If you’ve just finished your 12th grade and are looking for financial help to continue your studies, the Indian government offers various scholarships. These scholarships help students from different backgrounds, including economically weaker families, minorities, and girls, to pursue higher education.
Here’s a simple breakdown of the top government scholarships available for 12th students:
1. Central Sector Scheme of Scholarship (CSSS)
What is it?
This scholarship helps bright students from families with low income to pursue higher education.
Who can apply?
- Students who scored 80% or more in their 12th exams.
- Annual family income should be below ₹8 lakh.
- The student must be studying in a recognized college or university.
How much money is provided?
- ₹10,000 per year for the first three years of graduation.
- ₹20,000 per year for postgraduate studies.
How to apply?
- Apply through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP): scholarships.gov.in.
2. Post Matric Scholarship for Minorities
What is it?
This scholarship supports students from minority communities (Muslims, Sikhs, Christians, Buddhists, Jains, and Parsis) who want to continue their studies after 12th.
Who can apply?
- Students who scored at least 50% in their 12th exams.
- Family income should be less than ₹2 lakh per year.
How much money is provided?
- Up to ₹10,000 per year based on the course.
How to apply?
- Apply through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP).
3. Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme (PMSS)
What is it?
This scholarship is for students whose parents work in the armed forces, police, or other security services.
Who can apply?
- Students with at least 60% in their 12th exams.
- Students studying professional courses like engineering, medicine, or law.
How much money is provided?
- ₹2,500 per month for boys.
- ₹3,000 per month for girls.
How to apply?
- Apply through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP).
4. National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship (NMMSS)
What is it?
This scholarship helps students from low-income families to continue their education after 12th grade.
Who can apply?
- Students who scored at least 55% in their 12th exams.
- Family income should be less than ₹1.5 lakh per year.
How much money is provided?
- ₹12,000 per year.
How to apply?
- Apply through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP).
5. State Government Scholarships
Many state governments also offer their own scholarships. Here are two examples:
a. Bihar Mukhyamantri Kanya Utthan Yojana
- Who can apply? Girls who passed 12th with at least 60%.
- How much money is provided? ₹25,000.
- How to apply? Through the Bihar government’s portal.
b. UP Post Matric Scholarship
- Who can apply? Students from Uttar Pradesh who passed 12th with at least 50%.
- How much money is provided? ₹5,000 to ₹12,000 depending on the course.
- How to apply? Through the UP Scholarship Portal.
6. Merit Cum Means Scholarship for Professional and Technical Courses
What is it?
This scholarship is for students pursuing technical and professional courses (like engineering or medical) after 12th grade.
Who can apply?
- Students who scored at least 50% in their 12th exams.
- Family income should be less than ₹2.5 lakh per year.
How much money is provided?
- Up to ₹20,000 per year.
How to apply?
- Apply through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP).
How to Apply for Government Scholarships
Steps:
- Visit the National Scholarship Portal (NSP): scholarships.gov.in.
- Register if you’re a new user.
- Login using your details.
- Choose the scholarship you’re eligible for.
- Fill in the application form and upload required documents (income certificate, mark sheets, etc.).
- Submit the application and track its status on the portal.
Conclusion
These government scholarships can make a big difference in reducing the cost of education after 12th grade. If you meet the eligibility requirements, apply as soon as possible to get financial help for your higher education.
Apply today and secure your future!
