Entrance test in May and the session begins in June
PATNA — In a major step that is expected to help thousands of families, the government in Bihar has started the admission process for minority residential schools for the 2026–27 academic year. The move brings relief and hope, especially for Muslim students, who often face financial barriers in accessing quality education.
Under this scheme, students will receive free education along with full board and lodging. Facilities such as food, clothing, books, medicines and access to modern laboratories will also be provided without any cost.
Officials said that admissions have opened for Classes 9 and 11, and interested students can apply online until May 1. Schools currently operating in districts such as Nalanda, Kaimur, Katihar, Jamui and Muzaffarpur will take admissions, while new schools are being built in Siwan, Purnia, Saharsa, Munger and Supaul.
Until construction is completed, students from these districts will be accommodated in temporary campuses at existing schools.
A senior official associated with the programme said, “This initiative is meant to support students from Muslim and other minority communities who are talented but lack resources. We want them to study in a safe and supportive environment.”
Admission will be based on a written entrance test of 100 marks consisting of objective questions. The exam will be held in May and will last for two hours. Results are expected on May 28, followed by admissions between May and June.
The academic session is scheduled to begin on June 8.
An education department official said, “The process is transparent and based on merit. Every child who qualifies will get equal opportunity to study and grow.”
Seats, Eligibility and Income Limit
A total of 560 seats is available. Students from Muslim, Sikh, Christian, Buddhist, Jain and Parsi communities can apply. However, Muslim students are expected to benefit in large numbers due to their higher representation among minority groups in the state.
The age limit is set at 16 years for Class 9 and 18 years for Class 11. The annual family income of applicants must not exceed ₹4 lakh.
A parent from Katihar said, “For families like ours, this is a big support. We cannot afford private schools, but our children have dreams. This gives them a chance.”
Focus on Rural and Girls’ Education
One of the key features of the scheme is that 75 per cent of the seats are reserved for students from rural areas. In addition, 50 per cent of the seats are reserved for girls, aiming to improve access to education among Muslim girls who often face social and economic challenges.
A teacher involved in the programme said, “Many Muslim girls drop out due to a lack of facilities. With hostel and safety arrangements, parents feel more confident to send their daughters.”
Model Similar to Navodaya Schools
The residential schools are designed on the lines of Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, known for providing quality education to rural students.
Students selected through merit will receive structured academic support, better infrastructure and guidance for future studies.
An education expert said, “If implemented properly, these schools can change the future of many Muslim students. Access to free and good education is the key to social progress.”
Step Towards Equal Opportunities
The initiative is being seen as an important move to bring minority students, especially Muslims, into the mainstream of education and employment.
A community leader in Muzaffarpur said, “For years, many Muslim families have struggled due to a lack of access to good schools. This programme gives hope that our children can compete with others.”
With free facilities and a strong focus on merit and inclusion, the scheme is likely to benefit students who otherwise remain outside the formal education system.
For many families, this is not just an admission process, but a chance to change their future.
