Education opens the door to countless opportunities, but financial limitations often become a barrier for students from low-income families. To ensure that no student in Uttar Pradesh is deprived of education due to financial constraints, the Government of Uttar Pradesh runs one of India’s largest scholarship programs—the UP Scholarship Scheme.
For the academic year 2025–2026, the state government has introduced a streamlined online application process with updated requirements and rules. Whether you are a school student, a college student, or someone applying for renewal, understanding the entire procedure is crucial to avoid mistakes and ensure your scholarship is approved without delays.
This detailed article explains eligibility criteria, mandatory documents, step-by-step application process, important guidelines, and pro tips to help you complete the scholarship form successfully.
What Is the UP Scholarship Program?
The UP Scholarship is a government-funded initiative designed to financially support students studying from Class 9 to Post-Graduation. The scholarship aims to:
- Reduce dropout rates
- Encourage higher education
- Support economically weaker students
- Promote equal access to education across caste, income, and gender lines
The scholarship funds are transferred directly into the student’s bank account via the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system.
Who Can Apply for UP Scholarship 2025–2026?
The scholarship is available for eligible students studying in:
- Government Schools
- Aided Schools
- Private Schools
- Colleges and Universities registered under the scheme
The scheme is open to all categories including General, SC, ST, OBC, Minority, and EWS groups, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.
Eligibility Criteria
Before starting the application, students must ensure they meet the following conditions:
1. Residency Requirement
Only students who are permanent residents of Uttar Pradesh are eligible. A valid Domicile Certificate issued in UP is mandatory proof.
2. Educational Requirements
The applicant must be enrolled in a recognized institution in any of the following levels:
- Class 9 or Class 10
- Class 11 or Class 12
- Diploma, Polytechnic, ITI
- Undergraduate programs (BA, B.Tech, B.Sc, BBA, etc.)
- Postgraduate programs (MA, M.Com, MBA, MSc, M.Tech, etc.)
- Ph.D. and other higher studies (if applicable)
3. Income Criteria
The annual family income limit differs based on the applicant’s category:
| Category | Maximum Annual Income Allowed |
|---|---|
| SC/ST | ₹2,00,000 |
| General | ₹2,50,000 |
| OBC/Minority | As per government norms (varies by scheme) |
Income proof must be issued by authorized government offices and should be recent.
Required Documents for UP Scholarship 2025–2026
Students must prepare the following documents before applying. Keeping scanned copies ready helps in completing the application smoothly.
Important Required Documents:
- Aadhaar Card
Must be active and linked to the applicant’s bank account. - Income Certificate
Issued recently (typically within the last 6 months). - Caste Certificate (if applicable)
Mandatory for SC, ST, and OBC applicants. - Bank Passbook (First Page Copy)
The account must belong to the student and must be Aadhaar-linked. - Recent Passport-Sized Photograph
Should be clear and meet document upload format requirements. - Previous Year Mark Sheet or Certificate
For renewal applicants, latest academic records are mandatory. - Current Academic Year Fee Receipt
Paid and stamped by the institution. - Domicile Certificate
Proof of Uttar Pradesh residency. - Current University/Board Registration Number
Needed for students enrolled in higher education courses.
Step-by-Step Application Process for 2025–2026
The UP Scholarship form is filled online through the government portal. Follow this carefully:
Step 1: Visit the Official Portal
Go to the UP Scholarship website:
scholarship.up.gov.in
Always verify the URL to avoid fake portals.
Step 2: Select Student Category and Registe
Click on the ‘Student’ option from the homepage menu and select:
- Fresh Application (for first-time applicants)
- Renewal Application (for students who applied last year)
Registration requires basic details such as:
- Name
- Date of Birth
- Category
- Qualification details
- Institution details
Step 3: Generate OTR (One-Time Registration)
For the year 2025–2026, the government has made OTR mandatory for fresh applicants.
OTR includes:
- Mobile Number Verification
- Aadhaar-based e-KYC
Once completed, the student will receive a unique OTR Number, which serves as the login ID for future applications.
Step 4: Login to the Portal
Using the:
- Registration Number / OTR Number
- Date of Birth
- Password
Students can log in to access their application dashboard.
Step 5: Fill Out the Application Form
Enter accurate details including:
- Personal Information
- Academic Information
- Institution Details
- Bank Account Details
- Family Income Details
Ensure every detail matches the submitted documents.
Step 6: Upload Supporting Documents
Scan and upload all required documents in the instructed format and size.
Incorrect or blurred documents may lead to rejection.
Step 7: Review and Submit the Application
Before clicking Final Submit, carefully check every section.
Once the form is locked, it cannot be edited.
After final submission, download the PDF printout of the application.
Step 8: Submit Printed Form to Your Institution
Attach all photocopies of required documents and submit them to your institute for verification.
The institution will authenticate and forward it for government approval.
Tracking Application Status
Students can track the scholarship status anytime by logging in to the portal.
The status may show:
- Submitted
- Under Verification
- Sent to District Office
- Approved
- Rejected (with reason)
- Payment Processed
- Money Credited
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using a bank account not linked with Aadhaar
- Uploading outdated income or caste certificate
- Entering mismatched details (name spelling issues especially)
- Submitting the form after the deadline
- Not providing a fee receipt or mark sheet
- Failing biometric attendance (if required)
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start early—don’t wait until the last date
- Use a working mobile number and email ID
- Keep multiple photocopies of all documents
- Take a clear passport-size photograph with a plain background
- Ensure your Aadhaar card details match your bank details
Why This Scholarship Matters
Scholarships are more than financial aid—they are support, motivation, and a pathway toward a better future.
The UP Scholarship program helps:
- Reduce the burden of tuition fees
- Support students without economic stability
- Encourage students to complete higher education
- Improve literacy and professional growth in the state
By supporting students at multiple education levels, this initiative is building a more educated and empowered Uttar Pradesh.
