Deadline Extended for National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Applications: What You Need to Know

The Ministry of Education has extended the application deadline for the National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMMSS) to September 30 for the 2026-27 academic year. This initiative aims to support meritorious students from economically weaker sections, helping them continue their education up to higher secondary levels. With over 79,000 new applications already submitted, students are encouraged to complete their applications on the National Scholarship Portal. The scholarship offers Rs 12,000 annually and is available to students in state government and aided schools. Ensure your application is verified by the relevant authorities to secure your scholarship.

By Ambika Singh Sep 1, 2026, 19:32 IST

Important Update on Scholarship Applications

New Delhi: The Ministry of Education has announced an extension for the application deadline for the National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMMSS) for the academic year 2026-27, now set for September 30. Previously, the cutoff was August 31.

As of now, a total of 79,398 new applications and 1,87,208 renewal requests have been received for the upcoming academic year.

The National Scholarship Portal (NSP) has been accepting applications since June 1.

The NMMSS aims to support talented students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, helping to reduce dropout rates after class 8 and encouraging them to pursue education up to the higher secondary level.

Each year, the scheme offers 100,000 new scholarships for students entering class 9 who pass the qualifying examination administered by state or union territory governments. Scholarships can be renewed from classes 10 to 12 based on academic performance.

For the 2026-27 academic year, students selected for the scholarship must complete a one-time registration (OTR) on the NSP before applying for their chosen scholarship scheme, as stated by the Ministry.

This scholarship is available exclusively to students enrolled in state government, government-aided, and local body schools, providing an annual amount of Rs 12,000 per student.

Funds are transferred directly to the bank accounts of the selected students via electronic means through the Public Financial Management System (PFMS) under the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) method.

To qualify for the scholarship, applicants must have a parental income not exceeding Rs 3.50 lakh per year and achieve at least 55% marks or an equivalent grade in their class 7 examination (with a 5% relaxation for SC and ST students).

The NMMSS operates through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP), which serves as a comprehensive platform for scholarship schemes provided by the government.

Eligible students are encouraged to finalize their scholarship applications within the newly extended deadline. Those who have already submitted their applications should ensure that they are verified by the relevant institutions, district, or state nodal officers as necessary.