Pre-Matric Scholarship for Students with Disabilities (Class 9 & 10)
by Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD)
₹500 per month for day scholars and ₹800 per month
25,000 participants
This scholarship provides financial assistance to Indian students with disabilities studying in Class 9 and 10, covering maintenance, book grants, and disability allowances to support their education.
Mode
Online
Fee
Free
Participation format
Individual
Duration
One academic year per class (One time application)
Eligibility
This scholarship is for Indian nationals aged 14-16, studying in Class 9 or 10 in a recognized school. Applicants must have a minimum of 40% disability with a valid certificate. The annual family income should not exceed ₹2,50,000. A maximum of two disabled children per family are eligible, with an exception for twins. Students cannot hold other scholarships concurrently.
- Grade level
- Grade 9 to 10
- Age range
- 14 to 16 years
- Eligibility region
- Available nationwide across India
- Academic requirement
- Must be a regular, full-time student studying in Class 9 or 10 in a Government school or a school recognized by the Government or a Central/State Board of Secondary Education.
See if your child qualifies.
Rewards and recognition
Award
₹13,000
The scholarship provides a maintenance allowance of up to ₹800 per month for 10 months for hostellers (₹500 for day scholars), a book grant of ₹1,000 per annum, and a disability allowance of up to ₹4,000 per annum, totaling up to ₹13,000 annually. Funds are disbursed directly to the beneficiaries' Aadhaar-linked bank accounts through the Public Financial Management System (PFMS) portal via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
Opens doors to
This scholarship supports foundational education, preparing students for post-matric scholarships and higher education, opening pathways to colleges and universities.
Career pathways
By enabling continued education, this scholarship lays the groundwork for better employment opportunities, contributing to long-term financial independence and social inclusion.
Recognition
National-level recognition
What it covers
- Maintenance allowance for day scholars and hostellers
- Book grant
- Disability allowance
Skills your child builds
Key dates
- Registration opened
- 20 Jul 2026
- Registration closes
- 30 Nov 2026
Online · National Scholarship Portal (NSP)
How to apply
- 1Visit the official National Scholarship Portal (NSP) website (scholarships.gov.in).
- 2Complete the new registration process on the portal.
- 3Log in using your credentials and click on the 'Apply' button for this scholarship.
- 4Fill in all required details accurately in the online application form.
- 5Upload scanned copies of all necessary documents in the prescribed format (PDF or JPEG, max 200 KB per document).
- 6Required documents include: applicant's photograph, age proof, family income certificate, bank account details, previous academic mark sheet, disability certificate, and fee receipt of the current course year.
- 7Submit the application form before the specified deadline.
Rules and guidelines
- Applicants must be Indian nationals.
- Students must have a benchmark disability of 40% or more, as defined in the 'Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016'.
- Annual family income from all sources must not exceed ₹2,50,000.
- Only two disabled children from the same parents are eligible, except in the case of twins where both are eligible.
- Scholarship holders cannot simultaneously hold any other scholarship or stipend.
- Applicants must be regular, full-time students in Class 9 or 10 at a government or recognized school.
- UDID/UDID enrolment is mandatory.
Technology requirements
- Computer or mobile device with internet access for online application.
- Scanner or camera to upload required documents in PDF or JPEG format (size not greater than 200 KB per document).
About this opportunity
The Pre-Matric Scholarship for Students with Disabilities is a central sector scheme by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Government of India. It offers crucial financial assistance to Indian students with benchmark disabilities who are enrolled in Class 9 and 10. The primary goal is to encourage these students to continue their education, minimize drop-out rates, and help them achieve a dignified place in society.
This scholarship is open to Indian nationals with a minimum of 40% disability, as defined by the 'Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016', and who possess a valid disability certificate. Applicants must be regular, full-time students attending a government school or a school recognized by the government or a Central/State Board of Secondary Education. The annual family income from all sources should not exceed ₹2,50,000.
Beneficiaries receive a maintenance allowance, a book grant, and a disability allowance. This financial support aims to cover various educational expenses, including assistance for purchasing books and hostel accommodation. The scholarship helps students overcome financial barriers, enabling them to access quality education and fostering their socio-economic empowerment.
Applications are submitted online through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP). The scheme ensures direct benefit transfer of scholarship funds to the students' Aadhaar-linked bank accounts, promoting a transparent and efficient disbursement system. A maximum of two disabled children from the same parents are eligible, with an exception for twins.
Academic details
Difficulty: Mixed Levels
What's covered
Follows the standard curriculum of government or recognized Central/State Boards of Secondary Education for Class 9 and 10.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most critical document for this scholarship application?
The Disability Certificate is paramount. It must be issued by a competent medical authority and clearly state a disability of 40% or more. A UDID (Unique Disability ID) card is highly recommended as it standardizes the process.
What are common mistakes that lead to application rejection?
Common errors include uploading an incorrect or expired income certificate, discrepancies in bank details (non-Aadhaar linked accounts), and incomplete forms. Double-checking all details before final submission is crucial to avoid rejection.
How does this scholarship support a student's education beyond finances?
This scholarship provides vital financial aid, reducing dropout risks and allowing students to focus on their studies. This support at a key educational stage builds confidence and helps them become eligible for Post-Matric scholarships, paving the way for higher education.
Are students from private schools eligible to apply?
Yes, students studying in private schools are eligible, provided the school is recognized by the Government or a Central/State Board of Secondary Education. The student must be enrolled in a regular, full-time course.
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