In an effort to promote equitable access to quality education among Scheduled Caste (SC) students, the Government of India has launched the SHRESHTA (Residential Education for Students in High Schools in Targeted Areas) scheme. This flagship initiative aims to empower meritorious SC students by providing them with opportunities to study free of cost in premier private residential schools across the country. By facilitating access to high-quality CBSE-affiliated schools through a transparent selection process, SHRESHTA endeavors to foster academic excellence and social mobility among marginalized communities. Below, we provide a comprehensive guide to the SHRESHTA (NETS) 2026 notification, including important dates, eligibility criteria, application procedures, and scheme benefits.
SHRESHTA (NETS) 2026: An Overview
The SHRESHTA (Residential Education for Students in High Schools in Targeted Areas) scheme is designed to identify talented SC students through a nationwide competitive examination (NETS), conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). This examination offers 3,000 fully funded seats annually for students seeking admission to Classes 9 and 11 in reputed CBSE-affiliated residential schools. Integral to the scheme is the objective of ensuring meritorious students from the SC community receive mentorship and high-quality education in supportive residential environments.
Key Highlights of the SHRESHTA (NETS) 2026
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Conducted By | National Testing Agency (NTA) |
| Target Class for Admission | Classes 9 and 11 |
| Total Seats Available | Approximately 3,000 fully funded seats annually |
| Selection Process | Based on NETS examination scores (merit-based) |
| Exam Language | Bilingual: English and Hindi |
| Syllabus | Based on NCERT curriculum of Classes 8 & 10 |
| Examination Mode | Offline (OMR-based) |
| Application Window | October 10 to October 30, 2025 |
| Exam Date | Scheduled for December 2025 |
| Result Declaration | Within 4 to 6 weeks post-exam |
Important Dates and Schedule
The following schedule must be followed to ensure successful registration and preparation for the SHRESHTA (NETS) 2026 examination:
Key Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Start of Application Submission | October 10, 2025 |
| Closing of Application Submission | October 30, 2025 (by 05:00 PM) |
| Correction Window (if necessary) | November 1–November 2, 2025 |
| Admit Card Release | To be announced on the official website |
| Examination Date | December 2025 |
| Result Announcement | Within 4–6 weeks after exam |
Eligibility Criteria for Application
To qualify for SHRESHTA (NETS) 2026, candidates must meet specific eligibility requirements, primarily based on age, academic standing, caste category, and family income:
General Eligibility Conditions
- Only students belonging to the Scheduled Caste (SC) community are eligible to apply.
- Applicant must be currently studying in the respective grade:
| Class for Admission | Current Study Level | Age Range (as of April 1, 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Class 9 | Studying in Class 8 (academic year 2025-26) | Born between April 1, 2009, and March 31, 2013 |
| Class 11 | Studying in Class 10 (academic year 2025-26) | Born between April 1, 2007, and March 31, 2011 |
Additionally, applicants must have a parental annual income of less than or equal to ₹2.5 lakh to qualify under the scheme.
Application Process for SHRESHTA (NETS) 2026
Interested candidates can apply online through the official channels. The process is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail to ensure your application is complete and accurate.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying
- Visit the official application portal: exams.nta.nic.in/shreshta/
- Click on the “SHRESHTA NETS 2026 Online Application Form” link.
- Register by entering basic personal details such as name, date of birth, and contact information. Create a password for future logins.
- Note down the generated application number for future reference.
- Login again using the application number and password to fill the detailed application form.
- Upload scanned copies of the following documents:
- Photograph
- Signature
- Caste certificate (SC category)
- Income certificate
- Review all the details carefully before clicking the submit button.
- Download and take a printout of the confirmation page for records and future correspondence.
Exam Pattern and Syllabus
The upcoming SHRESHTA (NETS) 2026 examination will be structured to evaluate the candidate’s understanding of core concepts in a straightforward manner.
Exam Structure
- Mode: Offline (OMR-based)
- Duration: 3 hours (180 minutes)
- Number of Questions: Multiple-choice questions (MCQs)
- Languages: Bilingual (English and Hindi)
Syllabus Overview
The exam will assess subjects based on the NCERT curriculum of Classes 8 and 10, focusing on core subjects such as Mathematics, Science, Social Science, and Language skills.
Sample Examination Pattern
| Subject | Number of Questions | Marks per Question |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 25 | 1 |
| Science | 25 | 1 |
| Social Science | 25 | 1 |
| Language (English/Hindi) | 25 | 1 |
Selection Process & Result Declaration
The selection criteria for SHRESHTA (NETS) are based solely on merit as reflected in the candidate’s performance in the entrance exam.
Merit-Based Selection
- Candidate’s score in the entrance test determines eligibility.
- Top-scoring candidates are shortlisted for admission.
- Qualified candidates will undergo centralized counselling for school allocation.
Result Timeline
Results are typically declared within 4 to 6 weeks from the date of the examination. The official website will host the results, and eligible students will be notified about further steps.
Benefits of the SHRESHTA Scheme
The primary advantage of SHRESHTA is providing talented SC students with access to top-quality residential educational institutions without financial burden. The scheme offers:
Scheme Benefits at a Glance
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Full Funding | All expenses covered, including tuition, hostel, and other facilities |
| Access to Top Schools | Admission into reputed CBSE-affiliated residential schools |
| Merit-Based Selection | Fair and transparent entrance process |
| Residential Facilities | Supportive residential environment encouraging academic and personal growth |
Official Resources and Further Information
Candidates seeking detailed information, official notification, and application forms can access the following resources:
- Official Notification [PDF]
- Information Bulletin [PDF]
- Official Website: exams.nta.nic.in/shreshta/
- Result and Application Portal
Download Related PDFs
Conclusion
The SHRESHTA (NETS) 2026 initiative exemplifies the Government’s commitment to inclusive education by offering talented SC students an equal footing in pursuing academic excellence. The scheme’s transparent selection mechanism, focus on quality education, and residential support system are designed to ensure that deserving students are not held back due to financial constraints. Aspiring students and their families are encouraged to stay informed about application dates and to prepare diligently for the examination. With the right preparation and timely application, eligible students can leverage this opportunity to secure a brighter future through education.