The Department of School Education and Literacy (DSEL) is now accepting online applications for the National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme for the 2023-24 academic year. This program was established to provide financial assistance to gifted students from underprivileged backgrounds, helping to prevent school dropouts after grade 8 and encouraging them to complete their secondary education.
Under this initiative, 100,000 new scholarships valued at Rs. 12,000 per year are granted annually to eligible students starting at the class 9 level, with support continuing through class 12. Interested applicants can submit their details via the official portal at scholarships.gov.in. The final date for online submissions is 30 November 2023.
About the National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme 2026
The National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMMSS) is a government-funded initiative started in May 2008 to assist talented students from grades 9 through 12. The scheme is fully integrated into the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) for streamlined processing.
Goal of the NMMSS Program
To grant scholarships to meritorious students from low-income families, helping them stay in school after class 8 and supporting their journey through secondary education.
NMMSS Scope and Coverage
The NMMSS aims to provide 100,000 new scholarships annually to selected class 9 students, with provisions for renewal through classes 10 to 12 for those attending government, government-aided, or local body schools.
Financial Assistance Provided
Students receive Rs. 12,000 annually. This scholarship amount was increased from the previous rate of Rs. 6,000, effective from 1 April 2017.