NMMS Scholarship

NMMS Scholarship 2025 offers INR 12,000 to students of classes 9–12 from economically weaker sections in government or aided schools. Candidates must qualify for a state-level exam and meet academic and income requirements to get financial assistance.

NMMS Scholarship 2025

NMMS Scholarship 2025 is a hallmark centrally sponsored scheme initiated in 2008 by the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD), now under the Ministry of Education, Government of India. The intention behind this scheme was to prevent meritorious students from economically weaker sections from dropping out after Class 8 and provide financial support to them throughout their secondary and higher secondary education.

The NMMS Scholarship Scheme has been instituted for the benefit of students studying in government/local bodies/government-aided schools where academic performance has exceeded and the parental income does not surpass INR 3,50,000 per annum. 

Nearly one lakh scholarships are bestowed every year under this scheme, each being an amount valued at INR 12,000 per annum, credited directly into the student's bank account using the Public Financial Management System (PFMS). Merit-listed students will have to qualify for a merit examination conducted by the state-level board. These comprise the Mental Ability Test (MAT) and Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT). 

Also Read: Hamdard Education Society Award of Loan Scholarship for Muslim Students

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Important Dates For the NMMS Scholarship 2025

If you intend to apply for the National Means-Cum-Merit Scholarship (NMMS) 2025, you should be aware of the important dates related to the application process, examination, and result announcement. Below is a tentative calendar of important dates for the 2025 session.

EventsTentative Dates
Official NotificationAugust–September 2025
Online Application September 2025
Last Date to ApplyOctober–November 2025
Release of Admit CardNovember–December 2025
NMMS Scholarship ExamDecember 2025-January 2026
Declaration of ResultsApril–May 2026
Scholarship Disbursement BeginsJune–July 2026

Also Read: SSP Scholarship 

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Overview Of the NMMS Scholarship 2025

The following table covers important details of the NMMS Scholarship 2025, such as eligibility, application process, scholarship amount, selection criteria, and more.

ParticularsDetails
Scholarship NameNMMS Scholarship
Full FormNational Means-Cum-Merit Scholarship
Launched ByMinistry of Human Resource Development (MHRD), Government of India
Implemented ByDepartment of School Education and Literacy
Year of Launch2008
ObjectiveTo reduce dropout rates by providing financial assistance to meritorious students from economically weaker sections
BeneficiariesIndian students studying in classes 9 to 12
Annual Scholarship AmountINR 12,000 per annum
Total Number of ScholarshipsApproximately 1,00,000 per year
Scholarship Duration4 years (Class 9 to Class 12, subject to renewal conditions)
Application PeriodAugust to November (varies by state)
Application ModeOnline (via NSP Portal) and Offline (through schools)
Eligibility Criteria
  • Studying in Class 9 in a government, local body, or government-aided school
  • Scored at least 55% in Class 8 (5% relaxation for SC/ST)
  • Annual family income not more than INR 3,50,000
  • Must appeal and qualify in the MAT & SAT exams
  • Not studying in KVS, NVS, Sainik Schools, private, or residential schools
Selection CriteriaMerit in NMMS Examination (MAT and SAT)
Exam Pattern
  • Two sections: MAT & SAT-90 MCQs each-90 minutes per section
  • No negative marking
  • Qualifying Marks: 40% (General), 32% (SC/ST)
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Objectives of the NMMS Scholarship 2025

The purpose of the National Means-Cum-Merit Scholarship (NMMS) Scheme is to serve as an incentive for economically weaker students to complete Class 8, thereby minimising dropout rates among meritorious students after Class 8. The scheme is implemented under central assistance and provides financial help to bright students attending government and government-aided schools in the country.

By awarding an annual scholarship amount of INR 12,000, the NMMS scheme seeks to ease the financial burden on families, thus empowering students to focus on their academics without worrying about educational expenses. Another prime goal of the NMMS Scholarship is to foster equality of access to education and urge academic excellence for underprivileged students.

