Scholarship for Degree Student (2026): Eligibility, Amount, How to Apply & Last Date
For Indian degree students in 2026, the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) mandates a new One-Time Registration (OTR) system, generating a lifelong 14-digit ID for streamlined applications. This process, requiring Aadhaar-linked verification and face authentication, is crucial for accessing financial aid across various government and private schemes.
Applying for Scholarships via National Scholarship Portal (NSP) 2026
The National Scholarship Portal (NSP) 2026-27 introduces a mandatory One-Time Registration (OTR) system, creating a lifelong 14-digit ID for students. This new process enhances security with Aadhaar-linked verification and face authentication, streamlining applications for any academic award.
Phase 1: Completing One-Time Registration (OTR)
- Step 1: Visit scholarships.gov.in and click ‘Apply for OTR’.
- Step 2: Enter Aadhaar number and OTP sent to your Aadhaar-linked mobile.
- Step 3: Perform eKYC via Face Authentication using NSP OTR and AadhaarFaceRD apps.
- Step 4: Your 14-digit OTR ID will be sent to your mobile via SMS.
Once your One-Time Registration is complete and your unique ID is secured, you can proceed with applying for your specific scholarship scheme.
Phase 2: Applying for Your Scholarship Scheme
- Login: Use your OTR ID and password to access the NSP portal.
- Form Selection: Navigate to the ‘Application Form’ section, choose ‘Fresh’ or ‘Renewal’.
- Details Entry: Fill in your academic details and your family’s annual income.
- Scheme Selection: Select the eligible scholarship for degree student.
- Document Upload: Upload all required supporting documents.
- Final Submission: Click ‘Final Submit’ to complete your application.
After final submission, download your application for reference, as some institutes may ask for a printout.
Post-Submission Process
- Institute Verification: Your application goes to your registered educational institution for verification.
- District/State Verification: Application proceeds to the district or state authority for final approval.
- Disbursement: Approved scholarship amounts are transferred directly to your Aadhaar-seeded bank account.
The most common reason for non-receipt of funds is an unlinked Aadhaar; confirm your bank account is Aadhaar-seeded using the ‘Check Bank Seeding Status’ tool on the NSP homepage before final submission. Additionally, if you encounter issues with face authentication, ensure you are in a well-lit room with a plain background for optimal results.
NSP 2026-27: Critical Timelines
| Event | Estimated / Actual Dates |
|---|---|
| OTR Registration | Open All Year |
| Fresh Scheme Applications Open | July 2026 (Expected) |
| Last Date for Fresh Applications | 31 October 2026 (Standard) |
| Institute Verification Deadline | 15 November 2026 |
These critical timelines highlight key dates for OTR registration, fresh applications, and institute verification for the NSP 2026-27 academic session.
Documents Required for NSP 2026
| Document Type | Details / Prescribed Format |
|---|---|
| Income Certificate | Issued by Tehsildar (Current Financial Year) |
| Caste/Category Certificate | Mandatory for SC/ST/OBC/Minority schemes |
| Previous Class Marksheet | Self-attested or Attested copy |
| Bonafide Certificate | Issued by your Current School/College |
| Bank Passbook | Must be seeded with Aadhaar (DBT active) |
Ensure all required documents, including income, caste, academic, and bank details, are prepared in the specified format for your NSP application.
Official Links for NSP 2026
| Resource Name | Official Link |
|---|---|
| NSP Official Portal | scholarships.gov.in |
| NSP OTR App (Google Play) | Download App |
| Check Application Status | Track Status Here |
Access the official NSP portal, download the OTR app, and track your application status using these essential links.
Reliance Foundation Undergraduate Awards 2025-26: Eligibility & Benefits
The Reliance Foundation Undergraduate Scholarships for 2025-26 aim to support 5,000 meritorious students pursuing a degree. This comprehensive program covers eligibility, benefits, and key dates, ensuring aspiring scholars understand the application process and requirements.
