Coaching Schemes For Sc/st/obc (non-creamy Layer) & Minority Students For Universities 2026

This initiative offers crucial coaching support for students from Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backward Read More... Classes (OBC - non-creamy layer), and minority communities to help them excel in higher education. Read less

Details

In India, the government is committed to ensuring equal opportunities for all students. For those belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC - specifically the non-creamy layer), and minority communities, special coaching schemes are in place. These programs are designed to give these students a significant edge in pursuing their higher education goals.

What Is This Scheme?

This scheme is a government initiative aimed at empowering students from marginalized communities. It provides them with the necessary academic support and coaching to not only get into universities but also to succeed in competitive exams and secure jobs. The program covers various aspects, from improving fundamental academic skills to preparing for specific entrance tests.

Who Can Benefit From This Scheme?

The primary beneficiaries are students who belong to the SC, ST, OBC (non-creamy layer), and minority groups. The scheme also extends support to general category students who fall under the Below Poverty Line (BPL) category. This broadens the reach to ensure that financial constraints do not hinder educational aspirations.

Why This Scheme Is Important

Bridging the educational gap is a key focus of this scheme. By offering specialized coaching, it helps these students develop stronger foundational knowledge, improve their subject comprehension, and enhance their skills in areas like quantitative analysis and laboratory work. This ultimately reduces dropout rates and increases their chances of successful academic careers and employment, contributing to a more equitable society.

Objective

This initiative offers crucial coaching support for students from Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC - non-creamy layer), and minority communities to help them excel in higher education.

Benefits

The institutions can apply for one or more components of the scheme according to the number of enrolment of Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, OBC (Non-Creamy Layer), and Minorities Communities Students. If, the number of students in a particular class is more, additional section(s) may be included. Financial assistance is available for the following items:Non-recurring items: A “one-time” grant up to Rs. 5.0 lakhs for each scheme during the XII Plan period for the following items:1. Books and Journals2. Audio-visual and teaching/ learning aid material3. Computers with Printer4. Photocopier5. Generator or InverterRecurring Items: Rs.7.00 lakhs for universities for each scheme per annum for expenditure on the following items:1. Honorarium to the Coordinator of the schemes @Rs. 2000/- per month2. Remuneration to teachers and scholars*3. Part-time staff with computer knowledge (on a contract basis) @ 6,000/- p.m.4. Part-time Peon/Attendant.@ Rs.1000/- p.m5. Contingency - Rs 50,000/- per annumRemuneration at the rate of Rs. 300/- per hour per subject to the teachers and Rs.200 /- per hour to postgraduate students/ Research Scholars could be paid for theory classes and Rs.150/-per hour respectively for practicals. Generally, a faculty member should not teach for more than 2 hours a day. However, in exceptional cases where an eminent educationist is invited for a Special lecture, the remuneration @ Rs.500/- per hour and admissible T.A. could be paid with the approval of the Head of the Institution. The payment of remuneration to the participating teachers, PG students, and research scholars may be paid regularly every month without waiting for the pending grant from the UGC.The final amount of grant to be allocated would depend upon the number of schemes, the number of students enrolled for the schemes in the proposal, and the decision of the Committee appointed for serving the applicants for these schemes.

Sources and references

Guideline

Eligibility Criteria

Universities and colleges recognized under Section 2(f) and eligible to receive central assistance under Section 12(B) of the UGC Act, 1956, can apply.
Institutions must have a significant number of Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Minority Community students enrolled.
General category students holding a Below Poverty Line (BPL) card issued by the Central or State Government are also eligible.
If there aren't enough SC, ST, and minority students, the percentage of OBC (non-creamy layer) and poor general candidates can be increased up to 40%.

How To Apply

Eligible universities and colleges can apply for these coaching schemes. The application details and submission process are typically managed through official channels. For specific guidance and to submit an application, please refer to the official notifications and websites of the Ministry of Education and the University Grants Commission (UGC).

Official Application Link:

Official UGC Website (for relevant scheme notifications and application procedures)

Documents Required

While the specific documents might be detailed in the application form provided by the implementing body, generally, applicants may need:

Aadhaar Card for identity verification.
Caste/Community Certificate issued by the competent authority to confirm eligibility.
Academic Transcripts or Mark Sheets to verify educational qualifications.
Bank Account Details for any financial assistance disbursement.

FAQ’s

What kind of support does this coaching scheme offer?

This scheme provides comprehensive support including academic skill enhancement, preparation for competitive exams like NET, SET, and recruitment tests for Group A, B, and C services. It also includes career guidance and psychological counseling to build students' confidence and capacities.

Can general category students also apply for this coaching?

Yes, general category students can apply if they hold a Below Poverty Line (BPL) card issued by the Central or State Government. The percentage of OBC (non-creamy layer) and BPL general candidates can be increased up to 40% if sufficient SC, ST, and minority students are not available.

What is the maximum financial assistance provided for non-recurring items?

Institutions can receive a one-time grant of up to Rs. 5.0 lakhs for non-recurring items like books, computers, and other learning aids during the XII Plan period for each scheme.

How often is the recurring financial assistance disbursed?

The recurring financial assistance of Rs. 7.00 lakhs per university per scheme per annum is meant for annual expenditures. Payments for honorarium, remuneration, and staff salaries are generally made monthly.

Is there a specific age limit for students to apply?

The input JSON does not specify an age limit. However, typically these schemes are for students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate studies, or preparing for entry-level services.

What is the purpose of remedial coaching under this scheme?

Remedial coaching aims to improve students' academic skills and language proficiency, strengthen their foundation in basic subjects, enhance comprehension, and reduce failure and dropout rates, enabling them to pursue higher studies more effectively.

How are teachers and scholars compensated for their involvement?

Teachers can receive remuneration at Rs. 300 per hour for theory classes and Rs. 150 per hour for practicals. Postgraduate students and research scholars get Rs. 200 per hour for theory and Rs. 150 per hour for practicals. Special rates can apply for eminent educationists.

Which organizations are eligible to receive funds under this scheme?

Only universities and colleges that are covered under Section 2(f) and are fit to receive central assistance under Section 12(B) of the UGC Act, 1956, are eligible to receive financial assistance for these coaching schemes.