Merit Scholarship 2024: Complete List & Eligibility

Merit Scholarship Apply Online & Application Form | Merit Scholarship Check Beneficiary Category & Last Date | Merit Scholarship  Check Benefits & Features | Merit Scholarship Check Selection & Implementation Procedure | Merit Scholarship Check Eligibility & All Details | 

Merit Scholarships can significantly impact a student’s educational journey by providing financial support and recognition for their achievements. They catalyze academic excellence and provide students with valuable resources and support to achieve their educational goals. Learn how to maximize your chances of securing these valuable scholarships and fulfilling your academic aspirations.

This article will provide all types of information about the Merit Scholarship  2024 like purpose, Eligibility Criteria, Benefits, Features, important documents, etc. Apart from this, we will share the process to apply online for this scholarship. To get complete information about this scholarship, read this article till the end.

Merit Scholarship         

A Merit Scholarship is a type of financial aid that is awarded to students who have demonstrated outstanding academic performance, exceptional talents, or significant achievements in various fields. These scholarships are typically offered by educational institutions, government organizations, private foundations, or corporations. The aim is to recognize and reward students for their hard work, dedication, and potential, and to provide them with the necessary financial support to pursue their education.

Merit Scholarships come in various forms, including full or partial tuition waivers, cash rewards, grants, or other benefits. They can be awarded to students at various educational levels, such as high school, undergraduate, or postgraduate studies. These scholarships not only alleviate the financial burden on students and their families but also serve as a motivation for students to continue excelling in their academic pursuits.

Highlights of Merit Scholarship 2024

The highlights of this scholarship are as follows:- 

Objectives of Merit Scholarship 2024

Merit scholarships serve several important objectives:-

• Recognizing Excellence: Merit scholarships aim to acknowledge and reward students who have demonstrated exceptional academic performance, talent, or achievement in their respective fields.
• Encouraging Further Education: By providing financial assistance, merit scholarships encourage students to pursue higher education and achieve their academic goals.
• Promoting Diversity: Merit scholarships often prioritize diversity by considering students from various backgrounds, cultures, and communities, fostering an inclusive learning environment.
• Attracting Top Talent: Educational institutions and organizations offer merit scholarships to attract and retain high-achieving students, contributing to the overall reputation and success of the institution.
• Recognizing academic achievement
• Encouraging students to excel
• Attracting top talent to universities
• Providing financial assistance to deserving students
• Promoting diversity and inclusion
• Encouraging community service and leadership
• Fostering a spirit of competition
• Supporting students in pursuing their educational goals
• Building a strong alumni network
• Enhancing the reputation of the institution

Government Funded Scholarships

The list of covered scholarships under this category is as follows:-

• INSPIRE Scholarship
• KVPY – Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojana
• NTSE Scholarship
• NEC Scholarship – Merit Scholarship, Tripura
• Medhabruti Scholarship
• Swami Vivekananda Merit cum Means Scholarship
• UGC Merit Scholarship – Post Graduate Merit Scholarship for University Rank Holders

INSPIRE Scholarship

The INSPIRE Scholarship is offered by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India. It aims to attract talented students to pursue a career in science and research. The scholarship is available for students studying in the 11th and 12th grades and provides financial assistance of INR 80,000 per year.

KVPY – Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojana

The KVPY scholarship is conducted by the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) and is awarded to students who have a keen interest in pursuing a career in research. The scholarship is available for students studying in the 11th, 12th, and undergraduate levels. It provides a monthly stipend of INR 5,000 to INR 7,000 along with an annual contingency grant.

NTSE Scholarship

The National Talent Search Examination (NTSE) scholarship is one of the most prestigious scholarships in India. It is conducted by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) and is awarded to students studying in the 10th grade. The scholarship provides a monthly stipend of INR 1,250 for secondary level and INR 2,000 for higher secondary level students.

NEC Scholarship – Merit Scholarship, Tripura

The NEC Scholarship, also known as the Merit Scholarship, is offered by the North Eastern Council (NEC) to students from the northeastern states of India. It is available for students pursuing higher education at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. The scholarship provides financial assistance to cover tuition fees, hostel fees, and other educational expenses.

Medhabruti Scholarship

The Medhabruti Scholarship is offered by the Government of Odisha to meritorious students from economically weaker sections. It is available for students pursuing higher education in professional courses such as engineering, medical, management, and law. The scholarship covers tuition fees, hostel fees, and other educational expenses.

Swami Vivekananda Merit cum Means Scholarship

The Swami Vivekananda Merit cum Means Scholarship is offered by the Government of West Bengal to meritorious students from economically backward backgrounds. It is available for students studying at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. The scholarship provides financial assistance to cover tuition fees and other educational expenses.

