Rajarshri Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Merit Scholarship Scheme 2026 is a Maharashtra government scheme for Scheduled Caste (SC) students who secure 75% or more marks in the 10th standard and take admission in the 11th standard. The scholarship is given to meritorious SC students studying in the 11th and 12th standards in junior colleges and colleges across the state.
The main aim of this scheme is to improve the status and quality of SC students so they can compete with general students in educational competitions. Applications are accepted online through the official MahaDBT portal at mahadbt.maharashtra.gov.in.
Rajarshri Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Merit Scholarship Scheme 2026
Under this scheme, SC students who secure 75% or more marks in the SSC (10th standard) examination and take admission in the 11th standard get a scholarship of Rs. 300 per month for 10 months in both the 11th and 12th standards. This works out to Rs. 3,000 per year for each class. The amount is paid directly to the student's Aadhaar-linked bank account through DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer).
This scholarship is given in addition to the Government of India scholarship and Freeship. The scheme is handled by the Social Justice and Special Assistance Department of Maharashtra, and the application process is fully online through the MahaDBT portal.
Eligibility Criteria
Students must meet the following conditions to apply for this scholarship:
- Student should belong to the Scheduled Caste (SC) category.
- There is no income limit for this scholarship, so students from any family income level can apply.
- Students must be studying in the 11th or 12th standard in a junior college or college in Maharashtra.
- Students should secure 75% and above marks in the 10th standard (SSC) examination.
- Student should be a permanent resident of Maharashtra.
Documents Required
To apply for the Rajarshri Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Merit Scholarship, applicants must keep the following documents ready:
- Caste certificate proving the student belongs to the Scheduled Caste category.
- 10th standard mark sheet showing 75% or more marks.
- Transfer Certificate (TC) or Leaving Certificate (LC).
- 11th standard admission receipt from the college.
- Aadhaar card and bank account details linked with Aadhaar for DBT payment.
How to Apply Online
Students can apply for this scholarship online through the MahaDBT portal. The process is simple and can be done from home or through the college.
STEP 1 - Go to the official MahaDBT portal at mahadbt.maharashtra.gov.in and register or log in using your mobile number and Aadhaar details.
STEP 2 - Complete the student profile with personal details, family details, and bank account information.
STEP 3 - Select the Social Justice and Special Assistance Department and choose the Rajarshri Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Merit Scholarship scheme from the list.
STEP 4 - Fill the application form carefully and upload the required documents like caste certificate, 10th mark sheet, and admission receipt.
STEP 5 - Submit the application and track its status on the portal. The college and department will verify the application before the scholarship amount is released.
Highlights of the Scheme
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Rajarshri Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Merit Scholarship |
| Launched By | Government of Maharashtra |
| Department | Social Justice and Special Welfare Department |
| Beneficiaries | Scheduled Caste students in 11th and 12th standard |
| Benefit Amount | Rs. 300 per month, Rs. 3,000 per year |
| Application Mode | Online through MahaDBT portal |
| Official Website | mahadbt.maharashtra.gov.in |
FAQ's
Who can apply for this scholarship?
SC students who secure 75% or more marks in the 10th standard and take admission in the 11th standard in Maharashtra can apply. The scholarship covers both the 11th and 12th standards.
Is there any income limit for this scheme?
No, there is no income limit. Students from any family income level can apply for this scholarship.
How much scholarship amount is given?
Students get Rs. 300 per month for 10 months in both the 11th and 12th standards, which comes to Rs. 3,000 per year.
Where can I apply for this scholarship?
Applications are accepted online through the official MahaDBT portal at mahadbt.maharashtra.gov.in.
For more details on the application process and other Maharashtra scholarship schemes, check the MahaDBT 2.0 Scholarship Schemes guide.