The Central Government runs several schemes to help students from poor and economically weaker families continue their education. One such initiative is the National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMMSS). The objective of this scheme is to provide financial assistance to meritorious students who are at risk of dropping out of school due to financial constraints. Applications for the 2026-27 academic year are now open for this scheme, which is administered by the Department of School Education and Literacy under the Ministry of Education.
Eligible students can apply online via the National Scholarship Portal. The deadline for applications is August 31, 2026.
**Financial Assistance for Classes 9 to 12**
The primary aim of the NMMSS scheme is to encourage students to continue their education beyond Class 8 and to reduce the school dropout rate. Eligible students currently in Class 9 can apply for this scheme for the first time. Students studying in government, government-aided, and local body schools are eligible.
Meanwhile, students in Classes 10 through 12 who are already receiving this scholarship can renew it in accordance with the prescribed rules. Selected students receive an annual scholarship of ₹12,000 from Class 9 through Class 12.
**How to Apply via NSP**
To apply, first visit the official National Scholarship Portal website at scholarships.gov.in. New applicants must register by clicking on 'New Registration'. Afterward, log in using your user ID and password and select the NMMSS scheme.
Next, fill in the required personal and academic details in the application form. Upload the requested documents and carefully review all the information entered. Once verified, submit the application and save the receipt or printout for future reference. Eligible students should complete the application process before August 31.
Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from TV9. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.