Education is one of the most powerful tools for transforming lives, especially for students in a state like Bihar, where thousands of bright learners come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Fortunately, both the Bihar government and the Central Government of India offer a wide range of free financial aid, scholarships, stipends, and student support programs to ensure that no student is deprived of education due to financial challenges. This in-depth guide will help Bihar students understand all available scholarship opportunities, eligibility criteria, required documents, and step-by-step instructions to apply successfully. 1. Why Scholarships Matter for Bihar Students Over the last decade, educational opportunities in Bihar have expanded significantly. However, many families still struggle to afford: School and college fees Hostel charges Coaching costs Books and study materials Competitive exam preparation Scholarships help bridge this gap by offering financial support, merit recognition, and encouragement to continue studies. These schemes especially benefit students from SC, ST, OBC, EBC, Minority, and Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) communities. 2. Major Scholarships Available for Bihar Students A. Bihar Government Scholarships 1. Post-Matric Scholarship (PMS) – SC/ST Students This is one of Bihar’s most widely used scholarships. It covers expenses for students studying in Class 11 to PhD. Eligibility: Must belong to SC or ST category Family income ≤ ₹2.5 lakh per year Must be studying in a recognized institution Benefits: Tuition fees reimbursement Accommodation/hostel allowance Books and study material support 2. Bihar OBC/EBC Post-Matric Scholarship Similar to the SC/ST scholarship but designed for OBC and EBC students studying after Class 10. Eligibility: OBC or EBC category Family income ≤ ₹1.5 lakh for OBC and ≤ ₹1 lakh for EBC Benefits: Tuition reimbursement Maintenance allowance Special grants for hostellers 3. Bihar Chief Minister Kanya Utthan Yojana This scheme supports girl students from Bihar. Benefits: ₹25,000 after completing Intermediate ₹50,000 for graduation Free sanitary napkins and uniforms for schoolgirls Goal: Encourage girls to pursue higher education and reduce early marriages. 4. Bihar Board Matric (10th) Scholarship Students scoring first division in the Bihar Board Class 10 exam receive a cash reward. Benefits: Approximately ₹10,000 to eligible students 5. Mukhyamantri Medha Vriti Yojana (Merit Scholarship) This scheme rewards meritorious students scoring high in Class 12 examinations. Benefits: Scholarship amounts vary based on merit B. Central Government Scholarships for Bihar Students 1. National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship (NMMS) For students from Class 8 who want to continue their education but face financial hardship. Benefits: ₹12,000 per year till Class 12 2. Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme (PMSS) For the children of ex-servicemen or defense personnel. Benefits: ₹30,000–₹36,000 per year 3. National Scholarship Portal (NSP) Schemes Bihar students can apply for: Merit-cum-Means for Minority Students Post-Matric for Minority Students UGC/AICTE Scholarships INSPIRE (Science Students) These scholarships cover tuition fees, maintenance allowances, and research grants. 3. Scholarships for Higher Studies & Competitive Exams 1. Bihar Student Credit Card (BSCC) A unique program that allows students to pursue higher education without financial constraints. Features: Loan up to ₹4 lakh Low interest Covers professional, technical, and general degree courses 2. National Talent Search Examination (NTSE) Scholarship For talented students in Class 10 who clear the national-level exam. Benefits: Monthly stipend throughout higher studies 3. JEE/NEET Coaching Scholarships (Free Coaching Yojanas) Bihar students from poor backgrounds can receive: Free coaching Study materials Hostel support Schemes are offered by both the central and state government. 4. Required Documents for Bihar Scholarships Most scholarship programs require these documents: Aadhaar card Income certificate Caste certificate (if applicable) Marksheet Passport-size photo Bank account passbook Domicile certificate of Bihar Admission receipt Make sure all documents are updated and scanned clearly before applying online. 5. How to Apply for Scholarships (Step-by-Step Guide) Step 1: Visit the Official Scholarship Portal Depending on the scheme, applications may be submitted via: Bihar Scholarship Portal (for state schemes) National Scholarship Portal (NSP) for central schemes Education Department websites E-Kalyan Bihar portal Step 2: Register Yourself Create an account using: Mobile number Email ID Aadhaar details Step 3: Fill in Academic & Personal Details Enter accurate information: School/college name Course details Family income Category information Step 4: Upload Required Documents Make sure each document meets size and format requirements. Step 5: Submit & Print the Application Keep a copy of the application form and acknowledgment receipt for future reference. 6. Tips for Bihar Students to Secure Scholarships Apply as early as possible—don’t wait for deadlines. Keep your Aadhaar card linked to your bank account. Check your application status regularly. Maintain good academic performance to qualify for merit-based schemes. Keep multiple digital copies of documents for future use. 7. Common Mistakes Students Should Avoid Entering incorrect bank account information Uploading unclear scanned documents Missing deadline dates Using someone else’s mobile number or email Ensuring accuracy will save you from delays and rejection. 8. Why Bihar Students Should Take Advantage of These Schemes Scholarships not only reduce the financial burden on families but also: Encourage students to pursue higher education Improve literacy and skill development Support career aspirations in medicine, engineering, science, humanities, and more Help students from rural areas access quality education By taking advantage of these opportunities, Bihar students can unlock a brighter future.