What you get
Financial Assistance: | - For Hostellers: ₹30,000/- per annum, including ₹10,000/- as maintenance allowance and up to ₹20,000/- as course fees. | - For Day Scholars: ₹25,000/- per annum, including ₹5,000/- as maintenance allowance and up to ₹20,000/- as course fees. | - Full course fees are reimbursed for the listed institutions. | Conditions Associated with Benefits: | - The annual family income of the applicant must not exceed ₹2,50,000/- from all sources. | - Scholarships are awarded directly to the student’s bank account. | Mode of Disbursement: | - Funds are transferred via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to the student's bank account. | Frequency of Disbursement: | - Disbursed annually upon approval of the application. | Validity: | - Applicable only for the duration of the course, subject to yearly renewal based on academic performance.
Who can apply
Required Paperwork
- Aadhaar Card
- PAN Card
- Income Certificate
- Residence Proof (Domicile)
Common Questions
What is the Merit Cum Means Based Scholarship scheme, and who implements it?
The Merit Cum Means Based Scholarship scheme, launched by the Ministry of Minority Affairs, Government of India, provides financial assistance to students from minority communities for professional and technical courses. It is implemented through State Governments/UT Administrations.
What are the benefits provided under this scholarship scheme?
The scheme provides up to [?]30,000 annually, including [?]10,000 as a maintenance allowance for hostellers and [?]20,000 towards course fees or the actual fee, whichever is lower. Day scholars receive [?]25,000 annually.
Who is eligible to apply for the scholarship?
The applicant must belong to a minority community, have at least 50% marks in the previous examination, and secure admission in professional or technical courses. The annual family income should not exceed [?]2.50 lakh.
Can a student receiving another scholarship apply for this scheme?
No, students already availing themselves of other scholarships or stipends are not eligible for the Merit Cum Means Based Scholarship scheme.
What documents are required for applying under this scheme?
Mandatory documents include a student photo, income certificate, community declaration, previous academic marksheets, fee receipt, Aadhaar card (optional), and proof of bank account in the student's name.
How can I apply for the scholarship?
Applications must be submitted online through the National Scholarship Portal at www.scholarships.gov.in. Students should ensure they meet the eligibility criteria before applying.
What happens if a student discontinues the course after receiving the scholarship?
If a student discontinues their course, they must refund the scholarship amount. Additionally, students providing false information will be blacklisted from future scholarships.
What is the reservation policy for girl students under the scheme?
Thirty percent of the scholarships are reserved for girl students in each minority community within a State/UT. If not utilized, this quota may be transferred to eligible male students.
How are students selected if they do not qualify through a competitive exam?
Students without a competitive exam rank must have at least 50% marks in their last qualifying examination. Selection is based strictly on merit.
What is the grievance redressal mechanism for this scheme?
Applicants can address grievances through the National Scholarship Portal or the helpline provided on the website. State-level grievance officers also assist in resolving issues.
When are the application opening and closing dates?
The application period typically opens in the third quarter of the year. Specific dates are announced on the National Scholarship Portal and widely advertised by State Governments.