm regards and best wishes,
Satyapal Yadav
Founder and Content Writer, Kolee.in
