Top 20 Scholarship Exams for Graduation Students in India

Think of this: while undertaking a bachelor’s degree, you’re dealing with tuition fees, living costs, books, maybe even travel, and internships.

Scholarship exams or schemes give you financial breathing room. It allows you to focus more on learning rather than worrying about money.

According to the latest information on scholarships for undergraduates, you can now access a variety of scholarships in India that target:

• Students entering or enrolled in UG courses in any stream.
• Merit- and need-based criteria, sometimes both.
• Eligibility often tied to class 12 performance, family income ceilings (for many schemes) and open for all streams (arts, commerce, science) depending on the programme.

Here are a couple of recent data-points to show how things are changing:

• On the national portal, the amounts available range from ₹15,000 per month for 10 months up to ₹20,000 per month in certain cases for UG students.
• A guide also shows that the flagship central scheme (for example) permits students who scored well in class 12. And whose family income is below certain limits (for example, ₹4.5 lakh annually) to apply for UG overnight relief.

✅ What This Means for You (Even if You’re Just Starting)

• If you’re in class 12 or about to apply for UG: Good board exam marks will help. Many scholarships ask for top percentiles or minimum marks.
• If you’re already enrolled in a bachelor’s course: It’s not too late. Many schemes are open to first-year or even later year students, provided you meet the criteria.
• Or, if finances are a worry: These scholarships are designed to help students just like you—ones who have potential and merit, but need a little push.
• If you’re choosing stream or college: Consider how scholarships can reduce your cost burden. Some exams/schemes are stream-specific (for science/engineering), so if your interest aligns, you could take advantage.

🧭 One More Thing: Scholarship Exams vs Schemes

• “Scholarship exams” usually mean you sit an aptitude/merit-test or combined entrance (sometimes with your admission test) and based on your performance you get a financial award.
• “Scholarship schemes” might simply require that you meet eligibility (marks, income, institution) and apply—no separate exam.
• Both are worth exploring—but if you’re up for an exam, you might increase your chances of a higher amount or a better-tier scholarship.

Why Scholarships & Scholarship Exams Matter for Graduates

• Graduation (UG) courses are increasingly expensive in many colleges/universities and professional courses. Scholarship exams and schemes can relieve financial burdens and let you focus more on the learning.
• Beyond financial help, many scholarship programmes bring prestige, better networking opportunities, mentorship, and access to elite institutions.
• Preparing for scholarship exams cultivates your strong habits in academics, aptitude, and time management. So, this helps not just for the exam but for your graduation performance and career.

How to Use This List

Here’s how I recommend you approach this list of 20 scholarship exams/schemes:

1. Check Eligibility Carefully – Many scholarships have criteria (marks, income, course, institution, domicile) that you must meet.
2. Align with Your Stream – Some scholarships are generic (for all streams) while others target science/engineering or particular groups (SC/ST/OBC/Minorities).
3. Prepare for the Exam/Selection – If it’s an exam-based scholarship, treat it like a competitive test: aptitude, domain knowledge, English, reasoning. If it’s scheme-based (merit+means), gather documents, meet deadlines.
4. Apply Early & Keep Track – Many deadlines fall early in the academic year; missing a small detail might mean losing a full year’s benefit.
5. Maintain Performance – Some scholarships require you to maintain a certain academic grade or attendance during your graduation to continue receiving funds.

Top 20 Scholarship Exams for Graduation Students in India

Below is the list of 20 scholarship exams/schemes (or scholarship programmes). These are relevant for graduation in India.

1. Central Sector Scheme of Scholarships for College and University Students (CSSS)

This is a scheme, not exactly a “scholarship exam. But it is important for undergraduate/graduate students. The Central Sector Scheme of Scholarships for College and University Students is run by the Ministry of Education and the Government of India. It targets meritorious students from economically weaker families who have passed Class 12 and are enrolled in UG or PG courses.

Key features: family income ceiling (for fresh scholarship) typically around ₹4.5 lakh per annum.

Benefit: Example: ₹12,000 per annum for the first three years at the graduation level in many cases.

Why this matters: It serves all streams (arts/commerce/science) and is centrally managed.

Tip: Ensure you meet income eligibility, have passed class 12 with requisite marks, and apply via the National Scholarship Portal on time.

