Introduction:
In a country where economic hardship often forces bright students to drop out of school early, the National Means Cum-Merit Scholarship (NMMS) emerges as a powerful tool for change. Launched by the Government of India in 2008, this centrally sponsored scheme aims to support meritorious students from economically weaker sections who are at risk of dropping out after Class VIII. It is not just a scholarship—it is a stepping stone toward equality, opportunity, and long-term national development.
Objective:
- Prevent dropout after Class VIII among economically weaker students.
- Encourage continued studies through secondary school stages (Classes IX–XII)
Eligibility Criteria :
Family Income:
The total annual income of the student’s family must not exceed ₹3.5 lakh from all sources. This ensures that the scholarship is given only to students from economically weaker backgrounds.
Type of School:
The student must be studying regularly in a government school, a government-aided school, or a school run by local authorities. Students from central schools like Kendriya Vidyalayas (KVs), Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas (JNVs), private schools, or residential schools are not eligible.
Academic Performance:
To apply for the NMMS selection test, a student must have scored at least 55% marks in Class VII. For students belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC) or Scheduled Tribes (ST), the minimum required mark is 50%.
Benefits:
- Every year, 1,00,000 new scholarships are given to deserving students.
- Every student who is selected receives ₹12,000 annually, which amounts to ₹1,000 each month.
- The scholarship starts from Class 9.
- It can continue every year up to Class 12.
Selection Procedure:
Each State or Union Territory conducts its selection exam for Class 8 students to choose who will get the NMMS scholarship. The exam has two parts:
Mental Ability Test (MAT):
This test lasts 90 minutes and has 90 multiple-choice questions. It checks the student’s thinking and reasoning skills through questions on patterns, number series, classifications, hidden figures, and similar topics.
Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT):
This test also lasts up to 90 minutes and includes 90 multiple-choice questions based on what students learn in Classes 7 and 8. Subjects covered are science, social studies, and mathematics.
How to Apply for the NMMS Scholarship
- Visit the Website:
Go to scholarships.gov.in, the National Scholarship Portal. - Register:
Click on New Registration, fill in your details (name, DOB, mobile, bank info), and create a password. - Login:
Use your Application ID and password to log in. An OTP may be needed for verification. - Fill the Form:
Choose “NMMS – for Class 9 students” and fill in personal, academic, and school details. - Upload Documents:
Prepare and upload scanned copies of the following: - Recent passport-size photograph
- Income certificate (issued by a competent authority)
- Caste certificate (if applicable)
- Domicile certificate
- Marksheet of the last passed exam (Class 7 or 8)
- Aadhaar card or bank account details
- Submit:
Review all details, click Final Submit, and save or print your application copy.
Conclusion:
The NMMS scholarship is a valuable opportunity for students from low-income families to continue their education without financial burden. By following the simple steps to apply through the National Scholarship Portal, eligible students can secure support from Class 9 to 12. With timely application and the right documents, this scholarship can be a stepping stone toward a brighter academic future.
Education is the most powerful tool you can use to change your life, and scholarships like NMMS help make that change possible
