In the landscape of India's social welfare initiatives, the Free Coaching Scheme for Scheduled Castes (SC), Other Backward Classes (OBC), and beneficiaries of the PM CARES Children Scheme stands as a beacon of hope for economically disadvantaged students aspiring to crack competitive examinations. As we step into 2026, this scheme, administered by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MSJE), continues to bridge the gap between ambition and opportunity. Launched to address systemic inequalities, it provides high-quality coaching free of cost, enabling participants to secure jobs in the public and private sectors or gain admission to prestigious technical and professional institutions. With the nation's focus on inclusive growth intensifying amid economic recovery post-pandemic, the 2026 iteration of the scheme is poised to empower over 3,500 students annually, fostering social mobility and reducing disparities.
The scheme's relevance in 2026 cannot be overstated. India grapples with persistent challenges like unemployment among youth from marginalized communities, where access to premium coaching often determines success in exams like the UPSC Civil Services, NEET, or IIT-JEE. According to recent data, SC and OBC communities constitute a significant portion of the population yet remain underrepresented in higher education and elite jobs. By offering structured support, the scheme aligns with national goals such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on education and reduced inequalities. In a year marked by digital advancements and hybrid learning, the program's emphasis on online monitoring and biometric attendance ensures efficiency and transparency, making it a model for future welfare schemes.
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History and Evolution of the Scheme
The roots of the Free Coaching Scheme trace back to the early 2000s, when the Government of India recognized the need for targeted interventions to uplift SC and OBC students. Initially introduced under the MSJE, it aimed to provide coaching for competitive exams, drawing from the principles enshrined in the Constitution for social justice. Over the years, the scheme has evolved significantly. In 2010, it was streamlined with clearer guidelines on eligibility and benefits. A major milestone came in 2022 with the integration of Dr. Ambedkar Centres of Excellence (DACE) in Central Universities, enhancing the quality of coaching through institutional partnerships.
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| The SC OBC Free Coaching Scheme |
By 2024-25, the scheme expanded to include beneficiaries of the PM CARES Children Scheme, a move to support orphans and children affected by COVID-19. This inclusion reflects the government's adaptive approach to emerging social needs. Entering 2026, the guidelines remain largely consistent with the 2024-25 framework, valid until February 2026, with potential updates anticipated in the budget session. The annual allocation has seen incremental increases, with funds directed towards stipends, fees, and administrative enhancements. State-specific adaptations, such as Karnataka's pre-examination training for OBCs, complement the central scheme, creating a robust ecosystem for aspirants. This evolution underscores a commitment to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's vision of education as a tool for emancipation.
The SC OBC Free Coaching Scheme Highlights
| Highlight | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Free Coaching for SCs, OBCs and PM CARES Children Scheme |
| Administered By | Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (via Dr. Ambedkar Foundation) |
| Target Beneficiaries | Economically disadvantaged SC & OBC students; PM CARES beneficiaries (no income/caste limit) |
| Annual Family Income Limit | Up to ₹8 lakh (for SC/OBC only) |
| Annual Student Quota | Approximately 3,500 nationwide |
| SC:OBC Seat Ratio | 70:30 (relaxable if needed); 30% reservation for females |
| Implementing Centers | Dr. Ambedkar Centres of Excellence (DACE) in Central Universities |
| Key Exams Covered | UPSC/State Civil Services, SSC/RRB, JEE, NEET, CLAT, CAT, GRE, TOEFL, etc. |
| Financial Benefits | Full coaching fees reimbursed; ₹4,000 monthly stipend (up to 12 months) |
| Application Process | Online via empanelled Central University portals |
| Lifetime Limit | Benefit availed only twice |
| Monitoring | Biometric attendance; Online system for transparency |
| Current Guidelines | Based on 2024-25 (extended into 2026); Check official site for updates |
PM viksit bharat rozgar yojana
Objective and Scope
At its core, the scheme's objective is to deliver quality coaching to economically weak SC, OBC, and PM CARES beneficiaries, equipping them for success in competitive arenas. It targets examinations that open doors to stable careers and higher education, thereby promoting economic independence.