UGC Merit Scholarship – Post Graduate Merit Scholarship for University Rank Holders

The UGC Merit Scholarship is awarded by the University Grants Commission (UGC) to students who have secured the first or second rank in their undergraduate programs. It is available for students pursuing postgraduate studies in any recognized university in India. The scholarship provides a monthly stipend of INR 3,100 along with a contingency grant of INR 10,000 per annum.

Private Funded Scholarships

The list of covered scholarships under this category is as follows:-

• Aditya Birla World Academy Scholarship
• Merck Scholarship
• Dhirubhai Ambani Scholarship
• Atul Maheshwari Scholarship
• Abhilasha Scholarship
• UGAM Legrand Scholarship Program
• North South Foundation (NSF) Scholarship
• Sumedha Scholarship – Yashad-Sumedha Scholarship
• IndusInd Foundation Merit-cum-Means Scholarship
• Baba Gurbachan Singh Scholarship
• National Scholarship Exam
• SOF Girl Child Scholarship Scheme (GCSS)
• Fair and Lovely Scholarship
• WISDOM Scholarship
• Dr. Reddy’s Foundation Sashakt Scholarship
• L’Oréal India Scholarship
• GP Birla Scholarship
• Bighelp Merit Scholarship
• SRM Scholarship
• RGIPT M.Tech Fellowship
• Debesh-Kamal Scholarships
• Saryu Doshi Post Graduate Fellowship
• DLF Foundation Scholarship – Nurturing Talent Programme
• DLF Foundation Scholarship – AKANKSHA Scholarship
• Schindler Igniting Minds Scholarship
• Tata Housing Scholarship
• Hindustan Times Scholarship
• Marubeni Scholarship

Aditya Birla World Academy Scholarship

The Aditya Birla World Academy Scholarship aims to provide financial assistance to meritorious students who wish to pursue their education at the Aditya Birla World Academy in Mumbai, India. This scholarship is open to students from all backgrounds and covers tuition fees for the entire duration of the chosen course.

Merck Scholarship

The Merck Scholarship is a prestigious scholarship program offered by Merck, a leading global pharmaceutical company. This scholarship is designed to support students pursuing a degree in the field of science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM). The scholarship provides financial aid to selected students based on their academic achievements and potential.

Dhirubhai Ambani Scholarship

The Dhirubhai Ambani Scholarship is offered by the Dhirubhai Ambani Foundation to meritorious students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance and financial need. This scholarship aims to provide financial support to students pursuing undergraduate studies in any discipline. Selected students receive financial assistance to cover their tuition fees and other related expenses.

Atul Maheshwari Scholarship

The Atul Maheshwari Scholarship is a scholarship program initiated by the Amar Ujala Foundation in memory of Atul Maheshwari, the founder of Amar Ujala newspaper. This scholarship is open to students from Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand who have passed their high school examinations with excellent academic records. The scholarship provides financial assistance to students pursuing higher education in any discipline.

Abhilasha Scholarship

The Abhilasha Scholarship is a scholarship program offered by the Abhilasha Foundation to support the education of economically disadvantaged students. This scholarship aims to provide financial assistance to students from marginalized backgrounds who have demonstrated academic excellence. The scholarship covers tuition fees and other educational expenses.

UGAM Legrand Scholarship Program

The UGAM Legrand Scholarship Program is a scholarship initiative by Legrand, a global leader in electrical and digital building infrastructure solutions. This scholarship is open to meritorious students pursuing undergraduate studies in engineering, architecture, or design. Selected students receive financial aid to cover their tuition fees and other related expenses.

North South Foundation (NSF) Scholarship

The North South Foundation (NSF) Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship program for students of Indian origin residing in the United States. This scholarship aims to support students pursuing undergraduate studies in various fields such as engineering, medicine, and computer science. The scholarship provides financial assistance to selected students based on their academic achievements and financial need.

Sumedha Scholarship – Yashad-Sumedha Scholarship

The Sumedha Scholarship, also known as the Yashad-Sumedha Scholarship, is a scholarship program offered by Yashad Foundation. This scholarship aims to provide financial assistance to meritorious students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. The scholarship covers tuition fees and other educational expenses for students pursuing higher education in any discipline.

IndusInd Foundation Merit-cum-Means Scholarship

The IndusInd Foundation Merit-cum-Means Scholarship is a scholarship program initiated by the IndusInd Foundation to support the education of deserving students. This scholarship is open to students from economically weaker sections of society who have demonstrated exceptional academic performance. The scholarship provides financial assistance to cover tuition fees and other related expenses.

