MahaDBT Open Merit Scholarship for Junior College 2026: Eligibility, Amount & How to Apply

Introduction: MahaDBT Open Merit Scholarship for Junior College 2026

The MahaDBT Open Merit Scholarship for Junior College 2026 is a Maharashtra Government scholarship designed to support meritorious students from the Open (General) category studying in Class 11 and Class 12 (Junior College). Implemented through the MahaDBT portal, this scholarship helps academically bright students continue their education by providing direct financial assistance every year.

This scheme is managed by the Directorate of Higher Education (DHE), Government of Maharashtra, and is one of the most searched scholarships by 11th–12th students due to its low income limit, merit-based selection, and simple application process.

Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)

To apply for the MahaDBT Open Merit Scholarship for Junior College 2026, students must meet all of the following conditions:

1. Educational Eligibility

• Student must be studying in Junior College (Class 11 or Class 12)

• Must be enrolled in a recognized government, aided, or private junior college in Maharashtra

2. Merit Requirement

• Must have scored at least 60% marks in the previous year’s examination

  • For Class 11: Class 10 result

  • For Class 12: Class 11 result

3. Category Eligibility

• Student must belong to the Open / General category

• This scholarship is not applicable for SC, ST, OBC, VJNT, or Minority students

4. Income Limit (Actual)

• Annual family income must be ₹1,00,000 or less

5. Domicile Requirement

• Student must be a permanent resident of Maharashtra

Scholarship Amount & Benefits

MahaDBT Open Merit Scholarship Amount (Junior College)

Class	Scholarship Amount (Per Year)
Class 11	₹600
Class 12	₹600

• Amount is transferred through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)

• Money is credited directly to the student’s Aadhaar-linked bank account

Although the amount is modest, this scholarship is widely used as support proof for fee concessions and education continuity.

Required Documents for Application

Students must upload the following documents on MahaDBT:

• Aadhaar Card

• Income Certificate (≤ ₹1,00,000)

• Maharashtra Domicile Certificate

• Previous Year Marksheet

• College Bonafide Certificate

• Bank Passbook (Aadhaar-linked)

• Passport-size Photograph

Incorrect or expired income certificates are the most common reason for rejection.

How to Apply on MahaDBT (Step-by-Step Process)

Step 1: MahaDBT Registration

• Register using Aadhaar and mobile number on MahaDBT

Step 2: Profile Completion

• Fill personal, academic, address, and bank details carefully

Step 3: Scheme Selection

• Department: Directorate of Higher Education (DHE)

• Scheme: Open Merit Scholarship for Junior College Students

Step 4: Application Submission

• Fill form → Upload documents → Submit

• Save application ID for tracking

Important Dates (Expected for 2026)

Event	Expected Timeline
Application Start	July–August 2026
Last Date	March 2026
Verification	Within 30–45 days
DBT Credit	After approval

Students are advised to apply as early as possible to avoid server and verification delays.

Selection Process & Verification

• Selection is merit-based + income-based

• Applications are verified by:

  • Junior College

  • Directorate of Higher Education

Common Rejection Reasons

• Income above ₹1,00,000

• Marks below 60%

• Wrong department selected

• Bank account not Aadhaar-linked

Renewal Rules for 2026

• Scholarship must be renewed every year

• Student must:

  • Pass previous year

  • Maintain required attendance

  • Not exceed income limit

Fresh application is required if academic stream changes.

Common Problems & Solutions

Problem: Application stuck at verification

Solution: Contact college scholarship clerk

Problem: Payment not credited

Solution: Check Aadhaar-bank linkage

Problem: Rejected due to income

Solution: Upload updated income certificate

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is MahaDBT Open Merit Scholarship available for private junior colleges?

Yes, if the college is recognized by the Maharashtra education board.

Can minority or reserved students apply?

No. This scholarship is strictly for Open category students.

Is Aadhaar mandatory?

Yes, Aadhaar is mandatory for DBT payment.

Can I apply for multiple scholarships?

No. Only one scholarship can be availed at a time on MahaDBT.

Conclusion: Should You Apply?

The MahaDBT Open Merit Scholarship for Junior College 2026 is ideal for academically strong students from low-income open category families. Even though the amount is limited, the scholarship offers official financial recognition, helps in fee concessions, and strengthens a student’s academic profile.

Eligible students should apply early, ensure correct documents, and track application status regularly.