Keralam Prathibha Scholarship Programme: Up to ₹1.54 Lakh for Science Studies

Introduction of Keralam Prathibha Scholarship Programme: A Brief Insight

Scoring 90% in the Higher Secondary Examination opens the door to good science courses, but the cost of higher education, accommodation and study materials can still create financial pressure on students. The Prathibha Scholarship Programme, also searched as the Pratibha Scholarship Scheme, helps meritorious students continue their education in science without letting financial difficulties become a major hurdle.

The Government of Keralam provides this scholarship to students of Keralam origin who pursue undergraduate (UG) or Integrated Postgraduate (PG) courses in Basic or Natural Sciences. The programme offers financial assistance for up to five years, with the scholarship amount increasing at different stages of the course.

The Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (KSCSTE) implements the scheme through its Programmes for Women in Science. The Council manages the selection process, verifies applicants’ documents and releases the scholarship amount to selected students.

The programme aims to encourage talented students to pursue science education and build careers in scientific fields. It also seeks to increase student participation, particularly among girls, in Basic Sciences and research.

Under the scheme, students receive ₹12,000 in the first UG year, ₹18,000 in the second year and ₹24,000 in the third year. The assistance increases to ₹40,000 for the fourth year of an Hons or FYUGP course, or the first year of PG, and reaches ₹60,000 in the second PG year.

A student completing a 3-year UG course can receive a total of ₹54,000, while a scholar who receives assistance for the full five years can get up to ₹1,54,000. KSCSTE transfers the approved amount directly to the student’s bank account every year through the National Electronic Fund Transfer (NEFT) system.

To qualify, a student must be of Keralam origin and must have passed the Higher Secondary Examination from Keralam. General category applicants need at least 90% marks, while SC and ST applicants need at least 80%, in both the overall aggregate and the Science subjects aggregate. The student must also pursue an eligible 3-year UG, 4-year UG (Hons or FYUGP) or 5-year Integrated PG course in one of the 24 listed subjects.

KSCSTE distributes the available seats among three subject groups: 30% for Mathematical Sciences, 40% for Physical Sciences and 30% for Life Sciences. It also reserves 10% of the total seats for SC and ST students. The Council prepares the merit list based on applicants’ marks in the Science subjects of the Higher Secondary Examination.

Students must apply online through the Prathibha Scholarship web portal within the registration period announced by the Council. After registration, they must check the Provisional Rank List and upload the required documents if they qualify for the next stage. For registration-related assistance, students can contact the Council at +91-471-2548402.

Students looking for financial assistance for other educational needs can also explore the Vidyasamunnathi Merit Scholarship Scheme and the Vidyasamunnathi Coaching Assistance Scheme. Those preparing for civil services examinations or pursuing higher studies can also check the ASPIRE Scholarship Scheme.

Students, parents, teachers and others interested in educational assistance can explore more welfare and scholarship programmes through our Keralam Government Welfare Schemes List page.

Benefits Provided to Eligible Beneficiaries

The Prathibha Scholarship Programme of the Government of Keralam provides annual financial assistance to meritorious students who choose undergraduate and postgraduate courses in Basic or Natural Sciences. The scholarship amount increases with each academic year, helping students manage their education expenses while pursuing science studies. The Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (KSCSTE) implements the programme.

Year-Wise Scholarship Amount

• ₹12,000 for the first year of the UG course
• ₹18,000 for the second year of the UG course
• ₹24,000 for the third year of the UG course
• ₹40,000 for the fourth year of a 4-year UG (Hons) or UG (FYUGP) course, and for the first year of the PG course
• ₹60,000 for the second year of the PG course
• Students can receive the scholarship for a maximum of 5 years, covering the UG and PG courses, subject to the renewal conditions.

Total Financial Assistance During the Course

• A student pursuing a 3-year UG course can receive a total of ₹54,000 over three years.
• A student completing a 4-year UG (Hons or FYUGP) course can receive a total of ₹94,000.
• A student receiving assistance for the full 5 years, either through an Integrated PG course or a 3-year UG course followed by a 2-year PG course, can receive up to ₹1,54,000.

