SC ST OBC Scholarship 2025 – The government has officially launched the SC ST OBC Scholarship 2025 to provide much-needed financial support to students from backward classes pursuing their education. This year’s scholarship scheme is bigger, faster, and more accessible, with funds transferred directly to the applicant’s bank account. Eligible students from Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC) are urged to apply at the earliest to avoid missing out on the benefits. This initiative by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment is part of the government’s continued efforts to promote inclusive education. The scheme aims to bridge the financial gap and reduce dropout rates in higher education, especially for students belonging to socio-economically disadvantaged groups.
Key Features of SC ST OBC Scholarship 2025
This year, the scholarship has been enhanced in several ways to increase outreach and transparency.
- Scholarships available for students from Class 9 to Postgraduate level.
- 100% amount credited directly to beneficiaries’ bank accounts via DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer).
- Fully online application and verification process through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP).
- Additional benefits for girls and physically challenged students.
- Aadhaar and caste certificate mandatory for verification.
- Monthly and annual scholarship amounts have been increased.
- Applicable for government and recognized private institutions.
Who Can Apply for SC ST OBC Scholarship 2025?
Students from SC, ST, and OBC categories studying in recognized institutions can apply if they meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Must be a permanent resident of India.
- Belong to SC/ST/OBC categories with valid certification.
- Annual family income should not exceed:
- SC/ST: ₹2.5 lakh
- OBC: ₹1.5 lakh
- Must be enrolled in a recognized school, college, or university.
- Must have passed the previous examination with at least 50% marks.
Age Limit and Academic Conditions
- No upper age limit for SC/ST applicants.
- Students must not be availing of any other government scholarship simultaneously.
- Minimum attendance of 75% in the previous academic year required.
Required Documents for Application
Before applying, make sure the following documents are ready in scanned format:
- Aadhaar Card (Mandatory)
- Caste Certificate (SC/ST/OBC as applicable)
- Income Certificate
- Previous Class Marksheet
- Bonafide Certificate from Institution
- Bank Passbook Copy (in student’s name)
- Recent Passport Size Photograph
How to Apply for SC ST OBC Scholarship 2025
The application process is completely digital and easy to follow. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Visit the National Scholarship Portal: scholarships.gov.in
- Click on “New Registration” and accept the guidelines.
- Select your scholarship category (SC, ST, or OBC).
- Fill in all required details like name, date of birth, Aadhaar number, and mobile number.
- Create your login ID and password.
- Log in and complete the application form.
- Upload required documents and submit the form.
- Note the application ID for future tracking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Entering incorrect Aadhaar or bank account number.
- Uploading blurred or invalid certificates.
- Missing submission deadline.
- Providing mismatched details between documents and application form.
Scholarship Amounts and Benefits for 2025
The government has revised the scholarship amounts to ensure maximum support. Here’s a breakdown:
SC/ST Scholarship Amount (per year)
| Education Level | Day Scholars (₹) | Hostellers (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| Class 9 & 10 | 4,000 | 7,000 |
| Class 11 & 12 | 6,000 | 10,000 |
| UG (Non-technical) | 8,000 | 12,000 |
| UG (Technical/Professional) | 15,000 | 20,000 |
| PG (Non-technical) | 10,000 | 15,000 |
| PG (Technical/Professional) | 20,000 | 25,000 |
| Special Incentive (Girls) | 3,000 | 5,000 |
OBC Scholarship Amount (per year)
| Education Level | Day Scholars (₹) | Hostellers (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| Class 9 & 10 | 2,000 | 3,000 |
| Class 11 & 12 | 4,000 | 6,000 |
| UG (Any Stream) | 6,000 | 9,000 |
| PG (Any Stream) | 8,000 | 12,000 |
| Girls Bonus Amount | 2,000 | 3,000 |
| PwD Student Bonus | 3,000 | 4,000 |
Important Dates and Deadlines to Remember
The government has announced the schedule for the 2025 application cycle:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Online Application Start Date | July 1, 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | August 31, 2025 |
| Last Date for Institution Verification | September 10, 2025 |
| Disbursement of First Installment | October 20, 2025 |
| Grievance Redressal Deadline | November 15, 2025 |
What to Do After Submitting the Application
Once you’ve submitted your application:
- Track your application status using your Application ID.
- Ensure your institution verifies your application before the deadline.
- Regularly check SMS/email for updates or queries.
- Expect the benefit amount in your registered bank account by October 2025.
What If Application Is Rejected?
- Contact your institution immediately for verification issues.
- Use the grievance redressal mechanism on the portal.
- Reapply next year if you missed the deadline.
Government’s Goal Behind the SC ST OBC Scholarship Scheme
The broader objective of this initiative is to:
- Reduce dropout rates among backward class students.
- Encourage higher education in rural and urban disadvantaged communities.
- Promote digital transparency through DBT and online verification.
- Ensure equal academic opportunities across caste and income groups.
- Empower girl students and students with disabilities through additional aid.
The SC ST OBC Scholarship 2025 is a golden opportunity for thousands of deserving students across India. With increased scholarship amounts, fast disbursal, and a digital application process, the scheme removes many traditional barriers to access. Eligible students and their families are strongly advised to apply early, keep all documents ready, and monitor application progress regularly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I apply for both state and central SC/ST scholarships?
No, you can apply for only one scholarship at a time – either state or central.
2. What if I don’t have an Aadhaar card?
Aadhaar is mandatory for application. Visit your nearest enrollment center to register before applying.
3. When will I receive the scholarship amount in my bank account?
The first installment is expected to be disbursed from October 20, 2025, directly via DBT.
4. Can I edit my application after submission?
Only before final submission. Once the application is submitted and verified, it cannot be edited.
5. Are private college students eligible for this scholarship?
Yes, if the institution is recognized by the government and fulfills UGC/AICTE norms.