Did you pass your PUC, diploma, degree or PG course in first class, on your very first try? If you are an SC or ST student from Karnataka, the state government may reward you with cash. This is the Karnataka Prize Money Scholarship. It is not a fee-support scheme. It is a one-time reward for good results.
In this post, I explain who can apply, how much money you can get, which documents you need, and how to apply online. I have kept it simple so you can finish reading in a few minutes.
Karnataka Prize Money Scholarship 2026-27: Overview
| Scholarship Name | Prize Money Scholarship (Post-Matric Incentive) |
| State | Karnataka |
| Run By | Social Welfare Department (SC students) and Tribal Welfare Department (ST students) |
| Who Can Apply | SC and ST students who are permanent residents of Karnataka |
| Main Condition | First attempt, first class |
| Amount | 20,000 to 35,000 (depends on the course) |
| Income Limit | No income limit |
| Type of Reward | One-time reward for each education level |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Last Date | Check the official portal (not confirmed at the time of writing) |
What Is the Prize Money Scholarship?
The Karnataka government wants to encourage SC and ST students to do well in their studies. So it gives a cash reward to those who pass an eligible course in first class and in the first attempt.
Think of it as a “well done” reward from the government. You get the money after you have passed, not before.
How Much Prize Money Will You Get?
The amount depends on the course you have completed.
| Course Completed | Prize Money |
|---|---|
| II PUC / 3-Year Polytechnic Diploma | 20,000 |
| Degree (BA, BSc, BCom, etc.) | 25,000 |
| Postgraduate (MA, MSc, MCom, etc.) | 30,000 |
| Professional courses (Engineering, Medical, Agriculture, Veterinary) | Up to 35,000 |
Please note: Some websites show different amounts, especially for SSLC. The amounts can change from year to year. Always check the latest figure on the official portal before you apply.
Eligibility Criteria
You can apply if you meet all the points below:
- You belong to the SC or ST category.
- You are a permanent resident of Karnataka.
- You passed your course in the first attempt.
- You scored first class, which usually means 60% or above.
- You studied at a recognised institution.
Common Questions About Eligibility
- Passed through a supplementary exam? Then you cannot apply. The scheme is only for first-attempt results.
- Is there an income limit? No. Family income does not matter for this scheme.
- Can I get it every year? No. It is a one-time reward for each education level.
- What about OBC students? Most official-style sources talk only about SC and ST students. Please confirm on the portal if you are OBC.
Documents Required
Keep these ready before you start the application:
- Aadhaar card
- Caste certificate (SC or ST)
- Marks card of the course you just passed
- Earlier marks cards, to show you passed in the first attempt
- Bank passbook (account linked with Aadhaar)
- Proof that you are a Karnataka resident
- Passport-size photograph
The portal may ask for one or two more papers, depending on your course.
How to Apply Online
- Choose the right portal. SC students use the Social Welfare Department portal. ST students use the Tribal Welfare Department portal.
- Register or log in. Create an account with your basic details and mobile number.
- Open the Prize Money application. Select the Post-Matric Incentive (Prize Money) option for 2026-27.
- Fill in your details. Add your personal, course and bank information carefully.
- Upload documents. Use clear scans. Blurry files are a common reason for rejection.
- Submit the form. Take a printout and save the acknowledgement number.
- Wait for verification. The District Social Welfare or Tribal Welfare Office checks your application. After approval, the money goes to your bank account.
Example: How It Works
This is a fictional example to explain the process.
Ravi is an SC student from Tumakuru. He finished his B.Com in 2026 with 68% marks, and he cleared every paper in the first attempt. He opens the Social Welfare Department portal, fills in the form, and uploads his caste certificate, marks cards and bank passbook. After the office verifies his papers, he receives the degree-level prize money of ₹25,000 in his bank account.
If Ravi had cleared even one paper in a supplementary exam, he would not have been eligible.
Tips to Avoid Rejection
- Apply as soon as the portal opens. Do not wait for the last day.
- Make sure the name on your Aadhaar, marks card and bank account is the same.
- Check that your bank account is active and linked with Aadhaar.
- Upload a clear, valid caste certificate.
- Keep a copy of your acknowledgement number.
Other Prize-Based Scholarships in India
If you are not from Karnataka, or you want more options, some competition-based scholarships also give cash prizes. For example, the IET India Scholarship Award for engineering students had a prize pool of 20 lakhs in its 10th edition, but its 2026 deadline has passed. Keep an eye on the next edition.
You may also like these related posts:
- Karnataka SSP Scholarship 2026-27
- Karnataka Post-Matric Scholarship 2026-27
- Scholarships for SC/ST Students
Important Links
| Link | Details |
|---|---|
| SC Students: Apply Online | swdservices.karnataka.gov.in |
| ST Students: Tribal Welfare Department | twd.karnataka.gov.in |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the Karnataka Prize Money Scholarship?
SC and ST students who are permanent residents of Karnataka and passed an eligible course in first class in the first attempt can apply.
How much is the prize money?
It ranges from 20,000 to 35,000. II PUC and diploma students get 20,000, degree students get 25,000, postgraduate students get 30,000, and professional course students can get up to 35,000.
Is there an income limit?
No. Family income is not a condition for this scheme.
Can I apply if I passed through a supplementary exam?
No. Only first-attempt results are accepted.
What does “first class” mean?
It usually means 60% marks or above. Confirm the exact rule for your course on the official portal.
Is this scholarship given every year?
No. It is a one-time reward for each education level, such as PUC, degree or PG.
Where do ST students apply?
ST students apply through the Karnataka Tribal Welfare Department. SC students apply through the Social Welfare Department.
What is the last date for 2026-27?
No official last date was confirmed at the time of writing. Please check the official portal for the latest date.
Disclaimer: This post is for information only. Amounts, rules and dates can change. Please check the official government portal before you apply.