Also Read: Kotak Kanya Scholarship

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Eligibility Criteria For NMMS Scholarship 2025

It is important to understand the eligibility criteria before applying for the NMMS Scholarship 2025. The scheme aims to assist students belonging to economically weaker sections who show academic merit. The following is a detailed analysis of the eligibility criteria to assist students in determining whether they are eligible for the scholarship.

CriteriaDetails
Class Level for ApplicationMust be a regular student in Class 9 and have been promoted from Class 8 with at least 55% marks (50% for SC/ST students).
Income LimitThe annual family income should not exceed INR 3,50,000.
School TypeMust be studying in a government, government-aided, or local body school.
Ineligible InstitutionsStudents studying in Kendriya Vidyalayas (KVS), Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas (NVS), Sainik Schools, private schools, or state-run residential/boarding schools are not eligible.
Study LocationThe scheme is valid only for students studying in India. No scholarship is allowed for studies abroad.
Mode of StudyMust pursue approved courses on a full-time basis as a regular student.
Conduct and AttendanceMust maintain good conduct, not remain absent without leave, and continue as a regular student.
Selection TestStudents must appear and qualify in the NMMS selection test conducted by state/U1 authorities, usually held in November each year.
Continuation Criteria (Class 10)Must be promoted to Class 10 and score at least 55% in Class 9 (50% for SC/ST students).
Continuation Criteria (Class 11)Must obtain a minimum of 60% in Class 10 (55% for SC/ST) and be promoted on the first attempt.
Continuation Criteria (Class 12)Must secure at least 55% in Class 11 and be promoted in the first attempt.
School Exam WaiverIf Class 9 or 11 exams are not held, a head of institution certificate is necessary for continuation.
Medical ExemptionIn case of inability to appear for the exam due to serious illness, a registered medical certificate (within 3 months) and a performance report by the principal must be produced to continue.
Joining DeadlineHave to report for the next class/course within 3 months of the previous result announcement.
Scholarship DurationSalary will be released for a maximum of 4 years for classes 9 to 12.
Ineligible CoursesNot for diploma or certificate courses.
Discontinuation ClauseIn case of a gap of one year of studies, the scholarship will be treated as discontinued and will not be restored.
No Arrears PolicyNo requests for arrears of scholarship will be accepted after 12 months of the academic year.
Monitoring & ComplianceSubject to periodic audits, physical verification, and technical examinations by the authorities to check for irregularities.
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Required Documents for NMMS Scholarship 2025

The application process for the NMMS Scholarship requires different documents to be submitted for evaluation of scholarship criteria. So, students need to scan and keep the relevant documents before starting to fill out the application form. Check out some of the important documents required below: 

  • Educational qualification details including results or report card of previous classes, the student is planning to apply for 
  • Two passport-size photographs 
  • School Enrollment Certificate
  • Proof of Income or Income Certificate not exceeding the mentioned income 
  • State Domicile Certificate 
  • Ration Card                            
  • Bank Passbook or other documents with the bank details
  • Caste Certificate (photocopy of ST/SC certificate)
  • Disability State Certificate (if any from the competent authority)

Students will also be required to sit with certain documents during this scholarship exam, such as:

  • NMMS Scholarship Admit Card
  • Aadhar Card 
  • School ID Card or Govt. issued Photo ID Card 

Also Read: Digital Gujarat Scholarship

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How to Apply for the NMMS Scholarship 2025?

Applying for the National Means-Cum-Merit Scholarship (NMMS) is a straightforward process, available both online and offline. However, most students prefer the online method due to its ease and efficiency. Below is a step-by-step guide that explains how to apply for the NMMS Scholarship with all the necessary details:

Online Application Process for NMMS Scholarship 2025

Follow these steps to apply for the NMMS Scholarship through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP):

  • Visit the official NSP website
  • Click on the New Registration option and go through the instructions carefully.
  • Tick the declaration box, and continue further.
  • Fill in your details like your name, date of birth, email ID, mobile number, and bank details. Proceed to make your password.
  • Once registered successfully, an application ID will be generated, which will be allowed for every subsequent login.
  • Using your Application ID and password, you would finally log in.
  • Click on "Apply for Scholarship" and further select the Pre-Matric Scholarship category (for classes 9 and 10).
  • Fill in your academic details, school details, and personal information.
  • Please make sure this is accurate, or you might face a rejection or further delay in verification.
  • Upload the scanned documents, duly adhering to the format and size specified.
  • Click on Submit to complete your application.
  • Keep a printed copy or a saved copy of your submitted application with you for future reference.

