Dr. Ambedkar Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Post-Matric Scholarships for the Economically Backward Class (EBC) Students

Dr. Ambedkar Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Post-Matric Scholarships for the Economically Backward Class (EBC) Students gives money support to EBC students who are studying at the post-matriculation or post-secondary level across India. The scheme is open for the academic year 2026-27, and applications are being accepted on the National Scholarship Portal. It covers maintenance allowance and fee reimbursement so that money problems do not stop students from finishing higher education.

The scheme is run by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India. Students can apply online from 1 June 2026, and the last date to submit the application for 2026-27 is 31 October 2026. The scholarship is given by the state or Union Territory where the student is a permanent resident.

Dr. Ambedkar Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Post-Matric Scholarships for EBC Students - Introduction

This scheme works as a support system for dedicated EBC students who belong to the General Category and are not covered under SC, ST, or OBC. It provides financial help at the post-matriculation or post-secondary level so students can complete their education within India. The Department of Social Justice and Empowerment runs the scheme, and the state or Union Territory of permanent residence awards the scholarship.

For the 2026-27 academic year, the National Scholarship Portal is the only official way to apply. Students must complete the One Time Registration on the portal before applying. The portal opened for the new academic year from 1 June 2026, and the final application deadline is 31 October 2026.

Benefits

As a beneficiary, a student gets a maintenance allowance to meet education expenses. The amount depends on the course group and whether the student is a hosteller or a day scholar.

Reader Charges for Blind Students: Blind scholars get an extra monthly allowance. They receive rupees 175 for Groups A and B, rupees 130 for Group C, and rupees 90 for Group D.

Fees: The scheme covers required fees such as tuition, registration, library, and laboratory charges. Refundable deposits like caution money are not included. Study Tours: A student can claim up to rupees 900 per year for study tour expenses if the institution confirms the tour is required. Thesis Charges: Research scholars may receive up to rupees 1000 for printing and typing costs on the recommendation of the head of the institution.

Eligibility

A student needs to meet the following conditions to get the benefit of this scheme:

• The applicant must be an Indian citizen belonging to the General Category, which means not covered under SC, ST, or OBC.
• The student must be pursuing a recognized post-matriculation or post-secondary course in a government institution.
• If the combined income of parents or guardians from all sources is not more than rupees 1,00,000 per year, the student is eligible.
• For the same parents or guardians, only two boys can get this scholarship, but this limit does not apply to girl students.
• The student should not hold any other scholarship at the same time. If another scholarship is awarded, the student must choose the one that helps more and inform the institution.

Exclusions

There are certain conditions under which a student would not be eligible for the scholarship:

• Scholarships are not given for aviation-linked courses such as the Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL).
• A student is not eligible if studying at the same stage of education already completed, for example taking a second Master's degree in a different subject.
• If a student has already finished an education career in one professional line, such as completing an LLB after a B.Ed, the scholarship will not be given.
• Class XI or XII students in multipurpose high schools are generally not covered because these are treated as continuous school courses.

Application Process

Online Application Steps

STEP 1 - Visit the National Scholarship Portal and complete the One Time Registration by accepting the terms and conditions.

STEP 2 - Fill the registration form with correct details to get a unique Application ID and password.

STEP 3 - Log in to the portal using the credentials, verify the mobile number with the OTP, and create a new password to secure the account.

STEP 4 - Open the application form from the dashboard, upload the required documents, and submit the application online after a final review.

STEP 5 - Save the application number and keep a copy for future reference. Track the application status on the same portal.

Documents

Keep the following documents ready before starting the application:

• A copy of the scholarship application form.
• A recent passport-sized photograph signed by the student.
• Attested copies of certificates, diplomas, and degrees for all examinations passed.
• An original income certificate issued by a revenue official not below the rank of a Tehsildar.
• A receipt confirming the scholarship amount received in the previous year, if applicable.

References

Official Scheme Guidelines

FAQ's

Is the scholarship paid during internships?

No, the scholarship is not given during internships or practical training if the student is already earning remuneration or an allowance.

Are textbook expenses covered?

Textbooks and stationery should be bought using the monthly maintenance allowance provided by this scheme.

Can I switch courses?

Yes, if the student is promoted to the next higher class, the scholarship can continue provided all other eligibility conditions are met.

Is the income limit inclusive of all sources?

Yes, it considers the combined income of parents or guardians, but house rent allowance is excluded if it is also exempt under Income Tax rules.

When is the last date to apply for 2026-27?

The last date to submit the application on the National Scholarship Portal for the 2026-27 academic year is 31 October 2026.