The OASIS (Online Application for Scholarship in Studies) Scholarship, a significant initiative by the West Bengal Government, aims to support the educational aspirations of students from Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC) in West Bengal. Administered by the Backward Classes Welfare and Tribal Development Departments, this scholarship plays a crucial role in promoting educational equity among these communities.
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OASIS Scholarship: Full Form, Objective and Significance
The Online Application for Scholarship in Studies scholarship is spelled shortly as OASIS scholarship. Its central objective is to offer financial assistance to underprivileged students, thereby breaking down economic barriers that hinder access to education. By facilitating funding for students in the pre-matric (class 9th and 10th) and post-matric (undergraduate, postgraduate, and diploma) stages, the scholarship aims to boost educational enrollment, reduce dropout rates, and encourage the pursuit of higher studies among SC, ST, and OBC students. The program targets multiple fields, including Medicine, Engineering, Nursing, Pharmacy, and Law.
OASIS Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the OASIS scholarship, applicants must satisfy certain conditions:
- Community Classification: Applicants must belong to the SC, ST, or OBC categories, as the scholarship is exclusively designed for these groups.
- Income Threshold: For SC/ST applicants, the family income should not exceed INR 2 lakhs per annum, while for OBC students, it should be within INR 1 lakh annually.
- Educational Level: Candidates must be enrolled in either pre-matric (classes 9th and 10th) or post-matric courses (including UG, PG, and diploma programs) in recognized institutions.
Types of OASIS Scholarships
The OASIS scholarship program encompasses several types of scholarships, each catering to different segments of students:
- Pre-matric Scholarship for SC Students: Specifically for students in classes 9th and 10th, provided by the Backward Classes Welfare Department, Government of West Bengal.
- Pre-matric Scholarship for ST Students: Similar to the above but for ST students.
- Post-matric Scholarship for SC/ST Students: For higher education pursuits, including UG, PG, and diploma courses.
- Post-matric Scholarship for OBC Students: Catering to OBC students pursuing higher education.
These scholarships collectively aim to support a broad spectrum of educational levels and specializations, ensuring a comprehensive approach to educational welfare.
OASIS Scholarship Application Process
The application process for the OASIS scholarship is streamlined and primarily online. Applicants are required to follow these steps:
- Online Registration: Aspiring students need to register on the official OASIS portal (oasis.gov.in), providing accurate details and selecting their district.
- Document Submission: Essential documents to be submitted include domicile certificate, caste certificate, income certificate, Aadhar Card, passport-sized photograph, mark sheet of the last examination, and bank passbook details, which must all be self-attested.
- Form Submission: After filling out the online form and attaching necessary documents, applicants are required to submit the form at the Block Development Officer’s office or the PO-cum-DWO office for municipality areas.
Renewal Process
Existing beneficiaries must renew their scholarships annually by following these steps:
- Login to Account: Visit the official website and log in using registered credentials.
- Verification of Details: Verify previously entered details and make necessary updates.
- Application Renewal: Click on the ‘Renew Application’ button and enter information about current academic education.
Checking Scholarship Status
Applicants can track the status of their applications online:
- Visit Scholarship Portal: Go to oasis.gov.in and select the ‘Track Application’ tab.
- Enter Details: Provide the User ID or Serial Number and Application Session, then click on ‘Check Status’.
OASIS Scholarship Amounts
The OASIS Scholarship offers different scholarship amounts based on the educational level and residential status of the students (whether they are day scholars or hostellers). Here’s a detailed breakdown of the scholarship amounts for the academic year 2023-24:
Pre-Matric Scholarship Amounts
For students in classes 9th and 10th:
- Day Scholars: They receive a monthly allowance of Rs. 150 per month for 10 months, along with an additional annual allowance of Rs. 700.
- Hostellers: These students get Rs. 750 per month for 10 months and an additional annual allowance of Rs. 1000.
Post-Matric Scholarship Amounts
For students pursuing higher education after the 10th grade, including undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma, and other higher studies:
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Medical, Engineering, BSc, MPhil, PhD Students:
- Day Scholars: Receive Rs. 550 per month.
- Hostellers: Get Rs. 1200 per month.
-
BPharm, Nursing, LLB, Hotel Management, PG Students:
- Day Scholars: Awarded Rs. 530 per month.
- Hostellers: Receive Rs. 820 per month.
-
Undergraduate Courses:
- Day Scholars: Get Rs. 300 per month.
- Hostellers: Receive Rs. 750 per month.
-
Class 11 and 12, Polytechnic, ITI Students:
- Day Scholars: Rs. 230 per month.
- Hostellers: Rs. 750 per month.
The scholarship amounts are tailored to provide substantial support to students, factoring in their needs based on the level of study and living arrangements. It’s important to note that these amounts are subject to change as per the directives of the West Bengal Government and the administering departments.
Read:
OASIS Scholarship Selection Process and Disbursement
Selection for the OASIS scholarship involves meeting the eligibility criteria and possibly a telephonic interview (Uram Scholarship). The scholarship funds are directly disbursed to the student’s bank account on a semester basis, ensuring transparency and efficiency in financial assistance.
Impact of the OASIS Scholarship
The OASIS Scholarship has had a significant impact on education in West Bengal, especially among the SC, ST, and OBC communities. Key impacts include:
- Enhanced Enrollment: The scholarship has notably increased enrollment rates in higher education for underprivileged communities.
- Reduced Dropout Rates: Financial assistance has helped in minimizing dropout rates among students who might otherwise be unable to afford education.
- Encouragement of Higher Studies: By alleviating financial burdens, the scholarship has encouraged students to pursue advanced degrees.
- Socio-Economic Upliftment: The educational empowerment provided by the scholarship contributes to the broader socio-economic development of the beneficiaries and their communities.
Frequently Asked Questions about OASIS Scholarship
Who can apply for the OASIS scholarship?
- Students belonging to SC, ST, and OBC categories in West Bengal, meeting specific income and academic criteria, are eligible.
How is the scholarship amount determined?
- The amount varies based on the level of study and whether the student is a hosteller or a day scholar, ranging from Rs. 150 to Rs. 1200 per month.
Can the scholarship be renewed?
- Yes, existing beneficiaries must renew their scholarships annually by verifying their details and applying for renewal on the official website.
What is the application process for the OASIS scholarship?
- The process involves online registration, document submission, and form submission at the BDO office or PO-cum-DWO office for municipality areas.
How can applicants track their scholarship status?
- Applicants can track the status of their applications by visiting oasis.gov.in and using their user ID or serial number.
Final Words
The OASIS Scholarship is more than just a financial aid program; it’s a beacon of hope and opportunity for students from marginalized communities in West Bengal. By providing essential financial support, it opens doors to educational opportunities that might otherwise be inaccessible. The program’s success is evident in the increased enrollment rates, lower dropout rates, and the numerous stories of individual achievement and community upliftment.