PMSSSC

Pre- Matric Scholarships Scheme for Scheduled Castes & Others

5.3/10

The Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme for Scheduled Castes & others is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme implemented by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India.

Central Cash

States / UT: All India

Ministry / nodal: Ministry Of Social Justice and Empowerment

Nodal department: Department of Social Justice & Empowerment

Scheme for: Individual

Scheme profile

DBT (direct benefit transfer): Yes

Categories: Education & Learning

Sub-categories: Scholarships and student finance

Target beneficiaries: Individual, Artists

Tags: Student, Scholarship, Financial Assistance

Details

This program provides financial aid to parents of children from Scheduled Castes and other disadvantaged groups to help them afford their children's education at the Pre-Matric level. The goal is to increase the participation of these children in education, reduce the dropout rate, especially during the transition from primary to secondary school, improve their academic performance, and increase their chances of continuing their education beyond the Pre-Matric stage.


Benefits

  • The students shall be given a consolidated academic allowance, as follows: 1. Day Scholar: - ₹3,500/- per annum1. Hosteller: -
  • Component 1- ₹7,000/- per annum
  • Component 2- ₹8,000/- per annum (For Class III-X)
  • In addition, a 10% extra allowance shall be given to Divyang (Disabled) students

The students shall be given a consolidated academic allowance, as follows:

  1. Day Scholar:- ₹3,500/- per annum1. Hosteller: -
  • Component 1- ₹7,000/- per annum
  • Component 2- ₹8,000/- per annum (For Class III-X)
  • In addition, a 10% extra allowance shall be given to Divyang (Disabled) students.

Eligibility

  • The scholarships are open to Nationals of India only.

  • Component 1: Pre Matric Scholarship for SC students

    1. Applicant students should be studying in class IX and X on a full time basis.
  1. Applicant students should belong to a Scheduled Caste.
  2. Parent/Guardian of applicant students income should not exceed Rs. 2.50 lakh per annum
  • Component 2: Pre-Matric scholarship for children of parents/guardians engaged in Unclean and hazardous Occupation

    1. The students should be studying in classes I to X on a full time basis.
  1. Scholarship will be admissible to the children/wards of parents/guardians who, irrespective of their caste/religion belong to one of the following categories

    • Persons who are Manual Scavengers.
    • Tanners & Flayers.
    • Waste pickers.
    • Persons engaged in hazardous cleaning.
  2. There is no family income ceiling under this component of the Scheme.

  • Eligible for one scholarship at a time for classes I to X. Notify awarding body if another scholarship is received.

How useful is this scheme?

Public benefit analysis

A practical look at this scheme for citizens

AI-generated insights showing how useful, accessible, and practical this scheme may be — combining deterministic scoring rules with a public-policy LLM analyst.

5.3
/ 10
Public Benefit Score
Accessibility 6.0/10 Moderate
Rural usefulness 4.0/10 Moderate
Application complexity 6.5/10 Moderate
Financial impact 4.0/10 Moderate
Literacy barrier 6.0/10 Moderate
Women inclusivity 6.0/10 Moderate
Awareness 7.0/10 Good
Implementation reliability 7.0/10 Good
Bigger shape means a better fit for citizens
  • Accessibility6.0
  • Financial impact4.0
  • Rural utility4.0
  • Awareness7.0
  • Simplicity3.5
  • Inclusivity6.0

What problem does this scheme solve?

The scheme provides essential financial support for education to Scheduled Castes and other disadvantaged groups, promoting educational participation.

Key challenges addressed

  • Financial barriers to education for disadvantaged groups
  • High dropout rates during school transitions

Most beneficial for

  • Students from Scheduled Castes
  • Children of parents in hazardous occupations

Likely challenges

  • Complex application process for first-time users
  • Digital dependency may exclude some rural applicants

Practical insights for citizens

While the scheme is beneficial, the digital and literacy barriers may hinder effective access.

Rural challenges

  • Limited internet access
  • Lack of awareness about the scheme

Digital challenges

  • Dependence on digital platforms for application
  • Need for mobile verification

Implementation bottlenecks

  • Delays in application processing
  • Verification challenges

Awareness challenges

  • Low awareness in rural areas
  • Complex eligibility criteria may confuse applicants

Application analysis

Application mode
Online portal
Documents burden
Moderate, requires Aadhaar and academic documents
Verification complexity
Moderate, involves multiple levels of verification
Office dependency
Low, primarily online
DBT dependency
Moderate, requires linking to bank accounts
CSC support
Limited
Estimated citizen effort
High, due to multiple steps in the application process

Estimated beneficiary reach

  • Rural / urban reach Moderate
  • Gender reach Equal
  • Target income group Low-income families
  • Occupation reach Students from various backgrounds

Benefit analysis

Benefit type
Cash
Benefit frequency
Annual
Benefit practicality
Practical for educational expenses
Financial meaningfulness
Moderate, as it helps but may not cover all educational costs
Long-term impact
Positive, as it encourages continued education

Plain-language guidance

This scheme helps students from Scheduled Castes and disadvantaged backgrounds by providing financial support for their education. It is aimed at reducing dropout rates and improving academic performance.

