National Overseas Scholarship

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!

About National Overseas Scholarship 2025

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.

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National Overseas Scholarship Dates 2025

This table covers the key deadlines and timelines for applications and processes under the National Overseas Scholarship scheme.

EventDate
First Round Application Portal OpensMid-February (45 days) (Tentative)
Second Round Application Portal OpensSeptember to October (Tentative)
Selection YearApril to March (Tentative)
Family Income Consideration for First RoundLast completed financial year (e.g., FY 2022-23 for 2025-26 selections)
Grievance Filing Period30 calendar days from the result publication
Deadline for Joining University AbroadWithin 1 year or 2 intake deferrals
Document Verification CompletionWithin 6 months of Confirmation of Award Letter
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National Overseas Scholarship 2025 Overview

Here’s a small overview of the National Overseas Scholarship 2025.

AspectDetails
ObjectiveFacilitate higher education abroad (Master's or Ph.D.) for low-income SC, Denotified Tribes, Landless Agricultural Labourers, and Traditional Artisans.
ScopeFinancial assistance for Master's/Ph.D. courses in accredited institutions abroad.
Total Slots125 slots annually, capped at 10% per state. Unused slots are redistributed.
Category-wise Slots
  • SC: 115
  • Denotified Tribes: 6
  • Landless Labourers/Artisans: 4
Women Quota30% of slots reserved; unutilised slots go to male candidates.
Eligibility
  • Offer from Top 500 QS-ranked institutions 
  • Minimum 60% marks in the qualifying exam. 
  • Age: less than or equal to 35 years as of April 1 of the election year. 
  • Family income less than or equal to INR 8.00 lakh per annum.
Family DefinitionIncludes 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 FamilyA maximum of 2 children from the same family can receive the scholarship.
DisqualificationsAlready studied abroad, received similar scholarships, or pursued the same level of education.
University EligibilityAdmission to top 500 QS-ranked institutions (2025). QS ranking of specific campuses applies.
Selection CriteriaBased on QS rankings of institutions, marks in qualifying exams, and availability of slots.
Selection RoundsTwo rounds annually. Candidates ranked higher by QS institution rankings.
Bond RequirementsNon-judicial bond with two sureties covering costs incurred by the government.
Spouse/Children AbroadThe candidate is responsible for assessing financial and visa requirements for the family.
Income VerificationSubmit ITRs and an income certificate from a Revenue Officer (Tehsildar or above).
Documents RequiredAadhaar card, mark sheets for all semesters, CGPA conversion formula (if applicable).
Administrative MattersCandidate to manage leave, salary, and other employment matters independently.
Undertakings
  • No other scholarships were received
  • Compliance with return conditions
Visa RequirementsSpecific visa conditions apply (e.g., J-1 for the USA).  No F-1 visa support.

Also Read: MI Scholarship

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Application Process for National Overseas Scholarship 2025

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

  • The scheme will be advertised in newspapers and other media with summarised information.
  • Eligible candidates can apply online at www.nosmsje.gov.in.

Selection Year Timeline

  • The selection year is from April to March of each year.
  • First Round Application: Portal opens in mid-February for 45 days.
  • Second Round Application: The portal reopens in September if slots remain unfilled.

Family Income Consideration

  • For the first round, the family income for the last completed financial year is considered (e.g., FY 2023-24 for 2025-26 selections).
  • For the second round, family income for the previous financial year is also considered if income for the first round exceeds the eligibility limit.

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.

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Selection Process for National Overseas Scholarship 2025

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

  • Candidates must submit their Aadhar Card and an unconditional admission offer from a top 500 QS-ranked foreign institution for the academic session 2025-26 or later.
  • Failure to submit Aadhar details before the issue of the final award letter will lead to cancellation of the provisional award.

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.

  • A merit list will be created based on the QS ranking of the institution where admission is secured.
  • Higher-ranking institutions will result in higher merit placement. In case of a tie, marks in the qualifying examination will be considered.

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

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National Overseas Scholarship for MBA Program 2025

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.

CriteriaDetails
Target CommunitiesScheduled Caste (SC), DNTs, Landless Agricultural Laborers, and Traditional Artisans.
Educational QualificationA minimum of 60% marks or an equivalent grade in qualifying exams for the MBA program.
Age LimitApplicants must be below 35 years of age as of April 1, 2025
Family Income LimitAnnual family income must not exceed INR 8,00,000.
Course LevelMaster's degree (MBA programs) from recognised foreign universities.
CoverageTuition fees, living expenses, visa fees, medical insurance, and airfare.

