The National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship (NMMS) is a flagship initiative launched by the Ministry of Education, Government of India, aimed at reducing the dropout rate among economically disadvantaged students after Class 8 and encouraging them to continue their education through secondary and higher secondary levels.
Launched in 2008, the NMMS scheme provides financial support to meritorious students from economically weaker sections of society, enabling them to pursue quality education without financial constraints. Each year, one lakh scholarships are awarded to deserving students across India.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
To be eligible for the NMMS, students must:
- Be studying in Class 8 in a government, government-aided, or local body school.
- Have scored at least 55% marks in Class 7 (relaxable by 5% for SC/ST students).
- Have a parental annual income of less than ₹3.5 lakh from all sources.
- The student must take admission in Class 9 after clearing the NMMS exam and continue their studies in Class 10 to 12 in recognized schools.
SCHOLARSHIP AMOUNT AND DURATION
Selected students receive a scholarship of ₹12,000 per annum (₹1,000 per month) from Class 9 up to Class 12. The amount is directly transferred to the student’s bank account through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mode, ensuring transparency and timely disbursal.
SELECTION PROCESS
Candidates are selected based on their performance in the NMMS examination conducted by respective State or Union Territory education departments. The exam typically consists of two papers:
- Mental Ability Test (MAT)
- Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT)
Students must secure the minimum qualifying marks in both tests to be considered for the scholarship.
IMPACT OF THE NMMS SCHEME
The NMMS scheme has significantly contributed to reducing dropouts at the secondary level and promoting equity in education by supporting talented students from underprivileged backgrounds. It acts as a stepping stone for many young learners, motivating them to excel academically and aim for higher goals.
In conclusion, the National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship is not just a financial aid programme—it is a powerful tool for social upliftment and educational empowerment, ensuring that no bright student is left behind due to economic hardship.
MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS WITH KEY
| MCQ | CLICK HERE |
RESOURCE HANDBOOKS
| Handbook 1 | CLICK HERE |
| Handbook 2 | CLICK HERE |
