SHRESHTA Education Programme 2024-25: Empowering SC Students with Quality Education

SHRESHTA Education Programme 2024-25: The Scheme for Residential Education for Students in High Schools in Targeted Areas (SHRESHTA) is a transformative initiative of the Government of India aimed at providing quality education to meritorious Scheduled Caste (SC) students. This scheme is specifically designed to provide seats to deserving boys and girls from the SC community in top private residential schools across the country.

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Through this scheme, about 3,000 talented SC students are admitted into select schools affiliated with CBSE and State Education Boards via the National Entrance Test for SHRESHTA (NETS), conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). These students are placed in premier residential schools across the country, with full coverage of their school and hostel fees under the program.

Additionally, students can also take advantage of bridge courses available within the selected schools to address their individual academic needs and help them adjust to the school environment. The cost of the bridge course, which is 10% of the annual fee, is also covered under the scheme. The Ministry of Education assures constant monitoring of the students’ progress under this scheme.

What is the SHRESHTA Education Programme? 

The Scheme for Residential Education for Students in High Schools in Targeted Areas (SHRESHTA) is a comprehensive educational initiative aimed at increasing access to quality education for SC students in targeted areas. It provides opportunities to students to pursue their studies in SHRESHTA schools and select grant-in-aid institutions run by Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and Voluntary Organisations (VOs).

This programme is a flagship initiative of the Ministry of Education, Government of India. Each year, the scheme aims to support approximately 3,000 students, with around 1,500 students selected for admission into Class 9 and another 1,500 students for Class 11

SHRESHTA Education Programme 2024-25: Objectives

  • The primary goal of the SHRESHTA education scheme is to provide quality education to meritorious SC students in Class 9 and 11 through residential schools affiliated with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE).  
  • Through this program, the government seeks to reach out to deserving students, expanding its development efforts and addressing gaps in educational services in underserved, SC-dominated areas.  
  • By partnering with local voluntary organisations, the government works to foster an environment that promotes the socio-economic upliftment and overall development of the SC community.  
  • The initiative aims to give SC students access to quality education, enabling them to explore future opportunities and realise their potential.

SHRESHTA Education Programme 2024-25: Modalities of Operation (Modes)

The SHRESHTA program is being implemented through two distinct modes, as outlined below:

1. First Mode – SHRESHTA schools (Best CBSE Private Residential Schools)

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  • The first mode focuses on facilitating admissions to the top private residential schools affiliated with CBSE or State Education Boards. 
  • The top private residential schools selected are based on the CBSE database, those recommended under SHRESHTA by District Authorities, and other eligible private residential schools affiliated with various boards, including State Boards, as recommended by District Authorities for participation in the scheme.
  • Each year, a specific number of meritorious SC students from various States/UTs will be selected through the National Entrance Test for SHRESHTA (NETS)
  • The test is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). 
  • The selected students will gain admission into Class 9 or 11 at the best private residential schools, ensuring they complete their education up to Class 12.

2. Second Mode – NGO Operated Schools

  • This mode supports admissions to schools and hostels (existing components) managed by Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs)/Voluntary Organisations (VOs).
  • It facilitates the enrollment of students in schools and hostels run by these organisations, which offer admission into higher classes up to Class 12 and have been receiving government grant-in-aid. 
  • NGO-run primary schools (Class 1 to 8) will be given time to upgrade to Secondary/Senior Secondary level (up to at least Class 10) by 2027. If they fail to do so, they may no longer receive support under the scheme.
  • The upgradation of schools from primary to secondary level (Class 9 & 10) can be carried out by adding one class each year. It is proposed that a PMU will be provided with a checklist to evaluate the school’s readiness for upgradation, including factors such as sufficient infrastructure, approval of the State Government/Board, pass percentage, and the number and quality of teachers and staff.
  • No new schools will be included under this scheme. According to revised guidelines, there is no provision for increasing seats while upgrading the schools from primary to secondary levels.
  • The schools receiving grant-in-aid must maintain high academic standards and sufficient infrastructure. They should be recognised by the State Government, and be affiliated with the State or Central Board of Education. Failure to meet any of these essential requirements may result in the cancellation of grant-in-aid.
  • This mode will continue as long as the organisations maintain satisfactory performance.

