What is Pre-Matric Scholarship SC/ST?
Pre-Matric Scholarship for SC and ST students is the centrally-sponsored scheme for Class 1-10 students from Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe communities. Provides maintenance allowance, book allowance, and additional allowances for SC/ST students whose families earn ≤ ₹2.5 lakh/year. Two separate schemes: Pre-Matric for SC (administered by Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment) and Pre-Matric for ST (administered by Ministry of Tribal Affairs). Covers Class 1-10 — different rates for day scholars vs hostellers. Over 50 lakh SC + 30 lakh ST students benefit annually. Implemented through NSP.
Pre-Matric Scholarship SC/ST — Quick Overview
| Scheme Name | Pre-Matric Scholarship for SC/ST Students 2026 — ₹350-₹1,000/Month for Class 1-10 |
| Launched By | Government of India |
| Launch Year | 1977 |
| Benefit | ₹350-₹1,000/month maintenance + book allowance + ad-hoc grants for SC/ST students in Class 1-10 |
| Category | Education |
| Last Verified | 16 May 2026 |
| Official Portal | https://scholarships.gov.in |
Benefits of Pre-Matric Scholarship SC/ST
₹350-₹1,000/month maintenance + book allowance + ad-hoc grants for SC/ST students in Class 1-10
Who is Eligible for Pre-Matric Scholarship SC/ST?
- ✓SC or ST student with valid caste/tribe certificate
- ✓Studying in Class 1 to 10
- ✓Family annual income ≤ ₹2.5 lakh
- ✓Indian citizen
- ✓Studying in recognised school (government, aided, or recognised private)
Documents Required for Pre-Matric Scholarship SC/ST
How to Apply for Pre-Matric Scholarship SC/ST Online?
- 1Apply through the National Scholarship Portal (scholarships.gov.in), selecting the Pre-Matric SC or Pre-Matric ST scheme.
- 2Upload the child's SC or ST caste/tribe certificate along with the Aadhaar Card.
- 3Attach the bonafide certificate from the school confirming enrolment in Class 1 to 10.
- 4Submit the income certificate (family income up to ₹2.5 lakh) and the previous year marksheet.
- 5School verifies enrolment and forwards the application to the district welfare office.
- 6Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment (SC) or Ministry of Tribal Affairs (ST) approves the application as applicable.
- 7Maintenance and book allowance are credited to the student's or parent's Aadhaar-linked bank passbook.
Official Government Portal
Use scholarships.gov.in directly — there is no application fee, and no third party can speed up your approval.
🔗Apply on scholarships.gov.in