Education changes lives. However, many students face financial hurdles. The Government of Karnataka understands this challenge. They launched the Prize Money Scholarship to help bright students. This program rewards students from Scheduled Caste (SC) and the Scheduled Tribe (ST) communities.
It celebrates their academic success. It also provides the money they need for further studies. In this article, we explain everything about this scholarship. You will learn about the eligibility rules. We will list the reward amounts. We will also guide you through the application process step-by-step.
What is the Prize Money Scholarship?
The Social Welfare Department and Tribal Welfare Department of Karnataka manage this scheme. It is a merit-based reward. The government gives this prize money to SC and ST students who pass their exams in the first attempt.
This is not a traditional monthly scholarship. It is a one-time incentive. It encourages students to maintain high grades. It also reduces the burden on parents. When a student clears a major level like 10th, 12th, or Graduation with good marks, they get this cash prize.
Why is this Scholarship Important?
Many students stop studying after school due to lack of funds. This scholarship bridges that gap. Here are three main reasons why it matters:
- Financial Support: It covers college fees and book costs.
- Motivation: It inspires students to pass exams in the first try.
- Empowerment: It helps marginalized communities reach higher positions in society.
Eligibility Criteria
You must meet specific rules to get this prize money. The government checks these details strictly.
- State Domicile: You must be a permanent resident of Karnataka.
- Caste Requirement: Only students from SC and ST categories qualify.
- First Attempt Rule: You must pass the examination in your first attempt. If you pass through supplementary exams, you cannot apply.
- Academic Performance: You generally need “First Class” marks. This usually means 60% or above.
- Recognized Institutions: You must study in a school or college recognized by the government. This includes government, aided, and recognized private colleges.
- No Income Limit: Interestingly, most prize money schemes do not have a family income cap. This means even if your family earns well, your merit still earns you the reward.
Important Dates
| Event | Academic Year 2025-26 | Academic Year 2026-27 (Expected) |
| Notification Release | March 2026 | July – August 2026 |
| Online Applications Open | April 14, 2026 | August 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply (SC) | To be announced | October – November 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply (ST) | To be announced | October – November 2026 |
| Document Verification | Ongoing after submission | Ongoing |
| Amount Disbursal (DBT) | May – June 2026 onwards | December 2026 onwards |
Reward Amounts for Different Courses
The government gives different amounts based on the course you completed. The higher the level of education, the higher the prize money.
| Course Completed | Reward Amount (Approx.) |
| SSLC (Class 10) | ₹7,000 |
| II PUC (Class 12) | ₹20,000 |
| 3-Year Polytechnic Diploma | ₹20,000 |
| Degree (B.A., B.Sc., B.Com, etc.) | ₹25,000 |
| Post-Graduate (M.A., M.Sc., etc.) | ₹30,000 |
| Professional Courses (Engineering, Medicine) | ₹35,000 |
Documents Required
Keep your documents ready before you start the online application. Scan them clearly.
- Aadhaar Card: Your Aadhaar must link to your bank account.
- Caste Certificate: A valid certificate issued by the Tehsildar.
- Income Certificate: Some departments may ask for this for verification.
- SSLC Marks Card: Your Class 10 results.
- Previous Year Marks Card: The marks card of the course you just finished.
- Bank Passbook: The front page showing the Account Number and IFSC Code.
- Passport Size Photo: A recent digital photo.
- College Study Certificate: Proof that you are currently studying further.
Application Process
The application process is entirely online. You do not need to visit government offices for the initial stages. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Visit the Official Portal
Go to the Social Welfare Department (SWD) website or the Tribal Welfare Department (TWD) portal. Look for the “Prize Money Scholarship” link.
Step 2: New Registration
Click on “New Registration.” Enter your Aadhaar number. The system will verify your details via OTP. Ensure your mobile number links to your Aadhaar.
Step 3: Enter Academic Details
Fill in your SSLC registration number. The portal often fetches marks automatically from the board database. Select your caste and category carefully.
Step 4: Fill College Information
Enter the details of the college where you passed the exam. Also, mention your current college if you are pursuing higher studies.
Step 5: Upload Documents
Upload the scanned copies of your marks cards and certificates. Make sure the file size is within the limit (usually less than 100 KB or 200 KB).
Step 6: Bank Account Details
Check your bank details twice. The government uses Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). They send money directly to your account. Your bank account must remain active.
Step 7: Final Submission
Review all the information. Click “Submit.” The website will generate an acknowledgment slip. Print this slip for future reference.
How to Check Your Application Status?
After applying, you might wait a few weeks for verification. You can track your application online.
- Open the official Prize Money portal.
- Click on the “Application Status” tab.
- Enter your Application Number or Aadhaar Number.
- The screen will show if your application is “Pending,” “Approved,” or “Rejected.”
If the status says “Rejected,” check the reason. You can often correct mistakes and re-submit.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many students lose their chance because of small errors. Avoid these common mistakes:
- Wrong Bank Details: If the IFSC code is wrong, the money returns to the government.
- Poor Scans: If the documents are blurry, the officer will reject the application.
- Missing Deadlines: The government sets a strict last date. Apply as soon as you get your marks card.
- Duplicate Applications: Do not apply twice for the same course. It causes system errors.
dedicated to assisting SC and ST students in Karnataka.
Helpline Numbers
| Department / Category | Primary Helpline Number | Alternate / Scholarship Queries |
| Social Welfare Department (SC Students) | 080-2263 4300 | 080-2234 0956 |
| Tribal Welfare Department (ST Students) | 94823 00400 | — |
| Kalyana Mitra (General Support) | 94823 00400 (24/7) | 94808 43005 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I apply if I passed in the second attempt?
No. This scholarship is only for students who pass in their first attempt.
2. Is there an income limit for this scholarship?
Generally, there is no income limit for the Prize Money Scholarship in Karnataka. It focuses on your merit and caste.
3. I am an OBC student. Can I apply?
This specific “Prize Money” scheme is for SC/ST students. However, the Backward Classes Welfare Department has separate schemes for OBC students.
4. Can I apply if I study in an evening college?
Yes. Students from evening colleges and even Karnataka State Open University (KSOU) are often eligible.
5. What should I do if my college name is not on the list?
Contact your District Social Welfare Office. They can add your college to the portal.
Tips for Success
- Link Aadhaar with Bank: This is the most important step. Visit your bank and ask them to perform “NPCI Mapping.”
- Maintain Original Copies: Keep your original marks cards safe. Verification officers might ask for them later.
- Keep Your Phone Active: You will receive updates via SMS. Use a permanent mobile number.
Official Resource Links for Prize Money Scholarship
| Resource Type | Department | Official Link |
| Main Application Portal (SC) | Social Welfare Department | sw.kar.nic.in |
| Main Application Portal (ST) | Tribal Welfare Department | tw.kar.nic.in |
| State Scholarship Portal (SSP) | Government of Karnataka | ssp.karnataka.gov.in |
| Caste/Income Certificate | Seva Sindhu | sevasindhu.karnataka.gov.in |
Conclusion
The Prize Money Scholarship is a golden opportunity for SC/ST students in Karnataka. It rewards your hard work. It provides the financial boost you need for a bright future. Do not wait for the last date. Gather your documents and apply today.
If you have questions, visit the nearest Social Welfare Office. They will help you for free. Education is your right, and this scholarship is your reward for excellence.