1. Introduction
Education is one of the most powerful tools to uplift marginalized communities. However, many students—especially those belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST)—face financial challenges when pursuing higher education. To bridge this gap, the Government of Karnataka launched the Prize Money Scholarship Scheme, offering ₹20,000–₹35,000 as an incentive to meritorious SC/ST students who pass their courses in the first attempt with first class.
This one-time incentive not only recognizes hard work but also reduces the financial burden on families, motivating students to aim higher.
2. Overview of the Scheme
- Official Name: Prize Money Scholarship (Incentive Scheme)
- Implementing Department: Karnataka Social Welfare Department (SC students) & Karnataka Tribal Welfare Department (ST students)
- Mode of Application: Online + Offline verification
- Mode of Payment: Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to Aadhaar-linked bank accounts
- Last Date for 2025–26 Applications: To be announced
The scheme is unique because it is a one-time cash incentive and not a recurring monthly/annual scholarship.
3. History & Background of the Scheme
- Started as a welfare measure to encourage meritorious SC/ST students.
- Over the years, the incentive amount has been revised multiple times.
- Initially, only degree students were covered; later extended to PUC, Diploma, Postgraduate, and Professional courses.
- The scheme is part of Karnataka’s broader strategy to increase SC/ST representation in higher education.
4. Incentive Amounts by Course Level
| Course Level | Incentive Amount (₹) |
|---|---|
| II PUC / Polytechnic Diploma | 20,000 |
| Degree (BA, BSc, BCom, etc.) | 25,000 |
| Postgraduate (MA, MSc, etc.) | 30,000 |
| Professional Courses (BE, MBBS, etc.) | 35,000 |
5. Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a resident of Karnataka.
- Must belong to SC or ST community.
- Must have cleared the exam in first attempt.
- Must have scored first class (≥ 60%).
- Must be studying in a recognized institution.
- Must have an Aadhaar-linked bank account.
6. Important Conditions (Who is NOT Eligible)
- Students who passed in supplementary/compartmental exams.
- Students studying in unrecognized institutions.
- Students who completed a degree via distance/open universities (except KSOU).
- Students who already availed the incentive for the same course.
7. Documents Required
- Aadhaar Card
- Recent passport-size photograph (100 KB or less)
- Marksheet (SSLC, PUC, Degree/Diploma, PG)
- Caste Certificate
- Domicile Certificate
- Bank Account details (Aadhaar-linked)
- Income Certificate (if required)
8. Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Online Registration
- Visit Seva Sindhu Portal or official SWD/TWD portal.
- Click on “Apply for Prize Money Scholarship.”
Step 2: Aadhaar Authentication
- Enter Aadhaar number → OTP → Authentication successful.
Step 3: Fill Application Form
- Enter personal details, caste details, educational qualifications, and bank details.
Step 4: Upload Documents
- Upload scanned copies of required documents.
Step 5: Download Acknowledgment Slip
- Save or print the acknowledgment slip.
Step 6: College Verification
- Get the acknowledgment certified by your college principal.
Step 7: Submit Offline
- Submit certified documents at the District Social Welfare Office.
9. Verification and Approval Process
- The District Social/Tribal Welfare Officer verifies the details.
- Marksheets and caste certificates are cross-checked.
- If approved, the file moves to the state-level approval committee.
10. Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) System Explained
- Once approved, the incentive amount is directly credited to the student’s Aadhaar-linked bank account.
- This ensures transparency, speed, and zero middlemen corruption.
11. How to Check Application Status
- Visit the official portal.
- Enter Acknowledgment Number or Aadhaar number.
- View real-time status (Pending/Verified/Approved/Rejected/Transferred).
12. Common Mistakes Students Make
- Uploading blurred or oversized documents.
- Not linking bank account with Aadhaar.
- Entering incorrect IFSC code.
- Submitting late applications.
13. Role of Colleges & Universities
- Verify and certify applications.
- Ensure timely communication to students.
- Forward documents to District Office.
14. District Social Welfare/Tribal Welfare Offices
- Final verification of applications.
- Handle student queries.
- Disbursement monitoring.
15. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is there any income limit?
👉 No, this scheme is purely merit-based.
Q2: Can I apply if I’m studying outside Karnataka?
👉 No, only Karnataka institutions are covered (except KSOU).
Q3: How long does it take to receive the money?
👉 Usually 2–4 months after verification.
16. Comparison with Other Karnataka Scholarships
- Vidyasiri Scholarship → Food & hostel allowance.
- Post-Matric Scholarship → Covers tuition fees.
- Minority Incentive Scheme → For Muslims, Christians, Jains, etc.
- Prabuddha Scholarship → Overseas education.
17. Case Studies: Student Success Stories
- Ramesh (Engineering Student): Received ₹35,000, used it to buy a laptop.
- Lakshmi (M.Sc. Student): ₹30,000 incentive helped her pay for project work.
- Anita (PUC Student): ₹20,000 allowed her to pursue B.Sc. without burdening parents.
18. Impact on SC/ST Student Empowerment
- Reduces dropout rates.
- Increases SC/ST enrollment in higher education.
- Boosts self-confidence & academic motivation.
19. Challenges & Issues in Implementation
- Delays in application approval.
- Lack of awareness in rural areas.
- Technical glitches in Seva Sindhu portal.
20. Government’s Future Plans
- Increase incentive amounts.
- Expand to cover merit-cum-means basis.
- Introduce auto-verification via University portals.
21. Tips for Applicants
- Apply as soon as the portal opens.
- Keep digital copies of all documents ready.
- Ensure bank account is active and Aadhaar-linked.
- Track application status regularly.
22. Conclusion
The Karnataka Prize Money Scholarship is one of the most impactful schemes for SC/ST students. With incentives ranging from ₹20,000 to ₹35,000, it empowers students to pursue education without financial stress. Every eligible student should take advantage of this scheme.
