Bihar Post Matric Scholarship 2026-27: Online Application Open for SC/ST/BC/EBC Students, ₹10,000-₹25,000 Aid

The Bihar Government's Education Department has opened the official registration window for Bihar Post Matric Scholarship (PMS) 2026-27, a premier scholarship scheme designed to provide financial assistance to economically weaker students from reserved categories (SC, ST, BC, EBC) pursuing higher education in Bihar. Eligible candidates can submit their online applications from 15 July 2026 to 15 September 2026 through the official PMS portal. This scheme aims to remove financial barriers and encourage students to continue their education after passing Class 10.

About Bihar Post Matric Scholarship Scheme

The Bihar Post Matric Scholarship (PMS) is one of the most important government scholarship schemes in Bihar, managed by the Education Department. The scheme has been running since many years with the primary objective of supporting students from Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST), Backward Class (BC), and Extremely Backward Class (EBC) communities to pursue education at Class 11, Class 12, Undergraduate, Postgraduate, and Diploma/ITI levels. The scholarship provides financial assistance through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) directly to students' bank accounts, making it hassle-free and transparent.

Bihar Scholarship 2026-27 Overview

Scheme Name: Bihar Post Matric Scholarship (PMS) 2026-27

Implementing Authority: Education Department, Government of Bihar

Official Portal: pmsonline.bihar.gov.in

Applicable Categories: SC (Scheduled Caste), ST (Scheduled Tribe), BC (Backward Class), EBC (Extremely Backward Class)

Academic Levels Covered: Class 11, Class 12, Undergraduate (Bachelor's), Postgraduate (Master's/Diploma/ITI)

Scholarship Period: 2026-2027 Academic Year

Mode of Application: Online through Official PMS Portal Only

Important Dates - Bihar Scholarship 2026-27

• New Registration Opens: 15 July 2026 (Tuesday)
• Online Application Start Date: 15 July 2026
• Online Application Last Date: 15 September 2026 (11:59 PM)
• Last Date for Application Submission: 15 September 2026
• Application Correction/Modification Window: Will be announced after application deadline closes
• Defect Correction Period: 15 days from notification of defects (Max 3 chances)
• Institute Verification: September-October 2026
• District Level Verification: October-November 2026
• State Level Approval & Processing: November-December 2026
• Scholarship Payment (DBT): December 2026 onwards (Subject to verification)
• Expected Full Disbursement: By March 2027

Eligibility Criteria - Complete Details

Category-wise Eligibility

• Scheduled Caste (SC) Students: Belonging to SC category with valid SC certificate issued by competent authority
• Scheduled Tribe (ST) Students: Belonging to ST category with valid ST certificate issued by competent authority
• Backward Class (BC) Students: Belonging to BC (Backward Class) category as notified by Bihar Government
• Extremely Backward Class (EBC) Students: Belonging to EBC category as notified by Bihar Government
• Note: Only one son per family is eligible; unlimited daughters are eligible (for BC/EBC categories)

Educational Eligibility

• Minimum Qualification: Must have passed Class 10 (Matriculation) examination from a recognized board
• Currently Studying: Must be enrolled in Class 11, Class 12, Bachelor's (UG), Master's (PG), Diploma, or ITI courses
• Recognized Institutions: Must be studying in institutions recognized by Bihar Government or affiliated to recognized universities
• Valid Admission: Must have valid admission letters and bonafide certificate from the institution
• Regular Student: Must be a regular student with consistent attendance (as per institution's norms)

Age Limit

• Maximum Age: Generally no upper age limit for students pursuing regular courses
• For SC/ST Students: No specific age restriction; age is determined by course level
• For BC/EBC Students: No specific age restriction; age is determined by course level

Financial Eligibility (Income Limit)

• For SC/ST Students: Annual family income should NOT exceed Rs. 2.5 Lakhs per annum
• For BC/EBC Students: Annual family income should NOT exceed Rs. 3.0 Lakhs per annum
• Income Certificate Required: Must be issued on or after 01 April 2026
• Verification: Income certificate will be verified through government records and databases

Residency Requirement

• Must be a permanent resident of Bihar (as per domicile certificate or 10-year residency proof)
• Must have studied Class 10 in Bihar or been resident of Bihar for last 3 years

