PMSS

Prime Minister's Scholarship Scheme

5.4/10

The scheme was introduced from the Academic year 2006-07 to encourage higher technical and professional education for the dependent wards of Ex-servicemen/ Ex-Coast Guard personnel and their widows.

Central Cash

States / UT: All India

Ministry / nodal: Ministry Of Defence

Nodal department: Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare

Scheme for: Individual

Scheme profile

DBT (direct benefit transfer): Yes

Scheme open date: 2006-01-01

Categories: Education & Learning

Sub-categories: Scholarships and student finance

Target beneficiaries: Individual

Tags: Ex-servicemen, Student, Education, Scholarship, Ex-Coast Guard, Widow, PMSS

Details

The Scheme “Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme (PMSS)” was introduced from the Academic year 2006-07 by the Department of Ex-servicemen Welfare, Ministry of Defence, Government of India. The scheme is being implemented to encourage technical and post-graduate education for the widows and wards of the deceased/ex-service personnel of Armed Forces. The scheme is funded out of National Defence Fund administered by Prime Minister’s Office. Scholarships are available for education at various technical institutions (medical, dental, veterinary, engineering, MBA, MCA and other equivalent technical institutions having AICTE/UGC approval). The Scheme is managed by the Kendriya Sainik Board (KSB).

Benefits

  • Amount of Scholarship (Paid annually):
  • ₹2,500/- per month (For Boys)
  • ₹3000/- per month (For Girls) Notes: 1. A total number of 5500 wards/ widows of Ex-servicemen are selected for scholarship in each academic year. 1. Scholarships are equally divided amongst boys and girls i.e. 2750 each. 1. Scholarships are paid for a period of two to five years as per the duration of the courses approved by the concerned government regulatory bodies. 1. Scholarship amount is paid annually to the selected students. 1. The payment is made through ECS into the bank account of the selected students

Amount of Scholarship (Paid annually):

  • ₹2,500/- per month (For Boys)
  • ₹3000/- per month (For Girls)

Notes:

  1. A total number of 5500 wards/ widows of Ex-servicemen are selected for scholarship in each academic year.
  2. Scholarships are equally divided amongst boys and girls i.e. 2750 each.
  3. Scholarships are paid for a period of two to five years as per the duration of the courses approved by the concerned government regulatory bodies.
  4. Scholarship amount is paid annually to the selected students.
  5. The payment is made through ECS into the bank account of the selected students.

Eligibility

  1. Students who have taken admission in 1st year i.e. current financial year (except Lateral Entry) are only eligible to apply for PMSS.
  2. Students should have scored 60% and above in Minimum Educational Qualification (MEQ) i.e. 10+2/ Diploma/ Graduation.
  3. Students who are Dependent Wards/ Widows of Ex-servicemen & Ex-Coast Guard personnel are eligible to apply under the scheme.
  4. Master Degree Courses are not eligible for PMSS except MBA / MCA Courses.
  5. Scholarship can be availed by student for One Course only.

Priority for Grant of Scholarship:

  • Category 1 - Wards / Widows of ESM/ Ex-Coast Guard personnel killed in action. - Category 2 - Wards / Widows of ESM/ Ex-Coast Guard personnel disabled in action and boarded out of service with disability attributable to Military/ Coast Guard service. - Category 3 - Wards / Widows of ESM/ Ex-Coast Guard personnel who died while in service for causes attributable to Military / Coast Guard Service. - Category 4 - Wards / Widows of ESM/ Ex-Coast Guard personnel disabled in service with disability attributable to Military/ Coast Guard Service. - Category 5 - Wards / Widows of ESM/ Ex-Coast Guard personnel in receipt of gallantry awards. - Category 6 - Wards / Widows of ESM/ Ex-Coast Guard personnel (PBOR Only).
    Eligible Courses:
    The Eligibility Criteria for PMSS Courses are as follows:

  • First Professional Degree Courses including integrated degree courses as per PMSS approved list of courses like BE, B.Tech, BDS, MBBS, B.Ed, BBA, BCA, B Pharma, BA.LLB, etc. duly recognized by the respective Government Regulatory Bodies, such as the All India Council for Technical Education, National Medical Commission, UGC etc.

