National Scholarship for Minority Students (Muslim, Sikh, Christian, Jain, Buddhist) – Eligibility, Amount & Apply Online 2026

Introduction

The National Scholarship for Minority Students is a flagship initiative of the Government of India aimed at supporting students belonging to Muslim, Sikh, Christian, Jain, and Buddhist communities. Implemented through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP), this scheme ensures that students from economically weaker minority families can continue their education without financial stress.

This article provides complete, updated, and SEO-optimized information on the National Scholarship for Minority Students, including eligibility criteria, scholarship amount, documents required, application process, and official links.

Types of National Scholarship for Minority Students

The National Scholarship for Minority Students is broadly divided into three major schemes:

1. Pre-Matric Scholarship for Minority Students

• For students studying from Class 1 to Class 10

• Focused on reducing school dropout rates

2. Post-Matric Scholarship for Minority Students

• For students studying Class 11 to PhD level

• Covers both academic and technical/professional courses

3. Merit-cum-Means Scholarship for Minority Students

• For professional and technical courses such as Engineering, Medical, Management, etc.

• Emphasizes merit along with family income

National Scholarship for Minority Students – Eligibility Criteria

Community Eligibility

Applicants must belong to one of the following minority communities:

• Muslim

• Sikh

• Christian

• Jain

• Buddhist

Educational Eligibility

• Must be studying in a recognized school, college, or university

• Minimum 50% marks in the previous examination (varies by scheme)

Income Criteria

• Pre-Matric: Family income up to ₹1,00,000 per annum

• Post-Matric: Family income up to ₹2,00,000 per annum

• Merit-cum-Means: Family income up to ₹2,50,000 per annum

National Scholarship for Minority Students – Scholarship Amount

Pre-Matric Scholarship Amount

• Admission fee: up to ₹500 per year

• Tuition fee: up to ₹350 per month

• Maintenance allowance: ₹100–₹600 per month

Post-Matric Scholarship Amount

• Admission & tuition fee: up to ₹10,000 per year

• Maintenance allowance: ₹230–₹570 per month

Merit-cum-Means Scholarship Amount

• Course fee: up to ₹20,000 per year

• Maintenance allowance: ₹1,000 per month (hostellers)

Documents Required for National Scholarship for Minority Students

• Aadhaar Card

• Minority Community Certificate

• Income Certificate

• Bonafide Certificate from institution

• Previous year mark sheet

• Bank account details

• Passport size photograph

How to Apply for National Scholarship for Minority Students (Online Process)

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Visit the official National Scholarship Portal: https://scholarships.gov.in

2. Click on New Registration

3. Select National Scholarship for Minority Students

4. Fill in personal, academic, and bank details

5. Upload required documents

6. Submit the application and note the Application ID

Application Status & Verification Process

• Application verification is done at Institute, District, and State levels

• Students can track status via Login → Check Your Status on NSP

Common Reasons for Rejection

• Incorrect income certificate

• Mismatch in Aadhaar or bank details

• Incomplete application form

• Not meeting eligibility criteria

Important Dates (Tentative)

• Application Start: July–August

• Last Date to Apply: October–November

• Verification Completion: December

• Scholarship Disbursement: January–March

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. Who can apply for the National Scholarship for Minority Students?

Students belonging to Muslim, Sikh, Christian, Jain, or Buddhist communities studying in recognized institutions.

Q2. Can students apply for more than one scholarship?

No. Students can apply for only one NSP scholarship per academic year.

Q3. Is Aadhaar mandatory?

Yes, Aadhaar is mandatory for most applicants.

Call to Action (CTA)

Apply now for the National Scholarship for Minority Students and secure financial support for your education.

Apply Here: https://scholarships.gov.in