Direct Payment to the Student’s Bank Account

• KSCSTE issues a sanction order after verifying the submitted documents and publishing the Final Rank List.
• The Council releases the scholarship amount once a year as a single payment.
• The amount goes directly to the student’s bank account through the National Electronic Fund Transfer (NEFT) system.
• Students can complete registration, document submission and other application-related formalities online, while the Council transfers the scholarship directly to their accounts.

Exposure to Science and Research Opportunities

• Selected scholars get opportunities to participate in Science Orientation Programmes.
• They can interact with experienced scientists and researchers through the Council’s SPEED scheme (Programme for Excellence in Experimental Design).
• These activities introduce students to scientific research and help them explore future opportunities in the field.

Merit-Based Selection and Fair Representation

• KSCSTE selects students on merit, based on their marks in the Science subjects of the Higher Secondary Examination.
• The Council distributes seats among the three subject groups: 30% for Mathematical Sciences, 40% for Physical Sciences and 30% for Life Sciences.
• SC and ST students receive a 10% share of the total seats and can qualify with at least 80% marks instead of the 90% requirement for general category students.
• The Council publishes both the Provisional Rank List and Final Rank List on its official website, allowing applicants to check their selection status.
• The programme encourages talented students, particularly girls, to pursue Basic Sciences and consider careers in research.

Important Conditions That Affect Scholarship Benefits

• A scholar cannot receive another scholarship for the same course. If the scholar accepts another scholarship, the Council may require repayment of the full amount received under this programme.
• The scholarship may stop if the student fails to earn the required credits, leaves the course or takes an unauthorised break.
• Renewal in subsequent years depends on the credits earned during the previous academic year under the applicable UGC credit framework based on the National Education Policy 2020.

Eligibility Conditions Required to be Fulfilled

The Prathibha Scholarship Programme of the Government of Keralam supports students who achieve high marks in the Higher Secondary Examination and pursue undergraduate or integrated postgraduate courses in Basic or Natural Sciences. Applicants must meet the academic, residential and course-related conditions set by the Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (KSCSTE). Students should check these requirements carefully before applying.

Basic Eligibility Conditions

• The applicant must be of Keralam origin.
• The applicant must have passed the Higher Secondary Examination from Keralam.
• General category students must score at least 90% marks, or an equivalent grade, in both the overall aggregate and the aggregate of Science subjects.
• SC and ST students must secure at least 80% marks in both the overall aggregate and the Science subjects aggregate.
• The applicant must have taken admission to an eligible course in the current academic year.

Eligible Courses

• 3-year undergraduate (UG) programme in Basic or Natural Sciences
• 4-year undergraduate (Hons) programme in Basic or Natural Sciences
• 4-year undergraduate (FYUGP) programme in Basic or Natural Sciences
• 5-year Integrated Postgraduate (PG) programme in Basic or Natural Sciences
• The applicant may pursue the eligible course at any recognised institution or university in India.

Eligible Subject Groups

• Mathematical Sciences: Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science
• Physical Sciences: Astronomy, Astrophysics, Atmospheric Science, Chemistry, Electronics, Geochemistry, Geography, Geology, Geophysics, Ocean Sciences, Photonics, Physics and Polymer Chemistry
• Life Sciences: Biochemistry, Biology, Biotechnology, Botany, Food and Nutrition, Microbiology, Plant Science and Zoology
• The applicant must study an eligible subject as a Major or Honours subject, or as part of a permitted combination of subjects.

Eligibility Rules for Triple Main Courses

• Students enrolled in a course with three Main subjects must select one subject group for the Council’s ranking process.
• The student must study at least one subject from each of the three groups during the first year.
• After submitting the application under a particular subject group, the student cannot change that selection.

Selection and Ranking Criteria

• KSCSTE ranks applicants based on their aggregate marks in the Science subjects of the Higher Secondary Examination.
• The available seats are distributed among the three subject groups: 30% for Mathematical Sciences, 40% for Physical Sciences and 30% for Life Sciences.
• 10% of the total seats are reserved for SC and ST students.
• If two or more applicants secure equal marks, the Council resolves the tie using the marks obtained in the relevant main Science subjects in a prescribed order.

