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The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has launched a new scholarship scheme to support deserving students pursuing higher education. Under the Central Sector Scheme of Scholarship for College and University Students (CSSS), meritorious students from economically weaker sections (EWS) can now receive up to ₹20,000 annually to support their undergraduate and postgraduate studies.

This initiative by the Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education, aims to reduce the financial burden on talented students from low-income families and help them continue their education in recognized institutions across India.

Who Is Eligible for the Scholarship?

Students currently enrolled in undergraduate or postgraduate programs are eligible to apply. Those studying in the 1st year (2024 batch), 2nd year (2023 batch), 3rd year (2022 batch), and 4th year (2021 batch) of their degree programs can all apply for the scheme.

To qualify, students must:

• Be pursuing higher education from a recognized college or university in India.

• Belong to the EWS (Economically Weaker Section) category.

• Have secured at least 80% marks in Class 12 examinations from a CBSE-affiliated school.

• Have an annual family income not exceeding ₹8 lakh.

• Not be receiving any other scholarship.

Scholarship Amount Details

• Undergraduate Students: ₹12,000 per year for the first three years of graduation.

• Postgraduate Students: ₹20,000 per year during their master’s degree program.

This structured support ensures that students do not drop out of higher education due to financial constraints.

How to Apply for CBSE CSSS Scholarship?

Students must apply through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) at scholarships.gov.in. The last date to submit applications is October 31, 2025.

Step-by-step Application Process:

1. Visit scholarships.gov.in and register as a new user.

2. Log in using your registered credentials.

3. Select “Central Sector Scheme of Scholarship for College and University Students” from the available schemes.

4. Fill in the required academic, personal, and financial details.

5. Upload necessary documents such as:

   • Income certificate

   • Academic mark sheets

   • Aadhaar card

   • Bonafide certificate from the institution

   • Bank account details linked to Aadhaar

6. Submit the application after careful review.

Important: Students must get their applications verified by their respective colleges or universities. Without verification, the scholarship will not be processed.

Avoid These Common Mistakes

CBSE has issued a strict advisory asking students to fill out the form carefully and accurately. Even a small error can result in rejection. Students are advised to:

• Double-check personal details like name and date of birth.

• Ensure the Aadhaar number is linked to the bank account.

• Upload clear and valid documents.

• Track the status regularly on the portal after submission.

CBSE’s Message to Institutions

CBSE has also requested school and college nodal officers to expedite the application verification process so that eligible students do not face delays. Institutions are expected to validate the applications and documents promptly.

In Summary

• What: CBSE’s Central Sector Scholarship Scheme

• Who: EWS category students in college/university

• How much: ₹12,000–₹20,000 per year

• Where to apply: scholarships.gov.in

• Last date: October 31, 2025

For students aspiring to continue their education without financial burdens, this scholarship scheme is a timely and empowering initiative by the government. Apply on time and make the most of this opportunity to ease your academic journey.