2. INSPIRE Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE)

The INSPIRE Scheme full form Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research. It is given by the Department of Science & Technology (DST). It aims to attract meritorious students in the science field under UG/PG courses.

Eligibility: Age group ~17-22 years. It is for students who are the top performers in the board exam. And further, opting for B.Sc./Integrated M.Sc./B.S., etc. in natural/basic sciences.

Benefit: Scholarship of about ₹60,000 per annum + mentorship grant ~₹20,000 annually (or ~₹80,000 p.a) for selected students.

Why this matters: If you’re in science and research-oriented fields, this is among the elite scholarships.

Tip: Since this is highly selective, focus on making your board exam marks strong, consider applying early, and aim for institutes with good science research exposure.

3. National Fellowship & Scholarship for Higher Education of ST Students

The National Fellowship & Scholarship for Higher Education of ST Students. Formerly, it was Top Class Education for ST Students. It is a central-sector scheme under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs for scheduled-tribe students.

Eligibility: ST students pursuing graduate/postgraduate studies in notified institutions/professional fields (Engineering, Law, Medicine, etc.). And has a parental income threshold (e.g., ≤ ₹6 lakh p.a).

Why this matters: For ST students, this scheme offers full funding in many cases, especially in top institutes.

Tip: If you are from the ST category and qualify, check whether your institution is among the notified list of eligible institutes.

4. Merit-cum-Means Based Scholarship (for Minorities)

It is designed to support students from minority communities (religious minorities) pursuing higher education, including graduation.

Eligibility typically: Minority community student, earlier class marks ≥50%, family income below a certain threshold.

Why important: If you belong to minority background, this is a strong option.

Tip: Make sure to apply through the correct portal, maintain the required performance (grades) during UG, and keep documentation (income, minority certificate) ready.

5. Coal India Limited Scholarship

The Coal India Limited Scholarship is targeted at engineering students, project-affected persons/families, and students pursuing full-time engineering UG courses.

Eligibility: Indian national, not older than ~25 years, full-time engineering course in a government /recognised college, merit-cum-means.

Why: For engineering students, this gives additional financial support beyond generic scholarships.

Tip: If you are going into engineering and meet the criteria, check the official Coal India website for scholarship notifications.

6. Scholarships for General Category Students (Merit-Based)

These scholarships are open to all categories, not just reserved for UG and PG courses.

Why: If you don’t belong to SC/ST/OBC/minority, this list becomes very relevant.

Tip: Regularly review portals like the National Scholarship Portal for general category scholarships, and check application criteria early.

7. University/Institute Entrance + Scholarship Exams (e.g., Private University Scholarships)

Many private institutions conduct a combined entrance test and scholarship exam (for example, Lovely Professional University’s “LPUNEST” for admission + scholarships).

These exam-cum-scholarship programmes allow you to gain admission and earn tuition fee waiver or scholarship amount depending on rank.

Why: If you’re planning to join a private university, these are excellent opportunities to reduce costs.

Tip: Research the scholarship criteria of each university you’re applying to; prepare for their entrance exam with full seriousness.

8. Entrance/Scholarship Exams for Specific Streams (Science/Engineering)

Many universities and private institutions conduct entrance-cum-scholarship exams specially designed for students aspiring to pursue Science and Engineering courses. These exams, such as VITEEE, SRMJEEE, BITSAT, and LPUNEST, not only determine admission eligibility but also offer merit-based scholarships based on exam performance.

These integrated tests are a great way to secure both a seat in reputed institutions and financial assistance through tuition fee waivers or scholarships.

Why: If you aim to study engineering or science in private or deemed universities, appearing for these exams can significantly reduce your educational expenses.

Tip: Go through each university’s scholarship policy carefully and practice their sample papers to improve your chances of earning top ranks and scholarships.

9. State-Level Scholarships for UG Students

Every Indian state offers its own set of scholarships and financial aid programs to support undergraduate students pursuing higher education within or outside the state. These schemes are usually targeted at meritorious, economically weaker, or reserved-category students and aim to ensure that financial constraints do not block access to quality education.

Most state-level scholarships are accessible through the State Education Department or via the National Scholarship Portal (NSP), and they often cover tuition fees, maintenance allowances, and exam costs.

