Best Scholarships After Class 12 in India — Complete Guide to Apply & Win Funding in 2026

Introduction

Best Scholarships After Class 12 in India

Passing Class 12 is a big achievement — and the next step often means finding funds for higher education. This guide lists the Best Scholarships After Class 12 in India with direct links, eligibility, benefits, and deadlines so you can start applying today! Whether you’re in science, arts, commerce, or technical fields, there’s funding waiting.

Top Government Scholarships After Class 12 in India

1. Central Sector Scheme of Scholarships (CSS)

Benefits: Up to ₹20,000 per year for meritorious studentsEligibility: Passed Class 12 with top marks, enrolled in UG degreeApply: https://scholarships.gov.in (search CSS)The Central Sector Scheme is one of India’s most recognized undergraduate scholarships.

2. INSPIRE Scholarship (DST)

Benefits: ₹80,000 per year for up to 5 yearsEligibility: Top 1% Class 12 Science studentsApply: https://online-inspire.gov.inINSPIRE supports students aiming for science research careers.

3. AICTE Pragati Scholarship for Girls

Benefits: ₹50,000 per yearEligibility: Girls admitted to AICTE-approved technical coursesApply: https://aicte-india.orgEncourages female participation in engineering and technical fields.

4. AICTE Saksham Scholarship

Benefits: ₹50,000 per yearEligibility: Differently-abled students in technical coursesApply: https://aicte-india.orgSupports inclusivity in technical education.

5. PM Narendra Modi Scholarship for 12th Pass Students

Benefits: ₹30,000-₹36,000 per yearEligibility: High scorers in Class 12 in professional coursesApply: Official scheme portalLaunched by the Government of India for academic achievers.

Top Private & NGO Scholarships

6. L’Oréal India For Young Women in Science

Benefits: ₹62,500 awardEligibility: Girl students with ≥85% in Science streamApply: https://jainuniversity.ac.in (L’Oréal India info page)Boosts women pursuing science UG degrees.

7. Kotak Kanya Scholarship

Benefits: ₹1.5 lakh per yearEligibility: Girl students with high marks, professional coursesApply: Official Kotak Kanya Scholarship pageGenerous private support for women in professional studies.

8. Sitaram Jindal Foundation Scholarship

Benefits: ₹500-₹2,000 per monthEligibility: Good academic record + low family incomeApply: http://sitaramjindalfoundation.orgLong-running support for underprivileged students.

9. LIC Golden Jubilee Scholarship

Benefits: ₹10,000 per yearEligibility: ≥60% in Class 12; family income < ₹2 lakhApply: https://licindia.in scholarship sectionA steady scholarship from LIC for academics.

10. NSDL Shiksha Sahyog Scholarship

Benefits: Merit based up to ₹10,000+Eligibility: Class 12 passed; preference to girlsApply: NSDL scholarship pageMerit and gender-inclusive scholarship for 12th pass students.

Scholarships by Stream & Category

Science & Research Scholarships

• KVPY / INSPIRE (Science focus)

• Closer path to research careers and stipend support.

Engineering & Technical Scholarships

• AICTE Pragati & Saksham

• Corporate scholarships via Buddy4Study, Infosys Foundation.

Merit + Means Based Scholarships

• CSS, NSF, PM Scholarship, HDFC Bank ECSS

• Support for low-income meritorious students.

How to Apply — Quick Steps

1. Check Eligibility: Read official criteria before starting.

2. Prepare Documents: Marksheet, identity proof, income certificate, admission proof.

3. Apply Online: Use portals like scholarships.gov.in and direct scheme links.

4. Submit before Deadline: Many close between March–August 2026.

5. Track Status: Save application IDs & check your email regularly.

FAQs

Q: Can I apply to multiple scholarships?A: Yes — as long as eligibility criteria are met.

Q: Are there scholarships for arts/commerce students?A: Yes — CSS, NSF, corporate & merit scholarships also support non-science streams.