MahaDBT Rajarshi Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Merit Scholarship for 11th–12th 2026: Cut-Off, Benefits & How to Apply

Introduction: Rajarshi Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Merit Scholarship 2026

The MahaDBT Rajarshi Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Merit Scholarship for 11th–12th 2026 is a merit-based scholarship scheme launched by the Government of Maharashtra to support academically bright students from economically weaker backgrounds studying in Class 11 and Class 12.

This scholarship is designed to reward merit, reduce dropouts after SSC, and encourage students to continue higher secondary education without financial stress. The application process is conducted online through the MahaDBT portal, and the scholarship amount is transferred directly to the student’s bank account via DBT.

Who Should Apply for Shahu Maharaj Merit Scholarship 2026?

Students should apply if they:

• Have secured high marks in Class 10 (SSC)

• Are admitted to Class 11 or Class 12

• Belong to eligible categories

• Are domiciled in Maharashtra

• Require financial support for higher secondary education

Eligibility Criteria – Rajarshi Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Merit Scholarship 2026

Class Eligibility

• Students studying in Class 11 or Class 12

Merit / Cut-Off Criteria (Actual)

• Minimum 75% marks in SSC (Class 10)

• Passed SSC from a recognized board

Category Eligibility

• Open / SEBC / EWS / eligible non-creamy categories

• (Not applicable for SC/ST students covered under other schemes)

Income Limit

• Annual family income up to ₹8,00,000

Domicile Requirement

• Must be a permanent resident of Maharashtra

College Eligibility

• Government, aided, or recognized private junior colleges in Maharashtra

Scholarship Benefits & Amount (2026)

The Rajarshi Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Merit Scholarship 2026 provides direct financial assistance to meritorious students.

Scholarship Amount

• ₹300 per month

• ₹3,000 per year (10 months)

Payment Mode

• Paid through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)

• Credited directly to the Aadhaar-linked bank account

Documents Required for MahaDBT Shahu Maharaj Scholarship

Students must upload clear and valid documents:

• SSC Marksheet (Class 10)

• Income Certificate (≤ ₹8,00,000)

• Domicile Certificate (Maharashtra)

• College Bonafide Certificate

• Aadhaar Card

• Bank Account Details (Aadhaar linked)

• Passport Size Photograph

Uploading incorrect or expired documents is the most common reason for rejection.

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

1. Visit the MahaDBT portal

2. Register / Login using Aadhaar

3. Complete student profile

4. Select Social Justice & Special Assistance Department

5. Choose Rajarshi Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Merit Scholarship

6. Fill the application form carefully

7. Upload required documents

8. Submit and track application status

Selection Process & Verification

• Applications are verified by:

  • Junior College

  • Department authorities

• Selection is purely merit-based + eligibility-based

• Incomplete or incorrect applications may be rejected or delayed

Common Mistakes Students Make (Avoid These)

• Applying with less than 75% SSC marks

• Uploading wrong income certificate

• Selecting incorrect scholarship scheme

• Bank account not linked with Aadhaar

• Not checking college verification status

Avoiding these mistakes significantly increases approval chances.

Important Dates (Expected for 2026)

• Application Start: July–August 2026

• Last Date: February–March 2026

• Verification: Ongoing after submission

• Scholarship Credit: After approval via DBT

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the cut-off for Shahu Maharaj Merit Scholarship 2026?

Minimum 75% marks in SSC (Class 10).

Is this scholarship only for 11th students?

No, it is available for both Class 11 and Class 12 students.

What is the income limit?

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

Is Aadhaar mandatory?

Yes, Aadhaar is mandatory for DBT payments.

Final Advice for Students & Parents

The MahaDBT Rajarshi Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Merit Scholarship 2026 is a valuable opportunity for meritorious students to receive financial support during higher secondary education. Apply early, maintain academic performance, and track application status regularly.