National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMMSS)

The National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMMSS) is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme launched by the Department of School Education and Literacy, Ministry of Education. It aims to provide financial assistance to meritorious students from economically weaker sections to prevent them from dropping out after class 8 and encourage them to continue their secondary education. Each year, 100,000 fresh scholarships are awarded to selected students in class 9, which can be renewed through classes 10 to 12. The selection process involves a state-level competitive exam consisting of the Mental Ability Test (MAT) and the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT). Funds are disbursed directly into the bank accounts of students through the National Scholarship Portal via Electronic Transfer (DBT).