Rajarshri Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Merit Scholarship 2026 – Eligibility, Cut-Off & Benefits
- Aryan Jadhav
- Jan 3
- 3 min read
The Rajarshri Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Merit Scholarship 2026 is a Government of Maharashtra merit-based scholarship implemented through the Directorate of Higher Education (DHE) and managed via the MahaDBT portal.
This scholarship is designed to reward academically meritorious students from economically weaker sections who have secured high marks in Class 10 or Class 12 and are pursuing higher education after SSC or HSC. Unlike need-based scholarships, this scheme primarily focuses on academic performance, while still considering income eligibility.
The scholarship aims to encourage bright students to continue higher studies without financial burden.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
Academic Eligibility (Actual Criteria)
The scholarship is awarded to students who have passed:
Class 10 (SSC) and are admitted to Class 11 (HSC)
Class 12 (HSC) and are admitted to Undergraduate degree courses
Mandatory Cut-Off Percentage
Minimum 60% marks in the qualifying examination (SSC or HSC)
This cut-off is strictly applied and is one of the most important selection criteria.
Category Eligibility
Open Category students
SEBC / EWS students (if applicable as per government norms)
This scholarship is not category-restricted like SC/ST scholarships and is open to general merit students.
Income Limit (Actual Official Limit)
Annual family income must not exceed ₹8,00,000
Income certificate is compulsory at the time of application.
Domicile & Institution Requirements
Applicant must be a resident of Maharashtra
Must be studying in a recognized college or institution in Maharashtra
Admission must be through regular mode (not distance learning)
Scholarship Benefits & Amount
Actual Scholarship Amount
₹300 per month for 10 months
Total annual benefit: ₹3,000
The amount is credited directly to the student’s Aadhaar-linked bank account via DBT.
Key Benefit Highlights
Merit-based financial support
No repayment required
Can be combined with certain other scholarships if allowed by government rules
Encourages continuation of higher education
Required Documents for Application
Students must upload the following documents on MahaDBT:
Aadhaar Card
Income Certificate (≤ ₹8 lakh)
Domicile Certificate of Maharashtra
SSC or HSC Marksheet (as applicable)
College Bonafide Certificate
Admission Proof
Bank Passbook (Aadhaar-linked)
Passport-size Photograph
How to Apply on MahaDBT (Step-by-Step Process)
Visit the MahaDBT portal
Register or login using Aadhaar number
Complete profile details (personal, academic, bank)
Select Directorate of Higher Education (DHE)
Choose Rajarshri Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Merit Scholarship
Fill in academic and income details
Upload required documents
Submit application
Track application status from dashboard
Important Dates & Application Timeline (Expected 2026)
Application Start: July–August 2026
Last Date to Apply: October–November 2026
Institute Verification: After submission
Scholarship Disbursement: January–March 2027
Dates may vary slightly each year depending on MahaDBT notifications.
Selection Process & Verification
Selection is merit-based
Cut-off percentage (60%+) is mandatory
Applications are verified by:
College / Institute
Directorate of Higher Education (DHE)
Common Reasons for Rejection
Marks below 60%
Income above ₹8 lakh
Incomplete documents
Bank account not linked with Aadhaar
Renewal Process (If Applicable)
Students must apply fresh every academic year.
Renewal Conditions
Must pass the previous academic year
Must continue higher education without a gap
Updated income certificate required
Application must be submitted before deadline
Common Problems & Solutions
Problem | Solution |
Application pending at college | Contact college scholarship clerk |
Payment not credited | Check Aadhaar-bank linkage |
Scheme not visible | Ensure correct department selected |
Document rejected | Upload clear and updated certificate |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is this scholarship available for engineering or medical students?
Yes, provided the student meets merit and income criteria.
Can I apply if I scored 58%?
No, minimum 60% marks are mandatory.
Is this scholarship for SC/ST students?
No, it is mainly for Open and merit-based candidates.
Is income certificate compulsory?
Yes, income certificate up to ₹8 lakh is mandatory.
Final Advice
The Rajarshri Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Merit Scholarship 2026 is an excellent opportunity for students who have performed well academically and need financial assistance to continue higher education. Since the scholarship is strictly merit-based, students should ensure their marks, income certificate, and documents are accurate before applying.
Applying early and selecting the correct scheme on MahaDBT increases the chances of timely approval and payment.
CTA
MahaDBT Portal: https://mahadbt.maharashtra.gov.in
Directorate of Higher Education (DHE): https://highereducation.maharashtra.gov.in
Aaple Sarkar Services: https://aaplesarkar.maharashtra.gov.in
PFMS DBT Status: https://pfms.nic.in
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