Muskaan Scholarship Program 2.0 (2026-27): Eligibility & Apply Online
The Muskaan Scholarship Program 2.0 is a flagship scholarship initiative by Valvoline Cummins Private Ltd (VCPL) — a 50:50 joint venture between Valvoline International Inc and Cummins India Ltd — offering financial assistance and academic support to underprivileged students across India for 2026-27.
Overview of the Scholarship
Muskaan Scholarship Program 2.0 is an educational support effort by VCPL, designed to provide scholarship funding to school students from Classes 9 to 12. Rooted in social impact, this student scholarship extends financial aid to children of commercial drivers and mechanics, particularly those from Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), helping them sustain continuity in education without the burden of academic expenses.
Objectives of the Muskaan Scholarship Program
This scholarship scheme is built around clear, student-focused goals:
- Deliver financial assistance to EWS students struggling with educational expenses
- Strengthen academic support to encourage academic excellence among school students
- Provide career guidance and mentorship support to help students with goal setting and confidence building
- Offer road safety awareness through road safety sessions for LMV and HMV drivers, mechanics, and their families
- Enable student empowerment through mentoring, self-belief, and personal development across underserved communities in India
Key Highlights of Muskaan Scholarship 2026-27
| Feature | Details |
| Scholarship Amount | INR 12,000 or actual expenses (whichever is lower) |
| Eligible Students | Children of LMV/HMV drivers and mechanics from EWS category |
| Classes Covered | Classes 9 to 12 |
| Academic Requirement | 60% marks in previous class |
| Income Limit | Annual family income up to INR 8 lakh |
| Application Deadline | 20th August 2026 |
| Application Mode | Online via Buddy4Study |
| States Covered | Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Odisha, and more |
Muskaan Scholarship Program 2.0 (2026-27): Key Details
Before diving into the eligibility criteria and application process, it helps to get a clear picture of the foundational details behind this scholarship scheme. Here is a quick snapshot of everything you need to know at a glance.
| Details | Information |
| Scholarship Name | Muskaan Scholarship Program 2.0 |
| Academic Year | 2026-27 |
| Provider/Organizing Body | Valvoline Cummins Private Ltd (VCPL) — a 50:50 joint venture between Valvoline International Inc and Cummins India Ltd |
| Application Mode | Online application via Buddy4Study |
| Last Date to Apply | 20th August 2026 (20-Aug-2026) |
| Scholarship Coverage | Children of LMV and HMV drivers and mechanics from Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) studying in Classes 9 to 12 across eligible states in India |
Muskaan Scholarship Program 2.0 (2026-27) Eligibility Criteria
Before submitting your scholarship application, it is important to understand whether you meet the applicant requirements set by Valvoline Cummins Private Ltd. Going through the eligibility criteria carefully can save time and improve your chances of selection.
Academic Requirements
To meet the merit-based eligibility of this student scholarship, applicants must have scored a minimum of 60% marks in their previous class. This academic performance benchmark ensures the scholarship award reaches students who show genuine dedication toward academic growth and educational advancement in Classes 9 to 12.
Family Income Criteria
Financial need is a core part of the scholarship eligibility. The annual family income of the applicant must not exceed INR 8 lakh. This income limit ensures the education grant reaches students from Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) who genuinely require financial aid to manage their educational expenses.
Eligible Courses and Streams
This scholarship scheme supports school education specifically, targeting students currently enrolled in Classes 9 to 12 across recognised schools in India. Covered states include Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Odisha, Tripura, Puducherry, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and West Bengal.
Eligible Student Categories
- Children of LMV drivers and HMV drivers holding a valid commercial driving license
- Children of mechanics who can provide employer confirmation or a Shramik Card
- Students from the EWS category with valid family income proof
- Students with consistent academic performance and genuine financial need
Who Cannot Apply?