Scholarship for Integrated Courses:
Selection of candidates seeking PMSS for pursuing dual degree integrated courses will be governed by under mentioned parameters:

  • Minimum Educational Qualification (MEQ) will be 10+2.
  • For Integrated courses scholarship will be paid for the full duration of the course except internship period as per PMSS approved list of courses.

Minimum Eligible Marks in MEQ:

  • Minimum Educational Qualification (MEQ) for entry to various professional courses differs e.g. for MBBS it is 10+2 whereas for BE/B Tech it is 10+2 / Diploma, for B.Ed and MBA it is graduation qualification.
  • A candidate must have minimum 60% marks in MEQ to apply for PM Scholarship Scheme. All subjects will be taken for calculation of 60% marks including optional subjects also and not out of best subjects.
  • Wherein both marks and CGPA are mentioned in the mark sheet, then the marks is being taken for calculation of percentage.
  • Wherein only CGPA/grade points are mentioned in the mark sheet, in such cases the student is required to upload the university issued percentage conversion formula along with mark sheet.

Exclusions

  1. Wards of Civilians including Para Military Personnel are NOT ELIGIBLE.
  2. Students studying in 2nd or subsequent years are not eligible.
  3. Students studying abroad are not eligible for this scheme.
  4. No distance learning/vocational course is permitted under PMSS.

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.

5.4
/ 10
Public Benefit Score
Accessibility 5.0/10 Moderate
Rural usefulness 3.0/10 Challenging
Application complexity 4.0/10 Moderate
Financial impact 4.0/10 Moderate
Literacy barrier 6.0/10 Moderate
Women inclusivity 7.0/10 Good
Awareness 7.5/10 Good
Implementation reliability 7.0/10 Good
Bigger shape means a better fit for citizens
  • Accessibility5.0
  • Financial impact4.0
  • Rural utility3.0
  • Awareness7.5
  • Simplicity6.0
  • Inclusivity7.0

What problem does this scheme solve?

The scheme provides financial support for higher education to the dependents of ex-servicemen and ex-Coast Guard personnel, promoting educational opportunities.

Key challenges addressed

  • Financial support for higher education
  • Encouragement for technical and professional education

Most beneficial for

  • Dependents of ex-servicemen
  • Widows of ex-servicemen

Likely challenges

  • Complex application process
  • Eligibility restrictions

Practical insights for citizens

While the scheme is beneficial, the complexity of the application process may deter eligible applicants.

Rural challenges

  • Limited internet access
  • Lack of awareness about the scheme

Digital challenges

  • High digital dependency for application
  • Need for online literacy

Implementation bottlenecks

  • Complex eligibility criteria
  • Delayed processing times

Awareness challenges

  • Limited outreach in rural areas
  • Dependence on local Zila Sainik Boards for information

Application analysis

Application mode
Online portal
Documents burden
Moderate, requires specific annexures
Verification complexity
High, involves multiple steps and scrutiny
Office dependency
Low, primarily online
DBT dependency
Yes, requires bank account for ECS
CSC support
Limited
Estimated citizen effort
High due to multiple steps in application

Estimated beneficiary reach

  • Rural / urban reach Moderate
  • Gender reach Balanced
  • Target income group Low-income families of ex-servicemen
  • Occupation reach Ex-servicemen and their dependents

Benefit analysis

Benefit type
Cash
Benefit frequency
Monthly
Benefit practicality
Moderate, dependent on timely application and renewal
Financial meaningfulness
Moderate, as the amount is relatively low compared to educational expenses
Long-term impact
Positive, as it encourages higher education among dependents of ex-servicemen

Plain-language guidance

The Prime Minister's Scholarship Scheme helps dependents of ex-servicemen pay for higher education. Eligible students can apply online for monthly scholarships.

Who should apply
Dependents of ex-servicemen and ex-Coast Guard personnel studying in approved courses.
Who may struggle
First-time applicants and those with limited digital skills.
Best application route
Apply directly through the KSB website.

