Latest update:The National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) Scheme is currently accepting applications for the second round of Selection Year 2025-26. The application portal will remain open from 00:00 hours on 15th September 2025 until 23:59 hours on 14th October 2025.
The National Overseas Scholarship is a government-funded program designed to support SC, ST, and other marginalized students in pursuing higher education abroad. It provides financial assistance for tuition, living expenses, travel, and other academic costs. The scheme aims to empower disadvantaged students, enabling them to gain international exposure and advanced skills that contribute to national development.
In this guide, you'll read more about the National Overseas Scholarship Scheme by the Indian Government, the eligibility criteria for SC/ST students, the fields of study covered, and the benefits and application process. We’ll also cover the selection process, important dates, common reasons for rejection, and practical tips to strengthen your application. Finally, we’ll answer the most frequently asked questions about the scholarship to help you plan your overseas education effectively.
What is the National Overseas Scholarship Scheme by the Indian Government?
The National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) Scheme is a government initiative aimed at supporting students from disadvantaged communities, especially Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST), to pursue higher education abroad. The scheme is administered by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment and is designed to provide financial assistance for studying at globally recognized universities.
The primary goal of the scholarship is to empower marginalized students by giving them access to advanced academic programs overseas. This not only helps students gain international exposure but also enables them to bring back knowledge and skills that contribute to national development.
Key Features of the National Overseas Scholarship Scheme:
Feature
Details
Administered By
Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
Eligible Students
SC, ST, and other specified communities
Courses
Master’s, PhD, Postdoctoral
Financial Support
Tuition, living expenses, contingency allowance, travel, visa, insurance
Objective
Promote global education for marginalized students
Why the National Overseas Scholarship is Important
The scholarship addresses the financial barriers that often prevent SC and ST students from studying abroad. Many high-quality international programs are expensive, and without support, these opportunities remain inaccessible. With the NOS Scheme:
Students can afford top-ranked universities worldwide.
They gain exposure to global research and teaching methods.
They can build skills that are valuable for India’s development, especially in critical sectors like science, technology, management, and social research.
Categories Covered Under the National Overseas Scholarship Scheme
The National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) Scheme is designed to help students from communities that face social and economic disadvantages. It ensures that SC (Scheduled Caste) and ST (Scheduled Tribe) students, along with other eligible groups, get a fair chance to pursue higher education abroad. Understanding the categories covered under this scheme is essential before applying, as eligibility depends on the applicant’s community and background.
Main Categories of Beneficiaries
The scholarship primarily covers the following groups:
Scheduled Caste (SC) Students These are students who belong to communities listed under the Scheduled Castes in India. They can apply for Master’s, PhD, and postdoctoral programs abroad if they meet the other eligibility criteria.
Scheduled Tribe (ST) Students Students from tribal communities recognized as Scheduled Tribes are eligible. This category also includes applicants from denotified, nomadic, and semi-nomadic tribes.
Other Eligible Communities In some cases, the scheme extends to students from families of landless agricultural labourers or traditional artisans, ensuring wider inclusion of marginalized groups.
Eligibility Criteria for National Overseas Scholarship for SC/ST Students
The National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) Scheme is specifically designed to support students from the Scheduled Castes (SC) and the Scheduled Tribes (ST) in pursuing higher education abroad. To ensure fairness and proper allocation of funds, the government has defined clear eligibility criteria. Understanding these requirements is crucial before starting your application.
1. Educational Qualification
Applicants must have completed a graduate or postgraduate degree from a recognized university.
Minimum required marks are usually 60% or equivalent in the qualifying degree.
Eligible programs abroad include Master’s, PhD, and Postdoctoral studies in various fields.
2. Age Limit
The maximum age for applicants is 35 years at the time of applying.
This ensures that students pursuing the scholarship are at a stage where overseas education will meaningfully contribute to their career development.
3. Income Criteria
The annual family income of the applicant should not exceed ₹8,00,000.
This ensures the scholarship targets students who genuinely need financial support.
4. Other Eligibility Conditions
Applicants must belong to the SC or ST categories as per government records.
A first-time beneficiary rule applies, meaning students who have already received similar government scholarships for overseas study are not eligible.