Offline Application Process for NMMS Scholarship 2025

In offline application cases, follow the further procedure:

  • Take the application form for the NMMS Scholarship from your school authority.
  • Use a black or blue pen to write in capital letters, and do not overwrite.
  • Attach copies of the required documents.
  • Submit the duly filled and signed form to your school, which in turn will remit it to the district education office for further processing.
  • After verification of the application, the admit card for the NMMS exam will be issued by the school.

Also Read: Samsung Star Scholarship

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Benefits of the NMMS Scholarship 2025

The NMMS Scholarship is implemented keeping in mind various aspects to impart education to talented students. This scholarship also has multiple benefits for students who are not financially stable to continue their studies. Check out some of the significant benefits below:

  • This scholarship will motivate bright and meticulous students to pursue their secondary and higher secondary education. 
  • The eligibility criteria for this scholarship are simple. Students are evaluated based on merit and a scholarship test. 
  • This scholarship will help improve the dropout rate of students in the country. 
  • Students will get the scholarship amount directly into their bank accounts through the Public Financial Management System. 
  • The scholarship is continued till the student completes class 12. 
  • The scholarship amount is renewed every year. 
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Contact Details of the NMMS Scholarship 2025

If students face any issues while filling out the NMMS Scholarship form or have any queries related to this scholarship, then they can contact the officials.

Helpline Number: 0120-6619540. 
Official Email IDhelpdesk@nsp.gov.in

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FAQs about NMMS Scholarship

How much is the NMMS Scholarship 2025 amount?

The NMMS Scholarship amount is INR 12,000 per year. Students receive an INR 1,000 scholarship amount every month in their bank account through the public financial management system. Every year approximately one lakh scholarships are offered to deserving students. 


 

Can I apply for an NMMS Scholarship 2025 online?

Yes, students can apply for an NMMS Scholarship online through the official website of the National Scholarship Portal. The official site is scholarships.gov.in. Students need to complete the registration process and submit the documents after filling in all the required information before the designated last date. 


 

How are students selected for the NMMS Scholarship 2025?

Students are selected for the NMMS Scholarship based on their academic performance and scholarship test results. This scholarship test includes a mental ability test and a scholastic aptitude test. After evaluating scores in previous classes and the results of the scholarship test, students are offered scholarships.


 

What is the full form of NMMS Scholarship 2025?

The full form of the NMMS Scholarship 2025  is National Means Cum Merit Scholarship. This scholarship is under the scheme of the central sector to provide education to the weaker sections of the society in India. 


 

What income criteria are eligible for the NMMS Scholarship 2025?

Students have to submit an income certificate of their parents which should not be more than INR 3,50,000 annually. This income includes the total family income per year. 


 

Which students are eligible for the NMMS Scholarship 2025 award?

Students who have passed their class 8 with a minimum of 55% (for general categories) and 50% (for reserved categories) and are currently studying in class 9th are eligible for the NMMS Scholarship award. 


 

Can a Sainik School student apply for the NMMS Scholarship 2025?

No, a Sainik School student cannot apply for the NMMS Scholarship as the students from KVS, NVS or any other private schools are not eligible. This scholarship is only for candidates who study in a government school or government-led school.


 

How much duration is the NMMS Scholarship 2025?

The NMMS Scholarship is for four years of duration. However, the continuation of this scholarship depends on the student's performance in the merit. A student starts getting this scholarship in class 9 based on class 8 results then it continues till class 12.


 

Will there be any negative markings for the NMMS Scholarship 2025 test?

There will be no negative marking for the NMMS Scholarship test. This test will be held for 90 minutes and only students with a disability will be given relaxation with the duration. 


 

How can a student check the NMMS Scholarship 2025 result?

The NMMS Scholarship result can be checked both in online and offline modes. The results will be announced by the state examination boards individually after evaluating the scores of the scholarship test.


 

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