Baba Gurbachan Singh Scholarship

The Baba Gurbachan Singh Scholarship is a scholarship program offered by the Baba Gurbachan Singh Memorial Trust. This scholarship aims to support students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds who wish to pursue higher education. The scholarship provides financial assistance to selected students based on their academic achievements and financial need.

National Scholarship Exam

The National Scholarship Exam is a merit-based scholarship program that aims to identify and nurture talented students in India. It is open to students from Class 5 to Class 12. The scholarship provides financial assistance and recognition to deserving students.

SOF Girl Child Scholarship Scheme (GCSS)

The SOF Girl Child Scholarship Scheme (GCSS) is an initiative by the Science Olympiad Foundation (SOF). It is specifically designed to support the education of girl children. The scholarship is open to students from Class 1 to Class 10 and provides financial assistance to help them pursue their studies.

Fair and Lovely Scholarship

The Fair and Lovely Scholarship is an initiative by Hindustan Unilever Limited. It is aimed at supporting the education of women in India. The scholarship is open to girls who have completed their Class 12 and want to pursue higher education. It provides financial assistance to cover tuition fees and other related expenses.

WISDOM Scholarship

The WISDOM Scholarship, initiated by the Wipro Consumer Care and Lighting Group, is a merit-based scholarship program for girls. It is open to students who have completed their Class 12 and are pursuing undergraduate studies in any discipline. The scholarship offers financial support to cover tuition fees and other educational expenses.

Dr. Reddy’s Foundation Sashakt Scholarship

The Dr. Reddy’s Foundation Sashakt Scholarship is a need-based scholarship program for girls from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. It is open to students who have completed their Class 12 and are pursuing undergraduate studies in any field. The scholarship provides financial assistance to cover tuition fees, accommodation, and other educational expenses.

L’Oréal India Scholarship

The L’Oréal India Scholarship is an initiative by L’Oréal India Pvt. Ltd. It is aimed at supporting young women in pursuing higher education in the field of science. The scholarship is open to girls who have completed their Class 12 and wish to pursue a career in science. It provides financial assistance to cover tuition fees and other related expenses.

GP Birla Scholarship

The GP Birla Scholarship is a merit-cum-means scholarship program for girls pursuing undergraduate studies in any discipline. It is open to students who have completed their Class 12 and have secured admission to a recognized college or university. The scholarship provides financial assistance to cover tuition fees and other educational expenses.

Bighelp Merit Scholarship

The Bighelp Merit Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship program for girls from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. It is open to students who have completed their Class 10 and are pursuing higher secondary education. The scholarship provides financial assistance to cover tuition fees and other educational expenses.

SRM Scholarship

The SRM Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship program for girls pursuing undergraduate studies in any discipline at SRM University. It is open to students who have completed their Class 12 and have secured admission to SRM University. The scholarship provides financial assistance to cover tuition fees and other educational expenses.

RGIPT M.Tech Fellowship

The RGIPT M.Tech Fellowship is a prestigious scholarship offered by the Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Petroleum Technology (RGIPT) to meritorious students pursuing a Master’s degree in Engineering or Technology. The fellowship covers the full tuition fees and provides a monthly stipend to the selected candidates.

Debesh-Kamal Scholarships

The Debesh-Kamal Scholarships are awarded to postgraduate students in India who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievements and research potential in the field of Science, Engineering, or Technology. The scholarship provides financial assistance to cover tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses.

Saryu Doshi Post Graduate Fellowship

The Saryu Doshi Post Graduate Fellowship is a scholarship program offered by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) to support postgraduate students in the field of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences. The fellowship provides financial assistance to cover tuition fees, research expenses, and living expenses.

DLF Foundation Scholarship – Nurturing Talent Programme

The DLF Foundation Scholarship – Nurturing Talent Programme aims to support meritorious students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds pursuing postgraduate studies in various disciplines. The scholarship covers tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses for the duration of the course.

DLF Foundation Scholarship – AKANKSHA Scholarship

The DLF Foundation Scholarship – AKANKSHA Scholarship is another initiative by the DLF Foundation to provide financial support to postgraduate students from economically weaker sections of society. The scholarship covers tuition fees and provides a monthly stipend to the selected candidates.

Schindler Igniting Minds Scholarship

The Schindler Igniting Minds Scholarship is a merit-cum-means scholarship program offered by Schindler India Pvt. Ltd. to support postgraduate students pursuing studies in the fields of Engineering, Architecture, and Business Administration. The scholarship covers tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses.

