The Merit Cum Means Based Scholarship scheme, launched by the Ministry of Minority Affairs, Government of India, provides financial assistance to students from minority communities for professional and technical courses. It is implemented through State Governments/UT Administrations.

The scheme provides up to ₹30,000 annually, including ₹10,000 as a maintenance allowance for hostellers and ₹20,000 towards course fees or the actual fee, whichever is lower. Day scholars receive ₹25,000 annually.

The applicant must belong to a minority community, have at least 50% marks in the previous examination, and secure admission in professional or technical courses. The annual family income should not exceed ₹2.50 lakh.

No, students already availing themselves of other scholarships or stipends are not eligible for the Merit Cum Means Based Scholarship scheme.

Mandatory documents include a student photo, income certificate, community declaration, previous academic marksheets, fee receipt, Aadhaar card (optional), and proof of bank account in the student’s name.

Applications must be submitted online through the National Scholarship Portal at www.scholarships.gov.in. Students should ensure they meet the eligibility criteria before applying.

If a student discontinues their course, they must refund the scholarship amount. Additionally, students providing false information will be blacklisted from future scholarships.

Thirty percent of the scholarships are reserved for girl students in each minority community within a State/UT. If not utilized, this quota may be transferred to eligible male students.

Students without a competitive exam rank must have at least 50% marks in their last qualifying examination. Selection is based strictly on merit.

Applicants can address grievances through the National Scholarship Portal or the helpline provided on the website. State-level grievance officers also assist in resolving issues.

The application period typically opens in the third quarter of the year. Specific dates are announced on the National Scholarship Portal and widely advertised by State Governments.