Who should apply
Students from Scheduled Castes and children of parents in hazardous occupations.
Who may struggle
First-time applicants, especially those with limited digital skills.
Best application route
Apply via the National Scholarship Portal with Aadhaar.

This intelligence section is generated by an AI policy analyst combined with rule-based scoring. Scores and narrative are estimates derived from the publicly available scheme information shown on this page; actual experience may vary by state, district, and department. Always confirm details on the official portal before you apply.

Application Process

Online

The applications are invited on the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) (https://scholarships.gov.in/) in the month of April every year.

New Registration:

Step 1: Visit the New Registration page of the National Scholarship Portal.
Step 2: Guidelines for Registration will appear. Scroll to the bottom. Read the undertaking carefully and accept the Terms. Click “Next”.
Step 3: In the next window, enter your mobile number and OTP. Then click “Verify”.
Step 4: After successful verification, continue with the e-KYC process (as applicable).
Step 5: Once completed, your reference number will be generated, and the same will be sent to your registered phone number.

Process for OTR ID number generation:

Step 1: Download and install AadhaarFaceRD services in the android device.
Step 2: Download and install the NSP OTR App from the Google Play Store.
Step 3: After opening the mobile app Select the option “eKYC with FaceAuth” highlighted in red.
Step 4: Enter the allotted reference number and click on “Send OTP” to receive OTP on your mobile no.
Step 5: Enter the received OTP and captcha in the screen and click Next.
Step 6: Click on “Proceed for Face Authentication” button highlighted in red.
Step 7: UIDAI AadhaarFaceRD services will be invoked for face authentication. Ensure AadhaarFaceRD services are preinstalled on your device.
Step 8: On Successful completion of face-authentication OTR no. will be generated and will also be sent on your registered mobile no.

Fresh Application:

Step 1: Visit the applicant Login page of the National Scholarships Portal. Enter your One Time Registration (OTR) number and password.
Step 2: Type the Captcha and click “Login”.
Step 3: On the next screen, provide the OTP received on your registered mobile number. You will be directed to the Password Reset screen. Create a new password and confirm.
Step 4: Click “Submit”. You will be directed to the “Applicant’s Dashboard”.
Step 5: On the left pane, click “Application Form”. The fields marked as * are compulsory. Fill in the details and upload the documents.
Step 6: You can either click on “Save as Draft” to complete the application later. Else, click “Final Submit” to submit the application.

Track Payment Status

Students can track their payment status from the “Know Your Payment” section in the Public Financial Management System (PFMS) Portal either by indicating their Aadhaar Number, Bank Account number, or NSP Application ID.
NOTE 1: The National Scholarships Portal will provide the timelines for opening & closing of the portal.
NOTE 2: Online applications will be verified at two levels i.e. by the Institute, where the student is studying and thereafter by the concerned State Higher Education Department or any other Agency/ Official nominated by the State as State Nodal Agency (both for fresh and renewal applicants).
NOTE 3: Students will not be permanently debarred for scholarships due to delay in renewal or verification. However, students will have to submit renewal applications within a cut-off date. Renewal for that year will not be allowed if an applicant misses this deadline.

Clarifications

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

What is this scheme ?

The Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme for Scheduled Castes & others is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme implemented by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India.

What are the main objective of the scheme?

This program provides financial aid to parents of children from Scheduled Castes and other disadvantaged groups to help them afford their children's education at the Pre-Matric level.

What benefits are provided under the scheme?
  1. Day Scholar- Rs. 3,500/- per annum 2. Hosteller - Component 1- ₹ 7,000/- per annum Component 2- ₹ 8,000/- per annum (For Class III-X)
What benefits are provided to the Disabled students ?

Along with the common benefits, in addition, a 10% extra allowance shall be given to Divyang (Disabled) students.

Who can get the benefits under Component 1?
  1. The scholarships are open to Nationals of India only. 2. Applicant students should be studying in class IX and X on a full time basis 3. Applicant students should belong to a Scheduled Caste. 4. Parent/Guardian of applicant students income should not exceed Rs. 2.50 lakh per annum
Which categories are fall under Component 2?
  1. Persons who are Manual Scavengers. 2. Tanners & Flayers. 3. Waste pickers. 4. Persons engaged in hazardous cleaning.
Is there any relaxation for the component 2?

There is no family income ceiling under component 2.

What is the procedure to apply ?
  1. Applicant must register them self on NSP portal. 2. Login with their credentials and apply.
What documents are required ?
  1. Aadhaar Card. 2. Link mobile no. with Aadhaar. 3. Seed bank A/C with Aadhaar. 4. Academic Documents.
What is the NSP URL ?