The scope is comprehensive, covering Group A and B exams conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), Staff Selection Commission (SSC), and Railway Recruitment Boards (RRBs). It also includes officers' grade recruitments in banks, insurance firms, and Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs). For higher education, coaching is provided for premier entrance tests like IIT-JEE for engineering, NEET for medicine, CAT for management, CLAT for law, and even international eligibility exams such as SAT, GRE, GMAT, IELTS, and TOEFL. Additionally, it encompasses exams for Commercial Pilot License (CPL) courses, National Defence Academy (NDA), and Combined Defence Services (CDS). This broad coverage ensures the scheme caters to diverse aspirations, from civil services to global opportunities.
Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility is designed to prioritize those in genuine need. For SC and OBC candidates, the family income must not exceed Rs. 8 lakh per annum from all sources. This ceiling is verified through income certificates issued by a Revenue Officer not below the rank of Tehsildar for self-employed parents, or from the employer supplemented by a consolidated certificate. Candidates from minority communities within SC/OBC may opt for schemes under the Ministry of Minority Affairs or state governments instead.
PM CARES beneficiaries face no income or caste restrictions; they only need a valid certificate and beneficiary ID from the Central Government. All applicants must possess a valid Aadhaar number and an Aadhaar-seeded bank account for Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). Educational qualifications vary by exam: for those requiring Class XII, candidates must have passed it or be in the final year with at least 50% marks in Class X. For undergraduate-level exams, completion or final year of UG with 50% in Class XII is mandatory.
Importantly, the benefit can be availed only twice in a lifetime, and applicants must declare they are not receiving similar aid from other central or state schemes. This prevents duplication and ensures wider reach. There is no specified age limit, making it accessible to lifelong learners.
Benefits Provided
The scheme's benefits are multifaceted, alleviating financial burdens on students. Coaching fees are reimbursed as per predefined limits: up to Rs. 75,000 for UPSC/State Civil Services exams, Rs. 40,000 for SSC/RRB, and Rs. 35,000 for international tests like GRE or IELTS. A monthly stipend of Rs. 4,000 supports living expenses during the course, capped at 12 months. Successful candidates clearing the mains stage of Civil Services exams receive a one-time incentive of Rs. 15,000.
Payments are disbursed in two installments via DBT: 50% at commencement and the balance after 75% course completion. This structure incentivizes attendance and progress. Beyond finances, participants gain access to expert faculty, study materials, and mock tests, enhancing their competitive edge.
Application and Selection Process
Applications are invited online through Central Universities empanelled as DACE centers. No offline submissions are accepted, ensuring a streamlined, digital process. Incomplete applications are rejected outright. For SC and OBC candidates, selection follows a merit-based procedure set by the university, pre-approved by the Dr. Ambedkar Foundation (DAF).
PM CARES beneficiaries are admitted directly upon eligibility verification, bypassing merit lists. The annual quota is 3,500 students, with each university allocated up to 100 slots for SC/OBC (70:30 ratio, minimum 70% SC, relaxable to 50%; 30% female reservation). PM CARES slots are additional. Courses require a minimum of 25 students, and universities can offer up to four courses. Rejected applicants can reapply in subsequent years.
Implementing Agencies and Empanelled Institutes
The DAF under MSJE oversees implementation, partnering with Central Universities as DACE centers. Universities apply for empanelment, evaluated by a Selection Committee based on infrastructure like classrooms, libraries, and faculty. MoUs are signed for three years, renewable based on performance. Examples include Banaras Hindu University (BHU) and others, which advertise batches like 2025-26.
These institutes provide physical coaching (minimum 16 hours/week) and can enroll extra fee-paying students beyond allocated slots. If enrollment dips below 50, students may shift to other centers with approval.
Monitoring and Evaluation
Robust monitoring ensures accountability. Aadhaar-based biometric attendance is mandatory, with absences over four days per month risking cancellation. An Online Learning Management System facilitates coordination, attendance tracking, and resource sharing.
Universities submit periodic reports, and the Ministry conducts annual physical verifications of 25% centers. Performance is appraised against success benchmarks: e.g., 4% clearance in Civil Services prelims for fund renewal. False claims lead to fund recovery with 15% interest and legal action.
