In India, 12th Pass students education is not only a fundamental right but also a powerful instrument for social and economic progress. After completing their 12th grade, many students aspire to pursue higher education in various fields such as engineering, medicine, commerce, arts, or vocational training. However, the financial burden often becomes a major roadblock, especially for students from economically weaker sections. To bridge this gap, numerous scholarships are available for 12th pass students — both girls and boys — that encourage academic excellence and empower youth to follow their dreams.
Importance of Scholarships
Scholarships are more than just financial aids. They are tokens of encouragement that boost the morale of students. For families with limited income, these aids provide a crucial support system that can make the difference between continuing education and dropping out. They also ensure that merit and ambition do not go unrecognized due to a lack of funds.
Categories of Scholarships
Scholarships for 12th pass students are offered by:
- Central and State Governments
- Private institutions and NGOs
- Corporate companies under their CSR initiatives
- Colleges and Universities
They are generally categorized into:
- Merit-based scholarships
- Need-based or financial aid scholarships
- Gender-specific scholarships
- Caste and community-based scholarships
- Field-specific scholarships (e.g., engineering, medicine, etc.)
Let’s explore the major scholarships available for girls and boys separately and those common to all.
Scholarships for Girls
Girls, especially in rural and underprivileged backgrounds, often face additional societal and financial challenges. To empower them, several scholarships exclusively focus on supporting female students post-12th.
1. CBSE Merit Scholarship for Single Girl Child
Offered to the single girl child who has scored 60% or more in Class 10 and is now pursuing studies in Class 11 and 12.
2. Pragati Scholarship Scheme for Girl Students
Launched by AICTE, this scholarship provides financial assistance to girls pursuing technical education at diploma and undergraduate levels. Up to ₹50,000 per annum is granted.
3. Savitribai Phule Scholarship
In states like Maharashtra, this scheme supports girls from backward classes and economically weaker sections, encouraging them to complete higher education.
4. UGAM Legrand Scholarship
Girls pursuing engineering or architecture after 12th are eligible for this scholarship, which provides up to 60% of their academic fees.
5. Sashakt Scholarship
This scholarship is for young women interested in pursuing a career in science. It provides ₹2.4 lakhs for 3 years of undergraduate studies.
Scholarships for Boys
While many scholarships are open to all, a few are designed with a focus on promoting education among boys from disadvantaged or rural backgrounds.
12th Pass Student Scholarship
1. INSPIRE Scholarship (Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research)
For boys and girls who scored within the top 1% in 12th-grade exams and are pursuing science degrees, this scheme offers ₹80,000 annually.
2. Post Matric Scholarship for SC/ST/OBC Students
Available to students from scheduled castes, tribes, and other backward classes. Boys from these communities benefit greatly from this central and state-funded program.
3. National Scholarship Exam (NSE)
Conducted by the National Institute of Career Education, this scholarship encourages meritorious students. Both boys and girls can compete, but many male students benefit annually through this merit-based program.
4. Foundation for Excellence (FFE) Scholarship
Offered to boys (and girls) pursuing professional courses like engineering, MBBS, or BPharm. Students must have scored high in 12th and come from a low-income family.
Common Scholarships for All 12th Pass Students
Many scholarships are inclusive of all genders and are purely merit or need-based.
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship | Class 12 pass with minimum 55%, low-income background | ₹12,000 per year |
| Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojana (KVPY) | Science stream students with good academic record | ₹5,000 to ₹7,000/month |
| College-specific Scholarships | Varies as per institution | Fee waiver, stipend, hostel facility |
| Tata Trusts Scholarships | Students pursuing professional courses | Partial/full tuition fee |
| L&T Build India Scholarship | Engineering aspirants | Full tuition + job opportunity |
Application Process and Documents Required
The process for applying to most scholarships typically includes:
- Online Application Submission – Students must register on the official portal of the scholarship scheme or college.
- Documents Upload – Key documents include:
- 10th and 12th mark sheets
- Income certificate
- Caste certificate (if applicable)
- Aadhaar card
- Recent passport-sized photograph
- Admission proof (for ongoing courses)
- Verification Stage – Educational and income records are verified before approval.
- Scholarship Disbursement – Approved funds are either transferred directly to the student’s bank account or paid to the institution.
Tips for Students Applying for Scholarships
- Start Early: Many scholarships have early deadlines. Begin researching in Class 12 itself.
- Stay Organized: Maintain a checklist of documents and deadlines.
- Apply for Multiple Scholarships: Don’t rely on just one source.
- Be Honest: Provide accurate information; false claims can lead to disqualification.
- Seek Help if Needed: Ask teachers or counselors for guidance during the application process.
Conclusion
Scholarships for 12th pass students play a critical role in shaping India’s future by supporting the academic and professional journeys of young aspirants. Whether it’s a girl from a rural area dreaming of becoming an engineer or a boy aiming to join the medical field, scholarships ensure that financial constraints do not shatter their ambitions.
Empowering both girls and boys through financial assistance not only uplifts individual families but also contributes to the nation’s development by creating an educated, skilled, and self-reliant generation. Every deserving student should explore these opportunities and utilize them as a stepping stone toward a brighter future.