Post-Matric Scholarship for Minorities (Merit-cum-Means)
Typically opens September–December. Verify on NSP each year.
- Amount
- ₹5,000–₹10,000 per year depending on course and hostel status
- Who can apply
- Students from notified minority communities (Muslim, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi) pursuing post-matric studies.
- Income limit
- Family income below ₹2 lakh per year
- Study level
- Class 11-12, College / UG, Postgraduate
- Apply through
- NSP (scholarships.gov.in)
- Notes
- Covers technical and professional courses too.
About this scholarship
The Post Matric Scholarship for Minorities is a flagship scheme run by the Ministry of Minority Affairs to support students from notified minority communities (Muslim, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi) pursuing higher education. It covers studies from Class 11 up to PhD level, including technical and vocational courses. The scheme is aimed at students who demonstrate academic potential but lack the financial means to continue their education. Selection is based on a combination of financial need and academic merit, as there is a fixed quota of scholarships distributed across states based on minority population. It provides a maintenance allowance and funds for admission and tuition fees. The scholarship is awarded for the duration of the course but requires annual renewal. Students must secure at least 50% marks in the previous final examination to maintain their eligibility for renewal.
Documents you need
- Minority community declaration/certificate
- Family income certificate
- Previous year marksheet showing at least 50% marks
- Aadhaar card
- Bank passbook
- Fee receipt
- Passport-size photograph
How to apply
- Register as a fresh applicant on the National Scholarship Portal (scholarships.gov.in).
- Complete your profile and select the Post Matric Scholarships Scheme for Minorities.
- Upload your documents, ensuring the file sizes are within the portal's specified limits.
Why applications get rejected
- Applying for this scheme while pursuing a professional or technical degree (like B.Tech or MBBS) instead of the specific Merit-cum-Means scholarship.
- Failing to score the minimum 50% marks in the previous academic year, which results in rejection.
- Not completing the Aadhaar-bank account mapping, which causes DBT payments to bounce.
Common questions
What is the income limit for the minority post matric scholarship?
Your family's annual income from all sources must not exceed ₹2 lakh. Check the portal for recent changes.
What if I don't have a minority certificate?
A self-declaration of minority community status by the student (or parent, if the student is a minor) is often accepted, but check current rules.
Does it cover full college fees?
No, there is a maximum ceiling on the fee reimbursement and maintenance allowance, which may not cover the entirety of private college fees.
New to the National Scholarship Portal? Read our step-by-step guide to applying on NSP.
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