National Overseas Scholarship for SC/OBC/EBC/DNT
Typically opens October–January. Verify on the NOS portal each year.
- Amount
- Up to ₹15.4 lakh per year (tuition + living allowance) for Master's/PhD abroad
- Who can apply
- SC, OBC, EBC and DNT candidates admitted to accredited Master's or PhD programs abroad.
- Income limit
- Family income below ₹8 lakh per year
- Study level
- Postgraduate, PhD / Research
- Apply through
- NOS portal (Ministry of Social Justice)
- Notes
- Competitive; limited seats each year (~35–40 for SC, ~20 for others).
About this scholarship
The National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) is a highly competitive and prestigious scheme run by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, and similarly by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. It targets brilliant students from Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and other specified minority groups who wish to pursue Master's and PhD degrees abroad. The scheme is aimed at students who have secured admission in top-ranking global universities but cannot afford the massive costs of international education. Selection is exceptionally rigorous, prioritizing students admitted to the highest-ranked universities globally (like the QS Top 500). It covers almost everything: tuition fees, maintenance allowance, airfare, visa fees, and medical insurance. The scholarship is awarded for the standard duration of the Master's or PhD program. Renewals and continued funding are managed through the Indian missions abroad, requiring students to submit regular academic progress reports from their international supervisors.
Documents you need
- Offer letter from a top-ranking foreign university
- Caste/Community certificate
- Family income certificate
- Valid passport
- Previous degree marksheets
- Employer NOC (if employed)
How to apply
- Secure an unconditional admission offer from a highly ranked foreign university.
- Apply through the dedicated National Overseas Scholarship portal run by the respective ministry (e.g., nosmsje.gov.in).
- Upload extensive documentation, including your admission letter, passport, and financial details.
- Clear the rigorous selection and interview process conducted by the ministry.
Why applications get rejected
- Applying without an unconditional offer letter from a top-ranking foreign university; speculative applications are rejected.
- Failing to meet the strict income criteria or having a sibling who has already availed of the scheme (usually limited to two children per family).
- Missing the narrow application windows, which often open in multiple cycles but fill up quickly based on university rankings.
Common questions
What is the income limit for the National Overseas Scholarship?
The total family income from all sources must not exceed ₹8 lakh per annum.
Does it cover undergraduate studies abroad?
No, the NOS is strictly for pursuing Master's and PhD programs at international universities.
Do I have to return to India after completing my studies?
Generally, candidates are expected to return to India after completing their course, though specific bond conditions vary and should be checked in the official guidelines.
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