Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme for SC Students 2025: Education is the foundation of progress, but many deserving students from marginalized communities struggle to continue their studies due to financial hardship. To bridge this gap, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, has launched the Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Others for the Year 2025-26.
This initiative aims to support school students from the Scheduled Caste (SC) category and other vulnerable groups, ensuring equal access to quality education and reducing dropout rates.
📘 Overview of the Scheme
| Scheme Name | Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme for SC Students 2025-26 |
|---|---|
| Launched By | Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India |
| Implemented By | Department of Social Justice & Empowerment (DoSJE) |
| Beneficiaries | SC Students (Classes I to X) |
| Scholarship Type | Central Government Scheme |
| Application Mode | Online (via National Scholarship Portal) |
| Official Website | https://socialjustice.gov.in/schemes/23 |
🎯 Objectives of the Scheme
- To promote educational empowerment among Scheduled Caste students.
- To reduce school dropout rates due to financial limitations.
- To support students from families engaged in socially and economically vulnerable occupations.
- To encourage inclusive education and equal opportunity.
🧾 Components of the Scheme
The Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme 2025-26 has two major components:
Component 1: Pre-Matric Scholarship for SC Students
✅ Eligibility Criteria
- The applicant must belong to the Scheduled Caste (SC) category.
- Family income should not exceed ₹2.50 lakh per annum.
- The student must be studying in Class IX or X in a recognized school.
🎓 Scholarship Benefits
| Category | Day Scholars | Hostellers |
|---|---|---|
| Academic Allowance | ₹3,500 per annum | ₹7,000 per annum |
| Special Allowance for Divyang Students | Additional 10% | Additional 10% |
Component 2: Scholarship for Children of Parents Engaged in Unclean & Hazardous Occupations
✅ Eligibility Criteria
- The applicant’s parents/guardians must be engaged in unclean or hazardous occupations (e.g., manual scavenging, waste collection, etc.).
- No income limit is applicable.
- The student must be studying in Classes I to X in a recognized school.
🎓 Scholarship Benefits
| Category | Day Scholars | Hostellers |
|---|---|---|
| Academic Allowance | ₹3,500 per annum | ₹8,000 per annum |
| Special Allowance for Divyang Students | Additional 10% | Additional 10% |
📄 Documents Required
Applicants must keep the following documents ready before applying:
- Aadhaar Number (UID)
- Aadhaar-Linked Bank Account (for DBT transfer)
- Valid Mobile Number
- Income Certificate (if applicable)
- Caste Certificate
- Previous Year’s Marksheet
- Bonafide Certificate from current school
🖥️ Application Process (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Visit the Official Portal
Go to https://socialjustice.gov.in/schemes/23 or apply through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) at https://scholarships.gov.in.
Step 2: Register as a New User
Click on “New Registration” and fill in your personal details (name, Aadhaar, mobile, email, and bank info).
Step 3: Complete the Application Form
Login and select Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme for SC Students 2025-26. Fill in academic and family details carefully.
Step 4: Upload Documents
Attach scanned copies of Aadhaar, income certificate, caste certificate, marksheet, and bank passbook.
Step 5: Submit Application
Review and submit the form. Print the acknowledgment slip for reference.
Step 6: Verification and Disbursement
The concerned State/UT authorities verify applications. Once approved, the scholarship amount is transferred directly to the Aadhaar-linked bank account of the student.
🌟 Key Features of the Scheme
- 💰 Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT): Amount is directly credited to the student’s account.
- 🌍 Nationwide Coverage: Open to students across all Indian states and UTs.
- 🧩 Inclusive Support: 10% additional allowance for Divyang (specially-abled) students.
- 🕵️ Transparency: Verification by government authorities ensures authenticity.
- 📚 Educational Empowerment: Reduces dropout rates and supports continuous schooling.
🙌 Why This Scheme Matters
The Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme for SC Students 2025-26 is not just financial aid — it’s a powerful tool for social empowerment and educational equality.
By supporting students during their foundational years (Classes I–X), the program ensures they stay in school, build strong learning foundations, and move toward higher education confidently.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply for this scholarship?
Students belonging to the Scheduled Caste (SC) category studying in Classes IX or X, with annual family income below ₹2.50 lakh.
2. What is the scholarship amount?
Day Scholars: ₹3,500 per year | Hostellers: ₹7,000 per year | Divyang Students: +10% allowance.
3. Is there an income limit for children of hazardous occupation workers?
No. There is no income limit under Component 2.
4. Where can I apply?
Apply online at socialjustice.gov.in/schemes/23 or scholarships.gov.in.
5. When is the last date to apply?
The last date is announced by individual State/UT Governments — applicants should check the official website for updates.
🏁 Conclusion
The Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme for SC Students 2025-26 is a vital step toward an inclusive, equitable, and educated India. It empowers young learners from SC and marginalized backgrounds to pursue education without financial barriers.
Students and parents are encouraged to apply early through the official portal and make the most of this opportunity for a brighter academic future.
👉 Apply Now: https://socialjustice.gov.in/schemes/23