Karnataka Mukhyamantri Vidyarthi Vidya Siri Scheme (also known as the Karnataka Free Laptop / Tablet Scheme) is accepting applications for the current academic year. The scheme gives free laptops and tablets to meritorious students of Karnataka state. Students who have passed their Class 10 (SSLC) or Class 12 (II PUC) exams with good marks can get a free laptop or tablet under this scheme.
In this article, we will tell you about the eligibility criteria, how to apply, documents required and other important details of the Karnataka Mukhyamantri Vidyarthi Vidya Siri Scheme. The scheme is run by the state government of Karnataka and is managed through the State Scholarship Portal (SSP).
Karnataka Mukhyamantri Vidyarthi Vidya Siri Scheme 2026
Karnataka Mukhyamantri Vidyarthi Vidya Siri Scheme was launched by the govt. of Karnataka to provide free laptops and tablets to meritorious students. The scheme mainly targets students from SC, ST, BC, Minority and EWS categories who score high marks in their board exams. Students studying in government degree colleges, engineering and medical courses also get priority under this scheme.
The scheme is distributed every year with a budget of over ₹150 crore. Around 1 lakh laptops and tablets are given to students every year. The main aim is to bridge the digital gap and help students with online learning, research and skill development.
Details of Vidya Siri Scheme
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Name of Scheme | Karnataka Mukhyamantri Vidyarthi Vidya Siri Scheme |
| Launched by | State Government of Karnataka |
| Major Beneficiaries | Meritorious students of SC / ST / BC / Minority / EWS categories |
| Benefit | Free laptop (₹35,000 to ₹45,000) or tablet (₹15,000) |
| Application Mode | Online through State Scholarship Portal (SSP) |
| Official website | https://ssp.postmatric.karnataka.gov.in/ |
How to Apply for Vidya Siri Scheme at SSP Portal
There is no separate application form for the laptop or tablet under this scheme. Eligible students are identified automatically through the State Scholarship Portal (SSP) data. Here is the complete process to make sure your name is included for the benefit.
STEP 1 - First, make sure you are registered on the Karnataka State Scholarship Portal at https://ssp.postmatric.karnataka.gov.in/.
STEP 2 - Apply for the ePASS or Vidyasiri scholarship that matches your category for the current academic year. This is important because the laptop and tablet selection is linked to this data.
STEP 3 - Submit your previous year marksheet that meets the topper criteria. The required marks are 85% for SSLC, 80% for II PUC, 75% for UG, 70% for engineering and any aggregate for medical students.
STEP 4 - The Backward Classes Welfare Department checks the SSP database and picks eligible students on its own. No separate application is needed for the laptop.
STEP 5 - If you are selected, you will get an SMS or email on your registered mobile number or email ID. Laptops and tablets are usually given at a district level function. Carry your original Aadhaar card and college bonafide certificate when you go to collect the device.
Eligibility Criteria for Vidya Siri Scheme
Only those candidates who meet the below mentioned eligibility criteria for Karnataka Mukhyamantri Vidyarthi Vidya Siri Scheme 2026 would be eligible:-
- Applicant must be a permanent resident of Karnataka state and belong to SC, ST, BC, Minority or EWS category.
- Class 10 (SSLC) toppers with 85% or more marks get a free tablet, while Class 12 (II PUC) toppers with 80% or more marks get a free laptop.
- UG final year students (BA, BCom, BSc, BBA) with 75% aggregate and engineering students with 70% aggregate are eligible for a laptop.
- Medical (MBBS) final year students are eligible for a laptop with any aggregate, and they get priority in distribution.
- Family annual income of the applicant must be below ₹8 lakh.
List of Documents Required
In case the candidate is applying for Karnataka Mukhyamantri Vidyarthi Vidya Siri Scheme 2026, then the following documents are required to be produced along with the application form:-
- Aadhaar Card as an Identification Proof.
- Caste or Community Certificate (SC / ST / BC / Minority).
- Domicile or Nativity Certificate of Karnataka.
- Previous year marksheet showing the eligibility marks.
- College bonafide certificate confirming current enrolment.
- Family income certificate showing income below ₹8 lakh.
- EWS certificate for general category students.
Benefits of Vidya Siri Scheme in Karnataka
The main aim of Karnataka Mukhyamantri Vidyarthi Vidya Siri Scheme 2026 is to promote digital learning among students. The scheme gives a free laptop worth around ₹35,000 to ₹45,000 to UG and PG toppers, and a free tablet worth around ₹15,000 to Class 10 and 12 toppers. The laptops come with an i3 processor, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD and Windows 11, along with pre-installed educational software.
Selected students also get a one year warranty and one year free anti-virus with the device. The scheme helps students from poor families who cannot afford a laptop or tablet for their studies. It encourages students to take up technical and higher education without worrying about money problems.
List of Courses Applicable for Vidya Siri Scheme
The complete list of courses which are applicable under the Karnataka Mukhyamantri Vidyarthi Vidya Siri Scheme are as follows:-
- Medical studies (MBBS)
- Engineering (BE / BTech)
- Degree courses (BA, BCom, BSc, BBA, BCA)
- Postgraduate courses (MBA, MCA, MTech)
- Studying in government and government aided first grade colleges
FAQ's
Is there any fee to apply for the Vidya Siri Scheme?
No. The Karnataka Mukhyamantri Vidyarthi Vidya Siri Scheme is completely free. No genuine government scheme charges any registration or processing fee. If anyone asks for money, it is a fraud.
Do I need to apply separately for the laptop?
No. Eligible students are identified automatically from the SSP portal and ePASS / Vidyasiri data. You only need to make sure your scholarship application for the current year is submitted on the SSP portal.
Can general category students apply for this scheme?
Yes. While SC, ST, BC and Minority students get priority, general category students with an EWS certificate and family income below ₹8 lakh can also be considered eligible.
How can I track my application status?
After submitting your scholarship application, log in to the official SSP portal using your registration ID to check the status of your application and selection.