This content was recently updated by Sudhir Singh on April 11, 2025 to improve accuracy.
Want to apply for an NMMS scholarship in 2025? Here’s a complete guide for Class 8 students to register, qualify, and receive ₹12,000 per year under this national merit scheme.
What is the NMMS Scholarship and Who Can Apply?
The National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship (NMMS) is a centrally sponsored scheme by the Ministry of Education, Government of India, aimed at encouraging bright students from economically weaker backgrounds to continue their education beyond Class 8. Introduced in 2008, the NMMS scholarship supports students who might otherwise drop out due to financial hardships.
Under this scheme, selected students receive ₹12,000 per year (₹1,000 per month) from Class 9 till Class 12, provided they continue their studies in recognized schools and meet the renewal criteria.
Key Objectives:
- Reduce dropout rate after Class 8
- Encourage meritorious students to pursue secondary and higher education
- Provide financial relief to families in the lower-income bracket
The NMMS scholarship is a golden opportunity for Class 8 students to secure academic and financial support all the way to Class 12.
Eligibility Criteria for NMMS Scholarship in 2025
To apply for the NMMS scholarship, students must meet specific eligibility criteria related to both academic performance and family income.
Who is Eligible?
- Must be studying in Class 8 in a government, local body, or government-aided school
- Must have secured at least 55% marks (or equivalent grade) in Class 7 (relaxation of 5% for SC/ST students)
- Must have annual family income below ₹3.5 lakhs
- Must pass the NMMS Scholarship Exam conducted by the state/UT education department
Note: Students from Kendriya Vidyalayas, Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas, private schools, and residential schools are not eligible.
Additional Guidelines:
- The student must continue in a recognized school after Class 8 to keep receiving the scholarship.
- For renewal, they must maintain a minimum of 55% marks in each academic year.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply NMMS Scholarship
Students can apply for the NMMS scholarship online through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) or their respective state scholarship portal, depending on the state/UT they belong to.
Step 1: Visit the National Scholarship Portal
Go to scholarships.gov.in.
- Click on “New Registration”
- Read the instructions carefully and click “Continue”
Step 2: Create a New Student Account
- Select “Pre-Matric Scholarship”
- Enter personal details: Name, Date of Birth, Mobile Number, Email ID
- Provide bank account number and IFSC code
- Choose a strong password and register
Tip: Always use your own or your parent’s mobile number for OTP verification.
Step 3: Fill in the NMMS Scholarship Application Form
Log in using the credentials created in Step 2.
- Choose your scheme: “Pre-Matric Scholarship for NMMS”
- Enter school details, academic year, marks obtained, and parental income
- Upload required documents (see next section)
- Verify all details carefully
Step 4: Submit the Application
- Click “Submit” to finalize your form
- Note your Application ID for tracking
- You will receive an SMS or email confirmation
Step 5: Verification and Admit Card
- Your school and state education department will verify your application
- Once verified, you’ll receive an admit card for the NMMS exam via email or school
Documents Required for NMMS Scholarship Application
To apply for the NMMS scholarship successfully, make sure you gather and scan the following documents:
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Aadhaar Card | Identity proof |
| Income Certificate | To confirm financial eligibility (issued by Tehsildar or Revenue Officer) |
| Caste Certificate (if applicable) | For SC/ST/OBC category relaxation |
| Disability Certificate (if applicable) | For PwD category |
| Class 7 Marksheet | To confirm academic performance |
| Bank Passbook | For Direct Benefit Transfer (student’s name only) |
| School Bonafide Certificate | Proof of current enrollment in Class 8 |
| Passport-size Photograph | For profile identification |
Make sure:
- All scanned files are in PDF or JPG format
- Each file is under 200 KB
- Images are clear and readable
What Happens After Application – Exam, Selection & Disbursement
The NMMS scholarship process doesn’t end at application. Here’s what happens next:
Step 1: NMMS Scholarship Exam
Each state conducts its own NMMS exam, usually between October and December each year. It includes:
- Mental Ability Test (MAT): Logical reasoning, pattern recognition, etc.
- Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT): Questions from Class 7 & 8 syllabus in Science, Math, and Social Studies
Minimum qualifying marks:
- General category: 40% in each paper
- SC/ST/PH category: 32% in each paper
Step 2: Merit List and Selection
States publish the merit list of selected students on their education portal or via NSP. Selected students are notified via school or portal.
Step 3: Bank Account Verification
- The bank account provided during application is verified
- DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer) setup is confirmed
Step 4: Disbursement of Scholarship
- ₹1,000 per month (total ₹12,000 per year) is credited to the student’s account
- Payment is usually done quarterly or half-yearly, depending on the state
Scholarship continues annually till Class 12, subject to performance and renewal documentation.
Conclusion
The National Means-cum- Merit Scholarship is more than just financial aid—it’s an incentive for India’s young minds to continue their education despite economic challenges. If you’re in Class 8 and meet the eligibility criteria, don’t miss this golden chance to secure ₹12,000 per year for your studies.
By following the simple steps above, gathering the right documents, and preparing well for the NMMS exam, you can unlock the door to educational success without burdening your family.
In 2025, the government continues to push for digital inclusion and transparency, making it easier than ever to apply for the NMMS scholarship online. So get started now—your brighter future is just an application away.
FAQs
Can Class 9 students apply for the NMMS scholarship?
No, only Class 8 students can apply. The scholarship is awarded from Class 9 onwards.
Can private school students apply for NMMS?
No. Only students from government, local body, or government-aided schools are eligible.
Is the NMMS scholarship exam difficult?
It’s based on the Class 7 & 8 syllabus. With basic preparation in reasoning and academics, students can clear it.
Do I need a separate income certificate for NMMS?
Yes, a valid income certificate is mandatory to confirm your eligibility under the ₹3.5 lakh limit.
How long will I receive the NMMS scholarship?
From Class 9 to 12, provided you pass each year with at least 55% marks (50% for SC/ST).
Is Aadhaar compulsory for NMMS applications?
It’s preferred but not mandatory. You can apply using an alternate ID and update Aadhaar later.
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