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NMMS Class 8 Notification 2025: Eligibility, Exam Pattern & FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
What is NMMS Class 8 scholarship?
The NMMS (National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship) is a centrally-sponsored scheme aimed at meritorious students of Class 8 in government/government-aided/local-body schools, offering scholarships from Class 9 onwards.
Who is eligible for the NMMS Class 8 scheme?
Students in Class 8 of government/government-aided/local body schools, who passed Class 7 with at least 55% (50% for SC/ST) and whose family annual income does not exceed ₹3.5 lakh.
Can students from private schools apply for NMMS?
No, students studying in private schools, residential schools, central government schools like KVS/JNVs are generally *not* eligible.
What is the application process for NMMS?
Application is made through the state education authority or via the National Scholarship Portal (NSP), uploading necessary documents (income certificate, mark sheet, etc.), followed by school verification.
What is the exam pattern for NMMS?
The exam comprises two papers: Mental Ability Test (MAT) and Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT). Each paper has about 90 MCQs to be answered in 90 minutes.
Is there negative marking in the NMMS exam?
In many states there is no negative marking for NMMS exam.
What is the qualifying mark for NMMS exam?
Generally 40% in each paper for General/OBC, and 32% for SC/ST candidates.
What is the scholarship amount given under NMMS?
Selected students receive around ₹12,000 per annum (₹1,000 per month) from Class 9 to Class 12 in most states.
What is the last date to apply for NMMS Class 8?
Dates vary by state but typically the application window opens around July/August and ends around September/October of each year.
When is the NMMS exam conducted?
The exam is generally held in December or January of the academic year, though state-wise dates may vary.
What documents are required for NMMS application?
Documents typically required include: class 7 mark sheet, income certificate, school identification, caste certificate (if applicable) and bank account details.
Can final-year Class 8 students apply?
Yes — students studying in Class 8 (who passed Class 7) can apply; the scholarship accrues from Class 9 onward if selected.
Is the scholarship renewable each year?
Yes — to continue receiving, the student must pass each class with required minimum marks (often 55% general / 50% reserved) and stay in approved school type.
Are students from JNV/KVS eligible?
No — students studying in JNVs, KVS, residential schools under state governments are generally not eligible under NMMS for eligibility criteria.
Can I change my school after being selected for NMMS?
Switching to non-eligible schools (private, residential) may cause forfeiture of scholarship — students should remain in approved school category.
Does the scheme cover only one year?
No — that’s the initial selection. The scholarship continues from Class 9 up to Class 12 (i.e., 4 years) subject to yearly performance.
What is the role of state-level authorities in NMMS?
The scheme is centrally sponsored but implemented by state authorities (SCERT/DEO) who release notifications, conduct exams and publish results.
What is the mode of exam for NMMS?
Usually offline (pen & paper) mode in most states.
Can students of private schools apply if their annual income is low?
No — even if income criteria are met, being enrolled in a private school (non-government, non-aided) typically excludes eligibility.
How to prepare for the NMMS exam?
Focus on MAT topics like reasoning, classification, series; for SAT cover subjects of Classes 7–8 (Maths, Science, Social Studies) using NCERT-level material and previous years’ papers.