Conditions for Scholarship Continuation

• A scholarship recipient cannot receive another scholarship for the same course.
• The student must complete the course within its prescribed duration without taking a break.
• The student must earn the minimum credits required each year under the UGC credit framework based on the National Education Policy 2020.
• A student who fails a subject or does not earn the required credits becomes ineligible for scholarship renewal for the following year.
• The scholarship can continue for a maximum of 5 years, covering the UG and PG courses.
• The scholarship recipient must submit the final mark lists to KSCSTE after completing the course.

Who Cannot Apply for the Scholarship?

• Students who are not of Keralam origin or did not pass the Higher Secondary Examination from Keralam.
• General category students scoring below 90%, or SC/ST students scoring below 80%, in either the overall aggregate or the Science subjects aggregate.
• Students pursuing courses outside the listed Basic or Natural Sciences, such as Engineering, Medicine or Commerce.
• Students admitted to the course in an earlier academic year, as the scholarship applies to students admitted in the current academic year.
• Students already receiving another scholarship for the same course.
• Students who take a break during the course or repeat an academic year after failing.
• Applicants who provide incorrect information. The Council may cancel the scholarship and recover the amount already paid.

Documents Required to be Attached

The Prathibha Scholarship Programme of the Government of Keralam (also searched as the Pratibha Scholarship Scheme) requires different details and documents at different stages. Students provide basic information during online registration, while shortlisted applicants must upload the required certificates and forms after their names appear in the Provisional Rank List. The following lists cover the requirements mentioned on the official scheme page and in the guidelines issued by the Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (KSCSTE).

Details Required for Online Registration

• A valid mobile number that remains active throughout the selection process
• An active e-mail ID that the applicant can access whenever required
• A recent passport-size photograph in image format, measuring 150 pixels in width and 200 pixels in height
• Full name and date of birth, as recorded in the Higher Secondary examination records
• Higher Secondary Examination roll number
• A password containing at least 6 characters. The portal sends the password and application number to the registered mobile number.

Documents to Upload After the Provisional Rank List

• Student Data-sheet, signed by the applicant and endorsed by the Head of the Institution where the student has taken admission for the degree course
• Self-attested copy of the Higher Secondary Examination mark list
• Community certificate, applicable only to SC and ST applicants
• Certificate proving the applicant’s place of origin in Keralam
• Terms and Conditions form, duly signed by the applicant
• E-payment form in the prescribed format, containing the student’s bank account details

Bank Account Details for Scholarship Payment

• Name of the account holder, which must be the student’s name
• Bank account number
• IFSC code of the bank branch
• Name and address of the bank branch
• Copy of the passbook or a cancelled cheque, if required by the prescribed form or concerned office

Course-Related Details and Proof

• Proof of admission to an eligible 3-year UG, 4-year UG (Hons), 4-year UG (FYUGP) or 5-year Integrated PG course in Basic or Natural Sciences. The Head of the Institution must endorse the Student Data-sheet.
• Name of the subject selected as the Main or Honours subject, which determines the applicant’s subject group
• For students enrolled in a Triple Main course, selection of one subject group for ranking. The student cannot change this choice later.

Documents Required for Second- and Third-Year Renewal

• Mark lists of the previous academic year of the course
• Duly signed Renewal Data-sheet
• Proof of earning the minimum credits required for the previous academic year under the UGC credit framework based on the National Education Policy 2020

Documents Required for Fourth-Year or Postgraduate Continuation

• Consolidated mark list covering the complete UG programme, or mark lists of all three previous years in the case of an Integrated course
• Duly signed Renewal Data-sheet
• Proof of earning the minimum credits required under the applicable credit framework

Documents to Submit After Course Completion

• Copies of the final mark lists of the UG and PG courses, or the Integrated PG course, which the scholarship recipient must submit to KSCSTE

How Beneficiaries Can Apply to Avail the Benefit of this Scheme

Students can apply for the Prathibha Scholarship Programme of the Government of Keralam through the online portal. The application process has two main stages. First, students register online and the Council prepares a Provisional Rank List based on their Higher Secondary Science marks. Next, shortlisted students upload the required documents for verification and final selection.

Follow the steps below in the same order. Keep your mobile phone, e-mail ID and important documents ready before you begin.