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

  • Application to be filled ONLINE by visiting KSB website www.online.ksb.gov.in.
    Procedure to apply ONLINE:
    Step 1: Visit the KSB Website and click on List of documents to be uploaded under the PMSS link and Download Annexures 1, 2 and 3.
    Step 2: Complete these three Annexures in all respects (Please do not use your own format or any other format)
    Visit the KSB website and click on the link "Apply Online" under the PMSS link. A new window will appear.
    Step 3: Upload your Passport size photo and click on the "Upload" icon.
    Step 4: If you have not registered earlier please fill all the boxes which appear in the window in Part-1 and Part-2 with details of ESM and click submit.
    Step 5: After registration, a login ID, password, and a link will be automatically generated by the system and sent to the Email mentioned in Registration Part-I.
    Step 6: After successfully registering User will get an activation link to his/her email, kindly click on the activation link.
    Step 7: A window will appear and by putting your User Name (Login ID) and Pass Word, it will take you to your dashboard visit KSB Website and click on the login button, and log in with login credentials.
    Step 8: After login click on “New Application” and choose Prime Minister Scholarship Scheme.
    Step 9: Please fill all the boxes which appear in the window in Part-1, Part-2 & Part-3 and Scan all required documents in original and upload legible documents at the right place of the application.
    Step 10: Save and Forward (If the application is not saved & forwarded, the onus lies with the student/ESM). Please check with your ZSB about your application available on their Portal (if required).
    (Online Submission Flow Chart)
    [Note: Hard copy / paper application will not be entertained. One candidate can apply for one course only.]
    Selection of Student:
    On scrutinizing of applications, a merit list is generated as per undermentioned parameters :-
    (a) Merit list is prepared as per priority for grant of scholarship (Category 1 to 6) and subject to percentage of marks obtained in Minimum Educational Qualification (MEQ).
    (b) Separate list is prepared for male and female students.

If you have doubt or need any clarification, kindly contact your Zila Sainik Board for detailed Information Brochure available with them.

Acknowledgement of Scholarship Amount from Students:

  • On receipt of scholarship amount from KSB, student is required to update Column 14 of Renewal Application by logging into his/her KSB account using Login ID & Password by entering ‘DATE OF PAYMENT AND AMOUNT RECEIVED’ (two separate columns).
  • This is mandatory audit requirement to get benefit of PMSS, otherwise scholarship will be cancelled and the money already paid will be recovered. SAVE BUTTON is provided at bottom of Column 14. This action has to be completed immediately on receipt of scholarship amount for each instalment.

Other Important Aspects for ESM/Student Relating to PMSS

  • Students to response in time according to SMS/e-mail received from Kendriya Sainik Board.
  • E-mail and Mobile Number mentioned in the application must be of student. Alternate Mobile Number can be of ESM. E-mail and mobile number once registered should not be changed since all messages being sent to the registered e-mail/mobile number.
  • During checking of new application if observation raised from ZSB/RSB and KSB is not rectified within the stipulated time frame of 10 days, then the application will be automatically rejected by the system. So ensure that the observation is rectified in time to avoid system rejection of application.
  • During the period from January to May, processing, selection and preparation of merit list of new application (1st year students) is being done by KSB. Processing and payment of renewal application is done as and when received by KSB throughout the year. Student/ESM to keep in mind the periodicity of checking of application (new and renewal) before raising any query relating to checking/payment status of applications.
  • Student/ESM should login to KSB account to check the status of application. It is to be noted while application status is showing pending to the student dashboard, but on ground the application is in the process at different levels / functionaries at KSB.
  • In the cases application status showing 'New' to the student dashboard, it indicates that the application is yet to be submitted by the ESM/ Student and the application is still with the ESM/ Student’s dashboard. In such cases, ESM/ Student is required to open the application and click on 'Save and Forward' button to submit the application for onward processing.
  • Student studying abroad as well as distance learning/ vocational course is not eligible for PMSS.
  • The amount of scholarship including any other scholarship or financial assistance from any other source will not exceed the total amount of scholarship available under this scheme.

