How to Apply for a Scholarship Without Aadhaar? – Student’s Survival Guide

This content was recently updated by Sudhir Singh on April 11, 2025 to improve accuracy.

Wondering how to get a scholarship without Aadhaar? Here’s your 2025 step-by-step guide to applying for scholarships even if your Aadhaar isn’t linked to your bank account.

Understanding the Aadhaar Requirement for Scholarships

Aadhaar has become a central part of identity verification in India, especially for schemes related to education, health, and financial assistance. For most government scholarships, linking your Aadhaar to your bank account is required for Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). However, not all students have an Aadhaar or a linked bank account—especially those from remote regions, tribal communities, or migrant backgrounds.

Despite the emphasis on Aadhaar, the Supreme Court of India ruled in 2018 that Aadhaar is not mandatory for availing benefits under most government schemes, including scholarships. Instead, beneficiaries can use alternate identification documents.

In 2025, while many systems are Aadhaar-integrated, students can still apply for scholarships without Aadhaar, provided they follow the correct procedures.

Who Can Apply for Scholarship Without Aadhaar in 2025?

The government recognizes that not every citizen may have Aadhaar at the time of applying. Thus, it provides specific exemptions and accommodations under UIDAI and the Ministry of Education.

Eligible Categories:

• Minors below 18 years who have not enrolled for Aadhaar yet
• Students from remote or tribal areas without Aadhaar enrolment centers nearby
• Children from migrant families or those without stable address proofs
• Students whose Aadhaar verification failed or biometrics have changed

What You Must Do:

If you fall into one of these categories, you must:

• Submit an alternate identity proof
• Provide a self-declaration or parental declaration
• Fill in the Aadhaar Enrollment ID if available (optional)
• Follow the manual verification route allowed by scholarship portals

Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for Scholarship Without Aadhaar

Let’s walk through the exact process to apply for a scholarship without Aadhaar—whether you’re applying through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) or an offline scheme.

Step 1: Create an Account on the Scholarship Portal

Visit scholarships.gov.in if you are applying under a central scheme.

• Click on “New Registration.”
• Accept the guidelines and select ‘No Aadhaar’ option.
• Enter your basic personal details, mobile number, and bank account information.

Note: You can still apply using your Enrollment ID (EID) if you’ve applied for Aadhaar recently.

Step 2: Select the Appropriate Scholarship Scheme

Choose from schemes like:

• Pre-Matric & Post-Matric Scholarships
• Merit-Cum-Means Scholarship
• State-level schemes listed on the portal

Each scheme will prompt for Aadhaar—but if you have opted out, you’ll proceed to submit alternate ID.

Step 3: Upload Alternate Documents

Instead of Aadhaar, upload any two of the following documents:

• Birth certificate
• School ID card
• Ration card
• PAN card
• Voter ID (for students aged 18+)
• Bank passbook with photograph
• Student’s photo signed by headmaster/principal

Make sure all documents are:

• Clearly scanned
• In JPG or PDF format
• Under the allowed file size (usually <200 KB)

Step 4: Submit Self-Declaration or Guardian Declaration

You will need to submit a declaration stating:

• You do not have an Aadhaar yet
• You are willing to update Aadhaar details later (if needed)
• Your documents are valid and correct

This can usually be downloaded in form format and re-uploaded after signature by a parent or school authority.

Step 5: Final Submission and Verification

Once the form is filled and documents uploaded:

• Review all details carefully
• Submit the application
• Note your Application ID for future tracking

You’ll receive updates via SMS or email once your application moves to verification or approval stages.

Alternate Documents Accepted in Lieu of Aadhaar

According to UIDAI and NSP guidelines, students without Aadhaar must submit any two valid ID proofs. These can vary slightly by scheme, but commonly accepted ones include:

These documents must be recent, legible, and preferably in English or regional language with translation (if needed).

Tips to Avoid Rejection and Track Your Scholarship Application

Even if you’re applying without Aadhaar, you can ensure your application goes through smoothly by following these smart tips:

1. Use a Valid and Active Bank Account

Ensure your bank account is active and in your name. Joint accounts are not always accepted for DBT.

2. Don’t Upload Incomplete Documents

Missing signatures or unclear scans can cause instant rejection. Double-check file clarity and size.

3. Track Your Application Regularly

Use your Application ID to monitor status via the scholarship portal. If it’s stuck at “Pending at Institute,” follow up with your school or college.

4. Respond to Queries Promptly

If your application is flagged for missing Aadhaar, respond with your self-declaration or enrollment receipt immediately.

5. Get Help from Your School or Nodal Officer

Every school or college has a scholarship coordinator who can help troubleshoot errors or forward corrections.

Conclusion

Aadhaar may be central to many Indian schemes, but it’s not a barrier to education—especially not in 2025. Thanks to clear guidelines and inclusive scholarship policies, students can still apply for and receive financial aid even without Aadhaar.

If you’re facing a delay due to missing Aadhaar, don’t panic. Use the alternative identity route, submit your declaration, and apply confidently. Education is your right—and with or without Aadhaar, your access to scholarships should never be denied.

So go ahead, apply now, stay informed, and don’t let paperwork stand in the way of your future.

FAQs

Can I apply for NSP scholarship without Aadhaar?
Yes. You can apply using alternate ID proofs and submit a declaration if you don’t have Aadhaar.

What is EID in the scholarship form?
EID stands for Aadhaar Enrollment ID, given when you apply for Aadhaar but haven’t received it yet.

Can I link Aadhaar later after applying?
Yes, you can update your Aadhaar once you receive it, even after scholarship approval.

What if my Aadhaar verification fails during application?
You can use other documents and re-upload under the “non-Aadhaar” category, along with a declaration.

Is Aadhaar mandatory for scholarship renewal?
It’s preferred, but not mandatory. You can still renew using alternate identity documents.

Can I apply for state scholarships without Aadhaar?
Yes, most states also follow UIDAI exemptions. Check your state’s official portal for specific instructions.