Before You Start

Step 1: First, check whether you meet the basic conditions. You must be of Keralam origin and must have passed the Higher Secondary Examination from Keralam.

Step 2: Check your marks. General category students need at least 90% in both the overall aggregate and the Science subjects aggregate. SC and ST students need at least 80% in both.

Step 3: Make sure you have taken admission in the current academic year to an eligible 3-year UG, 4-year UG (Hons), 4-year UG (FYUGP) or 5-year Integrated PG course in Basic or Natural Sciences.

Step 4: Visit the official Prathibha Scholarship Programme page of KSCSTE. Read the available scheme information before filling in the application.

Step 5: Open the official scheme guidelines. These explain the eligible subjects, selection rules, scholarship conditions and other important requirements.

Step 6: Keep the following details ready:

• Active mobile number and e-mail ID
• Higher Secondary Examination roll number
• Full name and date of birth as recorded in your examination documents
• Recent photograph measuring 150 pixels in width and 200 pixels in height

Step 7: Check the official website for the application schedule. KSCSTE announces the registration dates through its notices every year. For the 2024-25 cycle, the application window ran from 5 May to 5 June 2025. Do not treat these dates as the schedule for a new application cycle.

Stage 1: Register Online

Step 1: Visit the Prathibha Scholarship Programme page and find the link to the scholarship web portal.

Step 2: Open the portal and select the online registration option. Complete this step within the application period announced by the Council.

Step 3: Enter your full name, date of birth, e-mail ID and Higher Secondary Examination roll number in the required fields.

Step 4: Enter the OTP sent to your registered mobile number to verify your details.

Step 5: Create a password containing at least 6 characters. Keep it safe because you will need it to log in again.

Step 6: Complete the registration and note down the application number generated by the portal.

Step 7: Check your mobile phone for the registration message. The portal sends the application number and password to your registered mobile number. Keep these details safe for future login.

Wait for the Provisional Rank List

Step 1: After registration closes, KSCSTE checks the applicants’ academic details and prepares the ranking based on their marks in the Science subjects of the Higher Secondary Examination.

Step 2: Visit the official website, kscste.kerala.gov.in, regularly to check the publication of the Provisional Rank List. The Council announces the result through its official notices. The publication month may vary between application cycles.

Step 3: Find your name in the relevant subject group: Mathematical Sciences, Physical Sciences or Life Sciences.

Step 4: If your name appears in the Provisional Rank List, prepare the required documents. Shortlisted students must complete the document submission stage to remain under consideration for final selection.

Stage 2: Upload Your Papers

Step 1: Log in to the scholarship portal using your application number and password.

Step 2: Download the Confirmation Data-sheet and fill in the required details.

Step 3: Sign the Data-sheet and submit it to the Head of your college. The Head of the Institution must verify and endorse the document.

Step 4: Download the Terms and Conditions form. Read the conditions carefully and sign the form.

Step 5: Download the e-payment form. Enter your own bank account details correctly because the Council uses these details to transfer the scholarship amount.

Step 6: Prepare a self-attested copy of your Higher Secondary Examination mark list.

Step 7: Obtain a certificate proving your place of origin in Keralam.

Step 8: If you belong to the SC or ST community, arrange your valid community certificate as well.

Step 9: Upload all the required documents through the portal and submit them within the deadline announced by KSCSTE. The Council uses these documents to verify your application and prepare the Final Rank List.

Step 10: Keep the original documents and copies safely. The Council may ask you to produce them during verification.

Final Rank List and Scholarship Payment

Step 1: After you submit the documents, wait for KSCSTE to verify your application and supporting papers.

Step 2: Visit the Council’s website to check the Final Rank List. You can also refer to the Final Rank List for 2024-25 as an example of a published selection list.

Step 3: If the Council selects you, wait for the scholarship sanction order. The Council issues this order after completing the required verification and selection formalities.

Step 4: Check your bank account for the scholarship amount. KSCSTE transfers the approved amount through the National Electronic Fund Transfer (NEFT) system.

Step 5: Remember that selection does not automatically guarantee payment for every later year. You must meet the renewal conditions and submit the required documents to continue receiving the scholarship.

