National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) 2026: Funding Your Education Abroad
Complete guide to the National Overseas Scholarship for SC and ST students. Check eligibility, funding amounts, and application steps for international studies.
The National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) is a prestigious initiative by the Government of India designed to facilitate the higher education of students from marginalized communities at top international universities. By providing comprehensive financial support, the scheme aims to bridge the educational gap and empower students to pursue Master's and Ph.D. programs abroad in various fields of study.
What is this scheme?
The National Overseas Scholarship is a Central Sector Scheme administered by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment and the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. It provides financial assistance to selected candidates from Scheduled Castes (SC), Denotified Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Tribes, Landless Agricultural Labourers, and Traditional Artisans categories for pursuing higher studies (Master’s or Ph.D.) in foreign countries.
Who is eligible?
- Applicant must belong to Scheduled Castes (SC), Denotified Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Tribes, Landless Agricultural Labourers, or Traditional Artisans categories.
- Maximum age limit is 35 years as of the first day of April of the selection year.
- Minimum 60% marks or equivalent grade in the qualifying examination (Bachelor's for Master's applicants; Master's for Ph.D. applicants).
- 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 for the scholarship.
- Candidates must have a valid unconditional offer of admission from a top-ranked foreign university.
How much money?
The scholarship covers the full cost of tuition fees and provides an annual maintenance allowance (approximately USD 15,400 in the USA and GBP 9,900 in the UK, or as per latest notification). It also includes a contingency allowance, visa fees, medical insurance premiums, and airfare (economy class) for travel to and from the host country.
Documents needed
- Caste Certificate
- Income Certificate/IT Returns
- Proof of Age (Birth Certificate or Class 10th Certificate)
- Qualifying Exam Marksheets and Degree Certificates
- Unconditional Offer Letter from a foreign university
- Copy of Passport
- Aadhar Card
- Recent Passport Size Photograph
How to apply (step by step)
- Visit the official NOS online portal managed by the respective Ministry (Social Justice or Tribal Affairs).
- Register as a new user by providing basic details and creating login credentials.
- Fill out the detailed application form accurately, ensuring all academic and personal data matches your documents.
- Upload scanned copies of all required documents in the prescribed format and size.
- Submit the application and download the acknowledgment receipt for future reference.
- Monitor the portal for the selection list; shortlisted candidates may be required to undergo a verification process.
Important dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opening Date | Usually February/March (As per latest notification, verify on official portal) |
| Application Closing Date | Usually March/April (As per latest notification, verify on official portal) |
| Scholarship Cycle | Annual (As per latest notification, verify on official portal) |
Conclusion
The National Overseas Scholarship represents a transformative opportunity for students from SC and ST communities to gain global exposure and academic excellence. By removing the financial barriers to international education, the Government of India is fostering a more inclusive and high-achieving workforce. Eligible students are encouraged to prepare their documents early and keep a close eye on the official portal for the upcoming application cycle.
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