Deadline Extended for National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Applications

The Ministry of Education announced an extension for the submission of applications under the National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMMSS) to September 30, 2025. Eligible students can apply through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) from June 2, 2025. This scheme aims to support meritorious students from economically weaker sections, encouraging them to complete their education.

NMMSS targets students at the elementary level, providing critical financial aid to prevent dropouts past Class VIII. The scholarship awards Rs 12,000 annually to students in State Government, Government-aided, and local body schools who pass the qualifying exam at Class IX. Merit renewals occur up to Class XII, contingent upon academic performance.

As applications pour in, with 85,420 fresh and 172,027 renewals submitted by August 30, the NMMSS disburses funds directly into student bank accounts under the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mode, following eligibility criteria including parental income limits and academic prerequisites. Dual verification is required by October 31, 2025, to ensure the integrity of the application process.