AICTE Saksham Scholarship Scheme 2024-26: Eligibility, Benefits & How to Apply

The AICTE Saksham Scholarship Scheme is a commendable initiative by the Ministry of Education, implemented by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE). Specifically designed to support specially-abled students, this scheme aims to encourage and assist them in pursuing technical education. By providing financial aid, the government ensures that physical challenges do not become an obstacle to professional growth and higher education in fields like Engineering, Pharmacy, and Architecture.

What is this scheme?

The Saksham Scholarship is a dedicated financial assistance program for 'Divyang' students (specially-abled) who have been admitted to the first year of a degree or diploma level course in an AICTE-approved institution. The primary objective is to empower specially-abled students with the resources needed to acquire skills and knowledge, enabling them to lead a successful professional life.

Who is eligible?

• The candidate must be a specially-abled student with a disability percentage of not less than 40%.
• The student must be admitted to the First year of Degree/Diploma level course or Second year of Degree/Diploma course via lateral entry in any of the AICTE approved institutions of the respective year.
• Family income from all sources should not exceed INR 8 Lakh per annum during the current financial year.
• A valid certificate of disability issued by the competent Board or Medical Authority must be provided.
• The student must not be a recipient of any other Government scholarship (Central/State).

How much money?

The scheme provides a consolidated amount of INR 50,000 for every year of study as a lump sum amount towards payment of college fee, purchase of computer, stationeries, books, equipment, software etc. No separate charges for hostel or medical are paid.

Documents needed

1. Mark Sheet of Class 10th and 12th (or equivalent).
2. Admission letter issued by the Centralized Admission Authority.
3. Tuition fee receipt for the current academic year.
4. Valid Disability Certificate issued by the competent Government authority.
5. Annual Family Income Certificate for the preceding financial year in the prescribed format.
6. Aadhar-seeded Bank Passbook showing Name, Account number, IFSC code and Photograph.
7. Caste Certificate (if applicable for SC/ST/OBC).
8. Aadhar Card of the student.

How to apply (step by step)

1. Visit the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) official website.
2. Register as a new user by providing basic details and obtaining a unique Application ID.
3. Login with the Application ID and Password received via SMS.
4. Select the AICTE Saksham Scholarship Scheme from the department-wise scholarship list.
5. Fill in the application form with personal, academic, and bank account details.
6. Upload the scanned copies of all required documents.
7. Submit the application and take a printout for future reference.
8. Ensure the application is verified at the Institute level before the deadline.

Important dates

Conclusion

The AICTE Saksham Scholarship acts as a bridge for specially-abled students to achieve their dreams in the technical sector. By easing the financial burden on families, it fosters an inclusive environment for professional education in India. Eligible students are encouraged to keep their documentation ready and apply within the stipulated timelines to secure their future.