Education is one of the strongest tools for change, and in Bihar, thousands of students rely on scholarships to continue their studies. With limited family income and rising education costs, scholarships offered by the Bihar State Government, Central Government, universities, and private organizations play a vital role.
From school-level students to those pursuing professional and higher education, Bihar offers multiple scholarship schemes based on category, income, merit, and gender.
This article explains the different types of scholarships in Bihar, who can apply, what benefits they provide, and how students can make the most of them.
What Are Scholarships in Bihar?
Scholarships in Bihar are financial assistance programs designed to support students who may otherwise struggle to afford education. Depending on the scheme, scholarships can cover:
- Tuition and examination fees
- Maintenance allowance
- Books and study materials
- Hostel and living expenses
Most Bihar scholarships aim to reduce dropout rates and encourage students to complete their education.
Major Types of Scholarships in Bihar
Bihar scholarships are broadly categorized based on education level, social category, income, and merit.
1. Pre-Matric Scholarships
Pre-matric scholarships are for students studying up to Class 10. These scholarships primarily support students from SC, ST, OBC, Extremely Backward Classes, and minority communities.
They help students continue school education without financial pressure and reduce early-stage dropouts.
2. Post-Matric Scholarships
Post-matric scholarships are offered to students studying Class 11, 12, graduation, post-graduation, diploma, and professional courses.
Benefits generally include:
- Tuition fee reimbursement
- Maintenance allowance
- Additional support for hostellers
These scholarships are among the most widely availed schemes in Bihar.
3. Scholarships for SC, ST, OBC, and EBC Students
Special scholarships are available for students belonging to Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Other Backward Classes, and Extremely Backward Classes.
These scholarships aim to:
- Promote educational equality
- Encourage participation in higher education
- Reduce financial barriers for marginalized communities
Caste and income certificates are mandatory.
4. Minority Scholarships
Minority scholarships support students from Muslim, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, and Parsi communities.
They are offered at both pre-matric and post-matric levels and help students pursue education without financial stress.
5. Merit-Based Scholarships
Merit-based scholarships are awarded to students with excellent academic performance, regardless of category.
These scholarships motivate students to maintain high academic standards and aim for competitive careers.
6. Scholarships for Girls Students
To promote female education, Bihar offers scholarships exclusively for girl students, especially at secondary and higher education levels.
These schemes encourage:
- Higher enrollment of girls
- Reduced dropout rates
- Continued education beyond school
Overview Table: Types of Scholarships in Bihar
| Scholarship Type | Education Level | Target Students |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Matric Scholarship | Up to Class 10 | SC, ST, OBC, EBC, Minority |
| Post-Matric Scholarship | Class 11 & above | Reserved & General |
| Category-Based Scholarships | All levels | SC, ST, OBC, EBC |
| Minority Scholarships | School to PG | Minority communities |
| Merit-Based Scholarships | Higher education | High-performing students |
| Girls Scholarships | Multiple levels | Female students |
How to Apply for Scholarships in Bihar
The application process for Bihar scholarships usually includes:
- Check eligibility based on category, income, and course
- Register on the official scholarship portal
- Fill in personal, academic, and bank details
- Upload required documents
- Submit the application within the deadline
- Institute or authority verification
- Track application status online
Applying early and ensuring document accuracy improves approval chances.
Documents Required for Bihar Scholarships
Most scholarship applications require:
- Aadhaar card
- Domicile certificate of Bihar
- Caste certificate (if applicable)
- Income certificate
- Previous year marksheets
- Bank account details
- Fee receipt
Incorrect or missing documents may lead to rejection.
Why Scholarships in Bihar Are Extremely Important
Scholarships in Bihar are not just financial aid—they are a lifeline for many students. They help families afford education, reduce dropouts, and allow students to focus on learning and skill development instead of financial stress.
For many households, scholarships make the difference between continuing education and leaving school early.
FAQs
Who can apply for scholarships in Bihar?
Any eligible student studying in Bihar who meets income, category, or merit criteria can apply.
Can a student apply for multiple scholarships in Bihar?
Usually, students can receive only one government scholarship at a time.
Do Bihar scholarships require yearly renewal?
Yes, most scholarships must be renewed every academic year.
