Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Pre-matric Scholarship to Other Backward Classes (OBC) for Studies in India

Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Pre-matric Scholarship for Other Backward Classes (OBC) in India

The “Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Pre-matric Scholarship for Other Backward Classes (OBC)” is an initiative by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment aimed at providing educational support to the children of economically disadvantaged OBC families. This scheme is designed to facilitate the educational journey of students enrolled in pre-matric classes across India.

Overview of the Scheme

The primary aim of this scholarship program is to extend financial assistance to children from poorer OBC backgrounds whose annual family income is below double the poverty line. The initiative is part of the ongoing efforts by the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment to promote education and uplift marginalized communities.

Duration of the Scholarship

This scholarship is available for students studying in the pre-matriculation stage. Specifically, it applies to:

• Day Scholars: Students in classes 1 to 10
• Hostellers: Students in classes 3 to 10

The scholarship support is provided for a period of 10 months in an academic year, concluding at the end of class 10.

Financial Benefits

Additionally, all eligible students, whether hostellers or day scholars, will receive an annual ad-hoc grant of ₹ 500/- per student.

The scholarship amount is disbursed from the date of school enrollment to the date of withdrawal, excluding vacation periods, generally amounting to about 10 months each academic year, barring any late entries or early exits within the academic year.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for this scholarship, the following prerequisites must be met:

• The applicant’s parent or guardian must have an annual income not exceeding ₹ 2,50,000/- from all sources.
• The scholarship is valid only for courses and institutions that are officially recognized by the relevant State Government and Union Territory Administrations.
• Students must maintain a minimum attendance record of 60% in the previous academic year to be eligible.

<liBeneficiaries of this scheme cannot receive benefits from any other pre-matric scholarship program.

Reservation and Preferences

The scheme provides specific quotas to ensure inclusivity:

• 30% of the scholarships are reserved for female students.
• A minimum of 5% of the scholarships will be allocated to students with disabilities.

Application Procedure

The application process for the scholarship can be completed online through the National Scholarship Portal. Below are the steps to apply:

• Step 1: Visit the National Scholarship Portal and select “New Registration.” Read the guidelines carefully and click “Continue.”
• Step 2: Complete the registration form, filling out all mandatory fields marked with an asterisk (*). Click “Register” to receive your unique Application ID and password via SMS.
• Step 3: Return to the portal, select “Login to Apply,” and enter your Application ID and password. Input the CAPTCHA code and click “Login.” You will receive an OTP on your registered mobile number for verification.
• Step 4: On the “Applicant’s Dashboard,” locate the “Application Form” section. Fill in the required information and upload necessary documents. You may save your application as a draft or submit it immediately by selecting “Final Submit.”

Official Source

For more information, visit the official website: myScheme.gov.in.