General Conditions

• Must be an Indian citizen with valid Aadhaar card
• Aadhaar must be seeded with a valid bank account for DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer)
• Must not be receiving scholarship from any other government scheme in the same academic year for the same course
• Must have submitted income and caste certificates within validity period
• No criminal conviction record required

Important Eligibility Notes

• Students who are already receiving benefits from another scholarship scheme for the same course and year are NOT eligible
• Only two sons per family are eligible for scholarship across all schemes; no limit on daughters
• Caste certificate must be issued within last 2 academic years and remain valid in current year
• Income certificate must be dated on or after 01-04-2026 for 2026-27 academic year
• All educational documents must have dates between 01-04-2026 to 31-03-2027

Category-wise Scholarship Amount & Benefits

Scholarship Components

• Tuition Fee Reimbursement: 100% compulsory tuition fees as approved by government
• Maintenance Allowance: Monthly allowance for living expenses
• Hostel Fee (If Applicable): For students residing in hostel
• Development Charges: Educational infrastructure charges
• Study Allowance: For books and study materials

For SC Students

• Tuition Fee Reimbursement: 100% of government-approved fees in government/aided institutions
• Monthly Maintenance Allowance: Rs. 250 - Rs. 1,200 per month (varies by course level)
• - Class 11-12: Rs. 250-500/month
• - Bachelor's (UG): Rs. 750-1,000/month
• - Master's (PG): Rs. 1,000-1,200/month
• - Technical/Professional Courses: Rs. 1,000-1,200/month (based on course)
• Total Annual Assistance: Approximately Rs. 10,000-15,000 per year (varies by institution and course)
• Hostel Allowance: Additional Rs. 1,000-1,500/month for hostel students (if applicable)

For ST Students

• Tuition Fee Reimbursement: 100% of government-approved fees in government/aided institutions
• Monthly Maintenance Allowance: Rs. 250 - Rs. 1,200 per month (varies by course level)
• - Class 11-12: Rs. 250-500/month
• - Bachelor's (UG): Rs. 750-1,000/month
• - Master's (PG): Rs. 1,000-1,200/month
• - Vocational Courses (ITI/Diploma): Rs. 750-1,000/month
• Total Annual Assistance: Approximately Rs. 10,000-15,000 per year (varies by institution and course)
• Hostel Allowance: Additional Rs. 1,000-1,500/month for hostel students (if applicable)

For BC (Backward Class) Students

• Tuition Fee Reimbursement: 100% of compulsory non-refundable fees as approved by government
• Monthly Maintenance Allowance: Rs. 300 - Rs. 1,000 per month (varies by course level)
• - Class 11-12: Rs. 300/month
• - Bachelor's (UG): Rs. 600-800/month
• - Master's (PG): Rs. 800-1,000/month
• - ITI/Diploma: Rs. 600-800/month
• Total Annual Assistance: Approximately Rs. 12,000-20,000 per year (varies by institution and course)
• Hostel Allowance: Additional Rs. 800-1,200/month for hostel students (if applicable)

For EBC (Extremely Backward Class) Students

• Tuition Fee Reimbursement: 100% of compulsory non-refundable fees as approved by government
• Monthly Maintenance Allowance: Rs. 300 - Rs. 1,000 per month (varies by course level)
• - Class 11-12: Rs. 300/month
• - Bachelor's (UG): Rs. 600-800/month
• - Master's (PG): Rs. 800-1,000/month
• - Professional/Technical Courses: Rs. 800-1,000/month
• Total Annual Assistance: Approximately Rs. 12,000-25,000 per year (varies by institution and course)
• Hostel Allowance: Additional Rs. 800-1,200/month for hostel students (if applicable)

Payment Method

• Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT): All scholarship amounts are directly transferred to student's Aadhaar-linked bank account
• Frequency: Monthly or as per the schedule announced by the department
• No Manual Distribution: No physical checks or manual payments; completely digital transfer
• Account Requirements: Bank account must be linked with Aadhaar for successful DBT

Required Documents - Checklist

Mandatory Documents

• Aadhaar Card: Original digital copy (pdf/jpg format, max 500 KB)
• Aadhaar Seeded Bank Account Proof: Screenshot showing Aadhaar-linked bank account (for DBT)
• Income Certificate: Original issued on or after 01-04-2026 by authorized government official (pdf format, max 500 KB)
• Caste Certificate: Original SC/ST/BC/EBC certificate issued by authorized government authority (pdf format, max 500 KB)

