National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) offers financial support to students from marginalised communities pursuing Master’s/Ph.D. degrees abroad at prestigious QS-ranked universities. Unlock global opportunities and achieve your academic dreams!
National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) 2025 is a Central Sector Scheme designed to empower students from marginalised communities, including Scheduled Castes (SC), Denotified Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Tribes, Landless Agricultural Labourers, and Traditional Artisans. The scheme aims to provide financial assistance for pursuing Master's and Ph.D. courses abroad, exclusively at top-ranked universities and institutions listed in the QS World University Rankings. It seeks to uplift low-income families' economic and social status by enabling access to world-class education. Each year, 125 scholarships are awarded, with category-wise and state-specific allocations to ensure equitable distribution. Additionally, the scheme earmarks 30% of the slots for women, demonstrating its commitment to promoting gender equity.
To qualify, applicants must meet stringent eligibility criteria, including academic excellence, age limits (not exceeding 35 years), and a family income ceiling of INR 8.00 lakh per annum. Preference is given to those with unconditional offers from top-ranking universities, ensuring merit-based selection. The scheme excludes Bachelor's programs and prioritises candidates with a proven financial need. With a focus on transparency and efficiency, applications are processed annually through a dedicated online portal in two selection cycles. By fostering global academic exposure, the National Overseas Scholarship empowers individuals to break socio-economic barriers and contribute significantly to national development.
This table covers the key deadlines and timelines for applications and processes under the National Overseas Scholarship scheme.
Event | Date |
---|---|
First Round Application Portal Opens | Mid-February (45 days) (Tentative) |
Second Round Application Portal Opens | September to October (Tentative) |
Selection Year | April to March (Tentative) |
Family Income Consideration for First Round | Last completed financial year (e.g., FY 2022-23 for 2025-26 selections) |
Grievance Filing Period | 30 calendar days from the result publication |
Deadline for Joining University Abroad | Within 1 year or 2 intake deferrals |
Document Verification Completion | Within 6 months of Confirmation of Award Letter |
Here’s a small overview of the National Overseas Scholarship 2025.
Aspect | Details |
---|---|
Objective | Facilitate higher education abroad (Master's or Ph.D.) for low-income SC, Denotified Tribes, Landless Agricultural Labourers, and Traditional Artisans. |
Scope | Financial assistance for Master's/Ph.D. courses in accredited institutions abroad. |
Total Slots | 125 slots annually, capped at 10% per state. Unused slots are redistributed. |
Category-wise Slots |
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Women Quota | 30% of slots reserved; unutilised slots go to male candidates. |
Eligibility |
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Family Definition | Includes candidates, parents, siblings less than 18 years, spouses, and children less than 18 years. For married women, in-laws' income is considered. |
Maximum Children per Family | A maximum of 2 children from the same family can receive the scholarship. |
Disqualifications | Already studied abroad, received similar scholarships, or pursued the same level of education. |
University Eligibility | Admission to top 500 QS-ranked institutions (2025). QS ranking of specific campuses applies. |
Selection Criteria | Based on QS rankings of institutions, marks in qualifying exams, and availability of slots. |
Selection Rounds | Two rounds annually. Candidates ranked higher by QS institution rankings. |
Bond Requirements | Non-judicial bond with two sureties covering costs incurred by the government. |
Spouse/Children Abroad | The candidate is responsible for assessing financial and visa requirements for the family. |
Income Verification | Submit ITRs and an income certificate from a Revenue Officer (Tehsildar or above). |
Documents Required | Aadhaar card, mark sheets for all semesters, CGPA conversion formula (if applicable). |
Administrative Matters | Candidate to manage leave, salary, and other employment matters independently. |
Undertakings |
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Visa Requirements | Specific visa conditions apply (e.g., J-1 for the USA). No F-1 visa support. |
Also Read: MI Scholarship
The National Overseas Scholarship aims to provide financial assistance to students from marginalised communities to pursue higher education abroad. Below is the step-by-step application procedure for the scholarship:
Advertisement and Portal Access
Selection Year Timeline
Family Income Consideration
Application Completeness
Only complete online applications are considered. Incomplete applications will be rejected, but candidates can reapply in subsequent rounds.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit documents as per Annexure I of the guidelines.
Grievances
Grievances related to results can be raised within 30 calendar days of result publication on the portal.
The selection procedure for the National Overseas Scholarship 2025 ensures a fair and merit-based process for identifying eligible candidates. Below is a detailed step-by-step outline of the selection process:
Eligibility Requirements
No Change of Institution/University
Requests for change in institution or university will not be entertained. Candidates must reapply in subsequent rounds if changes are required.
Selection Rounds
Two rounds of selection will be conducted.
Selection Committee
Applications of eligible candidates will be reviewed by the Selection-cum-Screening Committee, which will recommend selections and rankings.
Waitlist Management
A waitlist, valid until 31st March of the election year, will include up to 50% of the seats. Candidates on the waitlist can reapply the following year.
Award of Provisional Scholarship
Candidates with admission secured in a foreign institution will be issued a provisional award letter.
