Importance of Scholarships for Class 10 & 12 Passed Students
Scholarships are not just about financial aid — they represent an opportunity for students to advance academically and professionally without the burden of student loans or debt.
Purpose of Scholarships
| Financial Support | They ease the financial burden by covering tuition fees, study materials, and other academic expenses |
| Promoting Merit and Equity | Scholarships reward academic achievement and encourage students to pursue higher education, irrespective of their financial background |
| Encouraging Gender Equality | Many scholarships specifically target female students, particularly in fields where women are underrepresented, such as STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) |
| Expanding Opportunities | They open doors for students from diverse backgrounds, offering access to quality education that might otherwise be unaffordable |
As a result, scholarships become a critical enabler for talented students, helping them reach their academic and professional goals.
Types of Scholarships Available
Scholarships come in many forms, and students can find numerous opportunities based on their needs, academic performance, and area of interest. Here are some of the major types of scholarships available for Class 10 and 12 passed students:
Government Scholarships
Government scholarships are often the most popular, as they are widely available and typically offer substantial financial aid.
Private Scholarships
Institutional Scholarships
Educational institutions, both public and private, also offer scholarships to attract talented students and support their education. These scholarships can cover partial or full tuition fees. Some institutions also offer merit-based scholarships for students excelling in academics or extracurricular activities.
Also Read: Scholarships.gov.in
Top Scholarships for Class 10 & 12 Passed Students
Below is a list of prominent scholarships available for Class 10 & 12 passed students, along with their providers and basic details:
Scholarships for Class 10 & 12
| Scholarship name | Provider | Application Deadline |
| Begum Hazrat Mahal National Scholarship | Maulana Azad Education Foundation (MAEF) | 31 October, 2025 |
| CBSE Merit Scholarship Scheme for Single Girl Child | Central Board of Secondary Education | 8 February, 2025 |
| National Means Cum Merit Scholarship (NMMS) | Ministry of Education | 2 June, 2025 – 31 August , 2025 |
| Pre-Matric Scholarships Scheme for Minorities | Ministry of Minority Affairs | April–June (Tentative) |
| Pre-Matric Scholarship for Students with Disabilities | Department. of Empowerment of Persons with Disability | 31 August , 2025 |
| Financial Assistance for Wards of Beedi/Cine/IOMC/LSDM Workers – Pre-Matric | Ministry of Labour & Employment | 31 August , 2025 |
| National Talent Search Exam (NTSE) | National Council of Educational Research and Training | August–September (Tentative) |
| Kind Circle Scholarship for Meritorious Students | Unspecified | December 31, 2025 |
| Ujjwal Bhavishya Scholarship | V-Mart Retail Ltd. | June–September (Tentative) |
| L’Oréal India For Young Women in Science Scholarships | L’Oréal India | 5 February, 2025 |
| HDFC Bank Parivartan’s ECSS Programme | HDFC Bank | 4 September, 2025 |
| JBNSTS Junior Scholarship Program | JBNSTS | June 1st – July 31st, 2025 |
| NICE Foundation’s National Scholarship Exam (NSE) | NICE Foundation | 26 May, 2025–30 September, 2025 |
| Combined Counselling Board Scholarship (CCB) | Combined Counselling Board | December–April (Tentative) |
| Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam International Mathematics Bright Student Award Scholarship | APJ Abdul Kalam Welfare Society | February 20, 2025 – April 30, 2025 |
| All India Scholarship Test Exam (AISTE) | AISTE | December–March (Tentative) |
| Hindustan Times Scholarship Programme | Hindustan Times Media Ltd. | July–October (Tentative) |
| SOF Girl Child Scholarship Scheme (GCSS) | Science Olympiad Foundation | 2 June, 2025–31 October, 2025 |
| Aakash National Talent Hunt Junior Exam (ANTHE) | Aakash Institute | July–August (Tentative) |
| Medhavi National Scholarship Scheme | HRD Mission (NGO/Private) | November–December (Tentative) |
| National Science Concours (NSC) | Foundation for Innovation & Experiential Learning (FIEL) | October–November (Tentative) |