Renew the Scholarship in the Second and Third Years

Step 1: Complete the previous academic year and earn the minimum credits required under the applicable UGC credit framework.

Step 2: Read the official instructions for scholarship renewal before submitting your renewal application.

Step 3: Log in to the scholarship portal using your existing application details and open the renewal section.

Step 4: Fill in the Renewal Data-sheet, sign it and upload it along with the mark lists of the previous academic year.

Step 5: Submit the renewal documents within the prescribed deadline. The Council checks your academic progress and credit requirements before approving the next year’s scholarship.

Continue the Scholarship in the Fourth Year or Postgraduate Course

Step 1: Make sure you have earned the minimum credits required for your programme.

Step 2: Read the official continuation instructions issued by KSCSTE.

Step 3: Arrange your consolidated mark list for the complete UG programme. If you are pursuing an Integrated course, arrange the mark lists of all the previous three years.

Step 4: Fill in the Renewal Data-sheet and sign it wherever required.

Step 5: Upload the required documents through the portal. After verification and approval, the eligible scholar can receive ₹40,000 for the fourth UG year or first PG year and ₹60,000 for the second PG year, as applicable under the scheme.

Submit Your Final Mark Lists After Course Completion

Step 1: After completing your course, collect the final mark lists of your UG and PG programmes, or the Integrated PG course, as applicable.

Step 2: Send copies of the final mark lists to KSCSTE as required under the scheme guidelines. This completes the academic record submission process.

If You Need Help

Step 1: For registration-related queries, you can contact the Council through the e-mail ID prathibhascholars2425@gmail.com or call +91-471-2548402.

Step 2: You can also write to the Scientist-in-charge of the Programmes for Women in Science at wsd1kscste@gmail.com for programme-related assistance.

Important: Do not pay any agent or middleman to submit your application. Keep your login password private and use only the official scholarship portal. KSCSTE selects scholars on merit, and any attempt to influence the selection process through canvassing can lead to disqualification.

Prathibha Scholarship Programme: Earlier Rules and Present Rules

Some websites still mention the earlier eligibility and scholarship conditions of the Prathibha Scholarship Programme. Students who rely on outdated information may misunderstand the current requirements. The table below highlights the key differences between the earlier rules and the revised rules applicable to the 2024-25 academic cycle, as issued by the Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (KSCSTE).

These changes are important for students planning to apply or renew their scholarship. Always refer to the official Prathibha Scholarship Programme page and the guidelines for the relevant academic year before submitting an application.

Important Links Available of the Scheme

• Prathibha Scholarship Programme: Eligibility, Benefits and Application Details
• Official Scheme Guidelines: Subjects, Selection Rules and Renewal Conditions
• Confirmation Data-sheet for First-Year UG Students
• Prathibha Scholarship Terms and Conditions
• E-Payment Form for Scholarship Bank Transfer
• Scholarship Renewal Instructions for Second and Third Years
• Scholarship Continuation Instructions for Fourth-Year UG and PG Studies
• Prathibha Scholarship Final Rank List 2024-25
• SPEED Programme: Science and Research Opportunities for Students
• KSCSTE Student Programmes and Scholarships
• Women in Science and Technology Programmes
• UGC Curriculum and Credit Framework for Four-Year Undergraduate Programmes
• Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (KSCSTE) Official Website
• KSCSTE Contact Details and Office Address

Contact Details in Case of Help Needed

• Scholarship Office: The Scientist-in-charge, Programmes for Women in Science, Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment, Sasthra Bhavan, Pattom, Thiruvananthapuram – 695004, Keralam
• Phone: +91-471-2548402
• Email: wsd1kscste@gmail.com
• Query on Registration, Email: prathibhascholars2425@gmail.com
• Council Office Phone: +91-471-2548200
• Council Email: kscste@kerala.gov.in
• College Level: The Head of the Institution where you studied or joined the degree course, who endorses your Data-sheet

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Tabassum

Tabassum is a government schemes researcher and writer with 5 years of experience tracking Central and State welfare scheme programmes across India. She has covered 500+ schemes spanning agriculture, women welfare, education, and housing, helping lakhs of beneficiaries understand their entitlements in simple language.