SC ST OBC Scholarship 2025 India – Eligibility & Benefits Explained

The Government of India has officially launched the SC ST OBC Scholarship 2025 India, continuing its mission to empower marginalized communities through accessible education. This scholarship program is a vital part of the nation’s social upliftment efforts, especially aimed at students from Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC).

With dedicated caste-based scholarships, the scheme ensures that no deserving student is deprived of education due to financial hardship. Whether you’re pursuing a school-level course, undergraduate degree, or professional program, the SC ST OBC Scholarship 2025 India provides extensive financial support.

Who Is Eligible for SC ST OBC Scholarship 2025?

The eligibility criteria differ slightly for each category (SC, ST, and OBC), but the core requirements remain common across schemes. Here’s what students must meet:

Common Eligibility Requirements:

• The student must belong to SC, ST, or OBC categories as per official caste certificates.

• Must be a citizen of India.

• Family income limits:

  • SC/ST: Less than ₹2.5 lakh per annum

  • OBC: Less than ₹1.5 lakh per annum (some states may vary)

• The student should be enrolled in a recognized school/college/university.

• Only full-time courses are eligible (not distance education).

• Students must have secured passing marks in the previous examination.

Reserved category students who meet these criteria are strongly encouraged to apply to gain full financial assistance.

Types of SC ST OBC Scholarships Available in 2025

Under the SC ST OBC Scholarship 2025 India, several schemes are available for different educational stages. Here’s an overview of the major schemes:

These schemes are implemented by both Central Government and State Governments, ensuring maximum reach and benefit.

Financial Benefits and Scholarship Amount

The amount provided under the SC ST OBC Scholarship 2025 India is significant and covers multiple academic and personal expenses. Here’s a look at the financial structure:

Pre-Matric Scholarships:

• Day Scholars: ₹500 to ₹750 per annum

• Hostellers: ₹700 to ₹1,000 per annum

• Books, stationery, and additional allowances included

Post-Matric Scholarships:

• Tuition Fee: Up to ₹20,000 per year

• Maintenance Allowance:

  • ₹1,200/month (Hosteller)

  • ₹550/month (Day scholar)

• Full reimbursement for eligible colleges and universities

Top Class Education Scheme (for SC/ST):

• Full tuition fee (up to ₹2.5 lakh per annum)

• ₹3,000 per month for living expenses

• ₹45,000 for laptop and accessories

These benefits are disbursed through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) directly to the student’s Aadhaar-linked bank account.

Application Process – Step-by-Step Guide

The application guide for SC ST OBC Scholarship 2025 India is simple and accessible through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP).

Follow these steps:

1. Visit scholarships.gov.in

2. Click on “New Registration” and accept terms

3. Fill in personal details including caste, income, course, and institution

4. Upload the following documents:

   • Caste certificate

   • Income certificate

   • Academic records

   • Aadhaar card

   • Bank passbook

5. Submit the application and download confirmation

Students must ensure all information is correct and documents are uploaded clearly to avoid rejection. Verification will be conducted at the institute and district/state levels.

Important Dates for 2025 Application

Here are the key deadlines students must note for timely application:

• Start Date: July 15, 2025

• Last Date to Apply: October 31, 2025

• Institution Verification Deadline: November 15, 2025

• Scholarship Payment Start: From December 2025

Missing any stage of the timeline may disqualify the applicant. So, students should apply as early as possible.

FAQs

Who can apply for the SC ST OBC Scholarship 2025 India?

Any Indian student belonging to Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, or OBC categories, enrolled in a recognized course, can apply.

What is the income limit for eligibility?

For SC/ST categories, it is ₹2.5 lakh per annum. For OBC, it is ₹1.5 lakh, but some states may have different cut-offs.

Can I apply for more than one scheme?

No, students cannot apply for multiple scholarships under different categories. Choose the most applicable scheme.

Is the amount transferred directly to the student?

Yes, all payments are made through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to the student’s Aadhaar-linked bank account.

Is there a fee to apply for this scholarship?

No, the application process is completely free for all categories.

Click here to know more.