| Vidyadhan Scholarship | Sarojini Damodaran Foundation (Vidyadhan) | July 2025 |
| Legrand Empowering Scholarship Program | Group Legrand India | 8 September 2025 |
| PM YASASVI Central Sector Scheme of Top-Class Education in Schools for OBC, EBC and DNT Students | Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment | 31 August 2025 |
| Nirman Shramik Kalyan Yojana Scholarship for ST/SC/OBC/SEBC/GENERAL/EBC Communities, Odisha | Labour & ESI Department, Government of Odisha | 31 July 2025 |
| Unnati 2-Towards a Better Future Scholarship | CNH Industrial (India) Private Limited | 17 August 2025 |
| NSP Sainik School Scholarship Scheme, Himachal Pradesh 2025-26 | Education Department, Government of Himachal Pradesh | 30 August 2025 |
| Muskaan Scholarship Program 2.0 | Valvoline Cummins Private Ltd. (VCPL) | 30 September 2025 |
| Umbrella Scheme Pre-Matric ST Scholarship Class 9 and 10 | Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India | 30 September 2025 |
| Physics Wallah National Scholarship-Cum-Admission Test (PWNSAT) 2025 | Physics Wallah | 14 October 2025 |
| Nagaland State Merit Scholarship 2025 | Department of Higher Education, Nagaland | 30 September 2025 |
| Dr. Ambedkar Medhavi Chatravriti Yojana for SC Students, Himachal Pradesh 2025-26 | Government of Himachal Pradesh | 31 October 2025 |
| Vahani Scholarship 2025-26 | Vahani Group | 1 December 2025 |
| Assistance to Meritorious Students Scholarship – Junior Level, Maharashtra 2025-26 | Directorate of Higher Education (DHE), Government of Maharashtra | 31 March 2026 |
| Savitribai Phule Scholarship for SC Girl Students Studying in 5 to 10, Maharashtra 2025-26 | Social Justice and Special Assistance Department, Government of Maharashtra | 31 March 2026 |
| Rajarshri Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Merit Scholarship, Maharashtra 2025-26 | Department of Social Justice and Special Assistance, Government of Maharashtra | 31 March 2026 |
| INSPIRE Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE) | Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India | September to October |
| National Scholarship Portal (NSP) Scholarships | Government of India | July to October |
| Central Sector Scheme of Scholarship for College and University Students (CSSS) | Ministry of Education, Government of India | 31 October 2025 |
Eligibility Criteria for Scholarships
- Academic Performance: Many scholarships require students to have a minimum percentage of marks in their Class 10 and 12 exams. For instance, some scholarships may require students to have at least 60% marks in Class 12 to be eligible.
- Family Income: Scholarships, particularly need-based ones, often have an income limit. This helps ensure that financial assistance is provided to students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. For example, many scholarships are available only to students whose family income is below ₹6 lakh per annum.
- Course Enrollment: Scholarships are generally available only to students who have been admitted to an accredited institution in India or abroad. Some scholarships are specific to certain fields of study, such as engineering, medicine, or science.
- Gender and Community-Based Scholarships: Certain scholarships focus on promoting education for underprivileged groups, such as girls, students from backward classes (SC/ST), or students with disabilities.
Also Read: Types of Bonafide Certificate & Usage
Application Process
The application process for scholarships typically involves the following steps:
- Online Registration: Most scholarships require students to register online through their official website or a scholarship portal.
- Document Submission: Students are required to submit necessary documents, including their academic transcripts (Class 10 and 12 marksheets), income certificates, proof of admission, and personal identification documents like Aadhaar or passport.
- Personal Statement: Many scholarships require students to submit a personal statement or essay, explaining their educational goals, why they deserve the scholarship, and how it will benefit them.
- Interviews and Further Evaluation: Some scholarships may include an interview process to assess the student’s motivation, achievements, and potential.
- Final Selection: After reviewing applications, a committee or panel will select scholarship recipients based on the eligibility criteria and the strength of their application.
