Students Prize Money 2026 : ₹8,000 to ₹18,000 for SSLC Students – Truth, Eligibility & Apply Link
A viral message is spreading rapidly across social media claiming that SSLC (10th class) students can receive prize money ranging from ₹8,000 to ₹18,000 based on their marks. The message also mentions that actor and political leader Vijay announced this benefit after his party’s success and extended it to students in Karnataka.
Because thousands of students are now searching for details and application links, it is important to understand what is real, what is official, and how to apply safely.
Prize Money Details (Viral Claim)
According to the circulating message, students are eligible for rewards based on marks:
- ₹8,000 for 219 to 374 marks
- ₹12,000 for 375 to 499 marks
- ₹18,000 for 500 to 625 marks
This looks attractive because it covers students from average to high performance, not just toppers.
Important Reality Check
Before applying, you must know this:
👉 There is NO official confirmation that such a scheme (₹8,000–₹18,000 based on these exact marks) has been announced by any government.
👉 The claim linking this scheme to Vijay is not verified by any official source.
👉 Many such viral posts are misleading or partially true, mixing real schemes with fake details.
What is the REAL Prize Money Scheme?
Karnataka already has an official Prize Money Scholarship, but it is different:
- It is run by the Social Welfare & Tribal Welfare Departments
- It is mainly for SC/ST students
- Students must score at least 60% marks
- Amount ranges from ₹7,000 to ₹15,000 for SSLC students
For higher education courses, the scholarship can go up to ₹35,000 depending on qualification .
So, the real scheme exists—but the viral mark-based ₹8K–₹18K structure is not part of the official program.
Eligibility (Official Scheme)
To apply for the genuine Karnataka Prize Money Scholarship:
- Must be a Karnataka resident
- Must belong to SC/ST category
- Must pass in first attempt
- Must score 60% or above
- Bank account must be Aadhaar-linked
This shows the scheme is category-based, not open to all students.
Official Apply Link
If you are eligible, you can apply through the official government portal:
This is the safe and verified website for applications.
Required Documents
Students need:
- SSLC Marks Memo
- Aadhaar Card
- Caste & Income Certificate
- Bank Passbook
- Passport Size Photo
Applications are submitted online, and the amount is credited through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
Beware of Fake Links
Many fake websites may ask for:
- Registration fees
- OTP or bank details
- Personal information
Remember:
❌ Government schemes never charge fees
❌ Do not trust WhatsApp links blindly
✅ Always use official portals only
Last Date Information
The viral message says “apply before last date,” but:
👉 Official portals usually announce deadlines after results
👉 Currently, the exact last date is not fixed publicly
So don’t panic or rush into fake applications.
Final Conclusion
The idea of giving ₹8,000 to ₹18,000 based on marks is attractive, but as of now, it appears to be misleading or unverified information.
✔️ A real prize money scheme exists in Karnataka
✔️ But it is limited to SC/ST students with 60%+ marks
✔️ The viral ₹8K–₹18K breakdown is not officially confirmed
Students and parents should stay careful, verify information, and only apply through official government websites.