The Ministry of Education has extended the application deadline for the National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMMSS) for the academic year 2024-25 to September 30, 2024. This extension provides an opportunity for economically disadvantaged students to apply for financial assistance for their education.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the NMMSS, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Current Grade: Students must be enrolled in Class 8 after successfully passing Class 7 with at least 55% (50% for reserved categories).
- School Type: Only students studying in government, local body, or government-aided schools are eligible. Those enrolled in Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas (JNVs), Kendriya Vidyalayas (KVs), Sainik Schools, or private schools are not eligible.
- Income Limit: The annual family income should not exceed Rs 3.5 lakh.
- Continuation Criteria: For continued eligibility in higher secondary, students must score at least 60% in Class 10 board exams and secure 55% marks in Class 11 (with a 5% relaxation for SC/ST students).
Exam Pattern
The NMMSS examination consists of two parts:
- Mental Ability Test (MAT):
- Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT):
Note: Students with special abilities may receive additional time to complete the tests.
Application Fee
There is no application fee for the NMMSS; the entire process is free of charge.
Scholarship Amount
The scholarship provides financial support to selected students, with the amount varying by class and caste:
| Class | General Category | SC/ST |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | Rs 12,000 per year | Rs 50,000 per year |
| 10 | Rs 12,000 per year | Rs 57,000 per year |
Steps to Apply
- Registration: Visit the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) and complete the one-time registration (OTR) using your Aadhaar number or Aadhaar Enrolment ID (EID).
- Login: Use your credentials to log in to the NSP.
- Apply for Scholarship: Find the NMMSS scholarship scheme and fill out the online application form. Double-check all details for accuracy.
- School Verification: The application must be verified by the student’s school, which will upload the necessary documents.
- Submit Application: After verification, submit the application online before the extended deadline of September 30, 2024.
About NMMSS
Launched in 2008, the NMMSS aims to support meritorious students from economically weaker sections, helping to reduce dropout rates after Class 8 and encouraging continued education through secondary school. It is administered by the Department of School Education & Literacy under the Ministry of Human Resource Development, with scholarships awarded through state-conducted examinations.Selection for the scholarship is merit-based, and students must pass a state-level selection test comprising the MAT and SAT. The tests are conducted by each state or union territory, with a syllabus set by the NCERT.
Key Dates for NMMSS 2024-25
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| NMMSS Scholarship Application Release Date | July 2, 2024 |
| Submission of fresh/renewal applications | June 30, 2024 to September 30, 2024 |
| Release of Admit Card | October 2024 / November 2024 |
| NMMSS Scholarship 2024-25 Exam Dates | November 2024 to March 2025 |
| NMMSS Result Date | February / March / April / May 2025 |
Conclusion
The extension of the NMMSS 2024-25 scholarship application deadline provides a valuable opportunity for economically disadvantaged students to secure financial assistance for their education. By meeting the eligibility criteria and successfully completing the state-level selection test, students can benefit from the scholarship and continue their academic journey. More on how to win scholarships here
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