New Delhi: Students eligible for the National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMMSS) have until August 31, 2026, to submit fresh or renewal applications for the 2026-27 academic year. Applications must be filed through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP).
The scholarship supports meritorious students from economically weaker families. It aims to reduce school dropouts after Class VIII by helping students continue their education. Every year, the scheme awards one lakh fresh scholarships to eligible Class IX students.
Renewal available up to Class XII
Students who receive the scholarship in Class IX can renew it for Classes X, XI and XII. Renewal is subject to the conditions laid down under the scheme. The scholarship covers students studying in state government, government-aided and local body schools.
The scheme has been running as a Central Sector initiative to encourage talented students to stay in school. It focuses on those who may otherwise struggle to continue their studies because of financial constraints.
Verification in two stages
Applications submitted through the National Scholarship Portal will go through a two-level verification process before approval.
The Institute Nodal Officer (INO) will complete the Level-1 verification by September 15, 2026. The District Nodal Officer (DNO) will carry out the Level-2 verification by September 30, 2026.
Students can apply for more than one scholarship
From the 2026-27 academic year, students can apply for one merit-based scholarship and one or more welfare-based scholarship schemes at the same time.
However, applicants must meet the eligibility conditions of each scheme. The change is expected to give eligible students access to wider financial support without affecting their merit-based scholarship.
Education Ministry advises early applications
The Department of School Education and Literacy under the Union Ministry of Education has urged students not to wait until the final day. Applying early can help avoid last-minute technical issues on the National Scholarship Portal.
The Ministry has also asked Institute Nodal Officers and District Nodal Officers to complete the verification process within the prescribed deadlines. Timely verification will help ensure that scholarships are processed and released without unnecessary delays.