Maharashtra Hostel Fee Waiver Scheme – 2025 Updates

The Government of Maharashtra has introduced a game-changing move in 2025 to support financially weaker students: the Hostel Fee Waiver 2025. This policy aims to ensure that no deserving student is denied education due to the burden of hostel charges.

By offering full or partial hostel fee reimbursement, the Maharashtra government is promoting inclusive higher education. This scheme is particularly beneficial for rural, tribal, and low-income students who study away from home in colleges, polytechnics, and professional institutions.

Highlights of the Hostel Fee Waiver Scheme 2025

• Applicable to students residing in hostels attached to government or aided colleges

• Covers tuition-linked hostel fees and mess charges (where applicable)

• Students from SC/ST/OBC/EWS and orphans/disabled categories are given priority

• Aims to benefit over 3 lakh students across Maharashtra

• Scheme implemented by the Department of Higher and Technical Education

This scheme aligns with the state’s commitment to accessible education and social equity.

Eligibility Criteria for Hostel Fee Waiver 2025

To benefit from the Hostel Fee Waiver 2025, students must meet the following conditions:

• Must be a domicile of Maharashtra

• Enrolled in full-time UG, PG, diploma, or technical courses in government/aided institutions

• Residing in the college-managed or approved hostel

• Annual family income not exceeding:

  • ₹8 lakh for Open/EWS category

  • No limit for SC/ST/NT/VJ/OBC (subject to category verification)

• Must maintain minimum 75% attendance

• Should not be availing similar benefit from any other scheme

The final approval depends on institute recommendation and department verification.

Application Process for Students

Here’s how eligible students can apply for the Hostel Fee Waiver 2025:

1. Visit the MahaDBT portal – https://mahadbt.maharashtra.gov.in

2. Log in using Aadhaar-linked mobile number or create a new account

3. Select the “Hostel Fee Waiver 2025” under the applicable department

4. Fill out personal, academic, and hostel details

5. Upload scanned documents (see list below)

6. Submit the application and get it verified by the college nodal officer

Selected students receive the waiver amount directly in their bank account or as an adjustment in hostel bills.

Required Documents

• Aadhaar card linked with mobile number

• Domicile Certificate of Maharashtra

• Income Certificate (current financial year)

• College Bonafide Certificate

• Hostel Allotment Letter

• Caste Certificate (if applicable)

• Previous year’s mark sheet

• Bank account details (student’s name)

All documents must be in PDF/JPEG format with proper clarity.

Who Benefits the Most?

The scheme prioritizes vulnerable student groups:

This ensures that students from all backgrounds receive fair support in their education journey.

FAQs

Who is eligible for the Hostel Fee Waiver 2025 in Maharashtra?

Students who are Maharashtra residents, enrolled in full-time government or aided colleges, and living in college-approved hostels are eligible, subject to income and category criteria.

Is the scheme only for SC/ST students?

No. While SC/ST students get full benefit, the scheme also covers EWS, OBC, and Open category students with income-based subsidies.

Do I have to apply every year for the hostel waiver?

Yes, the benefit is renewed annually. Students must re-apply and meet academic and attendance requirements every academic year.

Can private college students apply?

No, this scheme is applicable only for government and government-aided colleges with approved hostel facilities.

When will the fee be refunded?

Once the application is verified by the college and approved by the department, students usually receive the waiver amount within 60 days of approval.