Scholarships That Even Average Students Can Apply For in 2026 (60–75% Marks)

Many students believe scholarships are only for toppers who score 90% or above in Class 12.

That isn’t entirely true.

Every year, thousands of students with 60–75% marks become eligible for scholarships offered by private foundations, banks, NGOs, educational institutions, and government-supported organizations. Unfortunately, many never apply because they assume they won’t qualify.

If your Class 12 marks are somewhere between 60% and 75%, this guide will help you discover scholarships that could reduce your education expenses and support your higher studies.

Can Students with 60–75% Marks Get Scholarships?

Yes.

While some merit-based scholarships require very high scores, many others focus on factors such as:

• Family income
• Financial need
• Course admission
• Category (where applicable)
• Overall eligibility criteria
• Academic consistency rather than exceptionally high marks

This means even average students have a good chance of receiving financial assistance if they apply correctly.

---

Best Scholarships for Average Students in 2026

1. Sitaram Jindal Foundation Scholarship

One of the most popular scholarships for students who are not necessarily toppers.

Highlights

• Available for various undergraduate courses
• Financial assistance based on eligibility
• Suitable for many students scoring around 60–75%
• Family income criteria apply

This scholarship supports students pursuing higher education who need financial assistance.

---

2. HDFC Bank Parivartan ECSS Scholarship

The HDFC Parivartan Scholarship is designed to help students from financially weaker families continue their education.

Benefits

• Financial assistance for higher studies
• Available for undergraduate students
• Income-based eligibility
• Marks requirement varies depending on the category

Many students assume this scholarship is only for top scorers, but financial need is also an important factor.

---

3. Post Matric Scholarship

Students belonging to eligible reserved categories may receive financial support under various Post Matric Scholarship schemes.

Benefits often include:

• Tuition fee support
• Maintenance allowance
• Other educational expenses

Eligibility depends on the respective Central or State Government guidelines.

---

4. Foundation for Academic Excellence and Access (FAEA)

FAEA supports economically disadvantaged students pursuing higher education.

Depending on the program and eligibility, selected students may receive assistance covering:

• Tuition fees
• Hostel expenses
• Study materials
• Other academic costs

Students should carefully review the official eligibility requirements before applying.

---

5. LIC Golden Jubilee Scholarship

The LIC Golden Jubilee Scholarship helps financially weaker students pursuing higher education.

Depending on the course, students may receive annual financial assistance for educational expenses.

---

Scholarships Based on Financial Need

Many students focus only on marks.

In reality, several scholarships give greater importance to family income.

If your family’s annual income falls below the prescribed limit, your chances of qualifying may improve even if your Class 12 percentage is average.

---

Documents Usually Required

Before applying, keep these documents ready:

• Class 10 Marksheet
• Class 12 Marksheet
• Aadhaar Card
• Income Certificate
• Admission Letter
• Fee Receipt
• Passport Size Photograph
• Bank Passbook
• Category Certificate (if applicable)

Different scholarship providers may ask for additional documents.

---

Common Reasons Scholarship Applications Get Rejected

Thousands of applications are rejected every year because of simple mistakes.

Some common reasons include:

• Incorrect income certificate
• Blurred document uploads
• Aadhaar not linked with bank account
• Wrong bank details
• Applying after the deadline
• Not meeting eligibility criteria

Double-check every document before submitting your application.

---

How to Increase Your Chances of Selection

Although selection depends on the scholarship, these steps can improve your chances:

• Apply before the deadline.
• Upload clear and valid documents.
• Read the eligibility criteria carefully.
• Keep your bank account active and Aadhaar-linked.
• Apply for multiple scholarships instead of relying on just one.

Many students miss opportunities simply because they assume they won’t qualify.

---

Are Scholarships Only for Engineering and Medical Students?

No.

Several scholarships are available for students pursuing courses such as:

• BA
• B.Com
• B.Sc
• BBA
• BCA
• Diploma Courses
• Engineering
• Medical Courses
• Professional Programs

Eligibility varies depending on the scholarship.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I get a scholarship with 60% marks in Class 12?

Yes. Many scholarships consider family income, admission status, and eligibility instead of only high academic scores.

---

Which scholarship is best for average students?

Popular options include:

• Sitaram Jindal Foundation Scholarship
• HDFC Parivartan ECSS Scholarship
• LIC Golden Jubilee Scholarship
• FAEA Scholarship
• Post Matric Scholarship (for eligible categories)

---

Can general category students apply?

Yes.

Several scholarships are open to General category students, while others are specifically designed for SC, ST, OBC, EWS, or other eligible groups.

Always read the official guidelines before applying.

---

Can scholarship money be used for hostel or books?

Some scholarships allow students to use the financial assistance for tuition fees, books, hostel expenses, or other educational costs. This depends on the scholarship’s terms and conditions.

---

Final Words

Scoring 60–75% in Class 12 does not mean scholarship opportunities are out of reach. Many organizations provide financial assistance based on a combination of academic performance, family income, and eligibility criteria.

Instead of assuming you won’t qualify, explore multiple scholarship options, prepare your documents carefully, and apply before the deadline. A single scholarship can significantly reduce the cost of higher education and make college more affordable.