If you’re dreaming of pursuing higher education in India but are worried about the financial burden, Let’s face it—college education in India can be expensive. With rising tuition fees, hostel costs, and other expenses, it’s no wonder that many students feel overwhelmed. But here’s the good news: scholarships are here to help. Whether you’re aiming for a top-tier college or just need some financial assistance to ease your academic journey, scholarships are the game-changer you need.
So, how do you go about finding and securing one? It’s easier than you think! In this post, I’m going to break down the exact steps you need to follow to find, apply for, and track scholarships in India. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear roadmap to securing the financial aid that can make your dream of higher education a reality. Let’s dive right in!
Here Are 5 Step To Get Scholarship for College in India
Step 1: Identify Eligible Scholarships
Before applying for a scholarship, it’s important to identify the ones that are suitable for you. Scholarships in India come in various forms—government-funded, private, and institutional—so narrowing down the options based on your eligibility is the first step. Here are some popular scholarships to look out for:
Central Sector Scheme of Scholarship for College and University Students
This scholarship targets meritorious students whose family income is below Rs. 4.5 lakh per annum. To qualify, you need to have scored above the 80th percentile in your class XII exams. If you meet these criteria and are not already receiving another scholarship, this could be an excellent option for you.
Special Scholarship Scheme for Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh Students
Students from Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh wishing to study outside their state can avail of this scholarship. To be eligible, the family income must be under Rs. 8 lakh per annum. This scheme encourages higher education for students in these regions by offering financial aid.
UGC Scholarships
The University Grants Commission (UGC) offers scholarships for postgraduate studies in recognized programs. This is an excellent opportunity for students pursuing a career in academics or research. The eligibility criteria for these scholarships vary depending on the specific program.
Step 2: Register on Scholarship Portals
Once you’ve identified the scholarships you’re eligible for, the next step is to register on scholarship portals. These online platforms simplify the application process, making it easier for you to apply to multiple scholarships. Here are some important portals to consider:
National Scholarship Portal (NSP)
The NSP is a one-stop platform for all government scholarships in India. To get started, you’ll need to create a One-Time Registration (OTR) using your Aadhaar or Aadhaar Enrollment ID. This portal hosts various government schemes, including the Central Sector Scheme and other state-specific scholarships.
Vidya Lakshmi Portal
Vidya Lakshmi is another platform where students can search and apply for various educational scholarships and student loans. This portal provides access to multiple schemes, making it easier for you to find financial aid suited to your needs.
Vidyasaarathi and Buddy4Study
These are private platforms offering a variety of scholarships. They allow students to search for scholarships from multiple sources, including private organizations and corporations. These portals often have unique scholarships that you may not find on government portals.
Step 3: Apply for Scholarships
Once you’ve registered on the relevant scholarship portals, the next step is to complete your application. Here’s what you need to do:
Fill Out the Application Forms
Each scholarship program has its own application form. Be sure to fill it out completely and accurately. Most applications will require details such as your academic achievements, personal information, and financial background. Additionally, you’ll need to upload supporting documents like:
- Class XII mark sheet or equivalent
- Income certificate
- Aadhaar card
- Disability certificate (if applicable)
- Submit the Application
After filling out the forms and attaching all required documents, submit your application before the deadline. For government scholarships on the National Scholarship Portal (NSP), applications typically need to be submitted by October 31st, but always check the specific deadline for each scheme to avoid missing out.
Step 4: Track Application Status
After submitting your application, it’s crucial to keep track of its progress. Fortunately, most scholarship portals allow you to monitor the status of your application. This helps you stay informed about any updates or additional requirements.
How to Track on NSP
Once logged into the National Scholarship Portal, you can view the status of your scholarship application. This feature lets you know if your application is under review, approved, or if any further action is needed.
Step 5: Follow Up
If required, follow up with the scholarship provider or your educational institution to ensure that all necessary steps are taken. For example, some scholarships require your institution to verify your application. Don’t wait until the last minute—make sure everything is in order well before the scholarship deadline.
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Eligibility Criteria for Scholarships on the National Scholarship Portal (NSP)
The eligibility criteria for scholarships on the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) can vary depending on the scheme. Let’s look at some general and specific eligibility criteria for various scholarships available on the platform:
General Eligibility Criteria
- Citizenship: The applicant must be a citizen of India.
- Income Limit: This varies by scheme. For example, the Central Sector Scheme for College and University Students requires a family income of up to Rs. 4.5 lakh per annum.
Academic Performance: Some schemes have specific academic performance criteria, such as being above a certain percentile in class XII.
Specific Scholarship Schemes
- Central Sector Scheme for College and University Students (CSSS)
- Eligibility: Must have scored above the 80th percentile in class XII and have a family income under Rs. 4.5 lakh per annum.
- Exclusions: Students who have taken a break after class XII or are enrolled in diploma courses are not eligible.
- Scholarships for Students with Disabilities
- Eligibility: Must have a disability of at least 40%. The parental income limit depends on the specific scheme.
- Limitations: Only two disabled children per family can receive the scholarship, unless they are twins.
- National Fellowship and Scholarship for Higher Education of ST Students
- Eligibility: Reserved for ST students pursuing higher education. The detailed criteria vary for different levels of education.
- UGC Scholarships for Postgraduate Studies
- Eligibility: Available for students pursuing their first postgraduate degree. You must be under 30 years of age and enrolled in a recognized program.
Application Process for NSP Scholarships
- Portal: Apply through the National Scholarship Portal at scholarships.gov.in.
- Registration: Fresh and renewal applications require separate registrations.
- Deadlines: Vary for each scheme, so be sure to check the NSP portal for updates.
Table of Popular Scholarships and Eligibility Criteria
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility Criteria | Income Limit | Application Deadline |
| Central Sector Scheme for College Students | Above 80th percentile in class XII, no other scholarships | Rs. 4.5 lakh per annum | October 31st |
| Special Scholarship for J&K and Ladakh | Students from J&K & Ladakh, studying outside the state | Rs. 8 lakh per annum | Varies by scheme |
| UGC Postgraduate Scholarships | First-time PG students under 30 years of age | Varies by scheme | Varies by scheme |
| Scholarships for Students with Disabilities | At least 40% disability, verified by medical authority | Rs. 2.5 lakh – Rs. 8 lakh | Varies by scheme |
Conclusion
Securing a scholarship for college in India is a great way to reduce the financial burden of higher education. By following these steps—identifying the right scholarships, registering on the appropriate portals, submitting complete applications, and tracking their progress—you can improve your chances of securing financial aid for your studies.
The National Scholarship Portal and other private platforms offer a wide range of opportunities, catering to different needs, backgrounds, and fields of study. Be sure to check eligibility criteria carefully, prepare all necessary documents, and apply before deadlines.
As someone who has seen students benefit from scholarships, I can tell you that persistence is key. Keep following up and applying to multiple scholarships to increase your chances. So, go ahead, start the process, and good luck with your scholarship journey!
