Karnataka ePASS Scholarship: Portal Guide for SC, ST, and OBC Students

The Karnataka ePASS (Electronic Payment and Application System of Scholarships) is a dedicated online portal managed by the Department of Backward Classes Welfare. It aims to streamline the distribution of post-matric scholarships to students belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC), ensuring financial aid reaches the deserving candidates directly into their bank accounts.

What is this scheme?

Karnataka ePASS, commonly referred to as KAREPASS, is an integrated digital platform that facilitates the application, verification, and disbursement of various post-matric scholarships. It is designed to modernize the scholarship process, reducing manual intervention and increasing transparency for students pursuing higher education in the state of Karnataka.

Who is eligible?

• Must be a permanent resident of Karnataka state.
• Must belong to SC, ST, OBC (Backward Classes), or Minority communities.
• Must be pursuing a post-matric course (Higher Secondary, Graduation, Post-Graduation, or Ph.D.) in a recognized institution.
• The annual family income must be within the limits specified for each category (typically up to ₹2.5 Lakhs for SC/ST and ₹1 Lakh to ₹2 Lakhs for OBC/BC categories, subject to latest government updates).
• Must have a minimum attendance of 75% as per institution norms.

How much money?

The scholarship amount varies based on the course type, category, and whether the student is a day scholar or hosteller. It covers tuition fees, laboratory fees, and a monthly maintenance allowance. As per latest notification, verify exact amounts on the official portal.

Documents needed

1. Aadhar Card of the student linked with bank account.
2. SSLC (10th Standard) Marks Card and Registration Number.
3. Caste Certificate issued by a competent authority.
4. Income Certificate issued by the Tahsildar.
5. Residential/Domicile Certificate.
6. Bank Passbook (showing Account Number and IFSC Code).
7. Bonafide Certificate from the current educational institution.
8. Recent passport-size photographs.

How to apply (step by step)

1. Visit the official Karnataka ePASS or SSP (State Scholarship Portal) website.
2. Click on the 'Apply Online' link for the current academic year's Post-Matric Scholarship.
3. Register by providing basic details like Aadhar number, name, and contact information.
4. Log in using the generated credentials and fill in the application form accurately.
5. Upload scanned copies of all required documents in the prescribed format.
6. Preview the application to check for errors and click 'Submit'.
7. Download and print the acknowledgment receipt for future reference.
8. Submit the printout of the application along with document copies to the respective college office.

Important dates

Conclusion

The Karnataka ePASS scholarship serves as a vital tool for social empowerment, enabling students from marginalized backgrounds to pursue their academic dreams without financial constraints. By digitalizing the process, the Government of Karnataka has made it easier for students to access their rightful benefits. Applicants are encouraged to keep their documents updated and apply early to avoid the last-minute rush.