Why: If you’re pursuing your graduation in your home state or from a state university, these scholarships can significantly lower your academic expenses.

Tip: Regularly check your state government’s official scholarship portal for application deadlines and eligibility criteria, as each state has its own timeline and selection process.

10. Scholarship Exams for Professional Courses (Engineering/Medicine)

Professional courses like Engineering and Medicine often come with high tuition fees, but several national and institutional-level scholarship exams help deserving students manage these costs. Exams such as KVPY, AISEE, and JEE-based scholarships (offered by private universities) not only assess aptitude but also provide financial rewards or full/partial fee waivers based on merit.

These exams are designed to identify talented students and encourage them to pursue professional degrees without financial barriers. Many private and government institutions link admission, ranking, and scholarship eligibility through a single test.

Why: If you’re aspiring for Engineering or Medical education, these exams are excellent opportunities to earn recognition and reduce the financial burden of professional courses.

Tip: Review each exam’s scholarship policy — some offer renewable scholarships every year based on academic performance, so maintaining good grades is equally important.

11. Scholarships for Women in Science/Technology

To encourage more women to pursue careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields, many government bodies, private foundations, and universities offer dedicated scholarships and fellowships. Programs like DST Women Scientists Scheme (WOS), AICTE Pragati Scholarship, and Adobe Women-in-Technology Scholarship are designed to support meritorious female students in undergraduate and postgraduate science or technology programs.

These scholarships not only provide financial aid but also aim to bridge the gender gap in technical education and research by offering mentorship, networking opportunities, and industry exposure.

Why: If you’re a female student aiming to build a career in science or technology, these scholarships can empower you with both financial assistance and academic recognition.

Tip: Apply early and ensure you meet eligibility requirements such as academic score, institution type, or family income — many programs have limited seats and high competition.

12. Corporate/CSR Scholarships (Entrance + Merit)

Many reputed companies in India extend their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives to the field of education by offering scholarships to deserving students. These Corporate/CSR Scholarships are usually based on academic merit, entrance exam performance, or financial need, and are aimed at nurturing young talent across various disciplines — including engineering, management, science, and commerce.

Organizations such as Tata, Reliance, Aditya Birla Group, Infosys Foundation, and Mahindra Rise run well-known scholarship programs that help bright students continue their education without financial stress. Some scholarships are tied to specific entrance exams or academic achievements, while others are open through a general merit-based application process.

Why: Corporate scholarships are a great way to gain both financial support and recognition from leading industry players, which can also enhance your future career prospects.

Tip: Check the CSR sections of major company websites or portals like Vidyasaarathi for active scholarship listings, eligibility, and application deadlines.

13. Scholarships for Minority/Backward Communities (UG Level)

To promote inclusive education and support students from minority and backward communities, the Government of India and various state governments offer numerous scholarships at the undergraduate level. These schemes aim to ensure that students from economically and socially disadvantaged backgrounds can pursue higher education without financial hardship.

Prominent programs include the Post-Matric Scholarship for Minorities, Begum Hazrat Mahal National Scholarship, and OBC/SC/ST Scholarships offered through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP). These scholarships typically cover tuition fees, maintenance allowances, and other educational expenses, based on income and academic performance.

Why: If you belong to a recognized minority or backward community, these scholarships can make your higher education journey more affordable and accessible.

Tip: Keep all necessary documents (like income, caste, and domicile certificates) ready before applying, and submit your application well before the deadline to avoid delays in approval.

14. Scholarships Linked with Entrance-Test Scores & Board Marks

Many universities and scholarship organizations in India offer performance-based scholarships that reward students for their excellent entrance exam scores or high marks in Class 12 board exams. These scholarships recognize academic merit and encourage students to continue performing well in higher education.

Examples include scholarships based on JEE Main, NEET, CUET, or state-level entrance exams, as well as those awarded for securing top percentages in Class 12 (CBSE, ICSE, or State Boards). Private universities like Manipal, Amity, and SRM often provide tuition fee waivers or graded scholarships depending on a student’s rank or percentage bracket.

Why: If you’ve performed well in your entrance exams or board results, you can leverage your scores to gain both admission and financial benefits from top institutions.

