The Odisha Junior Merit Scholarship is a fantastic opportunity for meritorious students in Odisha who are pursuing their studies after completing their Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC). This scholarship aims to support financially disadvantaged yet academically bright students, ensuring they can continue their education in Class 11 and beyond.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about this scholarship, including its eligibility criteria, benefits, application process, and more.
Overview of Odisha Junior Merit Scholarship
| Feature | Details |
| Eligibility | Permanent resident of Odisha, 60% in HSC from recognized boards, family income below ₹6,00,000. |
| Deadline for Application | 27th January 2025 |
| Amount | ₹3,000 per year (for 2 years) |
| Number of Scholarships | 10,000 scholarships for meritorious students |
| Gender Ratio | 50% male and 50% female students |
| Renewability | Renewable for Class 12 if the student continues their studies |
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Odisha Junior Merit Scholarship, candidates must meet the following eligibility conditions:
General Eligibility:
- Residency: Must be a permanent resident of Odisha.
- Education: Must have passed the Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) exam with at least 60% marks from any recognized institution (BSE Odisha, CBSE, ICSE, or equivalent boards).
- Class: Should be pursuing regular studies in Class 11 under the 10+2 system.
- Income: The annual family income should be less than ₹6,00,000.
Ineligible Candidates:
- Students studying through distance learning or correspondence courses.
- Those who are already receiving other State or Central Government scholarships.
- Students studying abroad.
- Students who have not had their records verified by their school’s Principal during Class 11.
Benefits of the Scholarship
The Odisha Junior Merit Scholarship offers a great financial benefit to deserving students. Below is a summary of its benefits:
| Benefit | Details |
| Scholarship Amount | ₹3,000 per year for two years (for Class 11 and Class 12) |
| Total Number of Scholarships | 10,000 scholarships available |
| Gender Equality | The scholarships are distributed equally (50% male, 50% female) |
| Renewability | The scholarship is renewable for Class 12 if the student continues their studies |
Required Documents
To successfully apply for the Odisha Junior Merit Scholarship, students need to provide the following documents:
- Domicile Certificate – Proof of being a permanent resident of Odisha.
- Income Proof – A document showing the annual family income is below ₹6,00,000.
- HSC Marksheets & Certificates – Proof of passing the HSC with a minimum of 60% marks.
- Bank Account Details – A copy of the first page of the student’s bank passbook with the account number and IFSC code.
- School ID Card/Admission Receipt – Proof of enrollment in Class 11.
- Aadhaar Card – A valid Aadhaar card for the student.
How to Apply for the Odisha Junior Merit Scholarship
Applying for the scholarship is a simple, multi-step process that can be done online. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Visit the Scholarship Portal
Click on the ‘Apply Now’ button to be redirected to the official scholarship portal.
Step 2: Registration
On the portal, click on the ‘Registration’ button to create an account by entering the required details.
If you have already registered, simply log in using your Unique Number/Aadhaar Number and password.
Step 3: Select the Scholarship Scheme
After logging in, navigate to the ‘Junior Merit Scholarship’ section and click on ‘Apply’.
Step 4: Provide Details & Documents
Fill in the necessary information and upload the required documents.
Review your application form to ensure correct and completeness before submitting.
Important Dates to Remember
| Event | Date |
| Application Deadline | 27th January 2025 |
| Announcement of Results | TBA |
Selection Criteria
The selection of candidates is based on the following factors:
- Eligibility Fulfillment: The candidate must meet all the eligibility criteria.
- Merit-Based Selection: Selection will be made in descending order of marks obtained in the HSC exam.
- Tie-Breaker: In case of a tie (same marks), preference will be given to students with a lower parental income.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who can apply for the Odisha Junior Merit Scholarship?
Only permanent residents of Odisha who have passed their HSC exams with 60% or more marks and whose family income is below ₹6,00,000 are eligible.
2. What is the amount of the scholarship?
The scholarship amount is ₹3,000 per year for a duration of two years (Class 11 and Class 12).
3. Is the scholarship renewable?
Yes, the scholarship is renewable for Class 12, provided the student continues their studies.
4. What if I am already receiving another government scholarship?
Students who are already receiving another government scholarship (either state or central) are not eligible to apply for this scholarship.
5. How do I apply for the scholarship?
The application is done online via the official scholarship portal. You need to register, log in, and provide all necessary details and documents.