FAQ – Central Sector Scholarship Scheme (CSSS)

1. What is the Central Sector Scholarship Scheme?

The Central Sector Scholarship Scheme is a merit-cum-means scholarship initiated by the Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education, to financially assist academically outstanding students from economically weaker backgrounds in India.

2. Who is eligible to apply for the Central Sector Scholarship Scheme?

Students who passed Class 12 in the top 80th percentile from a recognized board and are enrolled in regular undergraduate or postgraduate courses with an annual family income ≤ ₹4.5 lakh are eligible.

3. Can diploma or distance education students apply for the scheme?

No. The Central Sector Scholarship Scheme is strictly for students enrolled in regular degree programs. Students in diploma, correspondence, or distance education courses are not eligible.

4. What is the last date to apply for the Central Sector Scholarship Scheme in 2025?

The application deadline is 31 October 2025, as per the National Scholarship Portal (NSP).

5. Is there any application fee?

No. Applying for the Central Sector Scholarship Scheme is completely free of cost.

6. How much financial support is offered under the scholarship?

Eligible students receive:

• ₹10,000 per annum during the first 3 years of graduation.

• ₹20,000 per annum in the 4th and 5th years of integrated/professional courses.

• ₹20,000 per annum for students in 2-year PG programs.

7. How can I apply for the Central Sector Scholarship Scheme?

Applications must be submitted online through the National Scholarship Portal. Students must register, fill out the form, and upload required documents.

8. What documents are required for the application?

You’ll typically need:

• Class 12 marksheet

• Income certificate (≤ ₹4.5 lakh/year)

• Bonafide certificate from institution

• Aadhaar number

• Bank account details (in your name)

9. What is the selection process for the Central Sector Scholarship Scheme?

Selection is merit-based (based on Class 12 board results) and income-based. Institute verification is mandatory before final selection.

10. Can I apply if I am already receiving another scholarship?

No. The Central Sector Scholarship Scheme does not allow concurrent scholarships. You can only avail of one government-funded scholarship at a time.

11. Is there a minimum attendance or marks requirement to renew the scholarship?

Yes. To renew, students must maintain minimum 75% attendance, pass the current academic year, and not change their course or institution without approval.

12. Can I renew my scholarship every year?

Yes. The Central Sector Scholarship Scheme is renewable annually, provided the student meets academic and attendance conditions.

13. What if my income exceeds ₹4.5 lakh next year?

Only the initial application year requires an income check. Later increases in income do not disqualify you from renewals.

14. When will I receive the scholarship amount?

The amount is usually credited to the student’s bank account via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) after successful verification and approval by NSP and the institute.

15. What if my institute does not verify my application on time?

Without verification by your institute, your application will be rejected. Ensure your institution verifies your form before the cut-off.

16. Can students from any board apply?

Yes. Students from CBSE, State Boards, ICSE, or other recognized boards in India who are in the top 80th percentile are eligible.

17. Are students from private colleges eligible for the scheme?

Yes, as long as the institution is recognized by the respective statutory body (UGC/AICTE/PCI etc.) and listed on the NSP portal.

18. Can students pursuing integrated courses (e.g., B.Tech + M.Tech) apply?

Yes. Students in integrated or professional degree programs are eligible for the Central Sector Scholarship Scheme, including ₹20,000 per annum for years 4 and 5.

19. How do I check my application status?

You can track your status on the National Scholarship Portal by logging into your dashboard and selecting “Track Application”.

20. Where can I get help if I face issues during application?

You can contact the NSP Helpdesk at 0120-6619540 or write to [email protected]. For scheme-specific queries, reach out to CBSE or your educational institution.