Maharashtra to Conduct Scholarship Exams for Classes 4 and 7 from 2026

Maharashtra Government has announced a significant revision in the state scholarship examination structure, introducing pre-upper primary and pre-secondary level exams for students of Classes 4 and 7. The change is aimed at encouraging meritorious and economically disadvantaged students while improving participation and academic performance across the state.

The revised structure will be implemented from the 2025-26 academic year. During the transitional phase, the final Class 5 and Class 8 scholarship exams will be conducted in February 2026. Simultaneously, the new Class 4 and Class 7 exams are scheduled for April or May 2026. From the 2026-27 academic year onward, the exams will be conducted regularly, establishing a long-term system to nurture talent at earlier stages in students’ academic journeys.
 

Revised Scholarship Amounts, Number of Awards, and Historical Context

The scholarship amount has also been revised to make it more attractive and meaningful. Class 4 students will receive Rs 5,000 per year, while Class 7 students will receive Rs 7,500 per year. In total, 16,693 scholarships will be awarded at the primary level (Class 4) and 16,588 at the upper-primary level (Class 7).

Introduced in 1954-55, Maharashtra’s scholarship scheme has a long history of supporting students across rural and urban areas. A prior revision in 2015 had shifted the exams to Classes 5 and 8, but participation declined significantly. Reverting to Classes 4 and 7 is expected to restore wider student involvement, foster a culture of early academic achievement, and strengthen overall program effectiveness.
 

Eligibility Criteria, Age Limits, and Inclusion of Students with Disabilities
 

Students from government, aided, unaided, permanently unaided, and self-financed schools are eligible to appear. Students from CBSE, ICSE, and other recognized boards can also participate, subject to specific conditions.

The maximum age for Class 4 students is 10 years, extended to 14 years for students with disabilities. For Class 7, the maximum age is 13 years, extended to 17 years for students with disabilities. These limits ensure that students are tested within an appropriate developmental range and that differently-abled students have equal opportunity to participate.

Examination Fee Structure and Integration with Vidyaniketan Entrance Tests

Students in the general category are required to pay Rs 200 per exam, while students belonging to Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Nomadic Tribes, Denotified Tribes, and differently-abled students are charged Rs 125. Participating schools must also pay an annual registration fee of Rs 200 to the Examination Council.

The primary scholarship exam for Class 4 will continue to be conducted jointly with the entrance tests for government, tribal, and denotified and nomadic tribe Vidyaniketans. Each scholarship awarded will cover a period of three years, providing continuity in financial support for students.

 

Academic and Financial Benefits of the Scholarship Program

Early exposure to competitive examinations helps students develop strong learning habits, critical thinking, and time management skills. By targeting younger students in Classes 4 and 7, the scholarship program nurtures talent at an earlier stage, encouraging students to maintain consistent performance and pursue higher levels of education confidently.

The scholarships also provide essential financial relief, covering tuition, study materials, and other related expenses. This support can reduce dropout rates and promote school retention, particularly among girls and marginalized communities.

Policy Adaptability, Healthy Competition, and National Alignment

Reverting the exams to Classes 4 and 7 demonstrates the government’s ability to respond to feedback and implement data-driven policy adjustments. This adaptability strengthens public trust and ensures initiatives remain relevant and effective.

The scholarship exams encourage healthy competition among students and provide a benchmark for academic excellence across various boards. The program aligns with national education goals emphasizing quality education, inclusivity, and equal opportunity for all students.
 

Maharashtra Revises Scholarship Examination Structure

Maharashtra’s revised scholarship examination structure for Classes 4 and 7 represents a thoughtful and strategic initiative aimed at promoting academic excellence, inclusion, and student participation. By combining financial incentives with early exposure to competitive assessments, the program supports educational growth while addressing equity and accessibility. With these changes, the state is poised to strengthen its education system, empower students from all backgrounds, and create a robust foundation for lifelong learning and success.