A valid admission offer from a recognized foreign university is required.
Only full-time programs abroad are considered.
5. Document Requirements for Eligibility Verification
Fields of Study Covered Under the National Overseas Scholarship Scheme
The National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) Scheme supports SC and ST students pursuing higher education abroad across a wide range of disciplines. The scheme aims to provide opportunities in fields that can contribute to national development and prepare students for global careers. Understanding which fields of study are eligible is crucial before applying.
Eligible Fields of Study
The scholarship primarily covers:
Engineering and Technology: Programs in mechanical, civil, computer, and electrical engineering, as well as emerging technologies.
Management and Business Studies: Master’s or PhD programs in business administration, finance, marketing, and operations.
Pure and Applied Sciences: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Biology, and interdisciplinary scientific research.
Agricultural Sciences and Forestry: Studies related to crop science, agronomy, forestry, and rural development.
Humanities and Social Sciences: Programs in sociology, economics, political science, psychology, and related fields.
Law, Medicine, and International Commerce: Legal studies, medical sciences, and international trade and commerce programs.
Benefits of the National Overseas Scholarship Scheme for SC/ST Students
The National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) Scheme provides comprehensive support to SC and ST students pursuing higher education abroad. Its primary goal is to remove financial barriers so students can focus on learning and research. The benefits are structured to cover most major expenses related to international study.
1. Financial Support and Coverage
The scholarship provides funding for essential academic and living expenses:
Benefit Component
Coverage Details
Tuition Fees
Full course fees
Living Expenses
Monthly allowance based on the country
Airfare
One round-trip from India
Contingency Allowance
Books, materials, and research
Visa & Insurance
Applicable for the study duration
2. Duration of Support:
Master’s Programs: Up to 2 years.
PhD Programs: Up to 3 years.
Postdoctoral Programs: Duration as per program requirements.
3. Additional Allowances
Family Support (if applicable): Some provisions may cover limited support for dependents accompanying the student.
Thesis or Research Grant: PhD students can receive additional funds for completing their dissertation or specialized research projects.
How to Apply for the National Overseas Scholarship Scheme
Applying for the National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) Scheme is a straightforward process, but it requires careful attention to detail. SC and ST students need to meet all eligibility criteria and submit accurate documents to increase their chances of selection. Understanding the application process step by step can make it easier for first-time applicants.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Visit the Official NOS Portal
Access the government portal dedicated to the National Overseas Scholarship Scheme.
Create a new account using your Aadhaar number and basic personal information.
Fill in Academic and Personal Details
Enter details of your educational qualifications, marks, and courses you wish to pursue abroad.
Provide family income details to verify eligibility.
Upload Required Documents
Upload scanned copies of all required documents, including:
Double-check all information and uploaded documents.
Apply before the deadline and download the acknowledgment receipt for reference.
Selection Process for the National Overseas Scholarship Scheme
The National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) Scheme follows a structured selection process to ensure that the most deserving SC and ST students receive support for higher education abroad. Understanding how candidates are evaluated can help applicants prepare better and meet all requirements.
1. Evaluation and Shortlisting
The selection process typically involves multiple steps:
Initial Screening
Applications are first checked for eligibility based on age, family income, educational qualifications, and category.
Incomplete or incorrect applications are rejected at this stage.
Academic Assessment
Shortlisted applications are evaluated on academic performance, including marks and grades in previous degrees.
The relevance of the chosen course and university is also considered.
Verification of Documents
All supporting documents, including caste certificates, income proof, and admission letters, are thoroughly verified.
2. Final Selection and Notification
Once the initial screening and document verification are complete, the final stage of the National Overseas Scholarship selection process begins. This phase involves ranking shortlisted candidates, approval from the official committee, and publishing the final list of awardees.
Merit List Preparation
Candidates who pass the initial evaluation are ranked based on academic merit, category, and alignment with the scheme’s objectives.
Approval by Selection Committee
The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment or an appointed committee approves the final list of scholarship recipients.
Official Notification
Selected students receive an award letter and instructions for fund disbursement.
The list is also published on the official NOS portal for transparency.
