The Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Protsahan Yojana (PM-USP) is a flagship initiative under the Central Sector Scheme (CSS), managed by the Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education, Government of India. The program is designed to empower academically talented students from economically weaker backgrounds by enabling them to pursue higher education.
Through the Central Sector Scheme of Scholarships for College and University Students, the Indian government awards up to 82,000 new scholarships annually. These scholarships are distributed based on Class XII Board examination results, supporting students pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, or professional programs such as Medicine and Engineering. Below are the key details about the scheme, including eligibility criteria, financial assistance, and application process.
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Central Sector Scheme of Scholarships: Key Information
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Administering Authority | Department of Higher Education, Government of India |
| Scheme Name | Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Protsahan Yojana (PM-USP) |
| Number of Scholarships | 82,000 fresh scholarships per year |
| Scholarship Amount | ₹12,000 per year for undergraduate courses ₹20,000 per year for postgraduate courses |
| Application Deadline | 31 October 2024 |
| Verification Deadlines | – Defective Applications: 15 November 2024 – Institute Verification: 15 November 2024 – DNO/SNO/MNO Verification: 30 November 2024 |
| Official Website | scholarships.gov.in |
Scholarship Distribution and Reservation Policy
The distribution of PM-USP scholarships is carefully structured to ensure equal opportunities across various states and education boards:
- State-Wise Allocation:
- Allocations are based on the demographic representation of individuals aged 18-25 years.
- Adjustments are made for CBSE and ICSE students considering their graduation rates.
- Gender-Based Reservation:
- 50% of scholarships are exclusively reserved for female candidates.
- Special Allocation for Union Territories:
- Ladakh receives 3% of the combined quota for Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.
- Stream-Wise Division:
- Scholarships are distributed in a 3:3:1 ratio among Humanities, Science, and Commerce students.
Eligibility Criteria for PM-USP Scholarships
To qualify for the scholarship, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Academic Performance: Must be among the top 80th percentile of successful candidates in their respective stream and board in the Class XII examination.
- Enrollment: Must be enrolled in full-time undergraduate or postgraduate programs at institutions recognized by regulatory authorities like AICTE.
- Income Limit: Family or parental annual income must not exceed ₹4.5 lakhs.
- No Other Benefits: Candidates should not be receiving any other scholarships, tuition waivers, or fee reimbursements.
- Renewal Requirements:
- Maintain a minimum of 50% marks annually.
- Ensure at least 75% attendance.
- Avoid involvement in misconduct, including ragging.
Scholarship Amount and Duration
| Course Type | Scholarship Amount | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Courses | ₹12,000 per year | 3 years |
| Postgraduate Courses | ₹20,000 per year | Course duration |
| Integrated/Professional Courses | ₹12,000 per year (first 3 years) ₹20,000 per year (4th and 5th years) | Up to 5 years (as applicable) |
- For technical courses like B.Tech and B.E, students receive ₹12,000 annually for the first three years and ₹20,000 in the final year.
Application Process for PM-USP Scholarship
Students can apply for new and renewal scholarships through the National Scholarships Portal (NSP). Direct submissions to the Ministry of Education will not be entertained. Follow these steps to apply:
- Visit the Official Website: scholarships.gov.in.
- Register or Log In:
- New applicants must click on the “Apply Now for PM-USP” button and complete the registration.
- Existing users can log in using their Gmail, mobile number, or email ID.
- Fill the Application Form: Provide all necessary details and upload the required documents.
- Submit the Form: Ensure all information is accurate before submission.
Required Documents
Applicants must upload the following self-attested documents when applying:
- Proof of Residence
- Class XII Marksheet
- Family Income Certificate (issued by a competent authority)
- Aadhaar Card
- Caste/Disability Certificate (if applicable)
- Recent Photograph of the Applicant
- Parent/Guardian Photographs
- Applicant’s Signature
FAQs
What is the PM-USP Scholarship?
The PM-USP Scholarship is an initiative under the Central Sector Scheme (CSS) to provide financial assistance to academically talented students from economically weaker sections.
What is the amount of the scholarship?
Undergraduate students receive ₹12,000 annually, while postgraduate students receive ₹20,000 annually.
Can students renew their scholarship if they fail to apply on time?
Yes, students can reapply in subsequent years if they meet the renewal criteria, including academic performance and attendance.
