The Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme for OBC Students 2025 is an initiative launched by the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. The scheme aims to provide financial assistance to school-going children from economically weaker families belonging to the Other Backward Classes (OBC).
The scholarship is designed to encourage students from class 1 (for day scholars) and class 3 (for hostellers) to complete their education up to class 10. The program ensures 10 months of financial assistance per academic year, supporting students throughout their schooling journey. Families with an annual income below twice the poverty line are eligible for this scheme.
Scheme Highlights
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Pre-Matric Scholarship for OBC Students 2025 |
| Nodal Agency | Department of Social Justice and Empowerment |
| Benefits | Financial Assistance for Students |
| Beneficiaries | OBC Students in Classes 1-10 |
| Duration | 10 Months Per Academic Year |
| Official Website | http://www.myscheme.gov.in |
Eligibility and Reservation Guidelines
The Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme is specifically designed for students from low-income OBC families. The eligibility criteria include:
- Income Cap: Family’s annual income should not exceed Rs 2,50,000.
- Educational Institutions: Students must be enrolled in state or UT government-recognized institutions.
- Attendance Requirement: Students should have at least 60% attendance in the previous academic year.
- Exclusivity: Students cannot avail of other pre-matric scholarships simultaneously.
- Reservation for Special Categories:
- 30% of scholarships are reserved for female students to promote gender equality.
- 5% of scholarships are reserved for students with disabilities to ensure inclusivity.
Financial Assistance and Benefits
The Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme provides financial aid to help students overcome economic barriers in their education. The amount varies based on whether the student is a day scholar or a hosteller.
| Student Category | Monthly Stipend | Duration | Additional Grant |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hostellers (Class 3-10) | Rs 500 | 10 Months | Rs 500 (Ad-hoc Annual Grant) |
| Day Scholars (Class 1-10) | Rs 100 | 10 Months | Rs 500 (Ad-hoc Annual Grant) |
- The financial aid starts from the date of admission and continues until the student completes their education or leaves school.
- The scholarship covers only 10 months per year, excluding vacations.
- The ad-hoc grant is provided to help with additional educational expenses.
Essential Documents Required
Applicants must submit the following documents while applying for the Pre-Matric Scholarship:
- Recent Passport-Sized Photograph
- Aadhaar Card for identity verification
- Educational Certificates (Marksheets/Academic Progress Reports)
- Bonafide Certificate from the recognized educational institution
- OBC Caste Certificate as proof of eligibility
- Income Certificate to verify the family’s financial status
- Aadhaar-linked Bank Account Details for direct fund transfer
Application Process
Eligible students can apply for the Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP).
Step-by-Step Online Application Process
- Visit the National Scholarship Portal (http://www.myscheme.gov.in).
- Click on “New Registration” and fill out the registration form to receive an Application ID and Password.
- Login to Apply using the generated credentials.
- Update the Password after the first login.
- Access the “Applicant’s Dashboard” and locate the Application Form.
- Fill in the required details and upload all necessary documents.
- Save the application as a draft or choose “Final Submit” to complete the process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is eligible for the Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme?
Students belonging to Other Backward Classes (OBC) with a family income below Rs 2,50,000 per year are eligible. They must be studying in class 1 to class 10 at a recognized institution.
2. What financial aid is provided under this scheme?
- Hostellers (Class 3-10) receive Rs 500 per month for 10 months, plus a Rs 500 annual ad-hoc grant.
- Day Scholars (Class 1-10) receive Rs 100 per month for 10 months, plus a Rs 500 annual ad-hoc grant.
3. Can a student apply for another pre-matric scholarship along with this one?
No, students availing the Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme for OBCs cannot receive financial aid from any other pre-matric scholarship.
4. How can I apply for the Pre-Matric Scholarship?
Students can apply through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) by registering online, filling out the application form, and submitting the required documents.
Conclusion
The Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme for OBC Students 2025 plays a crucial role in enhancing educational opportunities for economically weaker students. By offering financial assistance, the program ensures that students from underprivileged backgrounds can complete their schooling without financial stress, fostering educational growth and empowerment.