Post Matric Scholarship for SC/ST/OBC Students 2026: Application Process & Eligibility

The Post Matric Scholarship scheme is a flagship initiative by the Government of India, managed through the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment and Ministry of Tribal Affairs. Aimed at bridging the educational gap, this scholarship provides financial assistance to students belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC) who are pursuing higher education after Grade 10.

What is this scheme?

The Post Matric Scholarship is a centrally sponsored scheme implemented through State Governments and UT administrations. It covers tuition fees and provides a maintenance allowance to students enrolled in recognized post-secondary courses (ITI, Diploma, Graduation, Post-Graduation, PhD). The primary objective is to reduce dropout rates among marginalized communities and promote higher educational attainment.

Who is eligible?

• Must be a citizen of India and a permanent resident of the applying state.
• Belong to SC, ST, or OBC category as per the state's list.
• Must have passed the Matriculation or Higher Secondary examination from a recognized board.
• Annual family income must not exceed the threshold (typically ₹2.5 Lakh for SC/ST and ₹1.5 Lakh to ₹2.5 Lakh for OBC, subject to state-specific guidelines).
• Candidate must be pursuing a recognized post-matriculation course in a government or private institution.
• Candidates pursuing correspondence courses are also eligible in specific states.

How much money?

The scholarship includes a maintenance allowance ranging from ₹550 to ₹1,200 per month for hostellers and ₹230 to ₹550 per month for day scholars, plus full non-refundable fee reimbursement. As per latest notification, verify exact amounts on the official state portal or NSP.

Documents needed

1. Aadhar Card (linked to bank account)
2. Caste Certificate issued by a competent authority
3. Income Certificate for the current financial year
4. Previous Class Marksheet
5. Fee Receipt of the current academic year
6. Bank Account Details (Passbook copy)
7. Domicile Certificate
8. Passport size photograph

How to apply (step by step)

1. Visit the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) or the respective State Scholarship Portal.
2. Click on 'New Registration' and enter your basic details like name, date of birth, and mobile number.
3. Login using the Application ID and Password sent to your mobile.
4. Select the 'Post Matric Scholarship' scheme for your specific category (SC/ST/OBC).
5. Fill in the educational details, caste details, and bank account information accurately.
6. Upload scanned copies of the required documents.
7. Review the application and click on 'Final Submit'.
8. Download the application form and submit a hard copy to your educational institution for verification.

Important dates

Conclusion

The Post Matric Scholarship 2026 remains a vital tool for social empowerment through education. By ensuring financial barriers do not hinder academic progress, the government enables students from SC/ST/OBC communities to achieve their career goals. Eligible students are encouraged to apply well before the deadline to ensure timely disbursement of funds via DBT.