Tip: Always check each university’s or exam authority’s scholarship criteria — some automatically consider your scores, while others require a separate application for scholarship evaluation.

15. Scholarships for Under-Represented Streams / Regions

To ensure balanced educational growth across all regions and academic disciplines, several government and private organizations offer scholarships for students from under-represented regions or less popular academic streams. These initiatives aim to bridge regional disparities and encourage students to explore diverse fields beyond mainstream choices like engineering or medicine.

Examples include scholarships for students from North-Eastern states, Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, or rural areas, as well as those pursuing studies in humanities, agriculture, pure sciences, or social work. Notable schemes like the Ishan Uday Scholarship (for NE Region) and Inspire Scholarship promote education in regions or subjects that often lack sufficient representation.

Why: If you belong to a remote or educationally disadvantaged region, or if you’re pursuing a less conventional course, these scholarships can provide vital financial and motivational support.

Tip: Explore regional portals and specialized government schemes — eligibility often depends on domicile, chosen field of study, or institution location. Apply early, as such scholarships typically have limited seats and high demand.

16. Scholarships that Continue Through the Course (Retention Based)

Some scholarships are designed not just as a one-time award but as renewable scholarships that continue throughout the entire duration of your course — provided you maintain a certain level of academic performance, attendance, or conduct. These retention-based scholarships motivate students to stay consistent and excel in their studies year after year.

Many universities and government programs, such as the Inspire Scholarship, NTSE (for later UG renewal), and various institutional merit scholarships, renew the funding annually based on performance in semester or yearly exams. Some private universities also extend scholarships from the first year through to graduation if students meet the required CGPA or rank criteria.

Why: These scholarships ensure long-term financial support and encourage academic discipline, helping students focus on learning without worrying about recurring fees.

Tip: Carefully review the renewal conditions — maintain the required CGPA, pass all subjects, and follow academic rules — to keep receiving the scholarship benefits every year.

Prepare-Now-For-Later Strategy

Even if you’re in school or yet to join UG, you can plan months: maintain a strong academic record, participate in competitions, choose an institution wisely, save documents, and check application windows.

Why: Many scholarships open a few months into the academic year; early preparedness gives you advantage.

Tip: List out top 5 scholarships (from this list) you are eligible for, calendar their deadlines, gather required documents in advance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Waiting until last minute to submit application: Deadlines pass quickly.

Applying for only one scholarship: Diversify your applications.

Not maintaining required grades/attendance during UG: Scholarship may be revoked.

Ignoring the income/means criteria or mismatching stream/institution: Ensure full eligibility.

Not checking institutional eligibility (some scholarships require the college to be on approved list).

Tip: Keep a spreadsheet of scholarship name, eligibility, closing date, documents needed, status.

Final 5-Minute Checklist Before You Apply

✅ Have I passed / am I enrolled in full-time UG course (for scheme requiring UG)?

✅ Does my stream (science/commerce/arts/engineering) match the scholarship’s target?

✅ Do I meet the mark/performance threshold (class 12 %, board rank, exam rank etc)?

✅ Does my family income fall within the required ceiling?

✅ Are the documents ready: mark-sheets, income certificate, category certificate, bonafide certificate, bank account details, institution admission proof?

✅ Have I noted the application deadline and portal?

✅ Do I understand the continuation criteria (for example, minimum % each year) to retain scholarship?

✅ Will I devote sufficient time to exam/selection process if required?

Conclusion on Top 20 Scholarship Exams for Graduation Students in India

Pursuing higher education can be expensive, but with the right scholarship or entrance-based financial aid, you can transform your academic journey without the burden of heavy fees.

The wide range of scholarship exams in India — from national-level programs like KVPY, Inspire, and AISEE to university-specific tests such as LPUNEST and SRMJEEE — ensures that students from every background, stream, and region have access to opportunities.

Whether you’re a science aspirant, commerce student, or pursuing arts and humanities, there are scholarships tailored to your goals, merit, and financial needs.

Many of these scholarships not only recognize your talent but also provide long-term benefits, including renewable aid, mentorship, and career growth.

In essence, scholarship exams open doors — to prestigious universities, to financial independence, and to a future built on merit and determination.

So, research well, prepare sincerely, and apply on time — your scholarship could be the first step toward realizing your academic dreams.

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