Top Class Education Scheme for SC/ST Students 2026-27: Premier Institutes (IITs, NITs, IIMs, AIIMS)

Top Class Education Scheme for SC & ST Students 2026-27

The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Gove ment of India, has initiated the online application cycle for the Top Class Education Scheme 2026-27 for meritorious Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe students gaining entry to notified premier higher education institutions across India.

Participating Notified Institutions

The scholarship applies to premier institutions including: all IITs, IIMs, NITs, IIITs, AIIMS, National Law Universities (NLUs), IISc Bangalore, NIDs, and Central Universities.

Financial Package Provided

• Full Tuition Fee & Non-Refundable Charges: Reimbursed in full up to ₹2.00 Lakh/year for private institutions and actual fees for gove ment institutions.
• Living Expenses Allowance: ₹86,000 per annum (₹7,166 per month) directly credited to the student’s bank account.
• Books & Stationery Grant: ₹15,000 per annum.
• Latest Computer / Laptop Grant: One-time assistance of up to ₹45,000 with accessories.

Eligibility Criteria

Students must belong to SC or ST communities, have secured admission through national entrance examinations (JEE Advanced, NEET, CAT, CLAT, GATE), and have total family income under ₹8.00 Lakh per annum.