The Ministry of Education has extended the application deadline for the National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMMSS) to October 31, 2026, according to an October 1 announcement.

NMMSS supports meritorious students from economically weaker households to continue their education after Class VIII. Eligible students in state government, government-aided and local body schools receive ₹12,000 annually through direct bank transfers.

The scheme offers one lakh fresh scholarships each year to Class IX students who qualify through state or Union Territory selection examinations. Scholarships can be renewed through Class XII, subject to academic requirements.

Parental income must not exceed ₹3.5 lakh annually. Eligibility for the selection examination requires at least 55% marks in Class VII, with a five-percentage-point relaxation for SC/ST students.

Applicants must complete One-Time Registration on the National Scholarship Portal before applying. Institute-level verification closes on November 15, followed by district-level verification on November 30.

Students who have already applied should track verification with their school. The October 31 deadline concerns portal applications; students should check separate state notices for selection-examination schedules.

Source: Ministry of Education