- Children of VCPL employees are strictly not eligible to apply
- Children of Buddy4Study employees are also excluded from the selection process
- Students who do not meet the 60% marks requirement in their previous class
- Applicants whose annual family income exceeds INR 8 lakh
- Students outside the EWS category or those unable to provide valid supporting documents
Benefits of Muskaan Scholarship Program 2.0 (2026-27)
The Muskaan Scholarship Program 2.0 goes beyond just scholarship funding — it is a holistic educational support system built to uplift underprivileged students across India. Here is a closer look at what this scholarship initiative truly offers.
Financial Assistance
The scholarship amount offered under this program is INR 12,000 or actual expenses, whichever is lower. This financial aid directly covers academic expenses such as fee receipts and other educational expenses, reducing the burden on families from Economically Weaker Sections. For children of commercial drivers and mechanics, this education grant can mean the difference between staying in school or dropping out entirely.
Mentorship and Career Guidance Support
Beyond financial assistance, the program provides structured mentorship support to help students navigate their academic and professional futures. Through mentoring sessions focused on goal setting and career support, students develop self-belief and confidence that extend well beyond the classroom. This mentorship initiative is designed to nurture personal development and prepare students for real-world challenges ahead.
Additional Learning Opportunities
Students selected under this scholarship scheme also gain access to road safety awareness sessions, bringing road safety education directly to the families of LMV and HMV drivers and mechanics. These road safety sessions create a broader sense of community responsibility while offering meaningful learning support that complements school education for students in Classes 9 to 12.
Long-Term Student Benefits
- Scholarship renewal and scholarship continuation support for subsequent year scholarship based on academic performance
- Consistent academic support encourages academic excellence and long-term academic growth
- Career guidance and mentorship benefits build student empowerment and student development over time
- Educational advancement opportunities improve overall educational opportunity for EWS students
- Social impact through continuity in education helps underprivileged students achieve lasting academic excellence and educational advancement across India
Muskaan Scholarship Amount and Support Details
Understanding the scholarship amount and how it reaches students is just as important as knowing the eligibility criteria. This section breaks down exactly what financial assistance the Muskaan Scholarship Program 2.0 offers and how it is delivered.
Annual Scholarship Amount
The scholarship award under this program provides up to INR 12,000 or actual expenses, whichever is lower. This education grant is calculated based on genuine financial need and academic expenses, making it a reliable source of financial aid for children of LMV and HMV drivers and mechanics from Economically Weaker Sections pursuing school education in Classes 9 to 12.
Mode of Scholarship Disbursement
Once selected, the scholarship amount is transferred directly to the applicant bank account. Students must submit a fee letter or institute letter along with receipt submission through the online scholar tracking system. This ensures the educational grant reaches eligible students smoothly through proper document verification.
Duration of Support
This scholarship scheme offers scholarship renewal and scholarship continuation beyond the first year. Subsequent year scholarship support depends on consistent academic performance and eligibility criteria compliance, ensuring continuity in education and long-term academic growth for underprivileged students across India.
Documents Required for Muskaan Scholarship Application
Having the right documents ready before starting your online application can make the process much smoother. Below is a complete breakdown of all required documents needed to successfully submit your Muskaan Scholarship Program 2.0 application on Buddy4Study.
Identity Proof
- Aadhaar card
- Voter ID
- PAN card
- Driving license
Academic Records
- Signed and stamped marksheet of the previous class
- Admission letter or fee receipt from the current institution
- Institution identity card or bonafide certificate
Income Certificate
- Gram Panchayat certificate, Ward Counselor certificate, or Sarpanch certificate
- SDM certificate, DM certificate, CO certificate, or Tehsildar certificate
- Salary slips or Income Tax Return (ITR)
Bank Account Details
Applicants must provide valid applicant bank account details to ensure smooth scholarship processing and direct transfer of the scholarship amount. A cancelled cheque or passbook copy with accurate account information is typically required during document upload on the scholarship portal.
Passport-Size Photograph
A recent passport-sized photograph of the applicant must be uploaded as part of the online application. Ensure the image is clear, properly sized, and meets the document upload requirements specified on the Buddy4Study application page.