Benefits of Scholarships
Scholarships offer several advantages to students, including:
- Financial Support: Scholarships can cover tuition fees, living expenses, and the cost of books and materials, reducing the burden of student loans.
- Academic Growth: Scholarships often come with mentorship opportunities, helping students to excel academically and professionally.
- Career Opportunities: Scholarship recipients often have access to internships, industry exposure, and networking opportunities, improving their chances of securing high-paying jobs in the future.
- Recognition: Receiving a scholarship validates a student’s hard work and academic achievements, boosting their confidence and motivation.
Tips for Maximizing Scholarship Opportunities
To increase the chances of winning a scholarship, students should:
- Apply Early: Start researching scholarships early and make sure to apply well before the deadline.
- Keep Documents Ready: Ensure that all required documents are up-to-date and ready for submission.
- Write a Strong Personal Statement: Highlight achievements, future goals, and reasons for applying.
- Research Thoroughly: Look for scholarships that align with your academic strengths and future aspirations.
Additional Resources
- Buddy4Study: A platform that provides information on various scholarships and helps students in the application process.
- National Scholarship Portal (NSP): The official portal for applying to government scholarships in India.
Scholarships for Class 10 & 12 Passed Students – FAQs
What is the importance of scholarships for Class 10 and 12 passed students?
Scholarships provide financial support to students, enabling them to pursue higher education without the burden of student loans. They also promote academic excellence, encourage merit-based admissions, and help students from underprivileged backgrounds achieve their academic and career goals.
What types of scholarships for Class 10 and 12 passed students are available?
Scholarships are available in various forms: Government Scholarships (e.g., PM Narendra Modi Scholarship Scheme, NMMS), Private Scholarships (e.g., Reliance Foundation, Foundation for Excellence), and Institutional Scholarships offered by universities and colleges based on merit or need.
What are the general eligibility criteria for these scholarships for Class 10 and 12 passed students?
Eligibility typically includes a minimum percentage in Class 10 and 12 (usually 60% or more), a family income below ₹6 lakh per annum, enrollment in an undergraduate course, and in some cases, criteria based on gender, caste, or disability.
How can I apply for scholarships for Class 10 and 12 passed students?
Most scholarships require online applications through official websites or portals. The process generally includes registration, document submission (e.g., marksheets, income proof), and sometimes personal statements or interviews.
What are the common documents required for scholarship applications?
Typically required documents include Class 10 and 12 marksheets, income certificate, admission proof, Aadhaar or government ID, and bank account details for disbursement.
How do I know if I am eligible for a specific scholarship for Class 10 and 12 passed students?
Each scholarship has unique eligibility criteria. Check the official website for details. Most are based on academic merit, financial need, or target specific groups like girls or economically weaker sections.
What benefits do these scholarships provide?
Benefits may include tuition coverage, books and study materials, living expenses, mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to workshops and internships.
Are there any scholarships for Class 10 and 12 passed students specifically for female students?
Yes, programs like the AICTE Pragati Scholarship for Girls and Rolls-Royce Unnati STEM Scholarship are specifically for female students, especially in STEM fields.
What is the application deadline for these scholarships?
Deadlines vary. For example, PM Narendra Modi Scholarship closes by September, and Reliance Foundation Scholarships around August. Always refer to the official website for current dates.
How do I maximize my chances of winning a scholarship?
Apply early, ensure accuracy in documents, highlight achievements and extracurriculars, write a compelling personal essay, and apply to multiple scholarships.
What is the role of mentorship in scholarship programs?
Many scholarships offer mentorship programs for career guidance, industry exposure, and long-term academic support.
Are there any scholarships specifically for students with disabilities?
Yes. Scholarships like the AICTE Pragati Scheme and Dr. Moopen’s Legacy Scholarship offer financial and educational support to students with disabilities.
How long do the scholarships for Class 10 and 12 passed students last?
Most scholarships are renewable annually for the duration of the undergraduate program, provided the student maintains good academic standing.
Where can I find more information on scholarships for Class 10 and 12 passed students?
Websites like Buddy4Study, Scholarships.com, and government portals like scholarships.gov.in are great resources. Also check with your college or school for available options.