MahaDBT Merit Scholarship for EBC Students 2026 in Maharashtra – Eligibility, Income Limit & Amount

Introduction: MahaDBT Merit Scholarship for EBC Students 2026

The MahaDBT Merit Scholarship for EBC Students 2026 is a financial assistance scheme implemented by the Social Justice & Special Assistance Department, Government of Maharashtra, through the MahaDBT portal.This scholarship is designed to support Economically Backward Class (EBC) students who have demonstrated strong academic merit but face financial constraints in continuing their education after Class 10 or 12.

The scheme aims to encourage higher education among EBC students, reduce drop-out rates, and ensure that talented students are not forced to discontinue studies due to financial hardship.

Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria for EBC Scholarship 2026)

To apply for the MahaDBT Merit Scholarship for EBC Students 2026, candidates must meet all the following conditions:

Category Eligibility

• Applicant must belong to the EBC (Economically Backward Class) category

• Applicant should not fall under SC / ST / OBC / VJNT categories

Domicile Requirement

• Must be a permanent resident of Maharashtra

Income Limit (Actual)

• Annual family income must be ₹8,00,000 or below

Academic / Merit Criteria

• Must have passed the previous qualifying examination

• Must secure minimum 60% marks in the last completed academic year

• Applicable for students pursuing post-matric education (Class 11 onwards)

Institution Type

• Student must be studying in a recognized government, aided, or private college in Maharashtra

Scholarship Benefits & Amount (EBC Merit Scholarship)

The MahaDBT Merit Scholarship for EBC Students 2026 provides direct financial assistance to eligible students.

Scholarship Amount (Actual Benefit)

• Up to ₹50,000 per year

• Amount may vary depending on:

  • Course level

  • Fee structure

  • Merit position

Mode of Payment

• Paid through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)

• Amount is credited directly to the Aadhaar-linked bank account of the student

This scholarship is merit-based, meaning students with higher academic performance are prioritized.

Documents Required for MahaDBT EBC Merit Scholarship

Applicants must upload the following mandatory documents on the MahaDBT portal:

• Aadhaar Card

• Income Certificate (≤ ₹8,00,000)

• Domicile Certificate (Maharashtra)

• Previous Year Marksheet

• Bonafide Certificate from College

• Bank Account Details (Aadhaar-linked)

• Passport Size Photograph

Uploading clear and valid documents is crucial to avoid rejection or delays.

How to Apply on MahaDBT – Step-by-Step Process

Follow these steps carefully to apply for the MahaDBT Merit Scholarship for EBC Students 2026:

1. Register or log in on the MahaDBT portal using Aadhaar

2. Complete student profile (personal, academic & bank details)

3. Select Social Justice & Special Assistance Department

4. Choose Merit Scholarship for EBC Students

5. Fill the application form accurately

6. Upload all required documents

7. Submit the application and note the Application ID

Students can track application status directly on the portal.

Important Dates & Timeline (Expected 2026)

• Application Start: July–August 2026

• Last Date to Apply: March 2026 (tentative)

• Verification Period: Ongoing after submission

• Scholarship Disbursement: After verification & approval

Early application is highly recommended.

Selection Process & Verification

• Applications are verified by:

  • College / Institute

  • Department authorities

• Selection is merit-based, subject to eligibility

• Common rejection reasons:

  • Income limit exceeded

  • Incomplete documents

  • Incorrect category selection

Renewal Process for EBC Merit Scholarship

• Renewal required every academic year

• Student must:

  • Pass previous year

  • Maintain minimum merit criteria

  • Submit updated income & academic documents

Fresh and renewal applications are processed separately on MahaDBT.

Common Problems & Solutions

Problem	Solution
Application stuck at verification	Contact college scholarship clerk
Amount not credited	Check Aadhaar-bank linking
Document rejected	Upload updated and valid certificate
Wrong scheme selected	Apply under correct EBC merit scheme

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the MahaDBT Merit Scholarship only for EBC students?

Yes, it is strictly for students under the Economically Backward Class category.

What is the income limit for EBC Merit Scholarship 2026?

The annual family income must be ₹8,00,000 or below.

Is this scholarship merit-based or income-based?

It is merit-based, but income eligibility is mandatory.

Can private college students apply?

Yes, students from recognized private colleges can apply.

Final Advice

The MahaDBT Merit Scholarship for EBC Students 2026 is one of the most valuable financial support schemes for academically strong students in Maharashtra.Eligible students should apply early, ensure document accuracy, and track application status regularly to avoid delays.