National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMMS)
Exams held around November–December; results and registration follow state timelines. Verify with your state's education department.
- Amount
- ₹12,000 per year (₹1,000 per month)
- Who can apply
- Students who clear the NMMS exam in class 8, continuing into classes 9–12.
- Income limit
- Family income below ₹3.5 lakh per year
- Study level
- Class 9-10, Class 11-12
- Apply through
- State/UT education department or NSP
- Notes
- Selected in class 8, scholarship continues through class 12.
About this scholarship
The National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship (NMMS) is a central government initiative aimed at preventing dropout at the secondary stage by financially supporting meritorious students from economically weaker sections. It targets students studying in Class 9 to Class 12 in government, government-aided, and local body schools. The selection process is highly rigorous: students must pass a competitive state-level examination conducted in Class 8, testing mental ability and scholastic aptitude. The scheme is aimed at bright students whose families struggle to afford continued schooling. It provides a fixed annual amount to help cover educational expenses. The scholarship is awarded for four years, starting from Class 9 up to Class 12. However, renewal is strictly contingent on the student maintaining clear academic benchmarks, including passing Class 9 on the first attempt and securing a minimum required percentage in Class 10 to continue into Class 11.
Documents you need
- Class 8 marksheet
- Family income certificate
- Caste certificate
- Aadhaar card
- Bank passbook
- Passport-size photograph
How to apply
- Clear the NMMS examination conducted by your state government during Class 8.
- Once selected, register on the National Scholarship Portal as a fresh applicant when you enter Class 9.
- Select the National Means Cum Merit Scholarship scheme under the Department of School Education and Literacy.
Why applications get rejected
- Believing the scholarship is automatic after passing the exam; you must actively register and apply on the NSP.
- Failing to renew the scholarship every year on the NSP in Classes 10, 11, and 12.
- Changing to a private school in Class 11, which immediately disqualifies the student from further NMMS payments.
Common questions
What is the income limit for NMMS?
The family income from all sources must not exceed ₹3.5 lakh per annum.
Can private school students apply for NMMS?
No, students studying in private schools, Kendriya Vidyalayas, and Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas are not eligible.
What marks do I need to renew the scholarship in Class 10?
You generally need to pass Class 9 and secure at least 55-60% marks in Class 10 (with relaxation for SC/ST) to continue receiving the scholarship in Class 11.
New to the National Scholarship Portal? Read our step-by-step guide to applying on NSP.
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