The Government of India launched the National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMMSS) in 2008. This scheme aims to provide scholarships to bright students from economically weaker sections. It primarily seeks to reduce dropout rates after Class VIII and encourage students to continue their education until the secondary stage.
Scholarship Details
Every year, the government awards one lakh new scholarships to Class IX students. They renew these scholarships for Classes X to XII, provided students meet certain criteria. The scholarship provides Rs. 12,000 per annum, which helps support students’ educational expenses.
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Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme, students must:
- Have a parental income of not more than Rs. 3,50,000 per annum.
- Score at least 55% in Class VII (50% for SC/ST students).
- Be a regular student in a Government, Government-aided, or local body school.
- Students from Navodaya Vidyalayas (NVS), Kendriya Vidyalayas (KVS), and residential schools are not eligible.
Selection Process
Each State/UT conducts its own test for selecting students for the NMMSS. The test includes the Mental Ability Test (MAT) and the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT). Students must score at least 40% in these tests combined (32% for SC/ST students).
Renewal Criteria
To renew the scholarship, students must:
- Score a minimum of 60% in Class X (55% for SC/ST students).
- Get promoted from Class IX to X and Class XI to XII in the first attempt.
Disbursal of Scholarship
The NMMSS is fully integrated with the National Scholarship Portal (NSP). Funds are disbursed directly into students’ bank accounts through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) via the Public Financial Management System (PFMS). The State Bank of India (SBI) is the implementing bank for this scheme.
Apply by 31st August 2024
The last date to apply for the National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme for the academic year 2024-25 is 31st August 2024. Interested students should visit the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) to apply.
The National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme offers an excellent opportunity for meritorious students from economically weaker sections. This scheme provides financial support, ensuring that students can continue their education without facing financial barriers. If you meet the eligibility criteria, apply by 31st August 2024. This scholarship will be a stepping stone towards a brighter future.
For more information and to apply, visit the National Scholarship Portal.