Other Supporting Documents
- Commercial driving license or Shramik Card as profession proof for parents
- Employer confirmation letter or self-declaration letter with authority attestation
- Admission proof such as an admission letter or institution identity card
- Family income proof documents not covered under income certificate category
How to Apply for Muskaan Scholarship Program 2.0 (2026-27)?
Applying for the Muskaan Scholarship Program 2.0 is a straightforward online process managed through Buddy4Study. Follow the steps below carefully to complete your scholarship application before the application deadline of 20th August 2026.
Step-by-Step Application Process
| Step | Action |
| Step 1 | Visit the Buddy4Study scholarship portal and log in using your registered ID |
| Step 2 | Search for Muskaan Scholarship Program 2.0 and click on Apply Now or Start Application |
| Step 3 | Complete the online registration using your email account, mobile number, or Google account |
| Step 4 | Fill in all applicant details accurately on the application form |
| Step 5 | Upload all required documents as specified on the application page |
| Step 6 | Review the Terms and Conditions and preview application before final submission |
| Step 7 | Click submit application to complete your digital application before the last date to apply |
Online Registration Process
New users must first sign up on Buddy4Study using a valid email account, mobile number, or Google account to get a registered ID. Once registered, students can access the application page directly and begin their online application. Ensuring your registration process is completed accurately is the first step toward a successful scholarship application.
Application Submission Guidelines
- Double-check all applicant details before online submission
- Ensure all required documents are uploaded correctly during document upload
- Review the Terms and Conditions carefully before you preview application
- Submit the application form well before the application closing date of 20-Aug-2026
- Keep a copy of your digital application and application completion confirmation for future reference
Important Dates for Muskaan Scholarship Program 2.0 (2026-27)
Keeping track of the scholarship timeline is essential to ensure you do not miss any important date. Below is a clear overview of all key dates related to the Muskaan Scholarship Program 2.0 for the academic year 2026-27.
| Important Dates | Details |
| Application Start Date | Available on the Buddy4Study scholarship portal |
| Application Deadline | 20th August 2026 (20-Aug-2026) |
| Selection and Result Timeline | To be announced on the Buddy4Study application page |
Application Start Date
The online application for Muskaan Scholarship Program 2.0 is currently open on the Buddy4Study scholarship portal. Eligible students are encouraged to begin their online registration early to avoid last-minute delays before the application closing date.
Application Deadline
The last date to apply for this scholarship scheme is 20th August 2026. Students must ensure their online submission is completed well before this application deadline, as late or incomplete scholarship applications will not be considered during the selection process.
Selection and Result Timeline
The selection process and scholarship processing timeline will be announced by Valvoline Cummins Private Ltd through the Buddy4Study platform. Students can track their scholarship status via the online scholar tracking system and stay updated on any advance scholarship disbursement or document verification updates through the portal.
Selection Process for Muskaan Scholarship Program 2.0 (2026-27)
The selection process for Muskaan Scholarship Program 2.0 is designed to be transparent and merit-driven. Valvoline Cummins Private Ltd ensures that only genuinely deserving students from Economically Weaker Sections receive this educational support through a structured evaluation process.
Application Screening
| Criteria | Details |
| Academic Performance | Minimum 60% marks in previous class |
| Family Income Criteria | Annual family income not exceeding INR 8 lakh |
| EWS Category | Must belong to Economically Weaker Sections |
| Ineligible Applicants | Children of VCPL employees and Buddy4Study employees |
Document Verification
Once shortlisted, all required documents and supporting documents are carefully reviewed. Any mismatch or missing document may lead to disqualification from the scholarship processing pipeline:
- Identity proof — Aadhaar card, voter ID, or PAN card
- Signed and stamped marksheet of previous class
- Admission proof such as fee receipt or admission letter
- Profession proof including commercial driving license or Shramik Card
- Family income proof and applicant bank account details
Interview or Assessment (If Applicable)
Selected applicants may be called for an assessment round evaluating:
- Academic support needs and overall student development potential
- Confidence, self-belief, and personal development readiness
- Career guidance alignment and mentorship initiative goals
- Student empowerment and goal setting aptitude
Final Selection of Scholars
After all evaluation stages, the final selection process identifies deserving students for the scholarship award. The scholarship amount of INR 12,000 or actual expenses is disbursed directly to the applicant bank account through the online scholar tracking system, completing the educational grant cycle for 2026-27.
