The Education Ministry has extended the deadline to apply for the National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMMS) 2026-27. Students can now submit their applications till September 30, 2026 through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP).The ministry has also extended the deadlines for verification of applications. The last date for Institute Nodal Officer (INO) verification is now October 15, while District Nodal Officer (DNO) verification can be completed till October 31.Students who want to apply for the scholarship must first complete a One-Time Registration (OTR) on the NSP.
NMMS offers 1 lakh scholarships every year
The NMMS is meant to support meritorious students from economically weaker sections and help them continue their education after Class 8. The scheme aims to reduce the number of students dropping out of school after Class 8.Under the scheme, one lakh fresh scholarships are offered every year to Class 11 students who clear the selection examination conducted by their respective state or Union Territory governments.The scholarship continues from Classes 10 to 12 through the renewal process. Renewal is based on the student’s academic performance.The scheme is available to students studying in Government, Government-aided and local body schools.
Scholarship amount and eligibility
Under the NMMS, selected students receive Rs 12,000 per year as a scholarship. The amount is transferred directly to the bank accounts of eligible students.Students whose family income is not more than Rs 3.50 lakh per year can apply. They must also secure at least 55% marks, or an equivalent grade, in Class 7 to be eligible to appear for the selection test. The minimum marks requirement is applicable for appearing in the selection test for the scholarship.With the deadline now extended, eligible students who have not yet completed their application can use the additional time to register on the NSP and submit their NMMS 2026-27 application.
