Central Sector Scholarship for College Students (CSSS)
The Central Sector Scholarship gives college students ₹12,000 a year (₹20,000 in PG and later years of technical courses) if they scored in the top 20% of their Class 12 board and their family earns up to ₹4.5 lakh a year. Half of the scholarships go to boys and half to girls.
What is this scholarship?
The Central Sector Scheme of Scholarship for College and University Students (now under PM-USP, the Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Protsahan Yojana) is a merit-cum-means scholarship run by the Ministry of Education since 2008. It helps bright students from lower-income families continue to college.
How much?
| Course stage | Scholarship |
|---|---|
| Degree, years 1 to 3 | ₹12,000 per year |
| Post-graduation | ₹20,000 per year |
| Technical courses, 4th and 5th year | ₹20,000 per year |
| B.Tech / BE | ₹12,000 for years 1–3, ₹20,000 in year 4 |
The total period is up to 5 years. Money is paid directly to the student's bank account.
Who can apply?
- Scored above the 80th percentile of successful students in your stream in your Class 12 board exam.
- Family income up to ₹4.5 lakh per year.
- Studying a regular degree course (not distance or correspondence, and not a diploma) at a recognised college.
- Not getting another scholarship, state scholarship, fee waiver or fee reimbursement (check the current guidelines, as the wording varies).
Selection is 50% boys and 50% girls, with reservation of 15% SC, 7.5% ST, 27% OBC and 5% for students with disabilities.
Renewal every year
- Get at least 50% marks and keep 75% attendance.
- Apply for renewal on NSP each year. If you miss one year, you can apply for renewal the next year.
Documents usually needed
- Class 12 marks memo
- Income certificate (fresh applicants)
- Caste certificate, if applicable
- Aadhaar and an Aadhaar-seeded bank account in the student's name
- College admission details / bonafide certificate
How to apply
- Register on the National Scholarship Portal with One Time Registration (Aadhaar).
- Choose the PM-USP Central Sector Scheme of Scholarship (CSSS).
- Fill in the form and upload documents before 31 October 2026.
- Your college verifies it, then the state board/department checks it.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the Central Sector Scholarship?
₹12,000 a year for the first three years of a degree, and ₹20,000 a year at PG level and in the 4th and 5th years of technical courses.
What marks are needed?
You must be above the 80th percentile of successful students in your stream in your Class 12 board exam.
What is the income limit?
Family income up to ₹4.5 lakh a year.
What is the last date for 2026-27?
31 October 2026 for students on the National Scholarship Portal.
Is it only for boys?
No. Scholarships are split equally, 50% for boys and 50% for girls.