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The National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMMSS) is a centrally sponsored scholarship scheme by the Department of School Education & Literacy, Ministry of Education, Government of India. It aims to provide financial assistance to meritorious students from economically weaker sections to reduce dropouts at the secondary level and encourage them to continue their education till Class 12.

Application Window: 2 June 2025 – 31 August 2025
Official Website: Ministry of Education, Government of India

Objectives

  • To identify and support meritorious students from economically disadvantaged families.
  • To reduce the dropout rate at the secondary and higher secondary stages.
  • To encourage students to continue education beyond Class 8.
  • To promote equitable access to quality education across the country.

Eligibility & Selection

Eligibility Criteria

  • The student must be studying as a regular student in Class 8 in a government, government-aided, or local body school.
  • Must be entering Class 9 in the academic year of application.
  • Must have secured at least 55% marks in Class 7 (relaxable by 5% for SC/ST students).
  • Parental income (from all sources) should not exceed ₹3.50 lakh per annum.

Selection Process

  • State/UT level selection examination is conducted while the student is in Class 8.
  • Students who qualify this selection test are awarded the scholarship.
  • Merit and income eligibility are both considered during selection.
  • The final list is prepared and verified by the State/UT Education Departments and approved by the Ministry of Education.

Benefits & Coverage

  • Annual scholarship amount of ₹12,000 (₹1,000 per month) to each selected student.
  • Disbursed from Class 9 and continues up to Class 12, subject to good academic performance and regular attendance.
  • Scholarship is directly transferred to the student’s bank account through DBT.

Application & Portal Advantages

  • Online applications are submitted through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) during the specified period.
  • The Ministry of Education website provides detailed scheme guidelines and circulars.
  • Online verification by schools and state authorities ensures transparency.
  • Track status and receive timely updates via the portal.
  • Paperless, secure, and user-friendly interface for students, schools, and departments.

Summary Table

ParticularsDetails
Scheme NameNational Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMMSS)
Launched ByMinistry of Education, Government of India
Applicable ForStudents entering Class 9 in Govt/Govt-aided/Local body schools
Academic Requirement55% in Class 7 (50% for SC/ST)
Income Limit₹3.50 lakh per annum
SelectionState-level exam during Class 8
Scholarship Amount₹12,000 per annum (for Class 9 to 12)
Application Window2 June 2025 – 31 August 2025
Application ModeOnline (via National Scholarship Portal)
Portaleducation.gov.in

Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only. While we strive to keep the information accurate and up to date, readers are advised to verify details from the official website or notification. We are not affiliated with any government body, educational board, or organization mentioned. All trademarks, logos, and names belong to their respective owners.