AI SummaryScholarship for Transgender Students is a state scheme run by the Social Justice Department, Government of Kerala. It offers monthly financial support to transgender students from 7th standard onwards who study in state government, government-aided, or self-financing schools and colleges. The scheme is open for new applications through the Suneethi online portal as of August 2026.
Scholarship for Transgender Students - Introduction
Scholarship for Transgender Students is a support scheme launched by the Social Justice Department, Government of Kerala. Its main aim is to give transgender students from 7th standard onwards a steady monthly amount so they can cover their study costs and continue their education without money worries.
The transgender community often faces social discrimination, stigma, and emotional hurdles. These problems can make it hard to lead a confident and dignified life. To help bring transgender individuals into the mainstream, the Social Justice Department started this scheme. With this money help, students can focus on their studies and chase their academic goals without stress.
The scheme covers students in state government, government-aided, and self-financing institutions. Applications are handled through the Suneethi online service portal of the Kerala Social Justice Department, and the district social justice offices look after the approval process.
Key Information
| Key Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Scholarship for Transgender Students |
| Level | State |
| Target Beneficiary | Individual Transgender Students |
| State | Kerala |
| Financial Help | Cash Support |
| Main Department | Social Justice Department |
| Department Running the Scheme | District Social Justice Office |
| Application Mode | Online through Suneethi portal |
Benefits
This scheme gives direct cash support to help students manage their education costs. The monthly amount depends on the level of study, and the payment is made for 10 months in each academic year.
| Education Level | Monthly Amount | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 7th Standard to 10th Standard | ₹1,000 | 10 months |
| Plus One and Plus Two | ₹1,500 | 10 months |
| Diploma, Degree, PG, or Professional Courses | ₹2,000 | 10 months |
For example, a student in the 9th standard gets ₹1,000 every month for 10 months, which adds up to ₹10,000 in a year to help with schooling needs.
Eligibility
To apply for this scholarship, a student needs to meet a few simple conditions. There is no income limit, so every eligible transgender student can apply.
1. The applicant must identify as transgender.
2. The applicant should be a permanent resident of Kerala.
3. The applicant must be enrolled in a state government, government-aided, or self-financing school or college.
4. The study level should be between 7th standard and any Diploma, Degree, or PG course.
5. There is no income limit for this scheme, making it open to all eligible transgender students.
Application Process
Online Application
Students can apply online through the Suneethi portal by following these steps:
STEP 1 - Visit the SUNEETHI Online Service Application Portal.
STEP 2 - Complete the One-time Registration by entering name, email, and mobile number.
STEP 3 - Verify the mobile number using the OTP received.
STEP 4 - After signing in, update the profile with personal details, bank information, and ID cards.
STEP 5 - Find the Scholarship for Transgender Students scheme in the dashboard and click 'Apply Now' to submit the application form.
Offline Application
Students who cannot apply online can use the offline process:
STEP 1 - Download the application form from the official Social Justice Department website.
STEP 2 - Fill in the form clearly and make sure to state the school name and all contact details.
STEP 3 - Label the envelope as 'Application for Scholarship' and include the name and full address.
STEP 4 - Attach all required documents and submit the application through the head of the educational institution to the local District Social Justice Officer.
Documents
Keep the following documents ready before applying so the process goes smoothly:
- Valid identity proof like an Aadhaar Card or Voter ID.
- Recent passport-size photograph.
- A self-declaration affidavit confirming the transgender identity.
- Copy of the bank passbook.
- Bonafide certificate issued by the school or college principal.
- Relevant educational certificates.
- Ration card, if applicable.
- If the applicant is under 18, a parent's certificate is needed; if over 18 but lacking specific IDs, a self-attested certificate works.
References
SUNEETHI Online Portal | Official Website
FAQ's
What is Scholarship for Transgender Students?
It is a financial support scheme by the Kerala government for transgender students from 7th standard through to post-graduation.
Which department handles this scheme?
The Social Justice Department, Government of Kerala.
Is there an income limit for applicants?
No, there is no income limit for this scholarship.
How is the money paid?
The scholarship is given as monthly financial support for 10 months in each academic year.
Can I apply if I am in a self-financing college?
Yes, students in government, government-aided, and self-financing institutions are all eligible.
How do I apply online?
Apply through the Suneethi online portal of the Kerala Social Justice Department after completing the one-time registration.