Students in Class 10 and Class 12 can look at several scholarships: NMMSS (Rs 12,000 a year for Class 9 to 12 for government school students), pre-matric and post-matric schemes for SC, OBC and other categories, the CBSE scholarship for single girl children, and state schemes such as Kanyashree and SVMCM in West Bengal. Most use a family income limit of around Rs 2.5 lakh, so check your category first.
Quick facts
| Scholarship | Class | Key rule | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| NMMSS (central) | 9 to 12 (selected in Class 9) | 55% in Class 8, income up to Rs 3.5 lakh, government/aided/local body school | Rs 12,000 per year |
| SC pre-matric | 9-10 | SC, income up to Rs 2.5 lakh | Rs 3,500 (day) / Rs 7,000 (hostel) a year |
| OBC pre-matric (PM YASASVI) | 9-10, government school | OBC/EBC/DNT, income up to Rs 2.5 lakh | Rs 4,000 a year |
| Post-matric (SC / OBC) | 11-12 onwards | Income up to Rs 2.5 lakh | Varies by scheme |
| Kanyashree K1 (West Bengal) | VIII and above | Unmarried girl aged 13-18 | Rs 1,000 a year |
| SVMCM (West Bengal) | 11-12 (HS) onwards | 60% marks, income up to Rs 2.5 lakh | Rs 1,000 a month |
| CBSE single girl child | 11-12 | See below | Check CBSE notice |
Last checked October 2026.
NMMSS for Class 9 to 12
The National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme aims to reduce dropouts after Class 8. Each year one lakh fresh scholarships of Rs 12,000 are offered to Class 9 students who clear the selection test held by their state or UT; awards continue for Classes 10 to 12 on academic performance. You need at least 55 percent (or equivalent grade) in Class 8, family income of not more than Rs 3.5 lakh and study in a state government, government-aided or local body school. Applications are on NSP. For 2026-27 the deadline was reported as 31 August, extended to 30 September 2026, so the window has passed for this session; watch the NSP notice for the next one.
Class 10 students (moving to Class 11)
- Post-matric for SC, OBC, ST and disability schemes start from Class 11. After your Class 10 results, apply on the relevant portal.
- PM YASASVI top class school (OBC, EBC, DNT) selects students for listed schools through a national entrance test; read the NTA notice.
- SVMCM (West Bengal) supports HS students with 60 percent marks and income up to Rs 2.5 lakh, Rs 1,000 a month.
- Aikyashree (West Bengal minority students) covers Class 11-12 with 50 percent marks and income up to Rs 2 lakh.
Class 12 students (going to college)
- Central Sector Scheme for College and University Students is on NSP; check its merit and income rules on the portal.
- AICTE Pragati for girls entering technical degree or diploma, income up to Rs 8 lakh.
- Post-matric schemes for SC, OBC and disability categories continue into college.
- State schemes for UG study, such as SVMCM or UP scholarship.
CBSE single girl child scholarship
CBSE runs a scholarship for the only child of her parents who scored at least 60 percent in Class 10 and now studies in Class 11 or 12 at a CBSE school, with a tuition fee ceiling per month. A 2025 news report gave Rs 500 a month while earlier notices mentioned a different amount, so read the current CBSE notice at cbse.gov.in for the amount, fee ceiling and last date.
General documents
- Previous class marksheet
- Aadhaar and student bank account
- Income and category certificates
- School bonafide or admission proof
- Passport photograph
How to apply
- Ask your school which scholarships apply to your category and class.
- Register on the portal (NSP or state).
- Fill the form; upload documents.
- Submit and get your school to verify it.
- Check status regularly.
Common mistakes
- Missing the school’s internal deadline, which is earlier than the portal deadline.
- Wrong class or scheme selected.
- Bank account not Aadhaar-linked or in a parent’s name.
- Expecting NMMSS without clearing the state selection test.
- Paying anyone for ‘guaranteed’ scholarships.
Class 10 and 12 are the best times to apply, because many schemes start fresh. Talk to your school scholarship coordinator early, and always check the portal for current dates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which scholarship is for Class 10 students?
Class 10 students can apply for post-matric schemes after passing, and pre-matric (SC, OBC) or NMMSS if already enrolled in the scheme.
What is NMMSS?
The National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme gives Rs 12,000 a year to selected students from Class 9 to 12 in government schools.
What is the income limit for NMMSS?
Parental income up to Rs 3.5 lakh a year and at least 55 percent in Class 8.
Is there a scholarship for Class 12 girls?
Yes. For example Kanyashree and SVMCM in West Bengal, CBSE single girl child scholarship, and AICTE Pragati for technical courses.
Where do I apply?
On scholarships.gov.in or your state portal, through your school.
