After clearing Class 10, many students look for financial support to continue their studies in Class 11, 12, diploma, or other skill-based courses. To support these students, the Central Government, State Governments, NGOs, and private organizations offer several 10th Pass Scholarships. These scholarships help students cover tuition fees, coaching fees, books, transportation, and other educational expenses.
This 800-word article covers the list of top scholarships, eligibility, benefits, application process, overview tables, and quick FAQs.
What Are 10th Pass Scholarships?
10th Pass Scholarships are financial assistance schemes offered to students who have completed Class 10 and are entering higher secondary or pursuing vocational, technical, or merit-based education. These scholarships primarily support economically weaker families, minority communities, OBC, SC/ST, girl students, and meritorious talent.
Top Scholarships for 10th Pass Students in India
Here are the most popular scholarships available for students who have passed Class 10:
- National Means–cum–Merit Scholarship (NMMS)
- PM YASASVI Scholarship
- Pre-Matric & Post-Matric Scholarships
- State-Level Merit Scholarships
- KVPY/INSPIRE for Science Stream
- Labour Card Scholarships
- Minority Scholarships
- Private & NGO Scholarships
- PM Scholarship for Wards of Defence/Police Personnel
- Scholarships for Girl Students
1. National Means–cum–Merit Scholarship (NMMS)
A central government scholarship for students from economically weaker families.
Benefits:
- ₹12,000 per year till Class 12
Eligibility:
- Must have passed Class 10
- Annual income ≤ ₹3.5 lakh
- Must study in government/aided schools
2. PM YASASVI Scholarship (Class 11)
Offered to OBC/EBC/DNT categories under the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment.
Benefits:
- ₹1,25,000 per year for Class 11 students
Eligibility:
- Must be Class 10 pass
- Family income ≤ ₹2.5 lakh
- Must belong to notified OBC/EBC/DNT categories
3. Post-Matric Scholarships (SC/ST/OBC/Minority/EWS)
Applicable for Class 11, 12, diploma, and ITI students.
Benefits:
- Fees reimbursement
- Maintenance allowance
- Hostel allowance
Eligibility:
- Must be 10th pass
- Income limits vary by category and state
4. INSPIRE Scholarship (For Science Stream)
A merit-based scholarship for talented science students.
Benefits:
- ₹80,000 per year for all science-related education
Eligibility:
- Must score high marks in Class 10 and 12
- Must pursue science stream
5. Minority Scholarships (Pre & Post Matric)
Offered to Muslim, Sikh, Christian, Jain, Buddhist, and Parsi students.
Benefits:
- ₹5,000 – ₹20,000 depending on class/course
Eligibility:
- 10th pass and studying in Class 11 or diploma
- Income ≤ ₹2 lakh
6. Labour Card Scholarships
For children of registered labourers.
Benefits:
- ₹2,000 – ₹10,000 per year
- Free books, uniforms, tutoring support
Eligibility:
- Must be Class 10 pass
- Parent must hold active labour card
7. Private & NGO Scholarships
These include scholarships from:
- HDFC Bank
- LIC HFL
- Reliance Foundation
- Tata Trusts
- Buddy4Study partner scholarships
Benefits:
- ₹5,000 – ₹50,000 per year
- Sometimes includes coaching fee support
Eligibility Criteria for 10th Pass Scholarships
General eligibility includes:
- Must have passed Class 10 from a recognized board
- Must be studying in Class 11, 12, or equivalent courses
- Must meet income requirements
- Must belong to eligible category if applicable
- Merit-based criteria may apply for certain schemes
Documents Required
Students must keep the following documents ready:
- Aadhar Card
- Class 10 Marksheet
- Income Certificate
- Caste Certificate (if applicable)
- Domicile Certificate
- Bank Account Passbook
- School Admission Proof for Class 11/12
- Passport-size Photograph
How to Apply for 10th Pass Scholarships in India
Most scholarships can be applied online using official portals.
1. Apply Through National Scholarship Portal (NSP)
For central and state scholarships.
2. Apply Through State Government Scholarship Portals
Each state has its specific website.
3. Apply Through Private/NGO Portals
Platforms like Buddy4Study provide easy application access.
Application Steps
- Register with mobile number and email
- Complete student profile
- Upload required documents
- Select scholarship scheme
- Submit the application
- Track status regularly
Benefits of 10th Pass Scholarships
- Reduces financial burden for higher education
- Encourages students to choose higher studies
- Supports skill and vocational training
- Promotes equal opportunity
- Provides support to poor and minority families
Overview Table
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Level | For Class 10 passed students |
| Major Schemes | NMMS, PM YASASVI, Minority & Labour Scholarships |
| Scholarship Amount | ₹5,000 – ₹1,25,000 per year |
| Application Mode | Mostly online |
| Required Documents | Aadhar, 10th marksheet, bank details, income proof |
| Beneficiaries | SC/ST/OBC/Minority/EWS/Girls/Labour families |
Important Scholarship Comparison Table
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| NMMS | Class 10 pass | ₹12,000 yearly |
| PM YASASVI | OBC/EBC/DNT | ₹1,25,000 yearly |
| Minority Post-Matric | Minority students | Up to ₹20,000 |
| Labour Card Scholarship | Labour workers’ children | ₹2,000 – ₹10,000 |
| INSPIRE | Science students | ₹80,000 yearly |
Application Tips
- Apply early before deadlines
- Upload clear scanned documents
- Use correct bank details
- Check portal updates regularly
- Avoid duplicate applications
FAQs
Q1. Which scholarship is best for 10th pass students?
NMMS, PM YASASVI, and Post-Matric scholarships are among the most beneficial schemes.
Q2. Can 10th pass students apply online for scholarships?
Yes, all major scholarships can be applied via NSP, state portals, or NGO platforms.
Q3. What is the highest scholarship amount available?
PM YASASVI offers up to ₹1,25,000 per year to eligible students.