Scholarship Renewal Policy
Understanding the scholarship renewal policy helps students plan their educational journey beyond the first year. Valvoline Cummins Private Ltd has structured this scholarship scheme to support continuity in education through a clear and merit-based renewal process.
Is the Scholarship Renewable?
Yes, the Muskaan Scholarship Program 2.0 offers scholarship continuation for eligible students. Subsequent year scholarship support is available to students who maintain consistent academic performance and continue to meet the defined eligibility criteria, making this a reliable source of long-term educational support for underprivileged students across India.
Renewal Eligibility Requirements
- Student must continue enrollment in Classes 9 to 12 in a recognised school
- Annual family income must remain within the INR 8 lakh income limit
- Applicant must still belong to the EWS category with valid family income proof
- Children of LMV and HMV drivers and mechanics must provide updated profession proof
- Fresh supporting documents and required documents must be submitted for each renewal cycle
Academic Performance Conditions
| Condition | Requirement |
| Minimum Marks | 60% marks in previous class |
| Academic Record | Signed and stamped marksheet to be submitted |
| Scholarship Eligibility | Merit-based eligibility must be maintained each year |
| Student Welfare Check | Consistent academic growth and educational advancement required |
Terms and Conditions of the Muskaan Scholarship Program
Every applicant must carefully read the Terms and Conditions before submitting their scholarship application on Buddy4Study. Valvoline Cummins Private Ltd reserves the right to cancel any scholarship award if the stated rules are not followed during or after the selection process.
Important Rules for Applicants
- Applicant must sign up with a valid registered ID on the Buddy4Study scholarship portal before starting the online application
- All applicant details filled in the application form must be accurate and match the required documents submitted
- Students must belong to the EWS category and be children of commercial drivers or mechanics to qualify
- Ineligible applicants including children of VCPL employees and Buddy4Study employees will be disqualified at any stage
- Scholarship continuation and subsequent year scholarship support are subject to meeting renewal eligibility criteria each year
- Any false information or misrepresentation in the digital application may lead to permanent cancellation of the scholarship funding
Reasons for Application Rejection
| Reason | Details |
| Incomplete Application | Missing applicant details or unfilled sections in the application form |
| Failed Document Verification | Incorrect or unverified supporting documents submitted |
| Income Limit Breach | Annual family income exceeding INR 8 lakh |
| Academic Performance | Scored below 60% marks in previous class |
| Ineligible Category | Applicant does not belong to EWS category or is a child of VCPL or Buddy4Study employees |
| Missed Deadline | Online submission received after 20th August 2026 |
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Applying
Even strong scholarship applications get rejected due to avoidable errors. Being aware of these common mistakes can significantly improve your chances of successfully completing the online application for Muskaan Scholarship Program 2.0.
Incorrect Documentation
Submitting wrong or mismatched required documents is one of the most common reasons for rejection during document verification. Always double-check identity proof such as Aadhaar card, signed and stamped marksheet, admission proof, profession proof, and family income proof before document upload on the Buddy4Study application page.
Incomplete Application Forms
Leaving sections of the application form blank or submitting unverified applicant details can lead to immediate disqualification. Always preview the application thoroughly before online submission and ensure every field — from bank account details to academic records — is correctly filled to avoid delays in scholarship processing.
Missing the Application Deadline
Missing the last date to apply is an irreversible mistake. The application closing date is 20-Aug-2026 and no scholarship application will be accepted after this important date. Set reminders well in advance and complete your online registration and application completion early to avoid last-minute technical issues on the scholarship portal.
