National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) 2026: Fully Funded Foreign Education for SC & ST Students
Complete guide to the National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) for SC, ST, and Landless Agriculture Labourer students. Check eligibility, funding details, and how to
The National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) is a flagship initiative by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment and the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. It aims to provide financial assistance to meritorious students from marginalized communities to pursue Master’s and Ph.D. level courses in top-ranked international universities, bridging the gap between talent and global opportunities.
What is this scheme?
The National Overseas Scholarship is a Central Sector Scheme that provides full financial support for pursuing higher studies (Masters and Ph.D.) abroad. The scheme is designed to uplift students belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC), Denotified Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Tribes, Landless Agricultural Labourers, and Traditional Artisans categories by covering tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
Who is eligible?
- The applicant must belong to Scheduled Castes (SC), Denotified Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Tribes, Landless Agricultural Labourers, or Traditional Artisans categories.
- The applicant must be below 35 years of age as of the first day of April in the selection year.
- For Master's degree: Minimum 60% marks or equivalent grade in the relevant Bachelor's degree.
- For Ph.D.: Minimum 60% marks or equivalent grade in the relevant Master's degree.
- Total 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.
- Candidates must have a valid unconditional offer letter from an overseas university ranked within the top 500 QS World University Rankings.
How much money?
The scholarship covers the full tuition fee as charged by the institution. Additionally, it provides an annual maintenance allowance (approx. USD 15,400 or GBP 9,900 as per location), contingency allowance, visa fees, medical insurance premium, and airfare (economy class) for both onward and return journeys.
Documents needed
- Caste Certificate issued by a competent authority
- Income Certificate for the current financial year
- Proof of Age (Birth Certificate/SSC Certificate)
- Mark sheets and Degrees of all qualifying examinations
- Unconditional Offer Letter from a foreign university (Top 500 QS Ranking)
- Valid Passport copy
- Aadhar Card
- Self-declaration regarding total family income and number of siblings
How to apply (step by step)
- Visit the official Nosmsje (for SC) or Ministry of Tribal Affairs (for ST) portal.
- Register as a new user by providing basic details and obtaining login credentials.
- Fill out the comprehensive application form including academic and university details.
- Upload all required scanned documents in the prescribed format and size.
- Submit the application before the closing deadline.
- Shortlisted candidates may be called for document verification or interview if applicable.
- Final selection is based on the QS Ranking of the university and academic merit.
Important dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opening Date | As per latest notification, verify on official portal |
| Application Closing Date | As per latest notification, verify on official portal |
Conclusion
The National Overseas Scholarship is a life-changing opportunity for students to gain global exposure and world-class education without the burden of educational loans. Prospective applicants should ensure their chosen university falls within the top 500 QS rankings and keep their documentation ready well before the application window opens.
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