Is it permissible for scholars to take zakat if they do not have a known stipend from the the state?

A poor scholar or a student of knowledge who does not have sufficient means is eligible to receive zakat. Similarly, one who is capable of earning a living but dedicates himself to seeking or teaching knowledge, and finds it impossible to combine earning with seeking knowledge, may be given zakat due to his preoccupation with teaching or learning. He is also permitted to take what he needs for scholarly books.