Educational Documents

• 10th Pass Certificate: Class 10 passing certificate from Bihar School Examination Board (BSEB) or recognized board
• 10th Mark Sheet: Scanned copy of mark sheet showing subjects and scores
• Bonafide Certificate: Current year bonafide certificate from the college/institution (issued within 6 months)
• College/Institution Fee Receipt: Current year fee receipt showing enrollment proof and fees paid
• College Admission Letter: Latest admission letter or enrollment certificate from the institution
• Current Year Mark Sheet: Last exam mark sheet (if intermediate student, latest marks)

Identity & Residence Proof

• Photograph: Recent passport size colored photograph (4cm x 6cm, jpg/pdf format, 50-200 KB)
• Residential Address Proof: Voter ID, Ration Card, Driving License, or Electricity Bill (copy)

Important Document Requirements

• All documents must be scanned in clear jpg/pdf format (max 500 KB each)
• No handwritten or low-quality documents will be accepted
• All documents must match the name as in Aadhaar card
• Income certificate MUST be issued on or after 01-04-2026; older certificates will be rejected
• Caste certificate must remain valid during the application period; expired certificates will be rejected
• All educational documents must have dates between 01-04-2026 and 31-03-2027 for current academic year

Step-by-Step Online Application Process

Step 1: Visit Official Portal

• Go to https://pmsonline.bihar.gov.in/pms/pms_online/Default.aspx
• Click on "New Registration 2026-27" button
• Select your academic year "2026-27" from the dropdown

Step 2: Create Student Profile

• Click on "Apply Now" or "Create Profile" link
• You will be redirected to registration page: pmsonline.bihar.gov.in/2026-27/pms/pms_online/CreateProfile.aspx
• Enter your basic details:
• - Full Name (as in Aadhaar)
• - Date of Birth
• - Gender (Male/Female)
• - Mobile Number (Active; OTP will be sent)
• - Email ID (Active; verification mail will be sent)
• Enter OTP received on mobile number
• Verify email through verification link sent to email
• Create a strong password
• Click "Register" button
• Save your Registration Number/ID

Step 3: Login to Your Account

• Login using Registration Number and password
• Click on "Student Login" on the main portal page
• Select academic year "2026-27"
• Enter your Registration ID and password
• Login to your dashboard

Step 4: Fill Personal Information

• Click on "Fill Application" option
• Fill complete personal details:
• - Full Name, Date of Birth, Gender
• - Father's Name, Mother's Name
• - Address (Current & Permanent)
• - Mobile & Email
• - Category (SC/ST/BC/EBC) - Select your category
• - Annual Family Income
• - Father's/Guardian's Income
• Click "Save & Next"

Step 5: Enter Educational Details

• Fill educational qualification information:
• - Current Academic Course (Class 11, 12, Bachelor's, etc.)
• - Course Name & Year
• - College/Institution Name & Location
• - Roll Number/Enrollment Number
• - University/Board Affiliation
• - Subject/Stream details
• Click "Save & Next"

Step 6: Upload Required Documents

• Upload all mandatory documents in specified format:
• - Aadhaar card (jpg/pdf, max 500 KB)
• - Income Certificate (pdf, max 500 KB)
• - Caste Certificate (pdf, max 500 KB)
• - 10th Pass Certificate (jpg, max 500 KB)
• - Bonafide Certificate (jpg, max 500 KB)
• - Fee Receipt (jpg, max 500 KB)
• - Last Mark Sheet (jpg, max 500 KB)
• - Passport Size Photograph (jpg, 50-200 KB, 4cm x 6cm)
• - Ensure documents are clear and readable
• Click "Upload" for each document
• Verify all documents have been uploaded successfully

Step 7: Check Aadhaar Seeding Status

• This step is MANDATORY and CRITICAL
• Check if your Aadhaar is seeded with your bank account
• Visit https://resident.uidai.gov.in/bank-mapper
• Enter Aadhaar number and verify seeding status
• If NOT seeded, contact your bank and get Aadhaar linked to DBT account immediately
• Seeding is essential for scholarship disbursal; without it, scholarship will NOT be credited
• Confirm seeding status in the application form

Step 8: Review Complete Application

• Review all filled information for accuracy
• Verify all uploaded documents are clear and complete
• Check for any errors in personal/educational details
• Ensure all required fields are filled
• Correct any mistakes if found

