The Swami Vivekananda Merit Cum Means Scholarship (SVMCM) 2026 is a flagship program by the Government of West Bengal designed to support meritorious students from economically weaker families. The scheme aims to ensure that financial constraints never become a barrier to higher education.
It covers students from Class XI to Ph.D. level across various streams, including Arts, Commerce, Science, Engineering, and Professional courses. The scholarship amount is directly transferred to the beneficiaries’ bank accounts through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system, ensuring transparency and timely payments.
Here’s a quick overview before diving into the details:
Particulars
Details
Scholarship Name
Swami Vivekananda Merit Cum Means Scholarship (SVMCM)
What is the Swami Vivekananda Scholarship (SVMCM) 2026?
The Swami Vivekananda Scholarship, also known as SVMCM, is a merit-cum-means financial aid program launched by the West Bengal Higher Education Department. It provides monetary support to bright students who face economic challenges in continuing their education.
The primary goal of this initiative is to reduce dropout rates and encourage higher education among deserving candidates. The scholarship covers students pursuing higher secondary, undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs in both general and professional fields.
Key highlights of the scheme include:
Open to students from recognized institutions in West Bengal
Financial aid disbursed via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)
Annual renewal based on academic performance
Separate categories for minority, technical, and higher education departments
Through this scheme, the state government continues to uphold Swami Vivekananda’s vision of empowering youth through education and moral development.
To qualify for the SVMCM Scholarship 2026, students must meet both academic and financial eligibility requirements. Below is a detailed breakdown for different levels of study:
Education Level
Minimum Marks (Last Exam)
Additional Criteria
Higher Secondary (Class XI–XII)
75% or above in Madhyamik
Must be enrolled in Class XI
Undergraduate (UG)
75% or above in Class XII
Studying in a recognized college in WB
Postgraduate (PG)
53% (General) or 55% (Honors) in UG
Enrolled in a PG course in WB
Engineering/Professional Courses
75% in Class XII
Must be studying in AICTE/State-approved institute
M.Phil./Ph.D.
As per university norms
Research work under a recognized university
Note: Students already receiving other government scholarships are not eligible under SVMCM.
Swami Vivekananda Scholarship 2026: Amount and Benefits
The Swami Vivekananda Merit Cum Means Scholarship (SVMCM) offers monthly financial assistance based on the student’s level of study. The scholarship amount is credited directly to the student’s bank account via DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer), ensuring full transparency and quick processing.
Here’s a clear breakdown of the SVMCM 2026 scholarship amount for different academic levels:
Education Level
Monthly Scholarship Amount
Duration
Higher Secondary (Class XI–XII)
₹1,000
1 year (renewable)
Undergraduate (Arts/Commerce)
₹1,000
3 years
Undergraduate (Science)
₹1,500
3 years
Undergraduate (Engineering/Professional)
₹5,000
As per course duration
Postgraduate (Arts/Commerce)
₹2,000
2 years
Postgraduate (Science)
₹2,500
2 years
Postgraduate (Engineering/Technical)
₹5,000
2 years
M.Phil./Ph.D.
₹5,000 – ₹8,000
Till course completion
Note: Renewal depends on maintaining the minimum marks required in the previous academic year. Students must apply for renewal every year through the SVMCM portal.
This structured financial aid ensures that bright students can focus on learning without worrying about tuition or living expenses.
How to Apply Online for Swami Vivekananda Scholarship 2026
Applying for the Swami Vivekananda Scholarship 2026 is a simple and entirely online process. Students can register and submit their applications through the official SVMCM portal.
Follow these step-by-step instructions to apply:
Step-by-Step Application Process
Visit the Official Website: Go to svmcm.wbhed.gov.in.
Swami Vivekananda Scholarship 2026: Renewal Process
Students who have already received the Swami Vivekananda Scholarship (SVMCM) in previous years must apply for renewal to continue receiving the benefits. The renewal is based on the student’s academic performance and progression to the next level of study.
Renewal Eligibility
To be eligible for renewal:
The student must have passed all previous exams with the minimum required marks.
The student should have been promoted to the next academic year.
The bank account used earlier must remain active and in the student’s name.
Steps to Renew SVMCM 2026
Visit the official SVMCM portal.
Log in using your Applicant ID and password.
Click on the “Renewal Application” option.
Update your latest academic details and upload the mark sheet of the last examination passed.
Review and submit your renewal form.
Download the acknowledgment slip for reference.
Note: Renewal applications must be submitted within one month from the start of the new academic session. Late submissions are usually not accepted.
Documents Required for Swami Vivekananda Scholarship 2026
To successfully apply for or renew the SVMCM Scholarship, candidates must upload scanned copies of certain documents in the specified format. Ensure that the documents are clear, valid, and updated.
