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PUC stands for Pre-University Course, the 2-year senior secondary education in Karnataka (11th and 12th grade, equivalent to ClassâŻ11â12 nationally) offered by Pre-University Colleges under the state board . PUC and Why Scholarships Matter Itâs a pivotal period: the marks and resources you gather here can shape your futureâcollege admission, financial aid, even career opportunities.PUC and Why Scholarships Matter
Students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds or underrepresented communities often struggle with tuition, books, or living costs. Thatâs where scholarships step inâproviding both relief and opportunity.
đ Major PUC Scholarships in Karnataka
1. Incentive for SSLC & 2nd PUC Students
- Offered by Karnatakaâs Minority Welfare Department.
- Whoâs eligible: Top performersâtop 1,000 SSLC scorers and top 1,000 2nd PUC scorersâfrom minority communities, with â„85% marks .
- What they get: A one-time cash incentiveââč10,000 for SSLC achievers and âč20,000 for PUC toppers.
2. Sanchi Honnamma Scholarship
- Targeted at female students in PUC/science/commerce streams .
- Eligibility: Karnataka domicile, family income †âč2.5âŻlakh.
- Reward: âč2,000 per academic yearâsmall but meaningful, especially when combined with other aid.
3. Vidyasiri Scholarship (ePASS)
- Supports backward-class and minority groups with loan interest subsidies, not direct cash .
- Who qualifies: Karnataka students in UG/PG/diploma courses with family income †âč2.5âŻlakh and â„75% attendance.
- Subsidy covers interest up to âč60,000/yearâlifesaver if youâre financing higher studies.
đ Latest Boosts & News

Rani Channamma University (RCU), Belagavi has launched an inspiring initiative:
- Students scoring â„90% in 2nd PUC can receive free education at Sangolli Rayanna College for the 2025â26 year.
- Already 36 students are on board, and those from financially weaker backgrounds get free hostel accommodation and meals .
- If they maintain performance, free facilities continue through their degree. A fantastic model of merit-based support!
đ§ Whatâs Next? Practical Tips & ToâDoâs
- Check your eligibility: Do you meet the criteria for minority/income/gender-based awards? Each scheme has unique conditions (income levels, marks, category).
- Combine scholarships: Multiple small benefitsâlike âč2,000 from Sanchi + âč20,000 incentiveâcan add up.
- Prepare the docs: Youâll likely need:
- SSLC and PUC marksheets
- Income certificate
- Domicile and caste/minority certificates
- Aadhar, bank details, college bonafide letter
- Apply early: Most portals like ePASS, NSP, Minority Welfare, open in JulyâAugust, aligning with the academic year
- Maintain performance: Many scholarships (and RCUâs free education) require you keep your marks high to continue benefits.
đĄ Final Thoughts

PUC is a critical turning pointâand Karnataka offers multiple scholarships to fuel your journey. Whether you’re a high-scorer from a minority community or a female science student, these initiatives can ease financial pressures and open doors to higher education.
The RCU free education program is an especially promising trend: nimble, performance-based support that goes beyond money to include housing and long-term planning.PUC and Why Scholarships Matter
đ Your Checklist
- Verify income & category eligibility
- Collect all required docs
- Monitor portal dates (ePASS, NSP, Minority Welfare)
- Watch for RCU or college-specific schemes
- Aim highâacademic excellence continues to pay dividends