Free Coaching Initiative for Class 12 Science Students in Uttar Pradesh

The Yogi government of Uttar Pradesh has launched a free coaching initiative in collaboration with the Dakshana Foundation, aimed at assisting Class 12 Science students in preparing for JEE and NEET exams. This program addresses financial barriers faced by talented students from underprivileged backgrounds by providing free coaching, accommodation, and meals. Eligible students from Sarvodaya Vidyalayas can apply for this opportunity, which includes a selection test and specific academic criteria. The initiative aims to empower economically weaker families and support students in achieving their dreams of becoming doctors or engineers.

By Ambika Singh Oct 23, 2026, 09:03 IST

Introduction to the Initiative

The Yogi government has partnered with the Dakshana Foundation to introduce a significant initiative aimed at assisting Class 12 students in the Science stream. This program offers complimentary coaching for entrance exams like JEE and NEET.

Addressing Financial Barriers

Many talented students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds struggle to pursue their aspirations of becoming doctors or engineers due to the prohibitive costs of coaching. To combat this issue, the Social Welfare Department has collaborated with the Dakshana Foundation. This initiative will provide eligible Class 12 Science students with up to one year of free coaching for national-level entrance exams, along with complimentary accommodation and nutritious meals at the Dakshana Valley campus in Pune.

Eligibility Criteria

According to Sanjeev Singh, Director of the Social Welfare Department, students enrolled in Class 12 Science at Sarvodaya Vidyalayas, who are preparing for their board exams by May 2027, can apply for this program. Selection will be based on the 'Joint Dakshana Selection Test 2027.'

To qualify, students must meet specific academic criteria: for JEE coaching, a minimum of 85% in Mathematics and Science in Class 10 is required, while female candidates need at least 80%. Additional relaxations apply for students from OBC, ST, and PwD categories.

For NEET coaching, the requirements are as follows:

General category: 80% in Science and Mathematics in Class 10

OBC and EWS categories: 75% in Class 10

SC and ST categories: 65% in Class 10

The initiative aims to support children from economically weaker families, with an income cap set at ₹3 lakh for male students and ₹5 lakh for female students.

Coaching and Support

Selected students will be taken to the Dakshana Valley campus after completing their 12th grade, where they will receive one year of coaching for JEE or NEET, along with free lodging and meals. This arrangement allows them to concentrate fully on their studies without financial stress.

Application Process

The Social Welfare Department has directed all principals and teachers at Sarvodaya Vidyalayas to inform eligible students about this initiative and encourage them to apply. Interested candidates can submit their applications through the official Dakshana Foundation website.