NMMS
National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme
The National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship (NMMS) Scheme was launched in 2008 to reduce dropout at the Class 8 to Class 9 transition — one of India's highest dropout points, especially for economically weaker students. The scheme provides ₹12,000 per year (₹1,000/month) from Class 9 to Class 12 — a total of ₹48,000 over 4 years. 1 lakh scholarships are awarded nationally every year through a two-tier test: MAT (Mental Ability Test) and SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) conducted by each state/UT. Students must score 55%+ in Class 7 (50% for SC/ST) and their family income must be below ₹3.5 lakh/year. Scholarships are renewed annually subject to passing Class 9, 10, 11 examinations with 55% marks (50% for SC/ST).
Key Objectives
- Reduce dropout at Class 8→9 transition for meritorious students from poor families.
- Provide financial support to ensure economically weaker students complete school (Class 12).
- Identify and nurture academically talented students from government schools.
Benefits
Eligibility
- Class 8 students in government or government-aided schools
- Scored 55%+ in Class 7 annual exam (50% for SC/ST)
- Family income below ₹3.5 lakh per annum
- Indian citizen
- Must appear for state-level NMMS exam (MAT + SAT) in Class 8
- Students in KV, NV, Sainik Schools excluded (already receive central government support)
- Private unaided school students excluded
- Students in Kendriya Vidyalayas, Navodaya Vidyalayas, Sainik Schools
- Students in private unaided schools
- Family income above ₹3.5 lakh
How to Apply
Check state-level NMMS exam notification (typically October/November)
Register on scholarships.gov.in (NSP — National Scholarship Portal)
Appear for state NMMS exam (MAT + SAT) in Class 8 — November every year
If selected: register on NSP, fill scholarship application with Aadhaar, bank details, income certificate
School verifies application on NSP
District Education Officer approves — scholarship credited to bank account
Annual renewal: appear for school board exam with 55%+ marks (50% for SC/ST)
Required Documents
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the NMMS exam conducted and how do I register?
The NMMS exam is conducted by each state/UT separately — typically in November every year for Class 8 students. Register through your state education board's website or your school. The exam has two parts: MAT (Mental Ability Test — 90 questions) and SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test — 90 questions across Science, Social Studies, Mathematics).
What is the passing marks for the NMMS exam?
Students must score 40% overall in both MAT and SAT separately (32% for SC/ST/PwD). The cut-off for selection varies by state based on competition and availability of seats per state. Typically the cut-off is 55%–70% in competitive states.
I have NMMS scholarship. Do I need to renew it every year?
Yes — annual renewal is mandatory. Renewal conditions: (1) Must have passed the previous class examination with 55%+ marks (50% for SC/ST); (2) Apply for renewal on scholarships.gov.in (NSP) before the deadline each year; (3) School and district verify renewal application. Missing the NSP renewal deadline causes scholarship suspension — apply for restoration with documentation.