Here’s the complete checklist:
Document Name
Purpose
Passport-size Photograph
For student identification
Signature (scanned)
Digital authentication
Marksheet of Last Exam Passed
Academic eligibility proof
Income Certificate (≤ ₹2.5 lakh)
Family income verification
Domicile Certificate
Proof of residence in West Bengal
Bank Passbook (first page)
For DBT transfer verification
Aadhaar Card / Voter ID
Identity verification
Institution Verification Form (if required)
For official authentication by the institution head
Tip: Always cross-check the file size and format requirements mentioned on the portal before uploading to avoid rejection.
Swami Vivekananda Scholarship 2026: Important Dates
The SVMCM 2026 timeline is announced every year by the Department of Higher Education, West Bengal. Below is the expected schedule based on previous trends (to be updated once official notice releases):
Event
Tentative Date (2026)
Official Notification Release
June 2026
Online Application Start Date
July 2026
Last Date to Apply Online
September 2026
Correction Window (if any)
October 2026
Scholarship Disbursement
November–December 2026
Renewal Application Period
Within 1 month of new session
Important: Students should regularly check the official SVMCM website and their registered email for updates and notifications.
Conclusion
The Swami Vivekananda Scholarship 2026 (SVMCM) continues to empower bright and deserving students across West Bengal, ensuring equal access to education regardless of economic background.
With a simple online process, transparent disbursement system, and merit-based selection, the SVMCM scheme is one of India’s most impactful state-level scholarships.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, make sure to apply early, upload valid documents, and track your application regularly. Education is the foundation of empowerment, and this scholarship is your opportunity to build a strong academic future.
Can diploma students apply for the Swami Vivekananda Scholarship?
Yes, students pursuing polytechnic or diploma courses after class 10 or 12 are eligible. They must meet the academic percentage criteria and income limit.
Is there any age limit for applying to the Swami Vivekananda Scholarship?
No specific upper age limit is prescribed. Eligibility is purely based on the last qualifying exam marks and income criteria.
Can students studying in private colleges apply for this scholarship?
Yes, students in both government and private institutions recognized by West Bengal government can apply, provided their college is registered on the SVMCM portal.
Is the Swami Vivekananda Scholarship only for West Bengal residents?
Yes, only permanent residents of West Bengal are eligible. Proof of domicile, such as ration card or voter ID, is mandatory.
Can I edit my Swami Vivekananda Scholarship application after submission?
To be eligible for the Swami Vivekananda scholarship, the candidates are required to obtain at least 60% aggregate marks in the qualifying exam. These may differ according to the course you choose
What should I do if I forget my applicant ID or password?
You can reset it through the "Forgot Password" option on the portal using your registered mobile number and email ID.
What is the percentage of scholarship marks for SVMCM
No, the process is completely online. However, you may need to submit a printout to your institution if asked during verification.
Can a student who has a gap year apply for the scholarship?
Yes, but only if the gap is officially documented and the student is still within the qualifying stage of education.
How do I update my bank details if they change after application?
Students can update bank details during renewal or by contacting the scholarship helpdesk with valid proof of the new account.
Is there a helpline or support system for SVMCM applicants?
Yes, the SVMCM portal has a dedicated Helpdesk section with contact numbers and email IDs for technical or eligibility queries.
Can I track my scholarship disbursement through PFMS?
Yes, once the scholarship is approved, students can track payment status on the PFMS (Public Financial Management System) portal.
Can I get K3 and SVMCM scholarship together?
No, it is not possible to receive both Kanyashree K3 scholarships and the SVMCM (Swami Vivekananda Merit cum Scholarship) together, as the SVCM does not allow the candidates to benefit from any other central or state governmental scholarship for the same course of study.
What are the eligibility criteria for the Swami Vivekananda Scholarship and how does it compare to other scholarships?
The Swami Vivekananda Scholarship requires students to be West Bengal residents with at least 60% marks in the previous exam and an annual family income below ₹2.5 lakh. Compared to others like the National Merit or INSPIRE Scholarships, it has stricter income criteria but broader course and level eligibility.
How does the Swami Vivekananda Scholarship benefit amount compare to other scholarships for Indian students?
The Swami Vivekananda Scholarship offers financial support based on merit-cum-means, with tuition coverage and monthly stipends up to ₹2,000–₹5,000 depending on course type. Compared to other Indian scholarships, it provides broader coverage for professional, technical, and research courses, whereas many others focus mainly on tuition support or merit-based awards.
Is it mandatory to have a bank account in the applicant’s name?
Yes. The DBT transfer is made only to the student’s personal bank account, not to parents’ or guardians’ accounts.
Can I reapply if my previous year’s renewal was rejected?
Yes, you can apply as a fresh applicant in the next cycle, provided you still meet the eligibility requirements.
upGrad Abroad Editorial Team |4093 articles published
We are a dedicated team of study-abroad experts, ensuring intensive research and comprehensive information in each of our blogs. With every piece written, we aim at simplifying the overseas education ...
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