National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) 2026: Complete Guide for SC/ST Students
Apply for the National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) for SC, ST, and Landless Agricultural Labourers. Get full funding for Masters and PhD studies abroad.
The National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) is a prestigious initiative by the Government of India designed to provide financial assistance to meritorious students from marginalized communities. The scheme aims to improve the social and economic status of Scheduled Castes (SC), Denotified Tribes, and other specific categories by enabling them to pursue higher education (Master's and Ph.D.) in top-ranked international universities.
What is this scheme?
The National Overseas Scholarship is a central sector scheme that facilitates low-income students from marginalized backgrounds to obtain prestigious qualifications from foreign universities. It covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs. The scheme is administered by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment and the Ministry of Tribal Affairs for their respective jurisdictions.
Who is eligible?
- 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 April 1st of the application year.
- Minimum 60% marks or equivalent grade in the qualifying degree (Undergraduate for Master's, Master's for Ph.D.).
- 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.
- Candidate must have an unconditional offer of admission from a university ranked in the top 500 as per latest QS World University Rankings.
How much money?
The scholarship provides full tuition fee coverage. Maintenance allowance is approximately USD 15,400 or GBP 9,900 per annum as per the location. It also includes contingency allowance, visa fees, medical insurance, and airfare.
Documents needed
- Caste Certificate
- Income Certificate for the current financial year
- Proof of Age (Birth Certificate or Class 10th Certificate)
- Qualifying Degree Marksheets and Certificates
- Unconditional Offer Letter from a foreign university
- Copy of Passport
- Self-Declaration regarding total number of siblings and previous scholarships
How to apply (step by step)
- Visit the official NOS portal managed by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
- Register as a new user by providing basic details and a valid email ID.
- Fill out the comprehensive application form, selecting the appropriate category and course details.
- Upload scanned copies of all required documents in the specified format.
- Submit the application and download the acknowledgment receipt.
- Track application status; if shortlisted, follow instructions for verification and signing the bond.
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 |
| Selection List Announcement | Typically mid-year, verify on 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 financial debt. Eligible candidates are encouraged to maintain high academic standards and secure admission in top-tier universities early to streamline their application process.
Comments (0)
Sign up to join the conversation.