Joining Deadline
Students must join their university/institute abroad within one year or two intake deferrals, whichever is earlier. Failure to do so will result in the cancellation of the award.
Document Submission Timeline
Upon receiving the Confirmation of Award Letter, candidates must complete formalities (verification of documents, submission of bonds, solvency certificates, etc.) within 6 months or risk cancellation.
Also Read: Atul Maheshwari Scholarship
The National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) is a flagship initiative by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India. It is designed to provide financial assistance to students from marginalised communities, including Scheduled Castes (SC), Denotified Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Tribes (DNTs), and other identified groups. This scholarship aims to enable deserving candidates to pursue postgraduate studies, including MBA programs, at prestigious institutions abroad. The scheme covers tuition fees, living expenses, and other associated costs, ensuring equitable access to global education opportunities.
Criteria | Details |
---|---|
Target Communities | Scheduled Caste (SC), DNTs, Landless Agricultural Laborers, and Traditional Artisans. |
Educational Qualification | A minimum of 60% marks or an equivalent grade in qualifying exams for the MBA program. |
Age Limit | Applicants must be below 35 years of age as of April 1, 2025 |
Family Income Limit | Annual family income must not exceed INR 8,00,000. |
Course Level | Master's degree (MBA programs) from recognised foreign universities. |
Coverage | Tuition fees, living expenses, visa fees, medical insurance, and airfare. |
Also Read: UPESMET MBA Scholarship
The mandatory conditions for the National Overseas Scholarship outline the essential eligibility, procedural, and administrative requirements that candidates must fulfill to qualify for and maintain their scholarship.
Condition | Details |
---|---|
Submission of Aadhaar Card | Candidates must submit their Aadhaar Card on the NOS portal and secure admission in programs listed in the top 500 QS-ranked institutions/universities. |
Eligibility for Course Level | Candidates cannot apply for a scholarship to pursue the same level (master's/Ph.D.) of a course already completed in India or abroad. |
Exclusion of Indian Culture Topics | Topics related to Indian Culture, Heritage, History, or India-based research are excluded. The final decision lies with the Selection Committee. |
No Objection Certificate (NOC) | Employed candidates must submit an NOC from their employer to the Ministry. |
Service Obligation for Government Employees | Government servants must serve the government upon return to India if still employed in the government sector. |
Administrative Matters | Administrative issues like study leave and salary are to be resolved between the candidate and their employer; the Ministry is not responsible. |
Visa Requirements | Candidates must secure a visa appropriate for their studies. For the USA, only J-1 visas are allowed under this scheme. |
Scholarship Conditions | Candidates must not receive any other scholarship from the Government of India, the State Government, or foreign organisations. Scholarships from the admitting university/college must be reported to the Ministry and will be deducted from the NOS scholarship amount. |
Online Classes in Special Circumstances | In the case of unavoidable situations like COVID-19, candidates must join online classes after completing all procedural formalities under the scheme guidelines. |
Execution of Bond | Selected candidates must execute a bond on non-judicial stamp paper with two sureties. The bond ensures repayment of expenses if the candidate is declared a defaulter. |
Power of Attorney (POA) | Candidates unable to return to India to execute bonds may delegate a POA to a representative in India. The POA must be attested by the Indian Embassy/High Commission. |
Submission of Documents | Candidates must submit all required documents and agreements before departure. |
Family Accompaniment | Married candidates taking their family abroad must bear all expenses and arrange passports and visas independently, as no support is provided under the scheme. |
Refund of Overpayments | Overpayments must be refunded to the Government of India, and employers may deduct such amounts from dues. |
Completion of Required Formalities | Candidates who complete their education abroad without completing the required formalities under NOS will not receive scholarships. |
Decision on Unforeseeable Issues | The Ministry reserves the right to decide on unforeseeable issues, and its decisions are final and binding. |
Change of Study Course or University | Candidates cannot change their course or university. However, under exceptional circumstances (e.g., supervisor unavailability or discontinued support), changes may be allowed with conditions and approval. |
Emergency at Home | Candidates may return to India for emergencies at their own expense and must resume their studies abroad promptly. Maintenance allowance is suspended during their absence. |
Return to India | Candidates must return to India within 30 days of course completion and stay in India for at least one year to look for opportunities to serve in various government departments. |
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The National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) 2025 provides financial assistance to students belonging to Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), Other Backward Classes (OBCs), and Economically Backward Classes (EBCs) in India to pursue higher education abroad. Below are the detailed guidelines for the administration and utilisation of the NOS scheme.
Payments to Students: Indian Missions are responsible for making payments related to tuition fees, maintenance allowances, and other allowances as per the sanction orders and existing arrangements.
Defaulter Clause: If an awardee fails to complete the course successfully, they will be declared a defaulter and will be required to refund the entire amount spent on their education, along with interest as stipulated in Clause 16. However, the ministry may exempt the defaulter clause if the student’s dedication to studies is certified by their guide or department head.
