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Deadline Extended for National Means-Cum-Merit Scholarship Applications

The Ministry of Education has extended the application deadline for the National Means-Cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMMSS) to September 30, 2026. This initiative aims to support economically weaker students who may drop out after the 8th grade. Eligible students can apply through the National Scholarship Portal, with financial assistance provided to help them continue their education from 9th to 12th grade. Key dates for verification and application processes are outlined, emphasizing the importance of timely submissions. Students are encouraged to apply early to ensure all necessary verifications are completed on time.
By Ambika Singh Sep 2, 2026, 14:11 IST

Good News for Economically Weaker Students



Students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds have received encouraging news. The deadline for applying to the National Means-Cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMMSS) has been extended. The Ministry of Education has announced that the new deadline for online applications for the academic year 2026-27 is now September 30, 2026.


Application Process for Eligible Students

Eligible candidates can apply for this scholarship through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP). The primary aim of this initiative is to provide financial assistance to talented students who might drop out after the 8th grade due to financial constraints.


Important Dates to Remember

Students and schools should take note of the following key dates for NMMSS 2026-27:



  • Final date for online applications: September 30, 2026


  • Verification at school/institution level: October 15, 2026


  • District level (L2-DNO) verification: October 31, 2026



Who is Eligible for the Scholarship?

The NMMSS aims to reduce the dropout rate after 8th grade. Selected students will receive financial support to continue their education from 9th to 12th grade.


To qualify for this scholarship, students must be enrolled in government, government-aided, or local body-run schools. Additionally, the annual income of the student's parents or guardians should not exceed ₹3.50 lakh.


Financial Assistance Details

Under the NMMSS, scholarships are awarded to 100,000 meritorious students in 9th grade each year. Selected students will receive ₹12,000 annually, which amounts to approximately ₹1,000 per month.


Regarding academic qualifications, students must secure at least 55% marks in their 7th-grade exams. A relaxation of 5% is provided for students belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST).


How to Apply for NMMSS Scholarship?

Eligible students can apply online through the National Scholarship Portal. The application process is as follows:



  1. Visit scholarships.gov.in.


  2. Complete the One-Time Registration (OTR) process on the portal.


  3. Log in to your account after completing OTR.


  4. Select the NMMSS scholarship scheme.


  5. Fill in the required information and necessary documents in the application form and submit it.


  6. After submitting the application, ensure that the verification process at the school and relevant authorities is completed on time.



Apply Before the Deadline

The Ministry of Education has advised eligible students to complete their applications without waiting for the last date. It is also essential to ensure that the verification processes at both the school and district levels are completed within the stipulated time.


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