Important Dates for the National Overseas Scholarship Scheme
For SC and ST students planning to apply for the National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) Scheme, keeping track of important dates is crucial. Meeting deadlines ensures that your application is considered and avoids last-minute complications.
Timeline for National Overseas Scholarship Scheme 2025–26:
Stage
Date
Application Portal Opens (First Round)
15th September 2025
Application Submission Deadline (First Round)
31st October 2025
Application Portal Opens (Second Round, if slots remain)
1st February 2026
Application Submission Deadline (Second Round)
15th March 2026
Document Verification
After submission, dates will be notified individually
Result Announcement
August – September 2026 (tentative)
Fund Disbursement
October – November 2026 (tentative)
Renewal and Continuation of the National Overseas Scholarship
The National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) Scheme provides financial support for the entire duration of a student’s approved program. However, continuation of the scholarship depends on certain renewal conditions. Understanding these rules ensures that students can receive support for the full course period without interruption.
Annual Renewal Process:
The scholarship is renewed every year based on academic progress.
Students must submit progress reports or grade sheets to the Ministry or the scholarship authority.
Renewal requests are considered only if the student has satisfactorily completed the previous year of study.
Documents Required for Renewal:
Document
Purpose
Academic Progress Report / Transcript
To verify satisfactory performance
Enrollment Proof for the Next Year
Confirms continued registration
Attendance or Research Progress Certificate
Required for PhD students or research programs
Conditions for Continuation:
The student must maintain full-time enrollment in the approved program.
Any change in university or course must be reported and approved.
Renewal is subject to the availability of funds under the NOS Scheme.
Why Renewal Matters:
Ensures uninterrupted financial support for tuition, living expenses, and travel.
Helps students plan their studies without worrying about funding gaps.
Maintains accountability and ensures students are actively pursuing their programs.
Common Reasons for Rejection of National Overseas Scholarship Applications
While the National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) Scheme offers excellent support for SC and ST students, not all applications are successful. Understanding the common reasons for rejection can help applicants avoid mistakes and improve their chances of selection.
1. Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation
Missing caste or income certificates.
Incorrect or unclear academic transcripts.
Incomplete admission offer letters from foreign universities.
Improperly scanned or unreadable documents.
2. Failure to Meet Eligibility Criteria
Exceeding the age limit of 35 years.
Annual family income exceeding ₹8,00,000.
Not belonging to an eligible category (SC, ST, or other recognized marginalized groups).
Applying without a valid admission offer from a recognized university abroad.
3. Late or Delayed Submission
Submitting applications after the deadline automatically leads to disqualification.
Not uploading documents or completing steps within the portal timeline.
4. Academic and Course-Related Issues
Applying for part-time or non-recognized programs.
Selecting a course or university outside the approved fields of study.
Poor academic performance that doesn’t meet the minimum required marks.
5. Other Common Reasons
Submitting duplicate applications.
Providing false or misleading information in the application.
Missing mandatory statements like Statement of Purpose (SOP) or research proposals.
Comparison: National Overseas Scholarship vs Other Government Scholarships
The National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) Scheme is one of several government programs supporting higher education, but it has specific features that set it apart. Understanding how it compares to other scholarships can help SC and ST students make informed decisions.
Key Differences:
Feature
National Overseas Scholarship (NOS)
Other Government Scholarships
Target Group
SC/ST and other marginalized communities
Various categories, including general merit, minority groups, and specific sectors
Purpose
To support higher education abroad
Domestic and international education, research, or skill development
Coverage
Tuition, living expenses, travel, contingency allowance, visa, insurance
Varies: may cover tuition only, partial living costs, or specific allowances
Eligible Programs
Master’s, PhD, Postdoctoral
Undergraduate, postgraduate, or skill-based programs
Selection Criteria
Academic performance, eligibility, financial need, and admission to recognized universities abroad
Merit-based, income-based, or a combination, depending on the scheme
Renewal
Annual renewal based on academic progress
Depends on the scheme, may be for a fixed duration or conditional
Tips to Strengthen Your National Overseas Scholarship Application
Applying for the National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) Scheme is competitive. SC and ST students need to submit a complete, accurate, and compelling application to maximize their chances of selection. Following the practical tips can help you create a strong application.