The SHRESHTA education programme spans four years and supports students from Class 9 to 12. By the end of Class 12, the students are prepared for the All India Senior School Certificate Examination (AISSCE).

SHRESHTA Education Programme 2024-25: Benefits

  • The scholarship benefits meant for the students cover school fees (including tuition) and hostel fees (including mess charges), up to the following maximum limits.

SHRESHTA Scholarship (Tuition and Hostel Fee)

Classes Annual Scholarship 
Class 9 ₹1,00,000
Class 10 ₹1,10,000
Class 11 ₹1,25,000
Class 12 ₹1,35,000

(Note: The scholarships for tuition and hostel fees will be provided on the basis of the actual amount charged by the school or the specified limit mentioned above, whichever is lower. SHRESHTA schools will not impose any additional fees or charges on the beneficiaries.)

  • The scholarships will be disbursed in a single instalment, directly to the schools’ accounts via an online process using the Ministry’s e-Anudaan portal.
  • The scholarship for subsequent years will be released upon submission of a Utilisation Certificate, under GFR provisions.

SHRESHTA Education Programme 2024-25: Selection Procedures

There are 2 methods of selection for the SHRESHTA Education Programme.

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Method 1: Eligibility Criteria

  • Only the SC students enrolled in recognized schools, whether private, government, or local body institutions, are eligible.
  • For admission to Class 9, students must have successfully completed Class 8 in the academic year immediately before the year of admission.
  • For admission to Class 11, students must have passed Class 10 in the academic year directly preceding the year of admission.
  • The parental income must not exceed ₹2.5 lakh per year.
  • Caste and income certificates must be uploaded before web-based counselling.
  • The students applying under the scheme should not be beneficiaries of the Department’s Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme.

Method 2: National Entrance Test for SHRESHTA (NETS)

  • Admission to the schools will be based on merit determined by the nationwide test called National Entrance Test for SHRESHTA (NETS).
  • The NETS will be conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA).
  • The test will be held across the country.
  • The selected students will be given a choice of SHRESHTA schools.
  • A web-based counselling system, developed by the NIC, will be provided to students for selecting their options. Multiple rounds of web counselling may be held to ensure that all seats are filled.

SHRESHTA Education Programme 2024-25: Available Seats

The tentative number of seats available for fresh admissions up to the academic year 2025-26 is as follows:

Academic Year Class 9 Class 11 Total Seats*
2023-24 1500 1500 3000
2024-25 1500 1500 3000
2025-26 1500 1500 3000

(*Note: If there are vacant seats in either Class 9 or Class 11, they may be reallocated to the other class, provided there are additional eligible students in that category.)

SHRESHTA Education Programme 2024-25: Instructions for Admit Card

  • The NTA will provide a provisional admit card on its website.
  • The applicants are required to download this admit card.
  • The candidates must appear only at the exam centre specified on their admit card.
  • If a candidate is unable to download the admit card, they can contact the helpline at 011-40759000 between 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM for assistance.
  • It is essential that all candidates carefully review and follow the instructions mentioned on their admit cards.
  • In case of any discrepancies in personal details, photograph, or signature on the admit card or confirmation page, candidates should immediately reach out to the NTA helpline.
  • Duplicate admit cards will not be issued at the examination centre.
  • No alterations are allowed to the admit card.
  • The candidates must ensure they preserve their admit cards for future reference.
  • Issuance of an admit card does not confirm eligibility. Eligibility will be verified in the subsequent stages of the admission process.

SHRESHTA Education Programme 2024-25: Application Process

SHRESHTA Education Programme 2024-25 - Application Process

  • Select the ‘Registration for SHRESHTA’ option under the ‘CANDIDATE ACTIVITY’ section.