Renewal Instructions for Students/ESM:

  • The scholarship amount of First Installment will be paid immediately after the selection in merit list. For subsequent payment, the students should submit Online Renewal Application on completion of their each academic year, till completion of the course.
  • 50% marks are mandatory in each semester / academic year. Passing of all subjects in each semester / year in FIRST ATTEMPT is mandatory requirement for continuation of scholarship.
  • If a student failed / get RA in any subject, his / her scholarship will be closed forever. He will not be entitled for subsequent instalment of PMSS. The student can apply for renewal of scholarship within ONE YEAR from declaration of result.
  • Processing of renewal application is done as and when received throughout the year. However, during the period from January to May, processing, selection and preparation of merit list of new application (1st year students) is being done by KSB. It is to be noted while applications status is showing pending to you, but on ground your application is in process at different levels / functionaries i.e. at User level, Supervisory level and finally by JD (PMSS) of KSB.
  • On approved by JD (PMSS), the list of students is sent to Account Officer of KSB to process the payment through concerned bank. In the cases where application status is showing ‘New’ to the student’s dashboard, it indicates that the application is NOT yet submitted by the ESM/Student and the application is still with the ESM/student’s dashboard. In such cases, ESM/Student is required to open the application and click on save and forward button to submit the application for onward processing.
  • Student/ESM to keep in mind the periodicity of checking of application (new and renewal) before raising any query relating to checking/payment status of applications. Therefore, have PATIENCE and check your e-mail / KSB account for regular updates.
  • Student need to ensure that Mobile No and E-mail ID given for PMSS are remain functional till completion of the course because all alert and SMS about status of your application are sent on given Mobile No and E-Mail. However, in case of any change, KSB must be informed accordingly for updating your record.
  • The students who have already been selected for PMSS and presently studying in 2nd or subsequent year need not to apply for New Application. Such students are required to apply for Renewal Application only.

Instructions for PMSS

Check List for Student

Do’s and Don’ts


Clarifications

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

Who can apply for PMSS?

The dependent wards of Ex Servicemen / Ex Coast Guard personnel and their widows (below officer rank only) who are studying in higher technical and professional degree courses can apply for PMSS.

How to Apply For Scholarship?

Application to be filled ONLINE by visiting the KSB website www.ksb.gov.in. For easy understanding, a flow chart is available on the KSB website under the PMSS link ‘How to Apply for Scholarship’.

What is the minimum percentage (%) in MEQ for PMSS?

Students should have scored 60% and above in Minimum Educational Qualification (MEQ) i.e. 10+2/ Diploma/ Graduation to apply online.

Is there any provision to apply for PMSS in Second year of professional degree course?

No, student has to apply in first year (except lateral entry courses) of professional degree course only. Students who have taken admission between 01 Apr to 30 Nov are only eligible to apply for PMSS.

Is the copy of Discharge Book necessary along with application form?

No, Discharge Book is not to be enclosed with application form. Only Annexure 1 of Application Form duly signed by Secretary/ Director of ZSB/ RSB/ Coast Guard HQs to be enclosed with application.

Are diploma courses eligible for PMSS?

No, only professional degree courses recognized by a government regulatory body such as AICTE, National Medical Commission (NMC) etc. are eligible for PMSS.

Are PG Courses allowed for PMSS?

No, Only MBA and MCA are allowed for PMSS.

Are B.Sc B.Ed/ BA+LLB integrated Courses eligible for PMSS?

Yes, these courses are integrated and eligible

Is PMSS courses conducted abroad are eligible for PMSS?

No, PMSS is applicable to the students who are studying in India only.

What is the last date of submission of application form to apply for PMSS and how will I come to know about it?

An advertisement is published in all the leading news papers across country in the month of Aug every year. Wide publicity is also ensured through RSBs/ZSBs. Student should apply online by visiting KSB website www.online.ksb.gov.in latest by 30 Nov.

How will the students know about their selection in PMSS Merit List?