URL :https://scholarships.gov.in/

References

Guidelines
https://socialjustice.gov.in/schemes/23
Guidelines
https://socialjustice.gov.in/public/ckeditor/upload/90101653029266.pdf
FAQ
https://scholarships.gov.in/public/FAQ/FAQ_ASSAM.pdf

Apply

Apply now

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Frequently asked questions

What is the purpose of Pre- Matric Scholarships Scheme for Scheduled Castes & Others?
Pre- Matric Scholarships Scheme for Scheduled Castes & Others is a government welfare initiative designed to support Individual, Individual, Artists through benefits related to Education & Learning, financial assistance, subsidies, social welfare, healthcare, education, or livelihood support.
Who can apply for Pre- Matric Scholarships Scheme for Scheduled Castes & Others?
Eligibility for Pre- Matric Scholarships Scheme for Scheduled Castes & Others may depend on factors such as income category, age, gender, occupation, state of residence, social category, and government-defined beneficiary criteria.
What benefits are offered under Pre- Matric Scholarships Scheme for Scheduled Castes & Others?
Benefits under Pre- Matric Scholarships Scheme for Scheduled Castes & Others may include financial assistance, subsidies, scholarships, insurance support, healthcare benefits, pension support, training assistance, or welfare services depending on the scheme guidelines.
Which department manages Pre- Matric Scholarships Scheme for Scheduled Castes & Others?
Pre- Matric Scholarships Scheme for Scheduled Castes & Others is managed by Department of Social Justice & Empowerment and may be implemented through district offices, online portals, CSC centres, banks, or authorised government agencies.
Can users apply online for Pre- Matric Scholarships Scheme for Scheduled Castes & Others?
Yes, eligible applicants may be able to apply online for Pre- Matric Scholarships Scheme for Scheduled Castes & Others through official government portals, authorised service centres, or digital application systems depending on the implementation process.
Is Aadhaar mandatory for Pre- Matric Scholarships Scheme for Scheduled Castes & Others?
Many government schemes may require Aadhaar verification, identity proof, or linked bank account details for beneficiary validation and direct benefit transfer processing.
Where can users apply for Pre- Matric Scholarships Scheme for Scheduled Castes & Others?
Applications for Pre- Matric Scholarships Scheme for Scheduled Castes & Others may be submitted through government departments, official scheme portals, CSC centres, district offices, welfare departments, or authorised service centres.
What documents may be required for Pre- Matric Scholarships Scheme for Scheduled Castes & Others?
Applicants may need Aadhaar card, income certificate, residence proof, bank account details, caste certificate, photographs, educational records, or occupation-related documents depending on scheme eligibility requirements.
Is income certificate required for Pre- Matric Scholarships Scheme for Scheduled Castes & Others?
Income certificate requirements may vary depending on beneficiary category, subsidy eligibility, and financial assistance criteria defined under Pre- Matric Scholarships Scheme for Scheduled Castes & Others.
Is Pre- Matric Scholarships Scheme for Scheduled Castes & Others a central government scheme?
Yes, Pre- Matric Scholarships Scheme for Scheduled Castes & Others is a central government welfare initiative that may be implemented across multiple states through authorised departments and agencies.
Can students apply for Pre- Matric Scholarships Scheme for Scheduled Castes & Others?
Eligible students studying in recognised institutions may apply for Pre- Matric Scholarships Scheme for Scheduled Castes & Others depending on educational qualification, category, income limit, and academic eligibility.
Is scholarship amount provided under Pre- Matric Scholarships Scheme for Scheduled Castes & Others?
Pre- Matric Scholarships Scheme for Scheduled Castes & Others may provide scholarship assistance, tuition support, educational reimbursement, or financial aid for eligible students.
Can CSC centres help users apply for Pre- Matric Scholarships Scheme for Scheduled Castes & Others?
Many government schemes may be accessible through nearby CSC centres, authorised digital service centres, or welfare facilitation offices.
How can users check the latest updates for Pre- Matric Scholarships Scheme for Scheduled Castes & Others?
Users should verify official notifications, department announcements, application deadlines, and eligibility updates through authorised government portals or implementing agencies.
Can beneficiaries track application status for Pre- Matric Scholarships Scheme for Scheduled Castes & Others?
Certain schemes may provide online application tracking, beneficiary verification systems, or status-check facilities through official portals.
Where can users get help for Pre- Matric Scholarships Scheme for Scheduled Castes & Others in All India?
Users in All India may seek assistance through CSC centres, district welfare offices, government departments, agriculture offices, social welfare departments, or authorised facilitation centres.
Which nearby public services may help with Pre- Matric Scholarships Scheme for Scheduled Castes & Others applications?
Depending on the scheme, users may require support from Aadhaar centres, CSC centres, banks, hospitals, post offices, or government welfare offices for document verification and application assistance.