Learn how to Apply for Scholarship After 12th, check if you meet the rules. Collect all documents. Find scholarships online or at colleges. Fill out the forms carefully. Submit on time. Focus on your marks, need, and accuracy to increase your chances.
After finishing 12th grade, paying for college can be hard. Scholarships help you cover fees. But many students feel confused. There are many scholarships and rules.
Deadlines can be tricky too. Don’t worry. This guide will show you how to apply for scholarships after 12th. We will go step by step with easy examples.
Eligibility Criteria for Scholarships After 12th
To apply for scholarships after 12th, students must meet simple rules. Some scholarships look at marks. Some help students with low income. Others check talents in sports, arts, or leadership. Checking rules first saves time and avoids rejection.
Academic Requirements
Most scholarships need a minimum percentage in 12th grade. Merit-based ones usually ask for 75% or more. Some accept 60–70%. Certain scholarships are for students in Science, Commerce, or Arts. Scholarships like the Inspire Scholarship also look at innovation or projects.
Age, Nationality, and Income Criteria
Some scholarships have age limits. Many need students to be Indian citizens. Government scholarships may also ask for family income details. Scholarships for low-income students help those who need financial support most.
Extra-Curricular and Leadership Requirements
Scholarships often like leadership and community work. Include awards, volunteer work, or club activities. Programs like the Inspire Scholarship also reward creative ideas and projects, not just grades.
Types of Scholarships Available
After 12th, students can pick government, private, college, or online scholarships. Each type has different rules and benefits.
| Type of Scholarship | Description | Examples / Links |
| Government | Funded by central or state governments. Can be merit or need-based. | National Scholarship Portal |
| Private | Given by trusts, companies, or organizations. Focus may be academics, sports, or arts. | Tata Trust Scholarships, Aditya Birla Scholarships |
| College/University | Offered by colleges to help students or attract top students. | Check your college’s official website |
| Online Platforms | Lists scholarships across streams and categories. | Buddy4Study |
These scholarships may cover fees, books, or living costs. Some private ones also offer mentorship or internship opportunities.
Types of Scholarships
Merit-Based Scholarships
Merit-based scholarships are given to students who have high academic scores, strong skills, or special achievements. These awards reward effort and talent rather than financial need. For example, students with top grades in board exams or winners of national competitions may qualify. Many universities and government bodies offer such scholarships to attract talented students.
Need-Based Scholarships
Need-based scholarships help students from low-income families who cannot afford college fees. These scholarships look at the financial background of the student’s family. Marks are still important, but the main focus is on financial support. Organizations such as UNICEF and many government schemes often provide this type of aid to ensure education for all.
Country-Specific Scholarships
Country-specific scholarships are designed for students who want to study in a different country. Many governments and institutions offer funding to international students. For instance, Fulbright Scholarships (USA) or Chevening Scholarships (UK) are famous programs that help global students. These awards promote cultural exchange and global education opportunities.
Subject-Specific Scholarships
Subject-specific scholarships support students who choose a particular field of study. For example, a student studying engineering, medicine, or law may get special scholarships for that subject. Universities and private organizations often fund these programs to encourage growth in high-demand careers.
How to Find Scholarships After 12th
Finding scholarships is important. Start with safe sources.
Official Government Websites
The National Scholarship Portal lists all central and state scholarships. Search by stream, eligibility, and category.
Scholarship Search Portals
Websites like Scholarships.com and Buddy4Study show filtered lists of scholarships, deadlines, and required documents.
College Websites
Most colleges list scholarships under “Admissions” or “Financial Aid”. Check often to avoid missing deadlines.
Tips to Verify Authenticity
Use official links. Avoid sites asking for upfront fees. Read reviews or testimonials from past students.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Applying for a scholarship after 12th is easy if you follow steps. Doing it in order helps you succeed.
Gather Required Documents
Collect all important documents before starting. These usually include:
- 12th grade marksheet and certificate
- ID proof like Aadhar, Passport, or School ID
- Income certificate for need-based scholarships
- Certificates for extra-curricular activities or awards
- Passport-size photos
Having all documents ready saves time and avoids mistakes.
Fill Out the Application Form
Read instructions carefully. Fill all details correctly. Use clear handwriting for offline forms. For online forms, check every entry twice. Many scholarships use National Scholarship Portal for online submissions.
Meet the Deadlines
Submit the form before the last date. Late forms are usually rejected. Keep a copy or confirmation email for your records.
Follow Up
Check the portal or your email for updates. Some scholarships ask for extra documents or interviews. Reply quickly to stay in the selection process.
Tips to Increase Your Chances
To improve your chances, focus on marks, preparation, and presentation.
- Keep good grades in 12th. Most scholarships value marks.
- Show extra-curricular activities, leadership, and volunteer work.
- Write a clear and honest essay if needed.
- Get recommendation letters from teachers or mentors.
- Apply to more than one scholarship to increase chances.
Scholarships like Tata Trust Scholarships also value social impact, so a balanced application works better.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid mistakes to improve your success rate.
- Missing deadlines is the top reason for rejection.
- Submitting wrong or incomplete documents can cancel your application.
- Ignoring eligibility rules wastes time.
- Copying essays from the internet can get you disqualified.
- Not checking for spelling or number errors can hurt your chances.
Always read instructions carefully and check your form twice before submitting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I apply for more than one scholarship?
Yes. You can apply to many scholarships. This increases your chance of getting help.
Are scholarships only for top students?
No. Some are merit-based. Others focus on financial need, sports, arts, or leadership. Many students can apply.
How long does it take to get scholarship approval?
It varies. Some give results in a few weeks. Others may take 1–3 months. Check emails or the portal for updates.
Do I need to submit documents online or offline?
It depends. Many use online portals like the National Scholarship Portal. Some need offline submission. Always read instructions.
Can international students apply?
Some scholarships allow this. Most Indian government scholarships need Indian citizenship. Private or university scholarships may have different rules.
What if I miss the deadline?
If you miss it, you usually cannot apply. Plan early. Set a reminder for each scholarship.
Are recommendation letters needed?
Some scholarships ask for them. Letters from teachers, mentors, or principals help show your skills and achievements.
Conclusion
Getting a scholarship after 12th is easy if you follow the steps. Start early and collect all required documents. This includes marksheets, ID proofs, income certificates, and awards. Check the eligibility rules. Fill forms carefully and submit before the deadline. Focus on your grades, financial need, and extra-curricular activities. Scholarships can pay for tuition, books, and living costs. They also give recognition, mentorship, and better career chances.