National Scheme of Incentive to Girls for Secondary Education
Typically opens August–November. Verify on NSP each year.
- Amount
- ₹3,000 (deposited as a fixed deposit in the student's name)
- Who can apply
- Girls who pass class 8 and enrol in class 9 in government or recognized schools, unmarried and below 16 years.
- Income limit
- No income limit for SC/ST girls and KGBV passouts
- Study level
- Class 9-10
- Apply through
- NSP (scholarships.gov.in)
- Notes
- One-time incentive paid at class 9 enrolment, matured on class 12 completion or at age 18.
About this scholarship
The National Scheme of Incentive to Girls for Secondary Education is a central sector scheme specifically designed to encourage girls, especially those from SC and ST communities, to enroll and remain in secondary school. The scheme targets girls who have successfully passed Class 8 and are enrolling in Class 9 in government, government-aided, or local body schools. It aims to reduce the high dropout rates among adolescent girls in rural and marginalised areas. When an eligible girl enrolls in Class 9, the central government deposits a fixed incentive amount into a fixed deposit account in her name. She cannot withdraw the money immediately. The funds, along with accrued interest, become payable to her only when she reaches 18 years of age and successfully passes her Class 10 board examinations. This deferred payment structure acts as a powerful incentive to delay early marriage and ensure the completion of secondary education.
Documents you need
- Caste certificate (if SC/ST)
- Aadhaar card
- Bank passbook
- Class 8 passing certificate
- Proof of enrollment in Class 9
- Passport-size photograph
How to apply
- Enroll in Class 9 in a government or government-aided school.
- Apply through the National Scholarship Portal under the Department of School Education and Literacy.
- The school nodal officer must verify the enrollment and application on the portal.
Why applications get rejected
- Attempting to withdraw the money before turning 18 or passing Class 10.
- Applying while enrolled in a private unaided school, which is not covered by the scheme.
- Failing to link the Aadhaar card with the bank account for the fixed deposit creation.
Common questions
Who is eligible for this incentive scheme?
All SC/ST girls passing Class 8, as well as all girls who passed Class 8 from Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas, enrolling in Class 9.
Can private school students apply?
No, girls studying in private unaided schools are strictly not eligible for this incentive.
New to the National Scholarship Portal? Read our step-by-step guide to applying on NSP.
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