Introduction West Bengal Swami Vivekananda Merit Scholarship Scheme (SVMS) was launched by the Higher Education Department, Government of West Bengal, to support meritorious students pursuing Undergraduate and Postgraduate courses at premier institutions in India and abroad. The scheme provides tuition fee assistance based on institutional rankings and eligibility criteria from the academic session 2026-27 onwards. Benefits Up to 100% approved tuition fee coverage for eligible students studying in India. 100% approved tuition fee support for eligible students studying abroad. Mandatory health insurance coverage for selected international students. Support available for full-time UG and PG programmes. Financial assistance based on NIRF and QS World University Rankings. Eligibility Applicant must be a resident of West Bengal. Must have passed Class 10 or Class 12 from a recognized school in West Bengal. At least one parent/guardian should be an elector in West Bengal. Fresh admission in an eligible UG or PG programme from academic year 2026-27 onwards. For overseas studies, admission must be in a QS Top 100 university. For domestic studies, admission must be in eligible INI, Public IoE, or NIRF Top 50 government/government-aided institutions. Distance, online and part-time courses are not eligible. Benefit can be availed only once in a lifetime. Documents Admission Letter/Offer Letter. West Bengal Residence Proof. Class 10 or Class 12 Passing Certificate. Parent/Guardian Elector ID details. Institution Fee Structure or Tuition Fee Demand Letter. Health Insurance Proof (for international applicants). Details of any other scholarship or fee waiver. Enrollment Certificate, if applicable. Process to Apply Visit the Higher Education Department Portal. Open the SVMS Scholarship Portal. Complete the online application form with personal, academic and admission details. Select the Domestic or International scholarship category. Upload all required documents. Provide details of any existing scholarship or financial assistance. Review the application and submit it online. Keep a copy of the submitted application for future reference. Important Links SVMS Official Portal Higher Education Department, West Bengal Scheme Guidelines Contact West Bengal Higher Education Department Contact Details FAQs Q1. What is the West Bengal Swami Vivekananda Merit Scholarship Scheme (SVMS)?It is a scholarship scheme launched by the Government of West Bengal to provide financial assistance to meritorious students pursuing higher education at eligible institutions in India and abroad. Q2. Who can apply for the SVMS Scholarship?West Bengal residents who secure admission to eligible Undergraduate or Postgraduate courses in approved institutions from the academic session 2026-27 onwards can apply. Q3. What benefits are available under the scheme?Eligible students can receive 75% to 100% of approved tuition fees, while selected students studying abroad may also receive health insurance support. Q4. Is the scholarship available for studies outside India?Yes, students admitted to eligible universities ranked among the Top 100 in the latest QS World University Rankings can receive benefits under the international component. Q5. Are private institutions covered under the domestic component?No, private institutions in India are generally not covered under the domestic component of the scheme. Q6. What documents are required for the application?Applicants may need admission proof, residence proof, educational certificates, fee details, elector information, and other supporting documents as prescribed. Q7. How can students apply for the scholarship?Applications must be submitted online through the official SVMS portal once the application window becomes active. Q8. Can a student receive this scholarship more than once?No, the benefit under the SVMS Scheme can generally be availed only once during a student's lifetime. Q9. Does the scholarship cover hostel and living expenses?No, hostel charges, travel expenses, mess fees, and other living expenses are not covered under the scheme. Q10. Where can students get official information about the scheme?Students can visit the official SVMS Portal or the Higher Education Department, Government of West Bengal website for authentic updates and guidelines.