1. Meet All Eligibility Criteria
Ensure your age, income, academic qualifications, and category meet the NOS requirements.
Verify that you have a valid admission offer from a recognized foreign university.
2. Prepare Accurate Documents
Scan all documents clearly, including:
Caste certificate (SC/ST)
Income certificate
Academic transcripts and degree certificates
Admission offer letter
Passport copy
Avoid missing or incorrect documents, as these are the most common reasons for rejection.
3. Write a Strong Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Clearly explain your academic goals and career objectives.
Highlight how your overseas education will contribute to India’s development.
Keep it concise, structured, and free of errors.
4. Highlight Academic Achievements
Include awards, scholarships, research projects, or publications.
Focus on achievements relevant to your chosen field of study.
5. Apply Early
Submit your application well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Early submission also allows time for corrections or additional document uploads if required.
6. Follow Guidelines Carefully
Read the official NOS instructions thoroughly.
Pay attention to file sizes, formats, and mandatory fields on the portal.
Ensure all steps are completed to avoid automatic disqualification.
7. Seek Guidance if Needed
Reach out to academic mentors or previous scholarship recipients for advice.
Clarify doubts through the official NOS portal or helpline.
Conclusion
The National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) Scheme is a transformative opportunity for SC and ST students aiming to pursue higher education abroad. By providing comprehensive financial support for tuition, living expenses, travel, and contingencies, the scheme enables students to focus on their studies and research without financial stress.
Applying successfully requires a clear understanding of eligibility criteria, required documents, application timelines, and the selection process. Proper preparation, a strong Statement of Purpose, and adherence to guidelines significantly increase the chances of selection.
For students committed to academic excellence and global exposure, the NOS Scheme can be a gateway to world-class education while empowering them to contribute to India’s development. By staying informed and following the application process carefully, SC and ST students can leverage this scholarship to achieve their educational and professional goals.
If you are still unsure about your options, you can book a free counseling session with upGrad and seek professional guidance! We’d be happy to help you figure this out.
Can I apply for the National Overseas Scholarship without IELTS/TOEFL?
No, most universities abroad require IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent English proficiency test scores. While NOS does not mandate these directly, you need them to secure admission in foreign universities.
Is the National Overseas Scholarship available for undergraduate programs?
No, the scholarship only supports Master’s, PhD, and Post-doctoral programs. Undergraduate and diploma courses are not covered.
Can I apply if I am already studying abroad?
Yes, but only if you meet the eligibility criteria and your course aligns with the approved list. However, preference is usually given to fresh applicants.
What happens if my family income increases after selection?
Eligibility is determined at the time of application. Later changes in family income will not affect your ongoing scholarship.
Does the NOS scholarship cover dependents or family expenses?
No, the scholarship only covers the student’s tuition, living allowance, travel, and academic needs. Family members’ expenses are not included.
Can I change my university or country after selection?
Yes, but only with prior approval from the Ministry. The new university and course must still fall under the eligible list.
Is there a bond or service requirement after completing studies?
Yes, scholars must return to India after completing their course and contribute professionally for a specified duration, as per government guidelines.
Does the scholarship cover short-term training or exchange programs?
No, NOS is strictly for full-time regular degree programs like Master’s, PhD, or Post-docs. Short courses, diplomas, or exchange semesters are not funded.
Can I apply if I already hold another international scholarship?
No, dual funding is not allowed. If you are already receiving any other government or private scholarship abroad, you cannot apply for NOS.
Are distance learning or online courses supported under NOS?
No, only full-time on-campus degree programs in recognized foreign universities are eligible.
What happens if a student fails or drops out of the course?
In such cases, the scholarship is immediately terminated, and the student may even be asked to refund the expenses depending on the rules.
Can I apply again if I was rejected in the previous year?
Yes, students can reapply in the next cycle, provided they still meet the age and eligibility criteria. Improving your SOP, documents, or university admission can strengthen re-application.
upGrad abroad Editorial Team |2867 articles published
We are a dedicated team of study-abroad experts, ensuring intensive research and comprehensive information in each of our blogs. With every piece written, we aim at simplifying the overseas education ...
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