Tamil Nadu government runs Adi Dravidar and Tribal Welfare Department hostels for students from Adi Dravidar and Tribal communities studying up to XII Standard. The scheme provides free hostel accommodation to help eligible students focus on their education without worrying about stay and food costs.
For the 2025-26 academic year, the department has opened online applications through the Nallosai portal. Students can now apply directly on the website instead of only visiting the hostel office in person.
Adi Dravidar and Tribal Welfare Department Hostels Special Guides
Key Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Adi Dravidar and Tribal Welfare Department Hostels Special Guides |
| Level | State |
| Scheme For | Individual |
| Beneficiary State | Tamil Nadu |
| Category | Education & Learning, Housing & Shelter |
| Benefit Type | In Kind |
| DBT Scheme | No |
| Nodal Department | Adi Dravidar and Tribal Welfare Department |
| Official Website | tnadw.tn.gov.in |
| Application Portal | nallosai.tn.gov.in |
| Helpline | 1800-599-7638 (10 am to 6 pm) |
Benefits
Under this scheme, eligible boys and girls receive free hostel accommodation which includes a safe place to stay, meals, and an environment suitable for studies. The department operates 1,141 school hostels, 152 college hostels, 18 ITI hostels, 5 polytechnic hostels and 15 PG college hostels across Tamil Nadu. These facilities catered to 98,909 students till 2024-25. For the new academic year, 5 additional seats have been created in each hostel for children of Sri Lankan Tamils.
Eligibility
To qualify for this scheme, the following conditions apply:
- Student should be enrolled in a school up to XII Standard in Tamil Nadu.
- Student should belong to the Adi Dravidar or Tribal community with a valid caste certificate.
- Annual family income should not exceed ₹2.5 lakh.
- Student should be a resident of Tamil Nadu.
Documents Required
Keep these documents ready when applying:
- Aadhaar card for identity proof.
- Valid caste certificate confirming Adi Dravidar or Tribal community status.
- Income certificate showing family income within ₹2.5 lakh per year.
- Admission proof or enrollment certificate from the school.
- Any other documents requested by the hostel warden or matron.
Application Process
STEP 1 - Visit the official application portal at nallosai.tn.gov.in and click on the Student Application tab to start a new application.
STEP 2 - Enter the required details including student information, caste certificate details, family income, and school admission details. Upload scanned copies of all required documents.
STEP 3 - Submit the application online and note down the application reference number for future tracking.
STEP 4 - You can also download the application form from the portal using the Application Download link, fill it manually, and submit it directly to the hostel warden or matron if you prefer the offline route.
STEP 5 - Check your application status anytime using the Application Status link on the portal by entering your application reference number.
STEP 6 - If you forget your login ID, use the Know Your Student Login ID feature on the portal to retrieve it.
References
DT Next report on hostel applications for 2025-26
Directorate of Adi Dravidar Welfare official website
Nallosai hostel application portal
Kanniyakumari district Adi Dravidar and Tribal Welfare schemes list
FAQ's
What is the purpose of this scheme?
Adi Dravidar and Tribal Welfare Department Hostels Special Guides provides free accommodation and meals for eligible students from Adi Dravidar and Tribal communities studying up to XII Standard in Tamil Nadu.
Who can apply for this scheme?
Students belonging to Adi Dravidar or Tribal communities enrolled in schools up to XII Standard in Tamil Nadu with family income not exceeding ₹2.5 lakh per year can apply.
Is there an income limit to qualify?
Yes, the annual family income should not exceed ₹2.5 lakh as per the latest guidelines for the 2025-26 academic year.
How do I apply for hostel admission?
Apply online through nallosai.tn.gov.in using the Student Application tab. You can also download the form and submit it directly to the hostel warden or matron.
Is there a helpline for queries?
Yes, call the toll-free number 1800-599-7638 between 10 am and 6 pm for assistance with applications and other queries.
Are both boys and girls eligible?
Yes, the scheme is open to both boys and girls from the respective communities.
Is there any charge for staying in the hostel?
No, the hostel facilities including accommodation and meals are provided completely free of cost to eligible students.
What happens if I stop attending school?
If you discontinue your studies, you may no longer be eligible and will likely need to vacate the hostel room.
How many hostels are there in Tamil Nadu under this department?
The department runs 1,141 school hostels, 152 college hostels, 18 ITI hostels, 5 polytechnic hostels and 15 PG college hostels across the state.
Can I check my application status online?
Yes, use the Application Status link on nallosai.tn.gov.in and enter your application reference number to track the status.
Where can I get more information?
Contact your local Adi Dravidar and Tribal Welfare Department office, call the helpline 1800-599-7638, or visit the official website tnadw.tn.gov.in for more details.