Not every bright student comes from a financially stable background, but that shouldn’t stop anyone from pursuing their dreams. In India, several scholarships help deserving students continue their education without financial stress. Whether you’re in school or college, these scholarships can ease your burden. Here are five of the best scholarship schemes in India worth applying for.

1. National Talent Search Examination (NTSE)

Conducted by NCERT, NTSE is one of the most popular and prestigious scholarship exams for school students.

• Eligibility: Class 10 students across India
• Selection Process: Two-stage examination (state and national level)
• Scholarship Amount: ₹1,250 per month for Class 11–12 students, ₹2,000 per month for UG and PG students
• Valid Till: Doctorate level (subject to UGC guidelines)

This exam tests mental ability and scholastic knowledge, and students who qualify get lifelong recognition along with financial aid.

2. Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojana (KVPY)

Launched by the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, KVPY is aimed at encouraging students to pursue careers in science and research.

• Eligibility: Students in Class 11, 12, or 1st year of UG (science stream)
• Stipend: ₹5,000–₹7,000 per month
• Selection Process: Aptitude test followed by an interview

Students pursuing basic science courses like B.Sc., B.S., B.Stat., B.Math., or integrated M.Sc. programs are encouraged to apply.

3. Vidya OlymAid Foundation Exam

This scholarship exam is organised by the Science Olympiad Foundation (SOF) and helps students from Class 1 to 12.

• Exams Covered:
  • National Science Olympiad
  • International Maths Olympiad
  • International English Olympiad
  • International General Knowledge Olympiad
  • Cyber Olympiad
• Eligibility: School students from recognised boards
• Benefits: Scholarships, medals, certificates and global recognition

Students can apply through their schools or directly from the SOF website.

4. MOMA Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme

This scheme is run by the Ministry of Minority Affairs for students from Muslim, Sikh, Christian, Buddhist, Jain, and Parsi communities.

• Eligibility: Class 1 to 10 students with family income below ₹1 lakh per annum
• Scholarship Benefits:
  • Admission fee reimbursement
  • Tuition fee reimbursement
  • Maintenance allowance

Students can apply through momasholarship.gov.in

5. National Board of Higher Mathematics Scholarship

This scholarship is provided by the NBHM under the Department of Atomic Energy for students who want to pursue advanced studies in mathematics.

• Eligibility: Students pursuing B.Sc. (Maths) or Integrated M.Sc. programs
• Selection Process: Written test and interview
• Stipend: ₹6,000 per month

This scholarship is perfect for those who aim to build a career in academic mathematics or research fields.