National-Means-cum-Merit-Scholarship (NMMS) – 2025-26 Latest Updates, Eligibility & How to Apply

What is NMMS?

The National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship (NMMS) is a centrally-sponsored scheme introduced by the Ministry of Education, Government of India (MoE) to provide financial support to meritorious students from economically weaker sections, so they continue their education beyond Class 8. 
Under this scheme, students studying in government, government-aided or local body schools (and meeting other criteria) are eligible to apply. 

Key Highlights & Latest Updates for 2025-26

• For the academic year 2025-26, the NMMS registration on the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) opened on 2 June 2025. 

• The scholarship amount is INR 12,000 per annum (i.e., approx. INR 1,000 per month) for selected students from Class 9 to Class 12. 

• The income ceiling for eligibility: annual parental/family income should not exceed INR 3,50,000 from all sources. 

• Exam dates vary state-wise: many states are planning the NMMS exam between November 2025 and February 2026. For example, some states list their dates as November/December. 

Eligibility Criteria

Here are the main eligibility criteria for NMMS 2025-26:

• Student should be currently studying in Class 8 (regular student) in a recognised government, government-aided or local body school. 

• Minimum academic requirement: At least 55% marks (or equivalent grade) in Class 7 final examination for general category; for SC/ST some relaxation (typically 5%). 

• Family’s annual income must not exceed INR 3,50,000. 

• Students studying in certain institutions like Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS), Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti (NVS), Sainik Schools, fully residential government schools are not eligible in many cases. 

• To continue the scholarship in subsequent classes (Class 10, 11, 12), the student needs to satisfy continuation criteria (for example, pass the class promotion, achieve required marks). 

Application Process – How to Apply

1. The online registration is available via NSP for fresh and renewal applications. 

2. Students (or their schools) must ensure submission before the last date — states may have their individual deadlines. 

3. Upload/submit required documents: proof of income, school/board mark sheet, domicile/residential proof, etc.

4. After application verification by appropriate authorities (school, district, state), the student appears for the state-level selection test (MAT & SAT). 

Exam Pattern & Selection Process

• The selection test typically has two parts:

  1. Mental Ability Test (MAT) – evaluates reasoning, logical skills. 

  2. Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) – covers subjects like Science, Maths, Social Science (based on Class 8 syllabus) for the eligible students. 

• The exams are conducted by the respective state education departments/SCERTs. 

• Marks/scores and merit lists are prepared state-wise and the scholarship is awarded accordingly.

Benefits & Scholarship Amounts

• Selected students receive INR 12,000 per annum during Classes 9 to 12 (i.e., up to four years), disbursed via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). 

• The scheme aims to reduce dropout rates after Class 8 and encourage continuation of secondary education among economically weaker meritorious students. 

Important Dates & State-Wise Schedule (Tentative)

• Application portal opened from 2 June 2025. 

• Last date for many states to apply: varies (some report up to September 30-October 2025) depending on state. 

• Exam dates across states: Many states plan the NMMS exam between Nov 2025 and Feb 2026 (example: UP – 9 Nov, Delhi – 7 Dec, etc.). 

Tips for Aspirants

• Make sure you meet all eligibility criteria before applying (income, school type, marks).

• Keep your school mark sheets, income certificate, and other documents ready.

• Prepare for MAT and SAT with focus on reasoning and class 8 level scholastic subjects.

• Monitor your state’s official education board/SCERT portal for exact dates, admit card, venue.

• After selection, ensure you follow through renewal criteria each year (marks, promotion) to continue receiving the scholarship.

Conclusion

The NMMS scholarship scheme is a valuable opportunity for students of Class 8 in government or aided schools from economically weaker backgrounds. With the latest updates for 2025-26, it’s essential to act promptly: check your state’s notification, apply before the deadline, and prepare well for the selection test. If you qualify, the financial support of INR 12,000 per annum can ease your path through Classes 9-12 and help you focus on education rather than financial constraints.