Step 9: Finalize Application

• Click on "Finalize Application" or "Submit" button
• Read the declaration and confirm
• Click "Final Submit"
• Your application is now submitted
• A confirmation message will appear with Application ID/Reference Number
• Screenshot or note down this reference number for future tracking

Step 10: Print Confirmation & Track Status

• Print the confirmation receipt for your records
• Login regularly to check application status
• Status updates:
• - Submitted → Institute Verification → District Verification → State Approval → Approved → Payment
• SMS updates will be sent to registered mobile number
• Check portal for defects/corrections if notified
• Correct any defects within 15 days maximum (3 chances allowed)

Important Instructions for Applicants

• Aadhaar Seeding is CRITICAL: Without Aadhaar-bank seeding, scholarship will NOT be transferred. Ensure seeding is completed BEFORE finalizing application.
• Income Certificate Date: Must be issued on or after 01-04-2026. Older certificates will be rejected.
• Caste Certificate Validity: Must be valid for current academic year. Expired certificates will be rejected.
• Document Quality: Ensure all uploaded documents are clear, readable, and in correct format (jpg/pdf). Blurred/unclear documents may be rejected.
• Document Matching: All document names must match your Aadhaar name exactly. Name variations may cause rejection.
• No Duplicate Scholarship: Do not apply for other scholarships for the same course and year; your PMS application will be rejected if duplicate benefits are found.
• Defect Correction: Maximum 3 opportunities to correct defects. After 3 failed corrections, application will be REJECTED. Correct within 15 days of defect notification.
• Application Status: Check portal regularly for updates. SMS may be delayed; don't rely on SMS alone. Login to portal for real-time status.
• Institute Verification: After submission, your college/institution must verify your details. Ensure your details are correctly registered with your institution.
• No Manual Submission: Application is ONLY online. No offline/manual applications will be accepted under any circumstances.
• Technical Issues: If facing login/submission issues, use different browser or clear browser cache. Contact district scholarship committee if problem persists.
• Password Safety: Keep your password safe. Never share it with anyone, including college staff or officials.
• Last Date is Final: No extensions will be granted. Apply well before the deadline to avoid rush and technical issues.

Verification & Processing Timeline

1. Institute Level Verification (September-October 2026)

• College/Institution verifies student details from their records
• Confirms current enrollment and course details
• Validates bonafide certificate and fee details
• Status changes to "Institute Verified" on portal

2. District Level Verification (October-November 2026)

• District scholarship committee verifies income and caste certificates
• Checks family income against eligibility criteria
• Verifies caste certificate with appropriate authorities
• Status changes to "District Verified" on portal

3. State Level Approval (November-December 2026)

• State Education Department reviews all verified applications
• Final approval is granted by state authorities
• Merit list is prepared if scholarship funds are limited
• Status changes to "Approved" on portal

4. DBT Payment Processing (December 2026 onwards)

• Approved scholarship amounts are processed for DBT
• Amount is transferred directly to student's Aadhaar-linked bank account
• Payment status is updated on portal
• SMS confirmation is sent to registered mobile
• Students can check bank account for scholarship credit
• Full payment expected by March 2027

Troubleshooting & Common Issues

Issue: "Aadhaar Seeding Not Done" Error

• Solution: Visit https://resident.uidai.gov.in/bank-mapper and seed your Aadhaar with bank account. It takes 2-5 days to reflect in system. Wait 5 days after seeding, then retry application.

Issue: "Income Certificate Rejected - Date Invalid"

• Solution: Income certificate must be dated on or after 01-04-2026 for 2026-27 year. Obtain fresh income certificate from Lekhapal/Tehsildar with valid date.

Issue: "Caste Certificate Expired"

• Solution: Get caste certificate renewed from Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) or District Magistrate office. Old certificates not valid after expiry period.

Issue: "Name Mismatch" in Documents

• Solution: All documents must show EXACT same name as Aadhaar. If name differs, get documents corrected or start new application with Aadhaar name.

Issue: "Application Finalization Failed"

• Solution: Check Aadhaar seeding status first. Ensure all mandatory fields are filled and all documents are uploaded. Clear browser cache and retry using different browser.

Issue: "Bank Account Not Linked with Aadhaar"

• Solution: Go to your bank with Aadhaar card and request to link Aadhaar with account. This is essential for scholarship disbursal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the difference between PMS and other Bihar scholarships?

