SC ST OBC Scholarship 2026: Get Up to ₹48,000 Online, Fully Digital & Hassle-Free

The SC ST OBC Scholarship 2026 is a flagship initiative by the Government of India designed to provide financial support to students from Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC). Eligible students can receive up to ₹48,000 directly into their bank accounts, helping them continue their education without any financial hurdles. The entire process is fully digital, transparent, and hassle-free, eliminating the need to visit government offices. 

Purpose and Importance 

The main goal of the SC ST OBC Scholarship 2026 is to ensure that financial constraints do not stop students from studying. Many talented students struggle to pursue education due to monetary barriers. This scholarship supports tuition fees, books, stationery, and living expenses, empowering students and promoting educational equality. By providing equal opportunities, the initiative strengthens the nation’s future and encourages social inclusion. 

Benefits of the Scholarship

The SC ST OBC Scholarship 2026 provides financial assistance for:

• School or college tuition fees

• Books and stationery

• Hostel or accommodation charges

• Online learning resources

This financial aid empowers students to continue their education confidently and also supports preparation for competitive exams, enhancing career opportunities.

Special Benefits for Rural Students 

Students in rural areas can easily access the scholarship online. CSCs and awareness campaigns ensure that no eligible student misses out. Digital access bridges the gap between urban and rural education. 

Role of Central and State Governments 

The scholarship is managed jointly by the Central and State Governments. While scholarship amounts and rules may vary slightly from state to state, the primary goal remains the same: providing financial aid to students. In some states, the scholarship amount can exceed ₹48,000, going up to ₹1 lakh, covering tuition fees, hostel charges, and other educational expenses. 

SC ST OBC Scholarship Eligibility Criteria 2026 

Students who belong to SC, ST, or OBC categories and are enrolled in a recognized school, college, or university are eligible for this scholarship. Key eligibility conditions include:

• SC/ST students: Annual family income must not exceed ₹2.5 lakh.

• OBC students: Annual family income varies by state, generally between ₹1.5 lakh to ₹2.5 lakh.

• Students must have a bank account linked with Aadhaar for direct transfer of scholarship funds. 

National Scholarship Portal (NSP) 2026 

The National Scholarship Portal (NSP) serves as a single platform for applying, verifying, and receiving scholarships including SC ST OBC Scholarship. Some important updates for students in AY 2025-26:

• Renewal Applications: Students can submit and verify renewal applications under the National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMMSS) from 12th January 2026 to 22nd January 2026.

• Portal Access: NSP is open for applications for Pre/Post Matric and Top Class scholarships from all Ministries/Departments.

• Common Service Centres (CSCs): Students can avail NSP services at CSCs for a nominal charge of ₹30 per candidate, which covers reference number generation, biometric authentication, OTR number generation, and application submission. To locate the nearest CSC, visit https://locator.csccloud.in/ 

• Aadhaar Seeding & Biometric Authentication: NPCI launched Bharat Aadhaar Seeding Enabler (BASE) to enable seamless Aadhaar seeding and de-seeding for Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). Students must ensure biometrics are unlocked in Aadhaar before authentication. For details, visit UIDAI Lock/Unlock 

• Face Authentication Error (904): Students facing errors during face authentication should update the UIDAI AadhaarFACERD app from the Play Store. 

One Time Registration (OTR) 

The One Time Registration (OTR) is a unique number allotted to each student for their entire academic career on the NSP. It is mandatory for applying to SC/ST/OBC and other scholarships.

• How to Generate OTR: Using Aadhaar or Aadhaar Enrollment Number (EID) through NSP portal or NSP OTR app available on Google Play Store. 

• Importance of OTR: It acts as a universal identity for scholarship applications on NSP and simplifies future renewals. 

How to Apply Online for SC ST OBC Scholarship 2026? 

The SC ST OBC Scholarship Online Apply 2026 is a revolutionary initiative providing hope and financial support to millions of students. With its digital platform, transparent process, and focus on equality, this scholarship is reshaping education in India. Eligible students should apply on time to secure financial assistance and take a confident step towards a brighter future. Students can easily apply for the SC ST OBC Scholarship 2026 through official portals like scholarships.gov.in or respective state websites. 

Step-by-step application process:

Step 1: New Registration: Fill in basic personal details.

Step 2: Generate OTR ID: Link Aadhaar and mobile number to create login credentials.

Step 3: Login and Select Scholarship: Choose SC/ST/OBC Scholarship from the available schemes.

Step 4: Fill Application Form: Enter personal, academic, and bank details.

Step 5: Upload Documents: Upload all required certificates and photographs.

Step6: Submit and Save Receipt: Verify the form carefully before submitting and download the acknowledgment receipt. 

Required Documents

Applicants need to upload these documents online:

• Aadhaar Card

• Caste Certificate

• Income Certificate

• Domicile/Residence Certificate

• Previous Class Marksheet

• Bank Passbook Copy

• Passport Size Photograph