SHRESHTA Education Programme 2024-25 - Registration for SHRESHTA

  • Click on the ‘New Registration’ tab on the new page.

SHRESHTA Education Programme 2024-25 - New Registration

  • Carefully review the details on the instruction page and check the box at the bottom of the page.
  • Click the ‘Click Here to Proceed’ button to move forward.

In the application form:

  • Provide all the necessary information.

SHRESHTA Education Programme 2024-25 - Proceed

  • After reviewing the entered details, select the ‘Submit’ option.

Upon successful submission, log in again using your application number, password, and security pin.

Update the following details in the application form:

  • Contact Number
  • Personal Details
  • Aadhaar Number
  • Information of Exam and Examination Centre 
  • Qualification Details

Upload all the necessary documents and, finally, click the ‘Submit’ button to complete the process.

Required Documents

  • Aadhaar Card
  • Residence certificate
  • Caste certificate
  • Income certificate
  • Ration card
  • Birth certificate
  • Passport size photograph
  • Mobile number
  • Email ID

Important Instructions for Candidates

  1. Arrival Time:
    The candidates must arrive at the examination centre two hours before the start of the entrance test. This allows for the announcement of important instructions.
  2. Documents to Carry:
    The applicants must bring the following documents for verification:

    • SC certificate (for verification)
    • Printed admit card (mandatory, must be shown on demand)
    • Valid photo ID (authorised by the examination body)
  3. Seating Arrangement:
    Each candidate will be assigned a seat according to their roll number. Failure to occupy the allotted seat may result in cancellation of candidature.
  4. Question Papers:
    The candidates are responsible for ensuring that they receive the correct question paper as per the class they applied for.
  5. Accuracy of Information:
    Providing incorrect or misleading information may lead to the cancellation of candidature.
  6. Test Date:
    The candidates who miss the test on the scheduled date will not be allowed to retake the exam.

Items to Bring on Exam Day:

Items Details
Admit Card Printed copy (mandatory)
Self-Declaration Form Duly filled, downloaded from the NTA website
Photograph Passport-size
Photo ID Valid and authorised (from a pre-approved list)
Pen Blue or black ballpoint pen

UFM (Unfair Means) and Other Violations

The candidates who engage in unfair means during the exam will be subject to UFM (Unfair Means) penalties, and their exam results will be withheld. Additionally, candidates who either appear at a different exam centre than the assigned one or permit someone else to take the exam on their behalf will have their results cancelled.

Instructions on SHRESHTA Scheme’s Scores

  • The NTA will release the scores on its official website.
  • Once published, the scores are final and will not be subject to rechecking or revaluation. No requests for revaluation or rechecking will be entertained by NTA.

SHRESHTA – Exam Pattern

Subject Number of Questions Total Marks
Mathematics 30 120
General Awareness/Knowledge 25 100
Social Science 25 100
Science 20 80
Total 100 400

(Note: Each correct answer will be awarded 4 marks. No marks will be given for incorrect or unanswered questions.)

How to Check the SHRESHTA Counselling Schedule?

  1. Visit the official SHRESHTA website.
  2. Navigate to the ‘CANDIDATE ACTIVITY’ section and select ‘Counselling Schedule’.
  3. The counselling schedule will be displayed on your screen.

How to Check the SHRESHTA (NETS) Score Card?

  1. Go to the official SHRESHTA website.
  2. Click on ‘Scorecard for SHRESHTA (NETS)’ on the homepage.
  3. Enter your application number, date of birth, and security pin on the page.
  4. Click ‘Submit’ to view your score card.

