In most states, the Std IV/V examination is a milestone as it is the first time that elementary school children are examined formally. However, as revealed by ASER results, many of these children are still struggling with elementary reading and airthtmetic and therefore require additional support.

The government of Maharashtra conducts a centralized merit exam for children in Stds IV and VII which test their aptitude in language, math and analytical skills.This exam has been made mandatory for all Std IV and VII students since 2005. In an effort to move beyond basic literacy and numeric ability and focus on learning excellence, Pratham piloted the scholarship preparation program in Mumbai in 2007. Classes were held in 25 schools and 54 slum communities. The pilot showed that the proportion of children coached by Pratham who passed was 21% higher than other municipal school going children. Having witnessed the results, over 250 schools in Mumbai invited Pratham to help coach their children for the next year's examination.

Today, the program is running in several cities of Maharashtra and in Delhi. Regular classes are conducted in the schools to ensure that children of Std IV/V are equipeed with the skills required to negotiate the exam thereby impacting their overall learning levels. We aim that 60% of the children should pass the scholarship/similar competency exam. The focus of the progranm therefore is on both academic knowledge and the devlopment of logical reasoning.