Tata Housing Scholarship

The Tata Housing Scholarship is a scholarship program offered by Tata Housing Development Company Limited to support postgraduate students pursuing studies in the field of Architecture, Planning, and Design. The scholarship provides financial assistance to cover tuition fees and living expenses.

Hindustan Times Scholarship

The Hindustan Times Scholarship is awarded to postgraduate students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievements and leadership potential. The scholarship provides financial assistance to cover tuition fees and living expenses for the duration of the course.

Marubeni Scholarship

The Marubeni Scholarship is a scholarship program offered by Marubeni India Private Limited to support postgraduate students pursuing studies in various disciplines. The scholarship provides financial assistance to cover tuition fees and living expenses.

Beneficiary Category 

The beneficiary category for merit scholarships varies depending on the specific scholarship program. Scholarships can be available for students at different educational levels, such as high school, undergraduate, or postgraduate studies. Some scholarships may be open to students from specific fields of study, while others may be more general. Students need to research and identify the scholarships that align with their academic pursuits and eligibility criteria.

Application Enrollment Last Dates

The application enrollment dates for merit scholarships differ from one scholarship program to another. Students need to be aware of and adhere to the specified deadlines. Missing the application deadline may result in disqualification from consideration. Students should carefully review the scholarship requirements and plan their application process accordingly to ensure timely submission.

Selection Procedure 

The selection procedure for merit scholarships typically involves a thorough evaluation of applicants based on specific criteria. This may include academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, personal statements, letters of recommendation, and interviews. The selection committee assesses each applicant’s qualifications and potential to determine the deserving recipients of the scholarship. Students must present a compelling application that highlights their achievements and aspirations.

Implementation Procedure 

The implementation procedure of merit scholarships involves the disbursement of funds or other benefits to the selected recipients. This process varies depending on the scholarship program and the institution or organization offering the scholarship. Recipients may be required to provide necessary documentation, such as enrollment verification, to receive the scholarship funds. Students need to follow the instructions provided by the scholarship provider to ensure a smooth implementation process.

Supervision Body 

The supervision of merit scholarships is typically carried out by the institution, organization, or foundation that offers the scholarship. They ensure that the selection process is fair, transparent, and by the scholarship guidelines. The supervision body also oversees the implementation and disbursement of the scholarships to deserving recipients.

Key Guidelines 

The key guidelines are as follows:- 

• Read and understand the eligibility criteria and requirements of each scholarship.
• Prepare a well-written personal statement that showcases your achievements, goals, and aspirations.
• Request letters of recommendation from teachers, mentors, or professionals who can attest to your abilities.
• Submit all required documents and ensure they are accurate and up to date.
• Meet the application deadline and submit your application well in advance.
• Research and apply for multiple scholarships to increase your chances of success.
• Proofread your application thoroughly to avoid any errors or inconsistencies.
• Follow up with the scholarship provider to confirm the receipt of your application.
• Prepare for interviews, if required, by practising common interview questions and showcasing your strengths.
• Stay positive and persistent, even if you face rejection, as there are numerous scholarship opportunities available.

Important Instructions 

Some important instructions issued for applicants are as follows:- 

• Be honest and authentic in your application, as misleading information can lead to disqualification.
• Seek guidance from teachers, counsellors, or scholarship advisors to enhance your application.
• Keep track of scholarship deadlines and set reminders to ensure timely submission.
• Apply for scholarships that align with your academic goals and interests.
• Take advantage of scholarship search engines and online resources to explore available opportunities.
• Stay organized by creating a checklist of required documents and tasks for each scholarship application.
• Prepare a financial plan to manage your educational expenses, considering both scholarships and other sources of funding.
• Stay persistent and continue searching for scholarships throughout your academic journey.
• Express gratitude to scholarship providers by sending thank-you notes or emails if you receive an award.
• Share your scholarship success story with others to inspire and motivate fellow students.