Overstay Penalty: If the awardee overstays abroad for more than one month after completing the course, they will not be entitled to reimbursement for return travel booked by the Mission. The overstay without a valid reason will result in the forfeiture of the return passage at government expense.
Monitoring Student Progress: Indian Missions are required to monitor the student's progress and keep the Ministry informed about the student’s return to India.
Progress Reports: Indian Missions are required to obtain biannual progress reports from the respective universities or institutions where the awardee is studying. If adverse developments are observed, these must be reported to the Ministry for a decision regarding the continuation of the award.
Maintenance Allowance: Maintenance allowances are paid based on satisfactory progress reports. For the first semester, the allowance is paid in two installments, and subsequently, quarterly payments are made after receiving progress reports.
Record Keeping: The Missions and Ministry must maintain records regarding the selection process, sanction orders, fund releases, and student progress on the NOS Portal.
The following types of financial assistance are provided to the awardees:
Assistance Type | USA and Other Countries | UK |
---|---|---|
Annual Maintenance Allowance | 15,400 US Dollars | 9,900 GBP |
Annual Contingency Allowance | 1,500 US Dollars | 1,100 GBP |
Visa Fees | Actual as charged in INR | Actual as charged in INR |
Medical Insurance Premium | Actual as charged | Actual as charged |
Incidental & Equipment Allowance | 20 US Dollars | 20 GBP |
Tuition Fees | Actual as charged | Actual as charged |
Contingency Allowance: This is allowed for books, essential apparatus, travel for conferences/workshops, and university fees related to studies such as registration, examination, library fees, etc.
Rail and Bus Fare: Second-class railway fare or equivalent for travel to the place of study will be reimbursed. If the location is inaccessible by rail, bus, or ferry fares are reimbursed accordingly.
Research/Teaching Assistantship: Awardees may supplement their financial assistance by taking up research/teaching assistantship positions.
Ph.D. Courses: The scholarship duration is up to 4 years.
Master’s Degree: The scholarship duration is up to 3 years.
Extension Beyond Duration: If the student requires more time to complete their course beyond the prescribed period, the extension may be considered without financial support except for the return air passage to India, subject to recommendations from the educational institution and the Indian Mission abroad. The final decision rests with the Government of India.
The scope of the NOS scheme is limited to providing financial support to the selected candidates for pursuing higher education in specified subjects abroad.
Defaulter Clause: If a student violates the terms and conditions of the scheme, such as leaving the course or switching universities without proper intimation, they will be declared a defaulter. They will be required to refund the entire amount spent on them, along with interest at the rate of 12% per annum. Penal interest of an additional 2.5% will be charged for delayed payments.
Recovery of Amount: If the awardee fails to repay the amount within six months, their sureties will be liable for repayment. If the sureties fail, the District Collector will recover the amount as arrears of land revenue.
If any candidate is found to have provided false information or documents, they will be debarred from the award. If the award has already been granted, the amount spent will be recovered with 15% compound interest. The candidate will also be blacklisted for future scholarships, and employed candidates may face departmental action.
Jurisdiction in India: Any litigation arising within India will fall under the jurisdiction of courts located in the Union Territory of Delhi.
Jurisdiction Abroad: Litigation related to the scheme outside India will be handled by the respective Indian missions abroad.
A maximum of 1% of the total NOS budget will be allocated for administrative expenses, including the creation of databases, publicity, NOS portal maintenance, manpower hiring, and other operational activities. Indian Missions may employ full-time or part-time personnel for managing NOS-related tasks with prior approval from the Ministry.
Awardees under the NOS scheme are not eligible to receive any other similar scholarship from the Central or State Governments during the scholarship.
Under special circumstances, modifications or relaxations in the guidelines of the NOS scheme, except for financial norms, may be considered by the Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment. Any changes to financial parameters will require consultation with the Department of Expenditure.
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Let’s have a look at the benefits of the National Overseas Scholarship 2025.
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Yes, awardees can supplement their income through Research/Teaching Assistantships at their respective educational institutions under the National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) 2025. This allows students to gain professional experience while covering some of their living expenses. However, they cannot work outside the academic institution beyond the approved assistantship roles.
The maintenance allowance is disbursed annually under National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) 2025 based on the country of study. For example, USD 15,400 or GBP 9,900. The payments are made in instalments. For the first semester, an advance is provided in two parts, with subsequent payments based on progress reports from the student.
NOS offers financial coverage for tuition fees, annual maintenance, contingency allowances, and airfare. It also includes medical insurance premiums, travel costs, and the opportunity to earn through research/teaching assistantships. Awardees are supported by bi-annual progress reports and financial assistance for the duration of their course.
To be eligible for NOS, applicants must belong to SC, ST, or OBC categories and have secured admission in a recognised university abroad for a Master's or Ph.D. course. The family income should meet specific limits, and the applicant must have completed their undergraduate studies.
The National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) 2025 is a government initiative that provides financial assistance to Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs) to pursue higher education abroad. It covers tuition fees, living expenses, travel, medical insurance, and contingency allowances to ensure students can study without financial burdens.