Can I get more than one scholarship at the same time?

Generally, no, you cannot hold multiple scholarships that cover the same costs (like tuition or maintenance). However, in some cases, book grants or performance-based rewards can be accepted alongside primary aid. Always check the terms of each scheme.

Do merit scholarships get renewed every year?

Yes, most are renewable annually, provided you maintain a minimum academic performance (CGPA or %), fulfill attendance criteria, and clear all subjects. Some scholarships require reapplication with updated academic records.

Do all public universities offer internal merit scholarships?

Most central and state universities, like DU, JNU, BHU, and JMI, offer internal scholarships. However, availability may vary by department or college. Students should check with their department’s scholarship coordinator or the university’s financial aid office.

Are merit scholarships also available for distance learning or part-time courses?

Most scholarships are targeted at full-time regular students. However, a few schemes (e.g., IGNOU scholarships for SC/ST) may apply to certain distance learning programs. Check with the specific institution.

Public Universities Merit Base Scholarships

Q: Who is eligible for merit-based scholarships in public universities?

Students who have demonstrated outstanding academic performance—such as high marks in board exams, top ranks in entrance tests (like CUET, JEE, NEET), or excellent CGPA in their university programs—are typically eligible. Some scholarships may also have additional criteria like course stream or minimum attendance.

Q: Do I need to belong to a particular income group to apply for merit scholarships?

Not always. Pure merit scholarships are awarded regardless of financial background. However, merit-cum-means scholarships consider both academic performance and family income—typically requiring an annual income below ₹3–8 lakh.

Q: Can students from any stream (Arts, Commerce, Science) apply for merit scholarships?

Yes, merit-based scholarships are available across all major streams—Arts, Commerce, Science, as well as technical and professional courses (Engineering, Law, Medicine, etc.). Some scholarships are also stream-specific.

Q: Are there separate scholarships for PG students or only for UG?

Merit-based scholarships are available at both UG and PG levels. PG students can also avail subject-specific awards (e.g., GATE-based stipends, UGC NET-JRF, CSIR Fellowships) and internal merit awards at their universities.

Q: How much financial support do these scholarships offer?

University-level merit scholarships: ₹5,000 to ₹20,000 per year National scholarships: ₹10,000 to ₹80,000 per year Research fellowships: ₹25,000 to ₹35,000/month + contingency grants

Public universities in India are known for their affordable fees and quality academics. Many of its colleges also reward academic excellence by offering merit-based scholarships to the students who deserve it. These scholarships recognize talent and provide financial support to students with merit regardless of their economic background.

This article provides a complete overview of the top merit-based scholarships available at government and public universities. Whether the student is a top scorer in school or university, or an achiever in entrance exams, there are numerous opportunities available to support their academic journey.

What are Merit Based Scholarships?

Merit-based scholarships are awarded to students based on their academic performance, entrance exam rank, and subject-specific excellence, irrespective background.

Top Merit-Based Scholarships at Public Universities

Common Criteria for Merit Based Scholarships

High scores in board exams (Class 12)
Topping a university course or department
Rank in national/state-level entrance exams (like CUET, JEE, NEET, GATE)
CGPA-based performance in current academic programme
Subject or stream-specific excellence

Top Merit Based Scholarships

Here are some of the most well-known merit scholarships across central, state, and university levels:

University	Scholarship Name	Eligibility Criteria	Award Amount/Type
University of Delhi	Merit Scholarship by College	Top-performing students in each stream/subject	₹5,000 to ₹10,000 per year
	University-Level Merit-cum-Means	Top 10% scorers with family income < ₹3 lakh/year
Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU)	Merit Scholarships for Toppers	Toppers in each school/program
	G. Parthasarathi Endowment Fellowship	Outstanding performance
	Raman Fellowships / ICSSR aid	Research scholars
Banaras Hindu University (BHU)	Merit Scholarships by Department	Top UG/PG students in each faculty	Cash, certificates, and book grants
	Malaviya Scholarships	Academic excellence
Jamia Millia Islamia	Merit Scholarship for Topper in Faculty	Based on previous semester CGPA or entrance rank
	Merit-cum-means scholarships	High achievers with financial need
University of Hyderabad (UoH)	Monthly stipends and departmental awards	PG students with high GATE/CSIR-NET scores	Monthly stipends and departmental awards

National-Level Merit-Based Scholarships

Scholarship	Offering Ministry/Department	Eligibility	Amount	Application Method
Central Sector Scheme of Scholarships for College and University Students	Ministry of Education	Top 20th percentile scorers in Class 12 (CBSE/State Boards); Family income below ₹8 lakh/year	₹10,000 per year (UG), ₹20,000 per year (PG)	NSP Portal
INSPIRE Scholarship	Department of Science & Technology	Science stream UG students among top 1% in Class 12; Must pursue BSc/Integrated MSc in Natural Sciences at a public institution	₹80,000/year	Not specified

Subject-Specific Merit Scholarships

How to Apply

Check the university’s official portal for internal merit scholarships.
For national schemes, register at NSP Portal.
Documents Required:
Marksheet/certificate (10+2, UG, PG)
Income certificate (if merit-cum-means)
Admission proof
Bank details, Aadhaar

Merit based scholarships in public universities play a vital role in encouraging academic excellence and ensuring that the hard-working students are rewarded for their efforts. These scholarships not only reduce the financial burden of higher education but also recognise talent across disciplines and regions. From university-specific awards to prestigious national fellowships, students at government institutions have access to numerous merit-based opportunities that can significantly support their educational journey. Whether the student is a Class 12 topper entering college or a PG student pursuing research, there’s likely a merit scholarship that aligns with their goals. It is very important to make sure to explore all the options available, track application deadlines, and stay proactive in applying. With the right support, their academic potential can take them further than they imagined—without financial obstacles holding them back.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for merit-based scholarships in public universities?

Students who have demonstrated outstanding academic performance—such as high marks in board exams, top ranks in entrance tests (like CUET, JEE, NEET), or excellent CGPA in their university programs—are typically eligible. Some scholarships may also have additional criteria like course stream or minimum attendance.

Do I need to belong to a particular income group to apply for merit scholarships?

Not always. Pure merit scholarships are awarded regardless of financial background. However, merit-cum-means scholarships consider both academic performance and family income—typically requiring an annual income below ₹3–8 lakh.

Can students from any stream (Arts, Commerce, Science) apply for merit scholarships?