CentralEducationActiveSC/ST

Pre-Matric Scholarship for SC/ST Students

Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment

Financial assistance to SC/ST students in classes 9 and 10 to encourage them to continue education beyond primary level and reduce dropout rates.

Benefit

Monthly scholarship + grants

For

SC/ST students (Class 9-10)

Coverage

All States

Since

1977

Last Verified

Jan 2025

Eligibility

Who Can Apply

  • SC/ST students studying in Class 9 or 10
  • Students attending government or recognized private schools
  • Family income below ₹2.5 lakh per annum
  • Students with at least 55% marks in previous examination

Who Cannot Apply

  • Students from non-SC/ST categories
  • Students whose family income exceeds ₹2.5 lakh
  • Students below Class 9 or above Class 10 (see post-matric scholarship)
  • Students attending correspondence or distance education

Benefits

  • Monthly day scholar allowance
  • Monthly hostel allowance
  • Annual adhoc grant for books and stationery
  • Covers tuition and other fees

Documents Required

  • Caste certificate (SC/ST)
  • Income certificate (below ₹2.5 lakh)
  • School enrollment certificate
  • Previous year marksheet
  • Bank passbook (student's account)
  • Aadhaar Card

How to Apply

Online

  1. Visit scholarships.gov.in (National Scholarship Portal)
  2. Register as a new applicant
  3. Select 'Pre-Matric Scholarship for SC/ST'
  4. Fill academic and income details
  5. Upload documents and submit before deadline

Offline / CSC

  1. Collect form from your school or district social welfare office
  2. Fill with required documents
  3. Submit through your school to the district education officer

Frequently Asked Questions

Typically July–October each academic year on scholarships.gov.in. Check the portal for exact dates.