Swami Vivekananda Merit-cum-Means Scholarship is a financial scheme run by West Bengal Higher Education Department to support meritorious students from poor families. It gives monthly money help for high school, undergraduate, postgraduate and research studies, so money problems do not stop the academic journey.
West Bengal government has opened the SVMCM 4.2 online portal for the 2026-27 session. Eligible students can apply, renew their scholarship and upload documents through the official website svmcm.wb.gov.in.
Swami Vivekananda Merit-cum-Means Scholarship - Introduction
This scheme helps deserving students across West Bengal by giving essential money support for their education. It supports learners who find it hard to cover their educational costs. Students studying science, arts, commerce, engineering or professional streams at undergraduate or postgraduate level can get help to reach their academic goals. The government gives these scholarships on a merit-cum-means basis so support reaches those who need it most.
For the 2026-27 session, fresh applications open in July 2026 and renewal applications open in August 2026. The last date to apply is 30 September 2026. The scholarship amount ranges from ₹1000 to ₹8000 per month depending on the course level.
Key Information
| Key | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Swami Vivekananda Merit-cum-Means Scholarship |
| Level | State |
| Beneficiary State | West Bengal |
| Benefit Type | Cash Transfer (DBT) |
| Department | Higher Education Department |
| Official Website | svmcm.wb.gov.in |
Benefits
This scheme provides monthly financial support to help manage educational costs. The amounts vary based on the course level as shown below:
| Course Level | Monthly Scholarship Amount |
|---|---|
| HS, D.El.Ed, UG (Arts/Commerce) | ₹ 1000 |
| UG (Science/Other Professional) | ₹ 1500 |
| Polytechnic (Diploma) | ₹ 1500 |
| PG (Arts/Commerce) | ₹ 2000 |
| PG (Science/Other Professional) | ₹ 2500 |
| UG/PG (Engineering/Professional AICTE) | ₹ 5000 |
| UG (Medical-Degree) | ₹ 5000 |
| Diploma (Medical) | ₹ 1500 |
| Non-NET M.Phil | ₹ 5000 |
| Non-NET Ph.D | ₹ 8000 |
Eligibility
To qualify for this scholarship, the following criteria should be met:
- Applicants must be permanent residents of West Bengal.
- Family annual income must not exceed ₹ 2,50,000.
- A student finishing class 10 can apply if he or she scored at least 60% in the Madhyamik Pariksha.
- Undergraduate students must have scored at least 60% in their Higher Secondary exams.
- Postgraduate students need at least 53% in their graduation honours subject to become eligible.
- Kanyashree scholarship recipients are encouraged to apply for PG studies if they hold at least a 45% score in their degree, without the need for income proof.
- Research scholars registered full-time for M.Phil (up to 2 years) or Ph.D (up to 4 years) are also eligible for this support.
Application Process
Applications should be completed through the online SVMCM 4.2 portal. The steps are simple and can be followed easily.
STEP 1 - Visit the official website and go through the guidelines under the 'About' menu before starting the form.
STEP 2 - Read the instructions and user manual thoroughly before you begin.
STEP 3 - Agree to the declaration and choose 'Apply for Fresh Application' based on your directorate category.
STEP 4 - Enter your academic and personal information, set a secure password, and complete the registration.
STEP 5 - Verify your account using the OTP sent to your mobile number.
STEP 6 - Once registered, use your login credentials to upload your documents, fill in your bank details, and submit your application form.
STEP 7 - Track your application status regularly through your student dashboard on the portal.
Documents
Scanned copies of the following documents should be kept ready for the application:
- Mark sheets of the last board, university, or college examinations (both sides).
- A copy of the admission receipt.
- Family income certificate (not required for Kanyashree beneficiaries).
- Valid domicile proof such as Aadhaar, Voter ID, or Ration card.
- A clear image of the bank passbook showing account number and IFSC code.
- If there is a gap year, a declaration from the head of institution should be provided.
References
For further help, these links can be used:
- Official SVMCM Portal
- Application Procedure
- Income Certificate Proforma
- Vivekananda Merit Scholarship Yojana 2026
FAQ's
What is the Swami Vivekananda Merit-cum-Means Scholarship?
It is a financial aid scheme provided by the West Bengal government to help students cover their educational expenses.
How much will I receive?
The scholarship amount varies from ₹ 1000 to ₹ 8000 per month depending on the course of study.
Who is eligible to apply?
Students who reside in West Bengal, belong to families earning under ₹ 2,50,000 per year, and meet the specific academic marks requirement for their course are eligible.
How do I apply for the scheme?
Applications can be made online via the official portal by registering and uploading the required educational and personal documents.
Are Kanyashree beneficiaries eligible for this scholarship?
Yes, Kanyashree scholarship recipients pursuing PG studies with a minimum of 45% marks in their degree can apply, and they do not need to provide income proof.
