In 2025, the Maharashtra government continues its commitment to empowering students through financial aid and educational support. With rising academic expenses and diverse student needs, the Maharashtra scholarship programs provide much-needed relief, especially for those from economically weaker backgrounds, backward classes, and remote areas.
This article provides a district-wise overview of active scholarships in 2025, covering eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and the benefits students can receive. It is an essential guide for anyone seeking funding for school, college, or professional education in Maharashtra.
Table of Contents
Overview of Active Scholarships in 2025
Maharashtra offers over 40 state-level scholarships categorized under:
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Post Matric Scholarships (for SC/ST/OBC/NT/SBC students)
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Minority Development Scholarships
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EBC Scholarships (for economically backward class students)
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Merit-based Scholarships
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Professional Course Assistance Schemes
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Hostel & Transportation Allowances
These scholarships are applicable across schools, junior colleges, ITIs, polytechnic colleges, and degree institutions.
District-Wise Scholarship Availability
Some scholarships have district-level quotas and specific criteria. Here’s a summary of availability:
| District | Key Scholarship Programs | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Pune | EBC Freeship, Post Matric SC Scholarship | Covers over 25,000 students |
| Nagpur | VJNT/OBC/SBC Scholarships, Hostel Allowance | Includes transport and mess bill reimbursement |
| Mumbai Suburban | Minority Merit Scholarship, Rajarshi Chhatrapati | Offers up to ₹25,000/year for degree students |
| Aurangabad | Open Merit Scholarship, Special Assistance Scheme | Encourages girls in technical courses |
| Nashik | Tribal Development Scholarship, Freeship Scheme | Available for ST students in tribal areas |
Students should apply through the MahaDBT portal, where district-specific guidelines are also listed.
Key Scholarships and Eligibility Criteria
Below are the most sought-after schemes with eligibility:
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Government of India Post Matric Scholarship
For SC, ST students with annual income < ₹2.5 lakh. 100% tuition + maintenance allowance. -
Dr. Punjabrao Deshmukh Vasatigruh Nirvah Bhatta Yojna
For children of registered laborers/farmers. Hostel aid up to ₹30,000 per year. -
Minority Scholarship
For Muslim, Christian, Buddhist, Jain, Sikh, and Parsi students. Minimum 50% in last exam, income < ₹8 lakh. -
Rajarshi Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Scholarship
100% tuition for top-performing students in 10th standard from backward categories. -
Merit Scholarship for Economically Backward Class
For general category students with 60%+ marks and income < ₹1 lakh.
Benefits Offered
The Maharashtra scholarship programs are not just about tuition waivers. They include:
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Reimbursement of exam fees
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Monthly maintenance allowance
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Hostel fees and mess charges
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Study material allowance
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Transport reimbursement for remote areas
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Free coaching for UPSC/MPSC preparation (for selected students)
These benefits ensure students can focus on their studies without financial pressure.
How to Apply for Maharashtra Scholarships
Steps to apply on the MahaDBT portal:
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Create an account using Aadhaar number and OTP
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Fill in academic and income details
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Upload documents (income certificate, caste certificate, mark sheets)
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Choose relevant scholarship(s)
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Submit the form before the deadline (varies by scheme)
Students must renew the application every academic year to continue receiving benefits.
Tips to Increase Approval Chances
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Apply early before the portal gets crowded
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Double-check all uploaded documents
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Use correct spelling and district details
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Keep a copy of submitted form for reference
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Contact your institute’s nodal officer in case of issues
FAQs
Can general category students apply for Maharashtra scholarships?
Yes, general (open) category students can apply under EBC and merit-based schemes if they meet the income and academic criteria.
Is the scholarship available for diploma and polytechnic students?
Yes, most schemes are open to diploma, ITI, and polytechnic students, especially in engineering and agriculture.
How will I receive the scholarship amount?
All benefits are directly credited to the student’s Aadhaar-linked bank account via DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer).
What if my application gets rejected?
You can rectify the issues and reapply. Check the rejection reason in the MahaDBT portal dashboard and consult your institution.
Can students outside Maharashtra apply for these?
No, these scholarships are strictly for students who are domiciled in Maharashtra and studying in state-approved institutions.
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