Pre-Matric Scholarship for ST Students
Typically opens August–November. Verify on NSP each year.
- Amount
- Up to ₹350 per month depending on hostel status
- Who can apply
- ST students studying in classes 9 and 10 in recognized schools.
- Income limit
- Family income below ₹2 lakh per year
- Study level
- Class 9-10
- Apply through
- NSP (scholarships.gov.in)
- Notes
- Central scheme implemented through states/UTs to support ST education at secondary stage.
About this scholarship
The Pre-Matric Scholarship for ST Students is a centrally sponsored scheme aimed at minimizing the dropout rate of Scheduled Tribe children during their secondary schooling. It provides crucial financial support to ST students studying in Class 9 and Class 10 in government schools or government-recognised private schools. The scheme is designed to help parents from marginalised tribal backgrounds bear the costs of basic education, ensuring their children can progress to the post-matric stage. Selection is entirely means-based rather than merit-based. It offers a fixed monthly maintenance allowance and an annual book grant for a period of ten months in an academic year. The scholarship must be applied for afresh when entering Class 9 and then renewed for Class 10. Students must pass Class 9 to continue receiving the benefits in their final year of secondary school.
Documents you need
- Scheduled Tribe certificate
- Family income certificate
- Aadhaar card
- Bank passbook
- Previous class marksheet
- Passport-size photograph
How to apply
- Register on the National Scholarship Portal or your state's designated scholarship portal.
- Select the Pre-Matric Scholarship for ST Students.
- Provide accurate school enrollment details and ensure your bank account is linked to Aadhaar.
Why applications get rejected
- Providing a parent's bank account instead of a student account in the applicant's name.
- Missing the school verification step, which is mandatory for the application to proceed.
- Entering an incorrect bank IFSC code or account number, leading to payment failure.
Common questions
What is the income limit for the ST pre matric scholarship?
The total family income from all sources must not exceed ₹2 lakh per annum.
Does it cover school tuition fees?
No, it provides a maintenance allowance and a book grant, not a full fee reimbursement.
New to the National Scholarship Portal? Read our step-by-step guide to applying on NSP.
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