Final Answer Key for SHRESHTA (NETS) 2024 Exam

The National Testing Agency announced the SHRESHTA 2024 results online on June 20, 2024. The students can access their SHRESHTA NETS results by visiting the official websites, exams.nta.ac.in/SHRESHTA/ or shreshta.nta.nic.in, and entering their registration number and password. The NETS result for 2024 includes details such as the student’s name, marks, percentage, and result status. The applicants are advised to regularly check the NTA website, their email, and this page for any updates regarding the NETS 2024 results.

Steps to Download SHRESHTA NETS Result 2024: SHRESHTA 2024 result scores can only be accessed through the National Testing Agency’s website. Follow the steps given below to download your SHRESHTA NETS 2024 result:

  • Visit the official website: shreshta.nta.nic.in or exams.nta.ac.in/SHRESHTA/.
  • Click on the “Check Result 2024” tab.
  • Enter the required details.
  • Click the “Submit” button.
  • View your scores.
  • Print or download your SHRESHTA NETS 2024 result.

Direct Final Answer Key for SHRESHTA (NETS) 2024 Exam Link

SHRESHTA Education Programme: Terms and Conditions for Admission

  • Admission Procedure: Once the student selects the school, no additional tests are required for admission.
  • Fee Disbursement: The Ministry will release the school and hostel fees directly to the school within 30 days of confirming admission on the IT portal.
  • Hostel Facilities: The school should provide hostel accommodations and assist students in settling into the new environment.
  • Student Counsellor: A teacher can be designated as a ‘Counsellor’ to help resolve any issues or difficulties students may encounter.
  • Funding Continuation (Class 9 & 11): The students admitted in Class 9 or 11, including those from FY 2021-22, will be funded for future classes until they complete Class 12, subject to passing exams.

SHRESHTA Education Programme: Contact Details

For any queries or grievances, students can contact SHRESHTA at the following official address.

Address:  NSIC-MDBP Building, 

First Floor, Okhla Industrial Estate

New Delhi-110020

E-mail ID:  shreshta@nta.ac.in

Contact Number:  011-69227700, 011-40759000

SHRESHTA Education Programme 2024-25: FAQs

Who is eligible for the SHRESHTA scheme?

The students from the Scheduled Caste (SC) community who are enrolled in Class 9 to 12 are eligible for availing benefits under the SHRESHTA education scheme. The scheme fully covers all expenses for each student, including school tuition and hostel mess charges. Annually, around 3,000 SC students with annual family income up to ₹2.5 lakh are selected based on merit.

Is the SHRESHTA education programme exclusively meant for SC students, or does it also support students from other disadvantaged groups?

The SHRESHTA education programme is specifically designed for Scheduled Caste (SC) students. Its goal is to provide equitable education to the SC students and help address educational disparities compared to other social groups.

Who determines which schools are eligible for the SHRESHTA scheme?

The selection of schools for the SHRESHTA scheme is determined by a committee led by the Joint Secretary responsible for the program, along with a representative from the Ministry of Education and the Director of the Internal Finance Division within the Ministry. This committee makes the final decisions at the start of each year.

What is the selection process for the SHRESHTA Education Programme?

The selection process for the SHRESHTA Education Programme involves evaluating marks obtained in Class 8 or Class 10, parental income, and performance in the SHRESHTA Entrance Test.

Is it mandatory for students to pass the National Entrance Test for SHRESHTA (NETS) to benefit from the SHRESHTA education programme?

Yes, it is mandatory for students to pass the National Entrance Test for SHRESHTA (NETS) to qualify for the programme. Admission to SHRESHTA schools is based on the results of the NETS, a nationwide merit-based test. Successful candidates will be offered admission to a SHRESHTA school of their choice.

What are the focus areas of the SHRESHTA Education Programme?

The SHRESHTA Education Programme focuses on districts with a significant SC population and low educational attainment levels. The Indian government identifies these districts based on factors such as SC population size, literacy rates, and dropout rates.

What should I do if I am not selected for the SHRESHTA Education Programme?

If you are not selected for the SHRESHTA Education Programme, you can reapply in the following year. Additionally, you may seek admission to other government or private residential schools.

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