Education is the key to empowerment, but financial constraints often hinder bright students from achieving their academic dreams. To support students from economically weaker backgrounds, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has introduced the Dr. Ambedkar Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Post-Matric Scholarships for Economically Backward Class (EBC) Students. This scholarship provides financial assistance to students pursuing post-matric and post-secondary education, enabling them to complete their studies without financial burdens.
Who Can Apply?
- Indian nationals belonging to the General Category (excluding SC, ST, and OBC) with an annual family income of less than ₹1,00,000.
- Students pursuing recognized post-matriculation or post-secondary courses in government institutions.
- Medical postgraduates are eligible only if they are not allowed to practice during their course.
- Students pursuing professional, technical, and correspondence courses are also eligible for the scholarship.
Benefits of the Scholarship
The Dr. Ambedkar Post-Matric Scholarship offers financial aid in various forms, including:
Maintenance Allowance
Monthly financial support for both hostellers and day scholars, categorized into four groups based on the level of education:
- Group A (Engineering, Medical, PhD, MPhil, CA, LLM, etc.): ₹750/month for hostellers, ₹350/month for day scholars.
- Group B (Law, Nursing, Mass Communication, etc.): ₹510/month for hostellers, ₹335/month for day scholars.
- Group C (BA, BSc, BCom, etc.): ₹400/month for hostellers, ₹210/month for day scholars.
- Group D (ITI, Polytechnic, Class 11 & 12, etc.): ₹260/month for hostellers, ₹160/month for day scholars.
Reader Charges for Visually Impaired Students
Additional support for visually impaired scholars.
Reimbursement of Tuition Fees
Covers essential academic fees such as tuition, registration, and examination fees.
Study Tour & Research Support
Up to ₹900 per year for study tours and ₹1000 for thesis typing/printing for research scholars.
Direct Bank Transfer
The scholarship amount is credited directly to the student’s bank account or post office account.
How to Apply?
The application process is entirely online via the National Scholarship Portal (NSP). Follow these steps:
- Register on scholarships.gov.in and create an Application ID.
- Fill out the application form and upload required documents, including income certificate and academic records.
- Submit the application and track the status on the NSP portal.
Documents Required
- One copy of the application for the scholarship in the prescribed form (a separate application form may be prescribed by the concerned State Government/UT for a ‘fresh’ and ‘renewal’ scholarship).
- One copy of the passport-size photograph with signatures of the student thereon (for fresh scholarship)
- One attested copy of each of the certificates/diplomas/degrees etc., with respect of all examinations passed
- A certificate (in original) of income issued by an authorized Revenue Officer, not below the rank of Tehsildar.
- A receipt in acknowledgement of the scholarship in the previous year on the form attached to the application only duly countersigned by the Head of the Institution concerned, if the applicant was in receipt of a scholarship under this Scheme in the preceding year.
Important Notes
Students receiving other scholarships are not eligible for this scheme.
Only two boys per family can avail of the scholarship (no such limit for girls).
Scholarships are not applicable for aviation courses like Commercial Pilot License (CPL).
Final Thoughts
The Dr. Ambedkar Post-Matric Scholarship is a lifeline for economically backward students, ensuring they receive the education they deserve without financial stress. If you meet the eligibility criteria, don’t miss this golden opportunity to secure your future.
Apply now and take a step toward a brighter future!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the scholarship paid during the internship or practical training in certain courses?
No, scholarships are not paid during internships in MBBS courses or during practical training in other courses if the student receives remuneration or an allowance.
Are students expected to purchase textbooks with their maintenance allowance?
Yes, students are expected to purchase textbooks, stationery, etc., out of their maintenance allowance.
What if a student secures admission after the 20th day of a month?
If a student secures admission after the 20th day of a month, the scholarship amount will be paid from the following month.
What is the payment schedule for maintenance charges?
Maintenance charges are payable from 1st April or the month of admission, whichever is later, to the month when examinations are completed.
Can students switch courses and still receive the scholarship?
If a student is promoted to the next higher class, they will be entitled to the scholarship for the promoted class, provided they are otherwise eligible.
Is there any provision for scholars who can’t appear in an annual exam due to illness or unforeseen events?
Yes, if a scholar cannot appear in an annual exam due to illness or unforeseen events, the scholarship may be renewed for the next academic year with the submission of required proofs.
How is the scholarship duration determined?
Scholarships are tenable from the stage at which they are awarded until the completion of the course, provided the scholar maintains good conduct and regular attendance.
Are students studying in another state eligible for scholarships?
Yes, students belonging to one state but studying in another state are eligible and will receive scholarships from the state to which they belong.
Is there any additional allowance for blind students?
Yes, blind scholars receive reader charges in addition to their maintenance allowance.
