National Means-Cum-Merit Scholarship (NMMS)

The National Means-Cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMMS) is a centrally sponsored initiative by the Ministry of Education, Government of India, launched in 2008 to encourage economically weaker students to continue their education beyond Class 8.It provides financial assistance of ₹12,000 per year to meritorious students studying in Classes 9 to 12, helping them complete secondary and higher secondary education without dropping out due to financial constraints.

Reduce dropout rates after Class 8, especially in government and aided schools. Provide monetary support to bright students from economically disadvantaged families. Promote equal opportunities in education across all states and UTs.

Scheme ID : NMMS005

Launch Year : 2008

Last Date : Ongoing

Status : Active

✅ Be studying in Class 8 in a government, local body, or government-aided school. ✅ Have secured at least 55% marks (50% for SC/ST students) in Class 7. ✅ Come from a family with an annual income less than ₹1.5 lakh from all sources. ✅ Plan to study regularly in Class 9 to 12 in government or aided schools.❌ Students enrolled in private schools, Navodaya Vidyalayas, Sainik Schools, or KVs are not eligible.

💰 ₹1,000 per month (₹12,000 per year), from Class 9 till Class 12 (total ₹48,000 over 4 years). 💳 Disbursed through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) into the student’s or parent’s bank account.

Income Certificate (issued by Tehsildar or competent authority)Marksheet of previous class (Class 7)Aadhaar CardDomicile Certificate (in some states)Bank Account details (student/guardian)Caste Certificate (for SC/ST students)Passport-size photograph