Benefits of Merit Scholarship 2024

The benefits of this scholarship are as follows:-

• Reduced Educational Costs: The most significant benefit is financial aid. Merit scholarships can cover a portion or even the entire cost of tuition, fees, and other educational expenses, alleviating financial burdens on students and their families.
• Increased Affordability: This financial assistance allows students to consider attending schools they might not otherwise afford, expanding their educational options and potentially increasing their earning potential in the future.
• Reduced Loan Dependence: By reducing reliance on student loans, scholarships can minimize debt incurred for education, providing financial freedom and flexibility after graduation.
• Focus on Studies: Financial security from scholarships helps students focus on their academics rather than worrying about finances, potentially leading to improved academic performance.
• Living Expenses: Some scholarships may offer additional support for living expenses such as housing, food, and transportation, further assisting with financial stability.
• Increased Prestige and Recognition: Merit scholarships are awarded based on academic achievements, signifying recognition of a student’s talent and potential, which can boost confidence and motivation.
• Networking Opportunities: Many scholarships come with networking opportunities and connections to alumni, mentors, and industry professionals, enhancing career prospects.
• Boosting College Applications: Having a merit scholarship on your academic record can strengthen your college applications, potentially improving your chances of admission to competitive institutions.
• Scholarship Stacking: Students can sometimes qualify for multiple scholarships, further reducing their financial burden and creating a more comfortable learning environment.
• Motivation and Inspiration: Receiving a merit scholarship can act as a positive reinforcement, further motivating the student to excel academically and achieve their goals.

Features Of Merit Scholarship 2024

The features of this scholarship are as follows:-

• Academic Excellence: A merit scholarship is awarded to students who have demonstrated exceptional academic performance. It recognizes their hard work, dedication, and commitment to their studies.
• Financial Support: One of the main benefits of a merit scholarship is the financial assistance it provides. It helps students cover the cost of tuition fees, textbooks, and other educational expenses.
• Recognition and Prestige: Being awarded a merit scholarship is a prestigious achievement. It highlights the student’s abilities and sets them apart from their peers.
• Opportunities for Advancement: A merit scholarship opens doors to various opportunities for further academic and professional advancement. It can lead to internships, research opportunities, and networking events.
• Reduced Student Loan Debt: By receiving a merit scholarship, students can reduce their reliance on student loans, which can help them graduate with less debt and financial burden.
• Increased Motivation: The recognition and financial support provided by a merit scholarship can serve as a strong motivator for students to continue striving for excellence in their academic pursuits.
• Access to Resources: Merit scholars often have access to additional resources, such as specialized libraries, research facilities, and mentorship programs, which can enhance their educational experience.
• Enhanced Resume: Having a merit scholarship on their resume can make a significant impact on a student’s future job prospects. It demonstrates their exceptional abilities and dedication to their field of study.
• Personal Growth: Merit scholarships not only recognize academic achievement but also promote personal growth. They encourage students to develop leadership skills, engage in community service, and pursue their passions.
• Networking Opportunities: Merit scholarships often provide students with opportunities to connect with other scholars, alumni, and industry professionals, creating valuable networks that can support their future endeavors.

Important Documents 

Some of the important documents required to apply online for this scholarship are as follows:-

• Aadhar Card
• Residence Certificate
• Income Certificate 
• Educational Certificates 
• Bank Account Details 
• Latest Passport Size Photos 
• Mobile No
• Email ID 

Top 10 FAQs

What is a merit scholarship?

A merit scholarship is a financial award given to students based on their academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and other accomplishments. Unlike need-based scholarships, which are awarded based on financial need, merit scholarships are awarded based on merit.

How do I qualify for a merit scholarship?

To qualify for a merit scholarship, you typically need to have a strong academic record, participate in extracurricular activities, and demonstrate leadership skills. Each scholarship may have specific criteria, so be sure to read the eligibility requirements carefully.

What are the benefits of receiving a merit scholarship?

There are several benefits to receiving a merit scholarship. Not only does it provide financial assistance for your education, but it also recognizes your hard work and achievements. Additionally, receiving a merit scholarship can enhance your resume and help you stand out to potential employers.

Can I apply for multiple merit scholarships?

Yes, you can apply for multiple merit scholarships. However, keep in mind that each scholarship may have its own application process and deadline. Be sure to carefully review the requirements for each scholarship and submit all necessary materials on time.

How do I find merit scholarships to apply for?

There are several ways to find merit scholarships to apply for. You can start by checking with your school’s guidance counselor, searching online scholarship databases, and reaching out to organizations related to your field of study. Additionally, many colleges and universities offer merit scholarships to incoming students.

What is the difference between a merit scholarship and a grant?

A merit scholarship is awarded based on a student’s achievements, while a grant is typically awarded based on financial need. Both types of awards provide financial assistance for education, but the criteria for eligibility are different.

Can I lose my merit scholarship?

In some cases, students can lose their merit scholarships if they fail to meet certain requirements, such as maintaining a minimum GPA or participating in specific activities. Be sure to review the terms and conditions of your scholarship to understand what is expected of you.

How do merit scholarships impact financial aid?

Merit scholarships can impact the amount of financial aid you receive from other sources. Be sure to report any merit scholarships you receive to your school’s financial aid office so they can adjust your financial aid package accordingly.