National Means Cum Merit Scholarship Scheme Deadline Extended To September 30, 2025

The Ministry of Education has extended the last date for submission of applications for the National Means cum Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMMSS) for the academic year 2025-26. The scheme, implemented through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP), aims to provide financial support to meritorious students from economically weaker sections, helping them continue their education till Class XII.

Extension Of Application Deadline

The final date for submission of applications under the NMMSS on the National Scholarship Portal has been extended to September 30, 2025. The NSP opened for applications on June 2, 2025. Selected students are first required to complete a one-time registration (OTR) on the portal before applying for the scheme.

Objective Of The Scheme

The scheme, managed by the Department of School Education and Literacy, Ministry of Education, is designed to reduce school drop-outs after Class VIII. Its aim is to support meritorious students in completing their education up to Class XII. Every year, one lakh fresh scholarships are offered to Class IX students who qualify through a selection test conducted by State and Union Territory governments.

Scholarship Amount And Coverage

The scholarship provides ₹12,000 per annum per student. Once awarded, the scholarship continues till Class XII subject to academic performance. Only students studying in State Government, Government-aided and local body schools are eligible to apply.

Application Statistics For 2025-26

As of August 30, 2025, 85,420 fresh applications and 1,72,027 renewal applications had been successfully submitted on the NSP portal. The scheme ensures direct benefit transfer, with scholarship amounts credited into the students’ bank accounts through the Public Financial Management System (PFMS).

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify, students’ parental income should not exceed ₹3.50 lakh per annum. Additionally, a minimum of 55% marks or equivalent grade in Class VII is required to appear in the qualifying test. For SC and ST students, this criterion is relaxed by 5%.

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Verification Process

The NSP follows a two-level verification system. The first level of verification (L1) is conducted by the Institute Nodal Officer (INO), with a deadline of October 15, 2025. The second level (L2) is conducted by the District Nodal Officer (DNO), with a deadline of October 31, 2025.

Conclusion

The extension of the deadline offers more time for eligible students to apply for the scholarship and secure financial assistance. The NMMSS continues to serve as a vital initiative in supporting students from weaker sections in achieving their educational aspirations.

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