The Government of Maharashtra implements this scheme through various departments (e.g., Higher & Technical Education, Social Justice, Tribal Development) for meritorious students across different categories (Open, SC, ST, etc.) to pursue higher education abroad.
💻 Application Process
- Online Application: The application process is primarily online. Candidates must visit the official portal of the implementing department (e.g., the Directorate of Higher Education portal: https://fs.maharashtra.gov.in or the concerned department’s website).
- Form Submission: Fill out the detailed application form and upload scanned copies of all necessary documents.
- Verification: After online submission, a hard copy of the application along with original certificates and their attested photocopies must be submitted to the concerned regional or departmental office (e.g., Joint Director, Higher Education) for physical verification within the specified deadline.
📄 Essential Documents Required
While requirements may vary slightly by category (SC/ST/Open), the core documents typically include:
- Academic Records: Mark sheets and certificates for SSC (10th), HSC (12th), Graduation, and Post-Graduation/Diploma.
- Admission Proof:Unconditional Offer Letter from the foreign university/institution.
- Note: The university must typically be ranked within the top 200 or top 300 as per the latest QS World University Ranking (this ranking cut-off is a critical eligibility criterion).
- Caste/Category Certificate: (For reserved categories like SC/ST) Caste Certificate and Caste Validity Certificate issued by a competent authority.
- Domicile Certificate: Proof of being a resident of Maharashtra State.
- Income Certificate: Latest Family Annual Income Certificate (e.g., generally not exceeding ₹8 Lakhs or ₹10 Lakhs, depending on the scheme/category) from a Tehsildar or higher rank officer.
- Exam Scores: Scores of required entrance and proficiency tests like GRE/GMAT and TOEFL/IELTS.
- Passport: A valid Passport.
- Affidavit/Bond: A written undertaking (Bond) by the student and sureties to return to India after completing the course and to serve/work in India for a minimum period (e.g., 5 years).
- Other Documents: Aadhaar Card, Passport size photograph, University brochure/fee structure, and a No Objection Certificate (NOC) if the applicant is employed.
✨ Key Features and Eligibility Criteria
🎯 Key Highlights
- Financial Aid: The scholarship covers Tuition Fees, Exam Fees, Maintenance Allowance (for lodging and boarding), and Educational Contingency charges.
- Selection: Selection is primarily based on Merit and fulfillment of all eligibility criteria, including the university’s world ranking.
- Courses Covered: Post-Graduate Degree, Post-Graduate Diploma, and Ph.D. programs.
📏 General Eligibility
- Residency: Must be a citizen of India and a Domicile of Maharashtra State.
- Academic Qualification: Must have passed the qualifying Indian degree with a minimum percentage (e.g., 55% or 60% depending on the scheme/GR).
- University Ranking: Admission must be secured in a university listed within the required QS World Ranking (e.g., top 200/300).
- Age Limit: Age limits are specified for different courses (e.g., up to 35 years for PG, up to 40 years for Ph.D. for employed candidates).