Also Read: UPESMET MBA Scholarship

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Mandatory Conditions for National Overseas Scholarship 2025

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.

ConditionDetails
Submission of Aadhaar CardCandidates 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 LevelCandidates 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 TopicsTopics 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 EmployeesGovernment servants must serve the government upon return to India if still employed in the government sector.
Administrative MattersAdministrative issues like study leave and salary are to be resolved between the candidate and their employer; the Ministry is not responsible.
Visa RequirementsCandidates must secure a visa appropriate for their studies. For the USA, only J-1 visas are allowed under this scheme.
Scholarship ConditionsCandidates 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 CircumstancesIn the case of unavoidable situations like COVID-19, candidates must join online classes after completing all procedural formalities under the scheme guidelines.
Execution of BondSelected 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 DocumentsCandidates must submit all required documents and agreements before departure.
Family AccompanimentMarried 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 OverpaymentsOverpayments must be refunded to the Government of India, and employers may deduct such amounts from dues.
Completion of Required FormalitiesCandidates who complete their education abroad without completing the required formalities under NOS will not receive scholarships.
Decision on Unforeseeable IssuesThe Ministry reserves the right to decide on unforeseeable issues, and its decisions are final and binding.
Change of Study Course or UniversityCandidates 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 HomeCandidates 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 IndiaCandidates 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.

Also Read: Tata Capital Pankh Scholarship

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National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) Guidelines 2025

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.

Role of Indian Mission

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.

Monitoring of Students

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.

Financial Assistance

The following types of financial assistance are provided to the awardees:

Assistance TypeUSA and Other CountriesUK
Annual Maintenance Allowance15,400 US Dollars9,900 GBP
Annual Contingency Allowance1,500 US Dollars1,100 GBP
Visa FeesActual as charged in INRActual as charged in INR
Medical Insurance PremiumActual as chargedActual as charged
Incidental & Equipment Allowance20 US Dollars20 GBP
Tuition FeesActual as chargedActual as charged

Air Passage

  • Awardees must purchase air tickets from one of the three authorised travel agents (BLCL, ATT, or IRCTC) and will be reimbursed after providing a joining report from the university.
  • The ticket must be economy class, booked on the shortest route on the date of booking.
  • Return tickets will be booked by the Indian Mission after the successful completion of the course.

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.

Duration of the Award

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.

Jurisdiction of the Scheme

The scope of the NOS scheme is limited to providing financial support to the selected candidates for pursuing higher education in specified subjects abroad.

Default under the Scheme

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.

Furnishing of False Information

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.

Litigation

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.

Administrative Expenses

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.

Restriction from Other Scholarship Benefits

Awardees under the NOS scheme are not eligible to receive any other similar scholarship from the Central or State Governments during the scholarship.

Modification/Relaxation of Clauses

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.

Also Read: Aikyashree Scholarship

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Benefits of National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) 2025

Let’s have a look at the benefits of the National Overseas Scholarship 2025. 

  • Covers tuition fees, visa fees, and medical insurance premiums as per actual costs, ensuring all necessary academic and health-related expenses are taken care of.
  • Provides an annual maintenance allowance of $15,400 (USA and other countries) or £9,900 (UK) to help cover living expenses, food, accommodation, and daily needs.
  • Offers a contingency allowance of $1,500 (USA) or £1,100 (UK) annually, which can be used for books, essential academic equipment, study tours, and attending subject-related conferences.
  • Full reimbursement for economy class airfare for travel from India to the study destination and return after course completion, along with booking assistance by Indian Missions abroad.
  • Allows awardees to undertake research/teaching assistantships to supplement their maintenance allowance, gain professional experience, and earn additional income.
  • Ensures that candidates are precluded from availing themselves of any other similar scholarship benefits from Central or State Government schemes, guaranteeing exclusive financial support under the NOS.
  • Regular monitoring of academic progress through bi-annual progress reports, ensuring that awardees receive continuous guidance and assistance from Indian missions abroad for their academic and personal development.

Also Read: Digital Gujarat Scholarship

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FAQs about National Overseas Scholarship

Can awardees work while studying under the National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) 2025?

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.

How is the maintenance allowance under National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) 2025?

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.

What benefits does the National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) 2025 provide to awardees?

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.

What are the eligibility criteria for National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) 2025?

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.

What is the National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) 2025?

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.

 

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