Why Students Should Apply for Muskaan Scholarship Program 2.0 (2026-27)?
For underprivileged students in India, access to the right educational opportunity can change the entire trajectory of their lives. The Muskaan Scholarship Program 2.0 by Valvoline Cummins Private Ltd is more than just a scholarship scheme — it is a genuine investment in student welfare and long-term student empowerment.
Financial Support for Education
Managing academic expenses at the school level is a real struggle for families from Economically Weaker Sections. This scholarship funding of up to INR 12,000 or actual expenses provides direct financial aid to children of LMV and HMV drivers and mechanics, ensuring that financial need never becomes a barrier to continuity in education across Classes 9 to 12.
Mentorship and Professional Development
What sets this scholarship initiative apart is its structured mentorship support and career guidance beyond just financial assistance. Through focused mentoring, goal setting sessions, and career support, students build confidence, self-belief, and personal development skills that prepare them for academic excellence and professional growth well into the future.
Opportunities for Academic Growth
- Access to learning support and learning assistance strengthens academic performance year on year
- Road safety awareness through road safety sessions broadens student perspective beyond classroom learning
- Scholarship renewal and subsequent year scholarship support encourage consistent academic growth
- Student development through educational advancement opens doors to stronger career guidance and mentorship benefits
- The overall educational support structure nurtures academic excellence among eligible students across India
Contact Details and Support
For any questions related to the scholarship application, eligibility criteria, or application process, students and parents can reach out through the official support channels provided by Buddy4Study. Timely resolution of applicant queries ensures no eligible student misses out on this educational grant.
Scholarship Helpdesk
Students can visit the Buddy4Study scholarship portal directly for FAQs, applicant queries, and step-by-step guidance on the online application and registration process. The helpdesk also assists with document upload issues, application form errors, and scholarship processing concerns to ensure a smooth digital application experience.
Email and Contact Information
| Support Channel | Details |
| Scholarship Portal | Buddy4Study official website |
| Application Support | Available via registered ID on Buddy4Study |
| Applicant Queries | FAQs section on the Buddy4Study application page |
| Contact Mode | Email account or mobile number linked to registered ID |
Conclusion
The Muskaan Scholarship Program 2.0 (2026–27) provides vital financial assistance and mentorship to deserving students from low-income backgrounds. By supporting education from Classes 9 to 12, it promotes academic continuity, empowerment, and equal opportunity, helping students achieve their goals while reducing financial barriers and encouraging long-term personal and academic growth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Who is eligible to apply for the Muskaan Scholarship Program 2.0 (2026-27)?
Students of Classes 9–12 from selected Indian states, children of commercial drivers (LMV/HMV), mechanics, or EWS category with up to 60% marks and family income below INR 8 lakh are eligible.
Q2: What benefits are offered under the scholarship?
Selected students receive up to INR 12,000 for academic expenses along with mentorship support and guidance sessions.
Q3: What is the last date to apply?
The last date to apply for the Muskaan Scholarship Program 2.0 (2026-27) is 20 August 2026.
Q4: What documents are required for the application?
Applicants need identity proof, academic records, income proof, bank details, and supporting documents related to admission and parents’ profession.
Q5: How are students selected for the scholarship?
Selection is based on eligibility check, academic performance, document verification, and final review by the scholarship provider.
Q6: Is mentorship included in the program?
Yes, selected students receive mentorship support including guidance sessions and road safety awareness training.
Q7: Can students renew the scholarship in subsequent years?
Renewal depends on maintaining academic performance and meeting the program’s continuation criteria.
Q8: How will the scholarship amount be disbursed?
The scholarship amount is directly transferred to the student’s verified bank account or institution as per guidelines.
Q9: Can students from all states apply?
No, only students from selected states like Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Assam, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and others listed in the program are eligible.
Q10: Where can applicants get support regarding their application?
Applicants can get support through the Buddy4Study platform helpdesk and official application portal assistance.
