1. Overview (What is this scheme?)
A fee waiver mechanism where eligible students do not have to pay tuition fees at the time of admission.
๐ Free Ship Card (SC/ST) 2026 โ Quick Summary
| Scheme Name | Free Ship Card (SC/ST) |
|---|---|
| Academic Year | 2026โ27 |
| Application Mode | Online / Digital Portal |
| Income Limit | Income criteria as per scheme rules (commonly below โน2,50,000 for full benefit). Eligibility and income exceptions depend on official guidelines. |
| Scholarship Amount | Tuition Fee Exemption (Directly at college level). |
| Official Portal | digitalgujarat.gov.in |
2. Who Can Apply? (Exact Eligibility)
Eligibility criteria may differ by state and academic year.
- Target Group: SC/ST students who meet the scheme criteria. Eligibility and income exceptions depend on official guidelines.
- State: Must be a permanent resident of Gujarat (Domicile).
- Enrollment: Must be a regular student in a government-recognized institution.
3. Income Limit (Exact Figure)
Income limits vary by state and government notification. Common central limits are around โน2,50,000 for SC/ST and similar for other categories (subject to official rules).
The official family income ceiling for Free Ship Card (SC/ST) follows the **Income as per scheme rules (commonly below โน2,50,000 for full benefit)**. Any eligibility or income exceptions depend strictly on official scheme guidelines. An updated income certificate from the current financial year is mandatory for verification.
4. Academic Criteria (Exact Rule)
Passed previous qualifying exam.
Note: Failing a semester or year might lead to a temporary pause in benefits.5. Scholarship Amount (Exact Benefit)
Benefits depend on institute category and verification as per scheme rules.
Tuition Fee Exemption (Directly at college level).
Funds are strictly disbursed through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to the Aadhaar-seeded bank account of the beneficiary once the application is verified.
6. Documents Required
Additional documents may be required as per portal instructions.
Mandatory for final verification.
Mandatory for final verification.
Mandatory for final verification.
Mandatory for final verification.
Mandatory for final verification.
7. How to Apply
Apply via Digital Gujarat. Present the card to college principal.
Step 1: Register on the portal using Aadhaar and Mobile OTP.
Step 2: Fill academic and family details.
Step 3: Upload scanned documents in the correct sizes.
Step 4: Submit and save the application printout.
8. Renewal Process
For existing beneficiaries, renewal requires logging in with previous credentials and updating your marks for the current academic year.
9. Verification Process
Applications are verified at the Institute Level first. Ensure your college office pushes your profile to the district level promptly.
10. Common Rejection Reasons
- Not applying before admission
- Invalid caste proof
- Mismatch in course eligibility
- Bank account not active or not seeded with Aadhaar.
๐ Official Application Resources 2026-27
Apply through the verified government portal below. Make sure to download the official guidelines for complete details.
11. Common Questions (FAQs)
Is an Income Certificate mandatory?
Yes, a valid income certificate from the current financial year (issued by Tehsildar or SDM) is required. Without it, your application may be marked defective or rejected.
What are the minimum marks required?
Passing marks in previous exam.