In 2025, the government has extended its commitment to supporting education through the ₹12,000 scholarship for college students program. This scholarship is designed to provide much-needed financial assistance to eligible students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate courses in recognized colleges and universities. It aims to reduce financial barriers and promote greater access to quality education.
As part of the government’s efforts via the national scholarship portal, this scholarship empowers students from disadvantaged backgrounds by offering monetary aid that can be used for tuition fees, books, and other academic expenses. The scholarship is available nationwide, with a deadline for applications set before July 2025, encouraging students to apply early.
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Overview of the ₹12,000 Scholarship Scheme 2025

The ₹12,000 scholarship for college students is a one-time financial grant awarded based on merit and need. It targets students belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC), and Economically Weaker Sections (EWS).
Key features include:
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Scholarship amount: ₹12,000 per eligible student
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Applicable for degree and diploma courses across India
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Disbursed directly to students’ bank accounts via the national scholarship portal
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Encourages continuation of studies among marginalized communities
This scheme is a crucial part of the government’s education support initiatives, reinforcing its vision of inclusive growth.
Eligibility Criteria for the ₹12,000 Scholarship
To qualify for the ₹12,000 scholarship for college students, applicants must meet certain criteria:
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Must be an Indian citizen and enrolled in a government-recognized college or university
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Annual family income should not exceed ₹2.5 lakh (varies by state and category)
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Should have secured at least 50% marks in the previous examination
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Students must not be receiving any other scholarship or financial aid
Meeting these requirements ensures that the scholarship reaches the most deserving candidates and helps reduce dropout rates in higher education.
How to Apply for the Scholarship on the National Scholarship Portal
Applying for the ₹12,000 scholarship for college students is straightforward through the national scholarship portal, the government’s official platform for managing scholarship applications.
Steps to apply:
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Visit the official National Scholarship Portal website.
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Register using your Aadhaar number or student ID.
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Fill out the application form with personal, academic, and bank details.
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Upload necessary documents such as mark sheets, income certificate, and caste certificate.
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Submit the application and keep a printout for future reference.
Students are advised to apply before the July 2025 deadline to avoid last-minute issues. The portal also offers a tracking facility to monitor application status.
Benefits of the ₹12,000 Scholarship for Students
The ₹12,000 scholarship for college students significantly contributes to easing the financial burden on students and their families. Benefits include:
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Supporting purchase of study materials and laptops
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Enabling students to pay tuition and exam fees without stress
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Increasing enrollment and retention in higher education institutions
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Motivating students to focus on academic excellence
This education support strengthens the government’s commitment to equitable access to higher education.
Important Dates and Contact Information
Students should keep these important dates in mind:
Event |
Date |
---|---|
Application Start |
February 2025 |
Application Deadline |
July 31, 2025 |
Scholarship Disbursal |
August-September 2025 |
For queries and assistance, students can contact their college scholarship cell or the National Scholarship Portal helpdesk.
FAQs
Who can apply for the ₹12,000 scholarship for college students?
Indian students enrolled in recognized colleges with an annual family income below ₹2.5 lakh and meeting academic criteria can apply.
How do I apply for the scholarship?
Applications are submitted online through the national scholarship portal by registering and completing the form with necessary documents.
Is the scholarship amount paid directly to students?
Yes, the scholarship is credited directly to the student’s bank account after verification.
Can students from private colleges apply?
Typically, the scholarship is for students in government or aided colleges; private college students should check specific state guidelines.
What documents are required for the application?
Important documents include Aadhaar card, income certificate, caste certificate (if applicable), and recent academic mark sheets.
When is the last date to apply?
The last date to apply for the ₹12,000 scholarship for college students is July 31, 2025.
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