In a significant step towards making quality competitive exam preparation accessible to students from economically weaker backgrounds, the Delhi Government has announced a one-year residential scholarship programme for Class 12 Science students studying in government and government-aided schools. Under the initiative, selected students will receive free coaching for JEE and NEET, India’s premier engineering and medical entrance examinations.
The programme will be conducted by the Dakshana Foundation at its fully residential campus in Pune, Maharashtra. The scholarship will cover the entire cost of coaching, accommodation, meals, and other essential facilities, allowing students to focus entirely on their studies without worrying about financial constraints.
According to the Directorate of Education (DoE), Delhi, eligible students can apply through the official Dakshana Foundation Scholarship Portal. The initiative is open to Class 12 Science students enrolled in government and government-aided schools during the 2026–27 academic session.
Selection for the scholarship will be carried out through the Joint Dakshana Selection Test (JDST) 2027, which is scheduled to be held in December 2026. Before appearing for the examination, applicants will first be shortlisted based on the eligibility criteria and cut-off prescribed by the Dakshana Foundation. Shortlisted candidates will then be required to complete the Dakshana Scholar Application (DSA).
To familiarise students with the examination process, the foundation will conduct mock tests before the actual selection test. These practice tests will help candidates understand the online examination interface and improve their confidence ahead of the JDST.
Students who perform well in the selection test will be invited for the next stage of the admission process, which includes personal interviews and document verification. Final selection will be based on merit and successful completion of all required stages.
The Directorate of Education has instructed the heads of all government and government-aided schools in Delhi to ensure that eligible students are informed about the scholarship programme so that deserving candidates do not miss this opportunity.
The initiative is expected to benefit talented students who aspire to pursue careers in engineering and medicine but are unable to afford expensive coaching programmes. By providing free residential coaching, the Delhi Government aims to promote equal educational opportunities and help more students secure admission to premier institutions such as the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and top medical colleges across the country.