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Resident Indian citizen |
| Academic Qualification | Completed Class 12 with at least 60% marks |
| Current Enrollment | Enrolled in the 1st year (academic year 2025-26) of a regular full-time degree course in any stream |
| Household Income | Less than INR 15 Lakhs per year (preference given to those earning less than INR 2.5 Lakhs annually) |
| Mandatory Requirement | Compulsory online aptitude test |
This table outlines the essential criteria, including academic performance, current enrollment status, and household income, that applicants must meet to be considered for this scholarship for degree student.
| Reason for Ineligibility | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Academic Year | Students currently studying in 2nd year or higher (or those who began their UG program in 2024–25 or earlier) |
| Mode of Study | Candidates pursuing education through distance mode, online learning, hybrid, or any non-regular format |
| Prior Diploma | Students who completed a diploma after Class 10 before enrolling in a UG program |
| Program Duration | Students enrolled in 2-year or 6-year integrated degree programs |
| Aptitude Test | Applicants who cannot take the mandatory aptitude test or engage in unfair means during the test |
It is crucial for prospective applicants to review these conditions carefully to ensure they do not fall into any of the ineligible categories for the scholarship.
| Benefit Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Financial Support | Up to INR 2,00,000 |
| Duration of Support | Over the entire duration of the undergraduate degree program |
| Additional Benefits | Alumni network access, career guidance & skill-building programs, development opportunities, access to talks and workshops with global experts, mentoring and internship options, volunteering opportunities |
| Selection Component | Mandatory aptitude test followed by evaluation |
Recipients of the Reliance Foundation Undergraduate Scholarships receive substantial financial aid and a wealth of additional development opportunities throughout their degree program.
- Scholarship Type: Merit & Means
- Application Mode: Online through the Buddy4Study portal
- Application Fee: None
- Encouragement for Applications: Girls and specially-abled students
- Last Date to Apply: October 7, 2025
Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Protsahan (PM-USP) Scheme 2026
This section covers the Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Protsahan (PM-USP) Scheme 2026 with key figures and details from the latest verified sources.
| Level/Course | Duration | Rate of Scholarship (p.a.) |
|---|---|---|
| Graduation (College and University courses) | First three years | ₹12,000/- |
| Post-graduation | N/A | ₹20,000/- |
| Professional Courses (Integrated course) | 4th and 5th year (if course duration is 5 years) | ₹20,000/- |
| Technical Courses (B.Tech, B.Engg.) – Graduation level | 1st, 2nd, and 3rd year | ₹12,000/- |
| Technical Courses (B.Tech, B.Engg.) – Graduation level | 4th year | ₹20,000/- |
The table illustrates the varying annual scholarship rates and durations for different levels and types of courses under the PM-USP scheme, with postgraduate and later years of professional/technical courses receiving higher financial aid.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for this scholarship if I am already enrolled in a degree program, or is it only for new admissions in 2026?
This scholarship is typically open to students who will be enrolled in a degree program during the 2026 academic year, including those already pursuing a degree and those starting a new one. Specific eligibility regarding current enrollment status can vary, so always check the detailed guidelines.
What kind of academic performance is generally expected to be competitive for this scholarship?
While exact criteria differ, most scholarships for degree students require a strong academic record, often a minimum of 60-75% marks in the previous qualifying examination. Some may also consider extracurricular achievements or specific subject scores.
Are there any specific income criteria for my family to be eligible for this scholarship?
Many scholarships, especially those from government or trusts, have an annual family income ceiling, often ranging from ₹2.5 Lakhs to ₹8 Lakhs, to ensure support reaches economically disadvantaged students. You will likely need to provide income proof like an income certificate.
If I receive this scholarship, what expenses does the 'amount' typically cover?
The scholarship amount usually covers a portion or the entirety of tuition fees, and sometimes includes allowances for living expenses, books, or hostel charges. The exact components and their limits will be detailed in the scholarship’s terms and conditions.
What documents should I prepare in advance to ensure a smooth application process for the 2026 scholarship?
You should typically prepare academic mark sheets, proof of identity and address (Aadhaar card), income certificate, caste certificate (if applicable), and a passport-sized photograph. Keep scanned copies ready as most applications are online.
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