The Directorate of Education (DoE), Delhi Government, has issued an official circular launching the Joint Dakshana Selection Test (JDST) 2027 Scholarship scheme for Class 12 Science students. Under this initiative in partnership with the Dakshana Foundation, meritorious students from Delhi government and government-aided schools will receive a fully funded, 1-year residential coaching program for JEE Main/Advanced and NEET UG at the Dakshana Valley campus in Pune, Maharashtra.
Delhi Govt Free JEE/NEET Coaching Scheme Highlights
This scholarship eliminates financial barriers for talented students from economically weaker sections aspiring to crack national-level engineering and medical entrance examinations. Key scheme details are outlined below:
- Conducting / Sponsoring Authority: Directorate of Education (Delhi Govt) & Dakshana Foundation
- Scholarship Name: Dakshana One-Year Residential Scholarship / JDST 2027
- Coaching Venue: Dakshana Valley Campus, Pune (Maharashtra)
- Benefits Covered: 100% Free Tuition, Residential Lodging, Daily Meals, and Study Materials
- Target Audience: Class 12 Science stream students in Delhi Govt / Aided schools (2026–27 session)
- Selection Test Name: Joint Dakshana Selection Test (JDST) 2027
- Tentative Exam Month: December 2026
Eligibility Criteria for JDST 2027 Scholarship
Students must fulfill the following criteria set by the Directorate of Education and Dakshana Foundation:
- School Enrollment: Must be currently enrolled in Class 12 Science stream (2026–27 academic year) in a Delhi government or government-aided school.
- Family Income Limit: Annual family income must be below Rs. 3 Lakh (Relaxed income limits apply for PwD category applicants).
- Academic Marks Cut-off: Must meet the category-specific Class 10 Science and Mathematics marks cut-off (General, OBC/EWS, SC, ST, and PwD). Special relaxed cut-offs are provided for female candidates to encourage girls in STEM.
Selection Process Timeline & Stages
Entry into the residential coaching program involves a structured multi-stage selection process:
- Circular Notification & Registration: Schools inform eligible Class 12 Science students to register online on the Dakshana scholarship portal.
- Initial Shortlisting: Applicants are shortlisted based on Class 10 marks and income eligibility filters.
- Dakshana Scholar Application (DSA): Shortlisted candidates fill out the detailed DSA application form online.
- Mock Test Orientation: Online mock tests are conducted to familiarize candidates with the mobile-based computer testing interface.
- JDST Examination: The final Joint Dakshana Selection Test (JDST) will be conducted in December 2026 at designated exam centres using digital devices.
- Document Verification & Final Allotment: Final selected scholars undergo document verification before moving to the Pune residential campus.
Why This Scholarship Matters for JEE & NEET Aspirants
Top-tier private competitive exam coaching often costs upwards of Rs. 2 to 3 Lakh per year, making it inaccessible for students from low-income households. By providing high-quality faculty, competitive test series, structured mentoring, and 24/7 residential facilities free of cost, this initiative ensures equal opportunities for talented government school students across Delhi.