Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme for SC Students 2025-26: Eligibility, Benefits, and Application Process

Education plays a crucial role in shaping the future of every individual. However, many deserving students from disadvantaged backgrounds are often unable to continue their studies due to financial constraints. Recognizing this challenge, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, has introduced several initiatives to provide equitable access to quality education for all.

One of the most impactful initiatives among these is the Pre-Matric Scholarships Scheme for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Others for the Year 2025-26. This government-backed program aims to financially assist students from Scheduled Castes and marginalized groups, enabling them to pursue and complete their school education successfully.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore every detail about the Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme for SC Students 2025-26, including its objectives, eligibility criteria, scope, entitlements, required documents, and the online application process.

Overview of the Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme 2025-26

The Department of Social Justice & Empowerment (DoSJE) under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, has announced scholarships for students belonging to Scheduled Castes (SCs) and other disadvantaged groups to support their school education.

The scheme is divided into two major components:

Component 1: Pre-Matric Scholarship for SC Students

This component is exclusively for students belonging to the Scheduled Caste (SC) category who are studying in recognized schools in Classes IX and X.

Component 2: Pre-Matric Scholarship for Children of Parents/Guardians Engaged in Unclean and Hazardous Occupations

This part of the scheme is for children whose parents or guardians are engaged in unclean or hazardous occupations, ensuring that such students have access to educational opportunities irrespective of their family background.

Component 1: Pre-Matric Scholarship for SC Students

1. Eligibility Criteria

Students who wish to apply for this scholarship must fulfill the following conditions:

• The applicant must belong to the Scheduled Caste (SC) category.
• The annual income of parents or guardians should not exceed ₹2.50 lakh from all sources.
• The student should be studying in Class IX or X in a recognized school.
• The scholarship is designed to cover the poorest households and ensure that financial limitations do not hinder education.

2. Scope of the Scheme

• The scheme supports students enrolled in recognized schools in India.
• Applications are verified by the State Government or Union Territory Administration to ensure transparency.
• The initiative primarily aims to provide educational opportunities to students from economically weaker and socially marginalized communities.

3. Entitlements (Scholarship Benefits)

Eligible students will receive the following benefits under this scheme:

• Academic Allowance:
  • Day Scholars: ₹3,500 per annum
  • Hostellers: ₹7,000 per annum
• Special Allowance for Divyang (Specially-Abled) Students: 10% extra allowance will be provided to students with disabilities.

This financial assistance helps students cover their educational expenses, including books, stationery, uniforms, and other essentials.

Component 2: Pre-Matric Scholarship for Children of Parents/Guardians Engaged in Unclean and Hazardous Occupations

1. Eligibility Criteria

This component targets children of individuals engaged in socially and economically vulnerable occupations. The eligibility details are as follows:

• The student’s parents or guardians must be engaged in unclean and hazardous occupations such as manual scavenging, waste collection, etc.
• No income limit applies to this category, ensuring that all eligible students benefit regardless of their family income.
• The applicant must be studying in a recognized school from Class I to X.

2. Scope of the Scheme

• Applicable to students enrolled in Classes I to X across recognized schools in India.
• Applications will be verified and approved by the respective State Government or Union Territory Administration.
• The scheme ensures coverage of the poorest households, uplifting students from marginalized backgrounds.

3. Entitlements (Scholarship Benefits)

Beneficiaries under this component receive the following assistance:

• Academic Allowance:
  • Day Scholars: ₹3,500 per annum
  • Hostellers: ₹8,000 per annum
• Divyang (Specially-Abled) Students: An additional 10% allowance is provided to ensure inclusivity and equal support.

This component ensures that children of those engaged in hazardous occupations are not deprived of education due to social or economic conditions.

