NSP:National Scholarship for SC Students 2026 – Eligibility, Amount & Apply

Introduction to National Scholarship for SC Students 2026

The National Scholarship for SC Students 2026 is a government initiative aimed at supporting academically meritorious students belonging to the Scheduled Caste (SC) category with financial assistance for education at school and higher education levels. This scholarship helps reduce dropout rates and promotes higher education for under-represented and economically weaker communities.

With implementation through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP), eligible students can apply online and receive funds directly in their bank accounts to cover tuition fees, maintenance, books, and other academic expenses.

What Is the National Scholarship for SC Students 2026

This scholarship scheme encompasses multiple components:

Eligible Schemes Under 2026

1. Pre-Matric Scholarship – For SC students in Classes IX & X.

2. Post-Matric Scholarship – For SC students from Class XI onwards including UG, PG, and research courses.

3. Top Class Education Scheme (TCES) – For SC students enrolled in top institutions.

4. State-Specific SC Scholarships – Offered by states like Tripura, Delhi, Meghalaya, etc.

Eligibility – National Scholarship for SC Students 2026

To qualify for the National Scholarship for SC Students 2026, students must meet the following:

Required Eligibility

• Must be an Indian citizen.

• Must belong to the Scheduled Caste (SC) category with a valid caste certificate.

• Enrolled in a recognized school/college/university for full-time study.

• Family annual income must fall within the prescribed limit (commonly ₹2.5 lakh for post-matric).

• Must have cleared the last qualifying examination.

Note: Eligibility rules may vary slightly depending on the specific scheme (Pre-Matric vs Post-Matric) and state guidelines.

Scholarship Amount – What You Get in 2026

The financial assistance provided under the National Scholarship for SC Students 2026 differs by level of study:

Approximate Scholarship Benefits

• Pre-Matric (Classes IX & X): ₹3,500–₹8,000 per annum (hosteller gets higher).

• Post-Matric (UG / PG): ₹12,000–₹20,000 per annum.

• Professional Courses: Amount could vary up to ₹50,000 depending on course.

• State Scholarships: Up to ₹13,500 annually in some states.

Documents Required to Apply

Before applying online on the NSP, keep the following documents ready:

• Aadhaar Card (linked)

• Caste Certificate (SC)

• Income Certificate

• Bank Passbook/Cancelled Cheque

• Previous Year Mark Sheets

• Bonafide/Enrollment Certificate

• Passport-Size Photo

• Domicile Certificate (if state-specific scheme)

Step-by-Step How to Apply – National Scholarship for SC Students 2026

1. Visit the National Scholarship Portal (NSP): https://scholarships.gov.in

2. Complete One-Time Registration (OTR) (if not done already).

3. Log in with your credentials and click on Scholarship Application.

4. Select the relevant SC scholarship scheme (Pre / Post / Top Class).

5. Fill in all personal details, eligibility information, and academic data.

6. Upload required documents.

7. Review your application and click Submit.

8. Download your submitted application for future reference.

Check your application status: Log into NSP and click on “Track Application Status”.

Important Dates for 2026 Cycle

These dates are tentative; always check the portal for final dates.

Event	Deadline
Application Opens	Usually mid-year
Last Date to Apply	Near January/February 2026
Verification by Institute	By February 2026
State Verification	By March 2026

Tips to Improve Approval Chances

Submit all documents correctly.

Ensure caste & income certificates are valid.

Complete NSP registration early.

Respond swiftly to verification requests from your institute.

Save all SMS/email acknowledgements.