National Overseas Scholarship for SC under Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment Government of India 2026

The scheme is a Central Sector scheme to facilitate low-income students belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC), Denotified Nomadic & Semi‑Nomadic Tribes (DNT/SNT), Landless Agricultural Labourers and Traditional Artisans to obtain higher education (Master’s degree or PhD) abroad, thereby improving their economic and social status.

Eligibility Criteria for National Overseas Scholarship for SC etc. Candidates:

Applicants must:

• Belong to one of the following categories: Scheduled Castes (SC), DNT/SNT, Landless Agricultural Labourers, or Traditional Artisans.
• Have an unconditional admission offer from a foreign university (for first round, must be in top 500 QS World University Rankings).
• Have at least 60% (or equivalent grade) in the qualifying exam:
  • Bachelor’s degree for Master’s courses.
  • Master’s degree for PhD courses.
• Be not more than 35 years old as of 1 April of the selection year.
• Have a family income not exceeding ₹8 lakh per annum.
• Not have already started/studied abroad through another scholarship or own funds for the same level of study.
• Not exceed two children per family applying under this scheme.
• Bachelor’s level courses are not eligible (only Master’s and PhD).

Value of National Overseas Scholarship for SC etc. Candidates:

The financial assistance covers:

• Annual maintenance allowance: For USA & other countries (except UK): US $ 15,400; For UK: £ 9,900 per annum. 
• Contingency allowance: For USA & others: US $ 1,500; For UK: £ 1,100.
• Tuition fees: Actual as charged by the foreign institution.
• Visa fees: Actual in Indian Rupees. 
• Medical insurance premium: Actual as charged. 
• Incidental Journey & Equipment Allowance: US $20 (or equivalent) each.
• Air passage: Economy class airfare from India to the nearest place of the educational institution and return via authorized travel agents.
• Duration of award: Up to 3 years for Master’s; up to 4 years for PhD.

Application Process:

• Apply online during the application window.
• Upload required documents: caste certificate, income certificate, qualifying degree/marksheets, admission offer from foreign university, Aadhaar, etc.
  Portal opens in two rounds:
  • First round: Feb–Mar (approx.)
  • Second round: Sep–Oct (if vacancies remain)
• Correction window available for a few days after submission.
• Applications are screened & merit-ranked; selected candidates get a provisional award letter.
• Complete formalities: document verification, bond, health certificate, passport/visa, etc., to confirm the scholarship.