NMMSS 2026-27: ₹12,000 a year for Class 8 students who clear the exam
The National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship pays ₹1,000 a month from Class 9 right through Class 12, for students from low-income families who clear the state selection exam in Class 8.
Who can apply
- Students in Class 8 at a government, local body or government-aided school
- You must clear your state's NMMS selection exam
- Family income within the limit set for the scheme
What you get
₹12,000 per year (₹1,000 a month), paid from Class 9 through Class 12 as long as you keep meeting the conditions. Over four years that is ₹48,000.
How it works
1. Your state conducts the NMMS selection exam, usually announced through the school
2. Clear it, then apply on the National Scholarship Portal
3. Your school verifies the application after you submit
Parents and teachers: this is the one to tell Class 8 students about, because the exam comes first and the scholarship follows it.
Dates checked on 28 July 2026. Deadlines in India move without notice, so confirm on the official portal linked above before you apply.
Published 28 Jul 2026. Dates change without warning, so check the official site before you apply. We never take your application, your documents or your money. You apply directly, always.