AICTE Saksham Scholarship 2026: Details and Eligibility

The AICTE Saksham Scholarship Scheme is a flagship initiative designed to empower specially-abled students pursuing technical education. By providing financial assistance, the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) aims to ensure that physical challenges do not become barriers to professional growth and academic excellence.

This scheme is specifically tailored for students enrolled in AICTE-approved institutions across India. It offers a helping hand to those who have the merit and drive to excel in fields like engineering, technology, and pharmacy but require additional resources to manage their educational expenses.

For students looking to build a career in the technical sector, this scholarship serves as a vital bridge toward self-reliance. It covers various costs associated with higher studies, allowing scholars to focus entirely on their learning and skill development.

What is this scheme?

The Saksham Scholarship is a centralized support mechanism managed by the AICTE under the Ministry of Education. It targets students with disabilities who are admitted to the first year or second year (via lateral entry) of a degree or diploma program. Unlike many other schemes, this is focused purely on technical streams, ensuring that the workforce of the future is inclusive and diverse.

Under this scheme, every eligible student receives a fixed annual amount to cover tuition fees and other incidental expenses such as books, equipment, and hostel fees. The selection process is strictly based on eligibility criteria rather than a competitive exam, making it accessible to all who qualify.

It is part of the government's broader mission to increase the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) in higher education among Persons with Disabilities (PwD). By removing the financial burden, the AICTE encourages students to choose professional courses that lead to high-value employment opportunities.

Objective

The primary objective is to provide financial support to specially-abled students to encourage them to pursue technical education. It aims to foster inclusivity in professional colleges and empower PwD students to become self-reliant professionals.

Key features

• Financial aid for degree and diploma students
• Applicable for AICTE approved institutions only
• Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to student accounts
• Covers tuition fees and contingency expenses
• Available for first-year and lateral entry students
• Renewable every year based on academic performance

Financial benefits

Eligible students receive a consolidated amount of ₹50,000 for every year of study as a lump sum. This amount is meant to cover college fees, purchase of computers, books, equipment, and software, as well as other incidental expenses.

Who is eligible?

• Student must be specially-abled with disability level not less than 40%
• Must be admitted to the 1st year or 2nd year (Lateral Entry) of a technical degree/diploma course
• The institution must be AICTE approved for the current academic year
• Family income from all sources must not exceed ₹8 Lakh per annum
• Candidate must not be a recipient of any other central/state government scholarship
• Students must be Indian nationals

Required documents

• ☑ Aadhaar card
• ☑ Disability Certificate (issued by competent authority)
• ☑ Previous year mark sheets (SSC/HSC/Diploma)
• ☑ Admission receipt of the current technical course
• ☑ Income Certificate for the current financial year
• ☑ Bank Passbook linked with Aadhaar
• ☑ Declaration by the Head of the Institution

How to apply — step by step

1. Visit the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) official website
2. Register as a new user to generate your Login ID and Password
3. Select the AICTE Saksham Scholarship under the 'Department of Higher Education' or 'AICTE' section
4. Fill in all personal, academic, and bank account details accurately
5. Upload the required documents, including the disability and income certificates
6. Review the application form to ensure no errors are present
7. Submit the application and take a printout for future reference
8. Track the application status through the NSP portal regularly

Important dates

Important links

Conclusion

The AICTE Saksham Scholarship is a transformative step towards building an inclusive educational ecosystem in India. By removing financial hurdles for specially-abled students, it empowers them to reach their full potential in the technical domain. If you or someone you know qualifies, ensure the application is submitted before the deadline on the NSP portal. For the latest updates on government schemes, eligibility criteria, and deadlines, stay tuned to YojanaRadar. Sign up today to get personalized alerts and never miss an opportunity to secure your future.

Frequently asked questions

Can I apply if I am already receiving a state scholarship?

What is the minimum disability percentage required?

Is this scholarship available for PG students?

How is the scholarship money disbursed?

Do I need to renew the scholarship every year?