Scholarships for MBBS in India 2026: Complete Guide to Government & Private Aid

Introduction

Pursuing an MBBS degree in India is a dream for many, but the costs can be overwhelming. Government medical colleges charge ₹50,000–₹2 lakh per year, while private ones often exceed ₹10–25 lakh annually. With NEET seeing over 20 lakh aspirants each year and limited seats, financial barriers stop talented students from lower- and middle-income families.

The good news? Numerous scholarships and financial aid options exist to cover tuition, maintenance, and more. These range from full government-backed coverage to merit-based private grants.

In this guide, we’ll cover major government scholarships through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP), category-specific schemes for SC/ST/OBC/EWS, state-level programs, private and NGO options, college-specific aid, and practical application tips. By the end, you’ll know how to access these opportunities and ease the financial load.

Government Scholarships for MBBS Students

The Indian government offers robust support via the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) at https://scholarships.gov.in/. Most schemes require One-Time Registration (OTR) using Aadhaar.

Central Sector Scheme of Scholarship for College and University Students (PM-USP CSSS)

This flagship scheme from the Ministry of Education targets meritorious students from modest backgrounds pursuing professional courses like MBBS.

• Eligibility: Above 80th percentile in Class 12 board exams (relevant stream); family income ≤ ₹4.5 lakh/year; enrolled in recognized institutions (not distance mode).
• Benefits: ₹12,000/year for the first three years of graduation; ₹20,000/year for the 4th and 5th years of 5-year professional courses (like MBBS). For medical studies, tuition support up to ₹3 lakh/year plus ₹1 lakh maintenance allowance in some cases.
• Slots: Up to 82,000 fresh awards annually (50% for girls).
• Renewal: Minimum 50% marks and 75% attendance each year.
• Official Link: https://www.education.gov.in/en/scholarships-education-loan-0 or apply via https://scholarships.gov.in/.

Many MBBS students benefit from this for consistent support across the 5.5-year course.

Post-Matric Scholarships (for SC/ST/OBC/EWS)

These cover Group I professional courses (including MBBS) with tuition reimbursement and maintenance.

• Post-Matric Scholarship for SC Students: Full tuition + maintenance allowance (up to ₹13,500/year or more depending on state); family income limits vary (often ≤ ₹2.5–3 lakh).
• PM-YASASVI Post-Matric for OBC/EBC/DNT: Financial aid for post-matric studies, including MBBS; covers tuition and allowances.
• Post-Matric for ST Students: Similar coverage via Ministry of Tribal Affairs.
• How to Apply: Through NSP or state portals; requires caste/income certificates.
• Official Link: https://scholarships.gov.in/ (search schemes under respective ministries).

These schemes often reimburse non-refundable fees directly to colleges.

Other Key NSP-Hosted Schemes

• National Fellowship and Scholarship for Higher Education of ST Students (Top Class): Covers full tuition and living expenses for premier institutions.
• Ishan Uday – Special Scholarship for North Eastern Region: ₹7,800/month for medical/paramedical courses.
• Application Tip: Use NSP’s eligibility checker first. Deadlines often fall between October–December; apply early!

State-Specific and Special Scholarships

Many states offer additional aid:

• PMSSS (Prime Minister’s Special Scholarship Scheme) for J&K and Ladakh: Up to ₹3 lakh/year tuition for MBBS + ₹1 lakh maintenance.
• Official Link: https://aicte-jk-scholarship-gov.in/ (AICTE portal).
• Other examples include Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj (Maharashtra), state Post-Matric variants, or merit schemes in Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, etc. Check your state’s education department portal linked to NSP.

Private and NGO Scholarships for MBBS

These complement government aid:

• Tata Trusts Medical Scholarship: Covers up to 80% tuition for students at top institutions like AIIMS/JIPMER.
• Swami Dayanand India Scholarships: Up to ₹50,000/year for MBBS students from underprivileged backgrounds.
• All India Pre-Medical Scholarship Test (AIMSET/AIPMST): Merit-based; up to 100% tuition waiver for MBBS/BDS.
• SBI Platinum Jubilee Asha Scholarship: For medical students at top NIRF-ranked colleges.
• FFE-GSK Scholarship: Up to ₹1 lakh/year for first-year MBBS in government colleges.
• Reliance Foundation Undergraduate Scholarships: Up to ₹2 lakh total for meritorious students (income < ₹15 lakh).
• Other Options: ONGC, HDFC, IMA, or Lady Meherbai D Tata scholarships.

Research official websites for current deadlines and apply directly.

College-Specific Financial Aid

Premier institutes provide extra support:

• AIIMS/JIPMER: Merit-cum-need scholarships, freeships, or travel grants.
• Many government and private colleges offer internal merit awards or fee waivers for economically weaker sections (EWS).

Check your college’s website or admission office.

How to Apply and Tips

Start with NSP registration (OTR). Gather documents: Aadhaar, income/caste certificate, NEET scorecard, admission proof, bank details.

• Use the eligibility checker on NSP.
• Apply for multiple schemes if eligible (some allow stacking).
• Deadlines vary; monitor NSP for 2025-26 updates.
• Wondering if you qualify? Many families with incomes under ₹4.5–8 lakh do—start early!

How Career Plan B Helps

Career Plan B helps aspiring MBBS students overcome financial and admission challenges. With personalized career counselling, Psycheintel and career assessment tests, admission guidance, and detailed career roadmapping, they identify suitable scholarships, strengthen applications, and build a realistic plan for medical success, even when finances feel tight.

Have any doubts?

📞 Contact our expert counsellor today and get all your questions answered!

FAQ

1. Can I apply for multiple scholarships for MBBS?
   Yes, many students combine government (e.g., Central Sector + Post-Matric) with private ones, as long as rules allow; no double-dipping from the same source.

2. Is the National Scholarship Portal the main way to apply?
   Yes, for most government schemes. Private ones have separate portals.

3. Do private MBBS colleges offer scholarships?
   Some do merit- or need-based aid, but government schemes often cover private colleges too if recognized.

4. What if my family income is slightly above the limit?
   Check state variations or private options; EWS quotas may help.

5. When do applications open for 2026?
   Typically June–December; monitor https://scholarships.gov.in/ for exact dates.

6. Are these scholarships only for government colleges?
   No, many cover private and deemed universities.

Conclusion

From the Central Sector Scheme’s ₹20,000+ annual support to Post-Matric full reimbursements and private grants like Swami Dayanand’s ₹50,000, options abound to fund your MBBS journey. Start by registering on the National Scholarship Portal and exploring what fits your profile.

Don’t let finances dim your dream of becoming a doctor—apply today and take the first step toward a rewarding medical career. Your dedication deserves support!