A: PMS is specifically for post-matriculation (after Class 10) students from SC/ST/BC/EBC categories. It covers tuition fees and maintenance allowance. Other schemes like Kanya Utthan Yojana are for specific categories (girls) or specific streams.

Q2: Can General category students apply for Bihar PMS 2026-27?

A: No, this scholarship is ONLY for SC, ST, BC, and EBC category students. General category students are not eligible for this scheme. They can check other general category scholarships.

Q3: What is the family income limit for different categories?

A: For SC/ST students, family income should NOT exceed Rs. 2.5 Lakhs/year. For BC/EBC students, family income should NOT exceed Rs. 3.0 Lakhs/year. Income must be verified through Income Certificate.

Q4: How much scholarship will I receive?

A: Scholarship amount varies by category, course level, and institution. Generally ranges from Rs. 10,000-25,000 per year including tuition fee reimbursement and monthly maintenance allowance. Exact amount will be determined after verification.

Q5: Is Aadhaar seeding compulsory?

A: Yes, Aadhaar seeding with bank account is MANDATORY. Without it, scholarship cannot be transferred through DBT. Check seeding status before applying.

Q6: What is the last date to apply?

A: Last date is 15 September 2026, 11:59 PM. Apply as early as possible to avoid technical issues and server problems on last date.

Q7: Can I apply if I'm in final year of my course?

A: Yes, if you're currently enrolled and attending classes, you can apply. However, scholarship is for continuation of studies, not for completed courses.

Q8: What if my documents are rejected?

A: You get maximum 3 chances to correct rejected documents. You have 15 days from notification to make corrections. After 3 failed attempts, application will be rejected permanently.

Q9: Will I receive scholarship even if I pursue education outside Bihar?

A: Yes, for recognized institutions outside Bihar with proper affiliation. However, the institution must meet government's criteria for recognition. Check with district scholarship committee.

Q10: When will the scholarship amount be credited to my account?

A: After state approval (tentatively December 2026), DBT transfer begins. First installment typically comes within 2-3 weeks of approval. Full amount usually disbursed by March 2027.

Important Links & Resources

• Official PMS Portal: https://pmsonline.bihar.gov.in/pms/pms_online/Default.aspx
• New Registration 2026-27: https://pmsonline.bihar.gov.in/2026-27/pms/pms_online/CreateProfile.aspx
• Check Aadhaar Seeding: https://resident.uidai.gov.in/bank-mapper
• SC-ST Scholarship Portal: https://scstpmsonline.bihar.gov.in
• Institute Verification Portal: https://instpmsonline.bihar.gov.in
• Bihar Education Department: https://state.bihar.gov.in/educationbihar/
• Medhasoft Portal: https://medhasoft.bih.nic.in/
• National Scholarship Portal: https://nsp.gov.in/loginPage

Contact Information for Assistance

For Technical Support & Portal Issues:

• Contact District Scholarship Committee in your district
• Email: Contact through official Bihar Education Department website
• Phone: District Education Office (Details available on official website)

For Eligibility & Document Queries:

• Visit your District Scholarship Committee Office
• Directorate of Secondary Education, Govt. of Bihar
• Phone: District Education Department (Contact available on official portal)

Important Government Contacts:

• District Magistrate (DM) Office - Income/Caste Certificate
• Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) Office - Caste Certificate Verification
• Block Development Officer (BDO) - For rural candidates
• Lekhapal - For income certificate (Village level)
• Tehsildar - For caste/income certificates

Important Notices & Disclaimers

• This application is for academic year 2026-27 only. Fresh application required each year.
• Scholarship is subject to verification of all documents and eligibility criteria compliance.
• No application will be entertained after the official deadline.
• Students receiving duplicate benefits from other schemes will have their applications rejected.
• Only two sons per family are eligible; unlimited daughters are eligible (applies to BC/EBC categories).
• For any changes in rules, revised dates, or policy updates, check official portal regularly.
• All information in this guide is based on official PMS portal guidelines released for 2026-27.
• For official/authentic information, always refer to pmsonline.bihar.gov.in
• No offline/manual applications will be accepted. Online submission is mandatory.
• Scholarship amount and eligibility criteria may change each year as per government policy.

Last Update: This information was last updated on 07 August 2026 based on official Bihar Education Department portal and latest government notifications. Candidates are advised to check official portal regularly for any updates or changes.