Impact and Success Stories
The scheme's impact is profound, with thousands of beneficiaries securing positions in government and private sectors. Success rates in competitive exams have improved, contributing to diverse representation in bureaucracy and professions. For instance, many DACE alumni have cleared UPSC, attributing their achievements to the structured coaching and stipends that allowed focused preparation.
In 2026, as digital tools integrate further, the scheme is expected to yield even higher outcomes. Challenges like low female participation are being addressed through reservations. Overall, it exemplifies how targeted education can transform lives, promoting a more equitable society.
Conclusion
As India advances towards its centennial of independence in 2047, schemes like the SC OBC Free Coaching Scheme 2026 play a pivotal role in realizing 'Viksit Bharat' – a developed nation. By investing in the potential of marginalized youth, it not only uplifts individuals but strengthens the social fabric. Aspiring students should leverage this opportunity, applying diligently through official channels. With continued refinements, the scheme promises to be a cornerstone of inclusive development for years to come.
FAQs on SC/OBC Free Coaching Scheme 2026
Q. What is the SC/OBC Free Coaching Scheme?
The scheme, officially known as Free Coaching for SCs, OBCs, and beneficiaries of PM CARES Children Scheme, provides high-quality free coaching to economically disadvantaged SC and OBC students, along with PM CARES beneficiaries, to prepare for competitive exams like UPSC, NEET, JEE, and others for jobs or higher education admissions.
Q. Who is eligible under this scheme in 2026?
SC and OBC candidates with family income up to Rs. 8 lakh per annum are eligible. PM CARES Children Scheme beneficiaries have no income or caste restrictions but need a valid certificate. Applicants must have required educational qualifications for the exam and an Aadhaar-linked bank account.
Q. What exams are covered under the scheme?
It covers UPSC/State Civil Services, SSC/RRB, bank/PSU officer exams, entrance tests like IIT-JEE, NEET, CLAT, CAT, international exams (GRE, GMAT, IELTS, TOEFL, SAT), and defence exams (NDA, CDS), among others decided by the Ministry.
Q. What financial benefits are provided?
Coaching fees are fully reimbursed (up to Rs. 75,000 for civil services, lower for others). A monthly stipend of Rs. 4,000 is given for up to 12 months. Successful candidates clearing certain stages may get additional incentives.
Q. How many students are selected annually?
Around 3,500 students nationwide, with each Dr. Ambedkar Centre of Excellence (DACE) in Central Universities admitting up to 100 SC/OBC students (70:30 SC-OBC ratio, 30% female reservation). PM CARES slots are additional with no fixed limit.
Q. How to apply for the scheme in 2026?
Applications are submitted online through the websites of empanelled Central Universities offering DACE coaching. Check individual university portals for notifications, entrance tests, and deadlines, usually advertised for the 2025-26 or 2026 batch.
Q. What is the selection process?
SC/OBC candidates are selected based on merit, often via a university-conducted entrance exam. PM CARES beneficiaries get direct admission upon verification. At least 70% slots for SC, relaxable if needed, with female reservations.
Q. Can the benefit be availed more than once?
No, the coaching benefit can be availed only twice in a lifetime, regardless of the number of exam attempts. Students must declare they are not receiving similar aid from other schemes.
Q. Where is the coaching provided?
Coaching is conducted at Dr. Ambedkar Centres of Excellence (DACE) in various Central Universities across India, with physical classes, expert faculty, study materials, and biometric attendance for monitoring.
Q. Are there any updates for 2026?
The scheme continues with 2024-25 guidelines (extended), including PM CARES beneficiaries since 2024-25. No major changes announced yet; monitor the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment website or DACE university portals for latest notifications.
Q. What if attendance is low or course is discontinued?
Biometric attendance is mandatory; excessive absences can lead to cancellation. Courses need minimum enrollment; low turnout may shift students to other centers. Universities report progress regularly for fund renewal.
Q. How to contact for more details?
Visit socialjustice.gov.in for guidelines or contact the nearest DACE Central University coordinator. Dr. Ambedkar Foundation oversees implementation; avoid duplicate benefits from state schemes.