Difference Between State Scholarship and National Scholarship on NSP

Introduction

Choosing the right scholarship is one of the most confusing steps for students applying through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP). Thousands of students apply every year without clearly understanding the difference between State Scholarship and National Scholarship, which often leads to rejection or missed benefits.

In this detailed guide, we explain the difference between State and National scholarships on NSP in simple language, compare eligibility, benefits, authority, and help you decide which scholarship is best for you.

What is a National Scholarship on NSP

A National Scholarship is a centrally sponsored scholarship funded and managed by the Government of India through various central ministries such as:

• Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment

• Ministry of Minority Affairs

• Ministry of Education

• Ministry of Tribal Affairs

These scholarships are available to eligible students across all Indian states and UTs and are applied for through the National Scholarship Portal.

Key Features of National Scholarship

• Funded by Central Government

• Same eligibility criteria across India

• Amount credited directly through DBT

• Managed through NSP only

What is a State Scholarship on NSP

A State Scholarship is funded and administered by individual State Governments. While applications may still be submitted through NSP or state portals, the rules, income limits, and benefits differ from state to state.

Each state has its own scholarship schemes for students belonging to SC, ST, OBC, EBC, Minority, and General categories.

Key Features of State Scholarship

• Funded by State Government

• Eligibility varies by state

• Scholarship amount may differ

• State-specific verification process

Difference Between State Scholarship and National Scholarship (Comparison Table)

Basis	National Scholarship	State Scholarship
Funding Authority	Central Government	State Government
Applicable Area	All India	Specific State
Portal	NSP only	NSP or State Portal
Income Criteria	Uniform	Varies by state
Scholarship Amount	Fixed	State-dependent
Verification	Central + State	Mostly State level
DBT Payment	Yes	Yes

Difference Between State Scholarship and National Scholarship Eligibility

Understanding eligibility is crucial while comparing the difference between State Scholarship and National Scholarship.

National Scholarship Eligibility

• Indian citizen

• Category-based eligibility (SC/ST/OBC/Minority)

• Income limit as per central guidelines

• Course must be recognized

State Scholarship Eligibility

• Domicile of the respective state

• Income limit decided by state

• State-approved institutions

Which is Better: State Scholarship or National Scholarship

There is no single answer. The better option depends on:

• Your state of residence

• Category

• Family income

• Course level

Choose National Scholarship if:

• You meet central eligibility

• You want uniform benefits

• Your state scholarship amount is lower

Choose State Scholarship if:

• State offers higher amount

• You do not meet central income criteria

• State scheme supports your course

Can You Apply for Both State and National Scholarship

No. Students cannot receive benefits from two scholarships for the same course and academic year. However, you may apply for both and continue with the one approved first or offering better benefits.

Common Mistakes Students Make

• Selecting wrong scholarship type

• Not checking domicile requirement

• Applying under incorrect category

• Bank account not Aadhaar-seeded

CTA: Apply for Scholarship Now

• National Scholarship Portal: https://scholarships.gov.in

• Ministry of Minority Affairs: https://www.minorityaffairs.gov.in

• Ministry of Social Justice: https://socialjustice.gov.in

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1:Is NSP only for National Scholarships?

No. NSP hosts both national and some state scholarship schemes.

Q2:Which scholarship has higher amount?

It depends on the scheme. Some state scholarships offer higher benefits than national ones.

Q3:Can state students apply for national scholarship?

Yes, if they meet the eligibility criteria.