FES

Free Education Scheme

The scheme provides financial support to Backward, Most Backward Classes, and Denotified Communities students pursuing 3-year undergraduate courses (B.A., B.Sc., B.Com.) in Government and Government Aided Arts and Science Colleges.

State Cash

States / UT: Tamil Nadu

Nodal department: Backward Classes Most Backward Classes and Minorities Welfare Department

Scheme for: Individual

Scheme profile

DBT (direct benefit transfer): No

Scheme open date: 2012-05-07

Categories: Education & Learning

Sub-categories: Scholarships and student finance

Target beneficiaries: Individual

Tags: Backward Class, Student Finance, Scholarship

Details

The "Free Education Scheme" launched on 7th May, 2012, by the Backward Classes, Most Backward Classes and Minorities Welfare Department, Tamil Nadu, is designed to support Backward Classes (BC), Most Backward Classes (MBC), and De-notified Communities (DNC) students in pursuing higher education without the burden of fees. It covers all special fees, non-refundable compulsory fees, and examination fees for students enrolled in 3-year undergraduate programs (B.A., B.Sc., B.Com.) in Government and Government Aided Arts and Science Colleges.

Benefits

  • - Financial Assistance: Special fees and other non-refundable compulsory fees are paid as prescribed by Government and examination fee in full
  • Financial Assistance: Special fees and other non-refundable compulsory fees are paid as prescribed by Government and examination fee in full.

Eligibility

  • The beneficiary should be a student.
  • The beneficiary should be a resident of Tamil Nadu.
  • The beneficiary should belong to the Backward Classes (BC), Most Backward Classes (MBC), and Denotified Communities (DNC).
  • The beneficiary should be studying 3-year undergraduate degree (B.A., B.Sc., B.Com.).
  • The beneficiary should be enrolled in a Government or Government Aided Arts and Science College.

Exclusions


Application Process

Offline

Step-1: The interested applicant should collect the application form from the concerned educational institute.
Step-2: In the application form, fill in all the mandatory fields, paste the passport-sized photograph (signed across, if required), and attach copies of all the mandatory documents (self-attest, if required).
Step-3: Submit the duly filled and signed application form along with the documents to the institution.
Step-4: Request a receipt or acknowledgment from the concerned authority to whom the application has been submitted. Ensure that the receipt contains essential details such as the date and time of submission, and a unique identification number (if applicable).

Clarifications

Additional points from the scheme information published on myScheme (not legal advice).

What is the objective of the "Free Education Scheme" scheme?
The scheme provides financial support to Backward, Most Backward Classes, and Denotified Communities students pursuing 3-year undergraduate courses (B.A., B.Sc., B.Com.) in Government and Government Aided Arts and Science Colleges.
Who is eligible for the Free Education Scheme?
Students belonging to the Backward Classes (BC), Most Backward Classes (MBC), and Denotified Communities (DNC) who are enrolled in 3-year undergraduate courses at Government or Government Aided Arts and Science Colleges.
What courses are covered under the scheme?
The scheme covers 3-year undergraduate degree programs such as B.A., B.Sc., and B.Com.
Are there any income restrictions to avail of this scheme?
As per the guidelines, there are no income restrictions for this scheme.
Does the scheme apply to students studying in private colleges?
No, the scheme is only applicable to students enrolled in Government or Government Aided Arts and Science Colleges.
What fees are covered by the scheme?
The scheme covers special fees, non-refundable compulsory fees, and full examination fees.
Is there an age limit to be eligible for this scheme?
As per the guidelines, there is no age limit under this scheme.
What documents are required for the application process?
Students need to submit their community certificate, proof of admission, bank account details, and previous academic records.
When was the Free Education Scheme introduced?
The scheme was introduced on May 7, 2012.
Is the examination fee fully covered?
Yes, the full examination fee is covered under this scheme.
Are students in professional courses eligible for the scheme?
No, the scheme is limited to students pursuing Arts and Science undergraduate courses.
Does the scheme cover hostel or accommodation fees?
No, hostel or accommodation fees are not covered by the scheme.
For how long will students receive benefits under the scheme?
Students will receive benefits for the full duration of their 3-year undergraduate degree course.

References

Apply

Apply now

Opens the official application or programme portal in a new tab. If in doubt, confirm details on the ministry site.

Documents Required for Government Schemes

Most government schemes require basic documents for verification. While the exact requirements vary, common documents include:

  • Aadhaar Card
  • Income Certificate
  • Caste Certificate (if applicable)
  • Residence Proof
  • Bank Account Details
  • Educational Certificates (for student schemes)

How to Apply for Government Schemes?

The application process for government schemes may be online or offline depending on the scheme. In most cases, you can follow these steps:

  1. Check eligibility criteria
  2. Collect required documents
  3. Fill the application form
  4. Submit the application online or at the relevant office
  5. Track application status