NMMS Scholarship 2026: Application Deadline Extended to Sept 30

The Ministry of Education has extended the application deadline for the National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMMSS) for the academic year 2026-27 to September 30, 2026. Eligible students can now submit their applications through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) before the revised deadline.

As of August 31, 2026, the portal has received 79,398 fresh applications and 1,87,208 renewal applications. The Ministry has urged all eligible students to complete their submissions within the extended timeline. Those who have already applied are advised to ensure that their applications are duly verified by the concerned Institute, District, or State Nodal Officers.

Verification takes place in two stages on the NSP. The first level (L1) is conducted by the Institute Nodal Officer (INO), and the second level (L2) by the District Nodal Officer (DNO). The last date for L1 verification is October 15, 2026, while L2 verification must be completed by October 31, 2026. Students are required to complete a one-time registration (OTR) on the NSP before applying for any scholarship scheme.

The NMMSS is implemented by the Department of School Education and Literacy under the Union Ministry of Education. Its objective is to provide financial assistance to meritorious students from economically weaker sections, preventing them from dropping out after Class 8 and encouraging them to continue their education up to Class 12. The scheme is available only to students enrolled in state government schools, government-aided schools, and local body schools.

Under the scheme, one lakh fresh scholarships are awarded each year to students entering Class 9, based on a selection examination conducted by state or Union Territory governments. The scholarship is renewed from Classes 10 to 12, subject to satisfactory academic performance. Each selected student receives Rs 12,000 per annum.

Scholarship amounts are transferred directly to the bank accounts of beneficiaries through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mode, using the Public Financial Management System (PFMS). This process ensures transparency and reduces delays in disbursal.

To be eligible, a student's annual parental income must not exceed Rs 3.50 lakh. Candidates must also have secured at least 55% marks or an equivalent grade in the Class 7 examination. A relaxation of 5% is provided for students belonging to Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) categories.

Students who meet these criteria are encouraged to apply through the National Scholarship Portal before September 30, 2026. The extension provides an additional opportunity for eligible students to benefit from the scheme, which has been instrumental in supporting the educational aspirations of thousands of children from disadvantaged backgrounds.