On finalization of merit list, the same is uploaded on KSB website www.online.ksb.gov.in and the same is also forwarded to all Rajya Sainik Boards (RSBs). Student can also monitor the progress of his/ her application on KSB website www.online.ksb.gov.in in their database.

If a student does not claim his/ her scholarship amount, then what would be the case?

If a student does not claim his/ her scholarship by sending Payment-cum-Renewal Form on declaration of result of each academic year, then his/ her case would be closed for ever

References

Guidelines
https://www.desw.gov.in/prime-ministers-scholarship-scheme-pmss
Online Registration
https://online.ksb.gov.in/registration.htm
Login
http://online.ksb.gov.in/KSBAdmin/Login.aspx
Status Of Application
https://online.ksb.gov.in/status-of-application.htm
Scheme Details
https://ksb.gov.in/introduction-pmss.htm
FAQs
https://ksb.gov.in/writereaddata/DownLoad/FAQ-New-Application-revised.pdf

Apply

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Frequently asked questions

What is the purpose of Prime Minister's Scholarship Scheme?
Prime Minister's Scholarship Scheme is a government welfare initiative designed to support Individual, Individual through benefits related to Education & Learning, financial assistance, subsidies, social welfare, healthcare, education, or livelihood support.
Who can apply for Prime Minister's Scholarship Scheme?
Eligibility for Prime Minister's Scholarship Scheme 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 Prime Minister's Scholarship Scheme?
Benefits under Prime Minister's Scholarship Scheme 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 Prime Minister's Scholarship Scheme?
Prime Minister's Scholarship Scheme is managed by Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare and may be implemented through district offices, online portals, CSC centres, banks, or authorised government agencies.
Can users apply online for Prime Minister's Scholarship Scheme?
Yes, eligible applicants may be able to apply online for Prime Minister's Scholarship Scheme through official government portals, authorised service centres, or digital application systems depending on the implementation process.
Is Aadhaar mandatory for Prime Minister's Scholarship Scheme?
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 Prime Minister's Scholarship Scheme?
Applications for Prime Minister's Scholarship Scheme 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 Prime Minister's Scholarship Scheme?
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 Prime Minister's Scholarship Scheme?
Income certificate requirements may vary depending on beneficiary category, subsidy eligibility, and financial assistance criteria defined under Prime Minister's Scholarship Scheme.
Is Prime Minister's Scholarship Scheme a central government scheme?
Yes, Prime Minister's Scholarship Scheme is a central government welfare initiative that may be implemented across multiple states through authorised departments and agencies.
Can students apply for Prime Minister's Scholarship Scheme?
Eligible students studying in recognised institutions may apply for Prime Minister's Scholarship Scheme depending on educational qualification, category, income limit, and academic eligibility.
Is scholarship amount provided under Prime Minister's Scholarship Scheme?
Prime Minister's Scholarship Scheme may provide scholarship assistance, tuition support, educational reimbursement, or financial aid for eligible students.
Who is eligible for pension benefits under Prime Minister's Scholarship Scheme?
Eligibility may depend on age, income category, social welfare criteria, disability status, widow status, or senior citizen classification defined under the scheme.
How are pension benefits provided under Prime Minister's Scholarship Scheme?
Pension assistance under Prime Minister's Scholarship Scheme may be transferred through direct benefit transfer (DBT), linked bank accounts, post office accounts, or welfare department payment systems.
Can CSC centres help users apply for Prime Minister's Scholarship Scheme?
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 Prime Minister's Scholarship Scheme?
Users should verify official notifications, department announcements, application deadlines, and eligibility updates through authorised government portals or implementing agencies.
Are there deadlines for applying to Prime Minister's Scholarship Scheme?
Some schemes may operate through fixed application windows, annual registration cycles, or department-specific deadlines depending on scheme implementation policies.
Can beneficiaries track application status for Prime Minister's Scholarship Scheme?
Certain schemes may provide online application tracking, beneficiary verification systems, or status-check facilities through official portals.
Where can users get help for Prime Minister's Scholarship Scheme 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 Prime Minister's Scholarship Scheme 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.