PM-USP Central Sector Scholarship 2026: Apply Now

The Department of Higher Education has announced the opening of the PM-USP Central Sector Scheme of Scholarship (CSSS) for the academic year 2026-27. This prestigious merit-based scholarship is designed to support high-achieving students from economically weaker sections to pursue their higher education dreams.

Students who are currently enrolled in regular degree courses in colleges and universities can now apply or renew their applications through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP). For the upcoming cycle, the portal is active and accepting registrations to ensure timely disbursement of funds through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mode.

What is this scheme?

The PM-USP Central Sector Scheme of Scholarship (CSSS) is a flagship initiative aimed at meritorious students who have passed their Class 12 board exams. It targets students who fall in the top 20th percentile of their respective education boards. The scheme provides financial assistance to cover day-to-day expenses while pursuing professional or general degree courses.

Starting from the academic year 2026-27, the National Scholarship Portal has introduced a One-Time Registration (OTR) system. This unique 14-digit identifier simplifies the application process, ensuring that students do not need to re-register every year, thus making the journey from school to university seamless.

Objective

The primary objective is to provide financial assistance to meritorious students from low-income families to meet their day-to-day expenses while pursuing higher studies in colleges and universities.

Key features

• Merit-based selection from the top 20th percentile of Class 12 graduates
• Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to student's bank accounts
• Available for both general and professional degree courses
• Mandatory One-Time Registration (OTR) for all applicants
• Facility for renewal throughout the duration of the course

Financial benefits

The scholarship provides ₹12,000 per annum at the graduation level for the first three years and ₹20,000 per annum at the post-graduation level or for the 4th and 5th year of professional courses.

Who is eligible?

• Must be in the top 20th percentile of successful candidates in Class 12
• Annual family income must not exceed ₹4.5 Lakh
• Must be pursuing a regular course (not correspondence or distance)
• Must not be receiving any other scholarship or stipend
• Student must have a valid Aadhaar number for OTR generation

Required documents

• ☑ Aadhaar card
• ☑ Class 12 Marksheet
• ☑ Income Certificate
• ☑ Caste Certificate (if applicable)
• ☑ Bank Passbook
• ☑ College Bonafide Certificate

How to apply — step by step

1. Download the NSP OTR App from Google Play Store
2. Complete Face Authentication and generate a 14-digit OTR number
3. Login to the National Scholarship Portal using your OTR
4. Select PM-USP Central Sector Scheme of Scholarship (CSSS)
5. Fill in the academic and personal details accurately
6. Upload the required documents in the prescribed format
7. Submit the application and take a printout for future reference
8. Ensure your Institute verifies the application before the deadline

Important dates

Important links

Conclusion

The PM-USP Central Sector Scheme is a vital resource for meritorious Indian students to continue their higher education without financial stress. With the new OTR system, the process is now more transparent and efficient than ever. Ensure you complete your Aadhaar seeding and face authentication well before the October deadline to avoid last-minute technical glitches. To stay updated on more government schemes and scholarship opportunities, sign up on YojanaRadar and never miss a deadline for your career growth.

Frequently asked questions

What is the NSP OTR number?

Can I apply if I am pursuing a distance learning course?

What is the family income limit for this scheme?

Is Aadhaar mandatory for this scholarship?

Can I apply for more than one scholarship on NSP?