Education is one of the most effective tools for social upliftment, and in order to provide equitable opportunities to all, the Government of India has introduced a multitude of schemes for students from socio-economically backward backgrounds. One of the government's schemes is the SHRESTA Residential School Scheme which has been introduced for the Scheduled Caste (SC) students in particular. This scheme not only assists in the academic journey of the student but also provides hostel facilities and scholarships to pursue quality education without financial burdens.
Overview
To ensure equal learning opportunities for SC students, the government launched a dedicated education scheme. The table below outlines its objectives, eligibility, and benefits for deserving candidates.
| Component | Details |
|---|
| Objective | To provide quality education to SC students. |
| Scheme Duration | 2023-24 to 2025-26 |
| Mode of Operation | Mode 1: Best CBSE private residential schools |
| Eligibility Criteria | SC students with a family income of ≤ ₹2.5 lakhs |
| National Entrance Test | Conducted by NTA for admission selection |
| Scholarships | Covers school fees, hostel, and mess charges |
| Total Seats | 3000 seats per year (Class 9 & 11) |
What Is a Residential School Scheme?
The Residential School Scheme under SHRESTA is a government initiative, N.G.O. supported and thereby providing deserving SC students to study in best residential schools affiliated to CBSE in the country. 'Studies' has been furthered by the fact that education with quality educational provision must be made available to talented students from Scheduled Caste (SC) communities through their own qualified socio-economic backwardness to seek professional employment in respect to their educational aspirations, and at full financial support, covering tuition, hostel and mess charges.
Objectives
The SHRESTA scheme aims to offer Scheduled Caste (SC) students access to high-quality education by placing them in the best residential schools across the country. This initiative ensures that SC students have the opportunity to achieve socio-economic development through education, providing them with all the resources needed to complete their academic journey and secure better future opportunities.
Modalities Of Operation
The scheme is implemented in two distinct ways: SHRESTA schools, which consist of the best CBSE-affiliated private residential schools, and the National Entrance Test for SHRESTA (NETS), where students are selected based on their performance in this test, which is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA).
Eligibility Criteria For Schools
Schools wishing to participate in the SHRESTA scheme must meet specific criteria. These criteria ensure that the selected schools are well-established and capable of accommodating additional SC students while maintaining a high standard of education and infrastructure.
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The school should have been in existence for a minimum period of 5 years.
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A minimum pass percentage of 75% in Classes 10 and 12 in the last 3 years.
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Capacity to accommodate a minimum of 10 additional SC students in classes 9 and 11.
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The willingness of the school to adhere to the terms of the scheme.
Selection Criteria For Students
To be eligible for the SHRESTA scheme, SC students must meet specific conditions that ensure they can succeed in this educational setup. The selection process guarantees that only students with the required academic background and financial need are included.
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SC students from any recognised school (private, government, or local body).
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For class 9, the student has to pass class 8; for class 11, class 10 has to be passed.
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Family income does not exceed ₹2.5 lakhs per year.
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The caste and income certificates must be uploaded while applying for the same.
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These students must not be part of the Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme.
Number Of seats
Each year, a specific number of seats is allocated to ensure that the scheme can accommodate a set number of students. These seats are divided across classes 9 and 11 to ensure balanced opportunities for all eligible students.
Admission Process
Getting admission under this scheme is simple and student-friendly. The government ensures that selected students face no financial or adjustment issues.
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Successful candidates are automatically enrolled in the school of their choice.
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Funds (for school/hostel tuition) shall be released by the Ministry directly to the designated school within 30 days.
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Schools must house students in hostels and facilitate their adaptation to their environments.
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In case a student faces any difficulty, a designated counsellor in each school shall address that issue.
Bridge Course
A bridge course is provided to help SC students adjust to the academic demands of residential schools. This course is aimed at bridging gaps in academic knowledge, ensuring students are prepared for the school’s environment, and supporting them in catching up with their peers.
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The classes are held after regular school hours so that students can focus on improving without disturbing their normal studies.
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The course focuses on the individual learning needs of each student, giving them extra attention where required.
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It usually continues for up to 3 months, depending on how much support the student needs.
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Special focus is given to subjects where students face difficulties, helping them strengthen their weak areas.
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To make this possible, schools are allowed to use an extra 10% of the annual fee for running the bridge course.
Scholarships For Students
SHRESTA provides scholarships covering school fees, hostel, and mess charges. The amount of the scholarship granted varies from class to class:
| Class | Scholarship Amount (₹) |
|---|
| Class 9 | 1,00,000 |
| Class 10 | 1,10,000 |
| Class 11 | 1,25,000 |
| Class 12 | 1,35,000 |
Application Process For Residential School Scheme
Step 1: Go to the official site SHRESHTA.
Step 2: Find and open the "SHRESHTA NETS Online Application Form".
Step 3: Enter your basic details like name, date of birth, contact info, and email ID.
Step 4: Note down the system-generated application number for future use.
Step 5: Use this number to complete the rest of the online form.
Step 6: Submit the required exam fee online.
Step 7: After submitting, download/print the confirmation page.
Step 8: Take the SHRESHTA NETS exam conducted by NTA.
Documents Required To Apply For The Residential School Scheme
Students applying for the SHRESTA scheme must submit certain essential documents to ensure their eligibility and verification. These documents help validate their identity, caste, income, and academic background.
Conclusion
The SHRESTA scheme is a profound initiative of the government that provides equal opportunities to SC students in the best educational institutions. With the provision of scholarships to residential schools with extra academic support, they have all the resources required for excelling in their studies and future careers. Interested candidates shall apply through the NETS portal, submitting the required documents.
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