Documents Required for Pre-Matric Scholarship Application

Students applying for the Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme for SC Students 2025-26 must keep the following documents ready before starting the application process:

1. Aadhaar Number (UID)
2. Aadhaar-Linked Bank Account (for scholarship amount transfer)
3. Valid Mobile Number (for OTP and communication)
4. Income Certificate (showing annual income not exceeding ₹2.50 lakh for Component 1)
5. Caste Certificate (issued by a competent authority)
6. Previous Year’s Marksheet
7. Bonafide Certificate from the current school

These documents are mandatory for both online registration and verification by the concerned authorities.

Application Process for Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme 2025-26

Eligible students can apply for the scholarship through the official website of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment or the National Scholarship Portal (NSP).

Follow the step-by-step guide below:

Step 1: Visit the Official Portal

• Go to the official website: https://socialjustice.gov.in/schemes/23
• Alternatively, you can apply through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) at https://scholarships.gov.in.

Step 2: Register as a New User

• Click on “New Registration” and fill in your details such as name, Aadhaar number, mobile number, email ID, and bank account information.
• Create a unique username and password.

Step 3: Complete the Application Form

• Log in using your credentials and select the Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme for SC Students 2025-26.
• Fill in all the required fields carefully, including educational details, family income, and school information.

Step 4: Upload Required Documents

• Upload scanned copies of your Aadhaar card, income certificate, caste certificate, marksheet, and bank passbook.

Step 5: Submit the Application

• Review all details before submitting the application.
• Once submitted, print a copy of the acknowledgment slip for future reference.

Step 6: Verification by Authorities

• The submitted applications are verified by the State Government/Union Territory Administration to ensure authenticity.
• After verification, the scholarship amount is directly transferred to the student’s Aadhaar-seeded bank account.

Key Features of the Scholarship Scheme

• Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT): The scholarship amount is directly credited to the student’s bank account linked with Aadhaar.
• Nationwide Coverage: The scheme benefits students across all Indian states and Union Territories.
• Inclusive Support: Special focus on Divyang (specially-abled) students with an extra 10% allowance.
• Transparency: Applications are verified by state authorities to prevent misuse.
• Educational Empowerment: Encourages school retention and reduces dropout rates among SC students.

Why the Scheme Matters

The Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme for SC Students 2025-26 is more than just financial assistance — it’s a step toward social empowerment and educational equality.

Many students from disadvantaged groups are forced to leave school early due to financial constraints. This scheme ensures that such students receive the necessary support to continue their education, achieve their academic goals, and contribute positively to society.

By targeting students from Classes I to X, the scheme focuses on the foundational years of education, which are essential for building strong academic and personal growth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who can apply for the Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme for SC Students 2025-26?

Students belonging to the Scheduled Caste (SC) category and studying in Classes IX and X can apply, provided their family income does not exceed ₹2.50 lakh annually.

2. What is the scholarship amount under this scheme?

Day Scholars receive ₹3,500 per year, while Hostellers receive ₹7,000 per year. Divyang students receive an additional 10% allowance.

3. Is there an income limit for students whose parents are engaged in hazardous occupations?

No. There is no income limit for this category under Component 2 of the scheme.

4. How can I apply for the scholarship?

You can apply through the official Ministry website socialjustice.gov.in/schemes/23 or the National Scholarship Portal (NSP).

5. What documents are needed for application?

Applicants need Aadhaar, bank account details, caste certificate, income certificate, previous marksheet, and a valid mobile number.

6. When is the last date to apply?

The last date for application is generally announced by the respective State Governments/UTs. Students should check updates on the official website regularly.

The Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme for SC Students 2025-26 is a vital initiative by the Government of India that emphasizes inclusive education and social upliftment. By offering financial assistance to SC students and those from disadvantaged families, the scheme aims to reduce dropout rates and empower young learners through education.

If you or someone you know is eligible, don’t miss this opportunity — apply today and take a step toward a brighter future.

For detailed eligibility and scheme guidelines, visit the official link:
👉 https://socialjustice.gov.in/schemes/23