The National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme 2026–2027 provides financial assistance to eligible students from economically weaker families in India. Applications close on 31 October 2026 through the National Scholarship Portal.
Background & Job Description
The National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMMSS) is a Government of India initiative implemented by the Ministry of Education. It aims to help academically talented students from economically disadvantaged families continue their education after Class VIII and complete secondary and higher secondary school.
The scheme awards 100,000 fresh scholarships annually to eligible students entering Class IX, with renewals available for Classes X to XII, subject to academic and other requirements. <Cite refs={[“turn263062search1″,”turn263062search3”]}/>
Tasks
Successful students are expected to continue their education, maintain the required academic performance and meet the conditions for scholarship renewal throughout the eligible school years.
Qualifications
Education and Certification
Applicants must generally:
- Be studying in a government, government-aided or local body school in India.
- Be entering Class IX after qualifying through the relevant State or Union Territory selection examination.
- Have secured at least 55% marks in Class VII, or an equivalent grade, to be eligible to appear for the selection test. The minimum is relaxed by five percentage points for SC/ST students.
- Have a parental or guardian income of no more than ₹3.5 lakh per year.
The relevant State or Union Territory examination and scheme guidelines determine the remaining eligibility requirements. <Cite refs={[“turn263062search1″,”turn263062search4”]}/>
Experience
Previous employment is not required. Selection is based on academic eligibility and performance in the relevant scholarship examination, alongside the scheme’s income and school-type requirements.
Additional Information
- Scholarship amount: ₹12,000 per year per selected student.
- Eligible school levels: Class IX, with renewals for Classes X, XI and XII, subject to conditions.
- Application portal: National Scholarship Portal (NSP).
- Application deadline: 31 October 2026.
- Institute verification deadline: 15 November 2026.
- District verification deadline: 30 November 2026. <Cite refs={[“turn263062search1″,”turn263062search2”]}/>
The scholarship is paid directly into selected students’ bank accounts through Direct Benefit Transfer.
Important: This is an Indian government scheme for eligible students studying in qualifying schools in India. It is not an international scholarship for students applying from other countries.
How to Apply
- Visit the National Scholarship Portal.
- Complete the required One-Time Registration (OTR).
- Find the National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme for academic year 2026–2027.
- Check your eligibility and follow the portal’s application instructions.
- Submit the application by 31 October 2026.
- Ensure that your school and relevant authorities complete the required verification steps.
Students who have already applied should check their application status and confirm that the required verification is completed.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much does the NMMSS scholarship provide?
Eligible selected students receive ₹12,000 per year.
2. Who can apply?
Eligible students entering Class IX in qualifying Indian government, government-aided or local body schools who meet the academic, income and selection requirements.
3. What is the family income limit?
Parental or guardian income must not exceed ₹3.5 lakh per year.
4. When is the application deadline?
The application deadline for the 2026–2027 scheme is 31 October 2026.
5. Can students from Zimbabwe apply?
This scheme is intended for eligible students studying in qualifying schools in India. It is not generally available to students studying in Zimbabwe.
6. Is the scholarship renewable?
Yes. It may continue from Class X through Class XII if students meet the prescribed academic and renewal requirements.
Disclaimer: Opportunities Feed shares scholarship information for public awareness and is not affiliated with the Government of India or the Ministry of Education. Applicants should consult the official National Scholarship Portal and scheme guidelines before applying.
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