New Delhi, October 18, 2025 – In a significant step towards promoting gender equality in education, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced the continuation and enhanced outreach of its Merit Scholarship Scheme for Single Girl Children. This initiative, aimed at supporting meritorious female students who are the only girl child in their families, provides crucial financial assistance to help them pursue higher secondary education without barriers. With applications open for the 2025-26 academic year, the scheme underscores the government’s commitment to empowering girls through accessible education.

Objectives of the Scholarship Scheme

The CBSE Merit Scholarship for Single Girl Children was launched in 2008 by the Ministry of Education to address the financial challenges faced by girls in continuing their studies post-Class 10. The primary objective is to boost enrollment and retention rates among female students in Classes 11 and 12, fostering a more inclusive educational landscape. By targeting single girl children – defined as girls with no siblings – the scheme not only alleviates economic pressures on families but also encourages parents to invest in their daughters’ futures. According to CBSE officials, this program has already benefited thousands of students, contributing to a notable increase in female participation in higher secondary education across affiliated schools.

Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?

To qualify for the scholarship, applicants must meet specific academic and familial criteria designed to ensure the program’s focus on deserving candidates. Key requirements include:

• Academic Performance: The girl must have secured at least 60% aggregate marks in the CBSE Class 10 examination.
• Family Status: She must be the only child (no siblings, boy or girl) in the family, verified through a notarized affidavit.
• Enrollment Details: The student should be pursuing Class 11 or 12 in a CBSE-affiliated school, with the school’s monthly tuition fee not exceeding ₹1,500 (with a maximum 10% annual increase).
• Nationality: Open exclusively to Indian nationals.

Additionally, for renewal in Class 12, students must achieve 50% or more marks in Class 11 examinations and maintain regular attendance and good conduct. Schools charging higher fees or those not affiliated with CBSE are ineligible, ensuring the aid reaches modest-income families.

Benefits: Financial Support and Beyond

Under this scheme, selected scholars receive a monthly stipend of ₹500 (or ₹1,000 as per updated guidelines for 2025), payable for up to two years via Electronic Clearance Service (ECS)/NEFT directly to their bank accounts. This financial aid covers essential educational expenses, reducing the burden on families and allowing girls to focus on their studies. Beyond monetary support, the scholarship serves as an incentive for academic excellence and can be combined with other school concessions. CBSE emphasizes that the program promotes holistic development, with many recipients going on to excel in competitive exams and higher education.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide

Applying for the CBSE Single Girl Child Scholarship is a straightforward online process via the official CBSE portal. Eligible students should act promptly, as the deadline for the 2025-26 cycle is October 23, 2025. Here’s how to proceed:

1. Visit the Portal: Go to the CBSE Scholarship website (cbse.gov.in/cbsenew/scholar.html) and select “New User Registration” for first-time applicants or “Renewal” for continuing scholars.
2. Fill the Form: Enter personal details, academic records, and family information. Upload scanned copies of required documents.
3. Submit Documents: Include Class 10 marksheet, Aadhaar card, bank details (cancelled cheque or passbook), passport-sized photo, and the notarized affidavit confirming single child status.
4. Confirmation: Upon submission, print the confirmation page. For new applications, courier it to: Assistant Secretary (Scholarship), CBSE, Shiksha Kendra, 2 Community Centre, Preet Vihar, Delhi-110092.
5. Track Status: Use the portal to monitor application progress and renewal approvals.

Incomplete submissions lead to rejection in nearly 25% of cases, so double-check all details.

Impact and Future Outlook

Since its inception, the CBSE Single Girl Child Scholarship has empowered over 10,000 girls annually, significantly improving retention rates to 90% in participating schools. Stories of recipients pursuing STEM careers or leadership roles highlight the scheme’s transformative potential. As India aims for 100% gross enrollment in secondary education by 2030, initiatives like this are pivotal. CBSE plans to expand outreach through digital campaigns and school partnerships, ensuring no eligible girl misses out. For more details, visit the official CBSE website or contact the scholarship helpline.

This scholarship isn’t just aid—it’s a beacon of opportunity, reminding us that educating a girl lights the path for generations.

  CBSE, education, financial support, scholarships, women empowerment