The Lakshadweep Scholarship 2026 continues to stand out as one of India’s most student-friendly education support schemes, particularly due to its flexible eligibility conditions and comprehensive financial coverage. For the academic year 2025–26, the application window closed on 10 November 2025, and those preparing for the next cycle should note that the portal for 2026–27 is expected to reopen between July and August 2026, typically in the second week of July. With no family income limit and full support for tuition fees, hostel charges, and travel expenses, this scheme ensures that every eligible island student can pursue quality education without financial barriers.
Designed exclusively for students native to the Lakshadweep Islands, the scheme covers a wide range of courses—from primary schooling to advanced research programmes. The initiative reflects the administration’s commitment to supporting higher education and skill development, especially for students travelling to mainland institutions for professional courses such as MBBS, engineering, management, and veterinary sciences.
Eligibility Requirements – Who Is Eligible to Apply?
To qualify for the Lakshadweep Scholarship 2026, candidates must satisfy the residency rules and academic conditions outlined by the administration. Key requirements include:
- Applicants must be bona fide natives of the Lakshadweep Islands.
- Either:
- The student and both parents must be born in Lakshadweep, or
- One parent must be born in the islands, and the other must be either a native or possess valid residence proof.
- Students must be enrolled in a recognised educational institution.
- Only candidates who have secured pass marks in their previous examinations will be considered.
- Students facing medical or disability-related challenges may be granted special consideration.
- The scholarship cannot be combined with any other financial aid or scholarship from government or private organisations.
- For certain professional degrees, students may be required to sign a service bond with the Lakshadweep Administration.
Lakshadweep Scholarships 2026 – Course-Wise Financial Support
The scheme offers different scholarship amounts based on the level of study. Below is a detailed breakdown of monthly stipends and annual grants:
Lakshadweep Scholarship Amount 2026
| Course/Category | Monthly Scholarship | Annual Lump Sum |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-degree, Post-Matric Certificate, Diploma, Degree (Arts, Science, Commerce, B.Ed, LLB, etc.) | ₹1,800 | ₹1,500 |
| Postgraduate Courses | ₹2,100 | ₹1,800 |
| MBBS, BDS, Engineering, MBA, BVSc, BSc (Agriculture), etc. | ₹2,100 | ₹3,600 |
| Postgraduate Professional Courses & Research (PhD) | ₹3,000 | ₹9,000 |
| High School (Class 8–10) | ₹1,200 | – |
| Primary School (Class 1–8) | ₹600 | – |
| Secondary School (Class 8–10) | ₹200 | – |
| Plus Two (local island facility available) | ₹450 | – |
| Bitra Island students studying in other islands (Secondary) | ₹450 | – |
| Plus Two students from other islands staying outside the hostel | ₹750 | – |
| High school students staying outside hostel due to lack of space | ₹600 | – |
| Pocket money for post-matric students | ₹50 | – |
| Holiday daily allowance | – | ₹50/day |
Rates for Students Studying in Island Institutions
| Student Category | Monthly Amount |
|---|---|
| Secondary School (Class 8–10) | ₹50 |
| PDC day scholars (Kavaratti/Andrott natives) | ₹125 |
| Bitra students studying elsewhere in the islands | ₹80 |
| J.N. College/ M.G. College students staying outside hostels | ₹175 |
| High School students staying outside hostels | ₹150 |
Note: These benefits continue until higher education facilities develop in Bitra.
Hostel Benefits for Students in Government Hostels
Students residing in government-run hostels—whether on the islands or mainland—receive additional support:
- Actual boarding and lodging expenses are fully covered.
- Hostellers receive ₹15 per month as pocket money.
How to Apply – Step-by-Step Online Application Guide
Students meeting the eligibility criteria can apply through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP). Here is the updated registration and application process:
- Visit the official NSP portal: scholarships.gov.in
- Choose the Students section from the dashboard.
- Click Login under the OTR (One-Time Registration) option.
- Select New user? Register yourself.
- Carefully read instructions, tick the declaration, and click Next.
- Enter a valid mobile number, fill the captcha, verify through OTP, and submit.
- Complete the registration form and click Save & Register.
- Download the OTR mobile application and complete the face authentication process.
- After OTR verification, return to the portal, go to Apply for Scholarship, and log in.
- Select the Lakshadweep Scholarship Scheme, upload the required documents, and submit the form.
Selection Procedure – How Candidates Are Shortlisted
The Lakshadweep Scholarship 2026 follows a merit-based selection system. Academic performance in the latest qualifying examination decides the final award. Evaluated examinations include:
- Class VII examination for high school entry
- SSLC / HSSLC (Class 10 & 12 board exams)
- Pre-degree courses or equivalent university assessments
- Graduation-level examinations such as BA, BSc, BCom, BSc (Agri)
- Professional qualifying exams
The goal is to ensure that no deserving student is denied an opportunity due to financial hardship.
General Guidelines and Concessions for Awardees
- Scholarship is granted for 12 months starting from the academic year.
- Vacation stipend is paid only if the student stays on the mainland due to unavoidable reasons like lack of transport.
- Scholarship begins from the first day of attending classes.
- On moving to a higher class or new institution, payment resumes from the date of admission.
- Absence due to illness is permitted if supported by a medical certificate.
- Married women may receive full benefits during maternity leave with institutional approval.
- Scholars removed from the rolls for valid reasons may be re-admitted to the scheme upon reinstatement.
- All payments are made through the Director of Education and disbursed by the institution.
Important Dates for Lakshadweep Scholarship 2026
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Last date for 2025–26 applications | 10 November 2025 |
| Expected opening of 2026–27 scholarship portal | July–August 2026 |
