National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) 2024-2026: Full Details for SC, ST, and Landless Agriculture Students

The National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) is a flagship initiative by the Government of India aimed at providing financial assistance to students belonging to marginalized communities. By supporting higher education in international universities, the scheme strives to improve the socio-economic status of Scheduled Castes (SC), Denotified Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Tribes, Landless Agricultural Labourers, and Traditional Artisans.

What is this scheme?

The National Overseas Scholarship is a central sector scheme that provides financial assistance to selected candidates for pursuing Master's level courses or Ph.D. degrees in accredited foreign universities. The scheme is administered by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment and the Ministry of Tribal Affairs (for ST students). It aims to bridge the gap in access to global education for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Who is eligible?

• The applicant must belong to Scheduled Castes (SC), Denotified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Tribes, Landless Agricultural Labourers, or Traditional Artisans.
• Maximum age limit is 35 years as of the first day of April in the selection year.
• For Master's programs: Minimum 60% marks or equivalent grade in the relevant Bachelor's degree.
• For Ph.D. programs: Minimum 60% marks or equivalent grade in the relevant Master's degree.
• Family income from all sources must not exceed INR 8,00,000 per annum.
• Not more than two children of the same parents/guardians are eligible for the scholarship.
• Candidates must have a valid unconditional offer of admission from a top-ranked foreign university (as per QS rankings).

How much money?

The scholarship covers the full cost of tuition fees. Additionally, students receive an annual maintenance allowance (approx. USD 15,400 or GBP 9,900 depending on location), contingency allowance, equipment allowance, poll tax, medical insurance premium, and airfare. As per latest notification, verify exact figures on official portal.

Documents needed

1. Caste Certificate issued by a competent authority.
2. Proof of Age (Birth Certificate or 10th Standard Marksheet).
3. Income Certificate for the current financial year.
4. Academic transcripts and degree certificates (all levels).
5. Unconditional Offer Letter from a foreign university.
6. Copy of valid Passport.
7. Aadhar Card.
8. Self-declaration regarding total number of siblings.

How to apply (step by step)

1. Visit the official NOS portal managed by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
2. Register as a new user by providing basic details and creating a login ID.
3. Log in and fill out the detailed application form with personal, academic, and university details.
4. Upload scanned copies of all required documents in the specified format.
5. Submit the application before the deadline.
6. If shortlisted, attend the verification process or interview if applicable.
7. Upon final selection, receive the Provisional Award Letter and proceed with visa and travel formalities.

Important dates

Conclusion

The National Overseas Scholarship is a life-changing opportunity for students from marginalized communities to gain global exposure and world-class education. By removing the financial barrier to international studies, the Government of India is empowering a new generation of scholars. Interested candidates should keep their documents ready and monitor the official portal for the next application cycle.