Education is a powerful tool for empowerment, and the Government of India has continuously worked towards ensuring that no student is left behind due to financial barriers. The SC ST Scholarship 2025 is one such initiative designed to provide financial assistance to students belonging to the Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) communities. These scholarships aim to promote education among underprivileged sections of society and reduce the dropout rate at various educational levels.
In this detailed blog, we will cover everything you need to know about the SC ST Scholarship 2025, including eligibility criteria, the application process, important dates, benefits, and how you can apply online.
Overview of SC ST Scholarship 2025
The SC ST Scholarship 2025 is a collective term for several schemes offered by the Central and State Governments of India to students from SC and ST communities. These scholarships are provided at various levels — from school education to higher education like UG, PG, professional, and technical courses.
Main Objectives
- Promote education among SC/ST students.
- Reduce financial burden on families from economically weaker backgrounds.
- Encourage students to pursue higher education.
- Minimize dropout rates, especially in secondary and higher education.
Types of SC ST Scholarships
There are multiple scholarships under this category, funded by both the Central and State governments. Some of the key schemes are:
1. Pre-Matric Scholarship for SC/ST Students
- For students studying in classes 9 and 10.
- Aimed at reducing the dropout rate in school education.
2. Post-Matric Scholarship for SC/ST Students
- For students pursuing Class 11 to PhD level courses.
- One of the most availed scholarships across India.
3. Top Class Education Scheme for SC/ST Students
- Financial assistance for meritorious students studying in top-ranked institutions like IITs, IIMs, AIIMS, etc.
4. National Fellowship for SC/ST
- For research scholars pursuing M.Phil and PhD courses.
5. Overseas Scholarship Scheme for SC/ST Students
- Helps selected students to pursue higher education abroad in universities in the US, UK, Germany, etc.
Eligibility Criteria
While the eligibility conditions vary slightly from scheme to scheme, here are the common criteria for SC ST Scholarship 2025:
General Eligibility
- The applicant must belong to Scheduled Caste (SC) or Scheduled Tribe (ST).
- Must be a citizen of India.
- The applicant should be enrolled in a recognized school, college, or university.
Income Limit
- For most pre- and post-matric scholarships, the annual family income should be less than ₹2.5 lakh.
- For overseas and top-class education scholarships, the income ceiling might be higher (up to ₹6 lakh in some cases).
Academic Performance
- Students must have passed the previous qualifying examination.
- Consistent academic records are often preferred for merit-based scholarships.
Benefits of SC ST Scholarship 2025
Here are some of the major financial benefits provided under these scholarships:
Pre-Matric Scholarship
- ₹150 to ₹350 per month for day scholars.
- ₹350 to ₹750 per month for hostellers.
- Annual books and stationery allowance.
Post-Matric Scholarship
- Tuition fees up to ₹1.5 lakh per annum.
- Maintenance allowance of ₹1,200 to ₹2,200 per month.
- Book allowances, thesis typing, and study tour support.
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Top Class Education Scholarship
- Full tuition fee coverage.
- Living expenses: ₹2,220 per month.
- Book grant: ₹3,000 per annum.
- One-time laptop allowance up to ₹45,000.
Overseas Scholarships
- Financial support up to ₹25 lakh for the complete course.
- Covers tuition, living, airfare, and other incidentals.
Required Documents
Here are the key documents you need to apply for the SC ST Scholarship 2025:
- Caste Certificate (SC/ST category)
- Income Certificate
- Aadhaar Card
- Bank Passbook (linked to Aadhaar)
- Mark sheets of the previous academic year
- Bonafide certificate from the institution
- Passport-size photograph
- Fee receipt and admission proof
How to Apply Online for SC ST Scholarship 2025
The application process is primarily online. Follow these steps to apply:
Step 1: Visit the National Scholarship Portal
Step 2: Registration
- Click on “New Registration” and provide the required details.
- Verify using OTP sent to your mobile number linked to Aadhaar.
Step 3: Login and Fill Application Form
- Login using your Application ID and password.
- Fill in academic, personal, and bank details.
Step 4: Upload Documents
- Upload scanned copies of the required documents in the prescribed format.
Step 5: Submit
- Review your form carefully before final submission.
- After submission, take a printout for future reference.
Important Dates (Tentative)
| Event | Date (Tentative) |
|---|---|
| Application Start Date | 15th July 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | 30th September 2025 |
| Defective Application Correction | 1st to 15th October 2025 |
| Scholarship Disbursement | November–December 2025 |
Note: Dates may vary for different states and schemes. Please check the official portal regularly.
SC ST Scholarship – State Wise Portals
Apart from the National Scholarship Portal, some states have their own portals:
- Madhya Pradesh – scholarshipportal.mp.nic.in
- Uttar Pradesh – scholarship.up.gov.in
- Bihar – pmsonline.bih.nic.in
- Rajasthan – sje.rajasthan.gov.in
- Maharashtra – mahadbt.maharashtra.gov.in
Students must apply on the correct portal based on their state of domicile
Tips for a Successful Application
- Apply early to avoid last-minute rush.
- Double-check your bank details and Aadhaar linkage.
- Ensure all documents are valid and up to date.
- Keep copies of submitted forms and reference numbers.
Conclusion
The SC ST Scholarship 2025 is an important opportunity for students from marginalized communities to continue their education without financial hurdles. Whether you’re in school, college, or pursuing a professional course, these scholarships can ease your educational expenses significantly.
Education should never stop due to lack of money — and with timely awareness and action, you can make the most of this scheme. Make sure to apply before the deadline and fulfill all eligibility conditions. Stay updated with official notifications and grab the opportunity to build a bright future.