Hyderabad: The Directorate of Government Examinations (DGE), Telangana, has officially commenced the application process for the National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMMSS) Examination for the 2026-27 academic year. Eligible students currently studying in Class 8 can submit their applications online, with the registration window set to close on August 24, 2026.
The NMMS is a centrally sponsored scheme by the Ministry of Education designed to provide financial assistance to meritorious students from economically weaker sections, encouraging them to complete their secondary and higher secondary education.
Important Dates
Online Application Start Date: July 20, 2026
Last Date to Apply: August 24, 2026
Tentative Exam Date: November 1, 2026
Result Declaration: Expected in June 2027
Scholarship Amount & Benefits
Selected candidates who clear the examination and meet all criteria will receive a scholarship of ₹12,000 per annum (₹1,000 per month). This financial aid is provided for four years, covering their education from Class 9 through Class 12, provided they maintain satisfactory academic progress each year.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Telangana NMMS 2026-27, students must fulfill the following conditions:
Current Education: Must be a regular student studying in Class 8 during the 2026-27 academic year in Government, Zilla Parishad, Local Body, or Government-aided schools in Telangana.
Previous Academic Record: Must have secured a minimum of 55% marks (or equivalent grade) in the Class 7 final examinations. A relaxation of 5% is applicable for students belonging to SC and ST categories (i.e., 50%).
Income Limit: The total annual income of the student's parents/guardians from all sources must not exceed ₹3,50,000.
Note: Students enrolled in Kendriya Vidyalayas (KVs), Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas (JNVs), residential schools run by the state or central government, and private unaided schools are not eligible for this scholarship.
Exam Pattern
The NMMS examination consists of two papers, usually conducted on the same day:
Mental Ability Test (MAT): 90 multiple-choice questions assessing reasoning, critical thinking, and spatial visualization.
Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT): 90 multiple-choice questions covering Science, Social Studies, and Mathematics based on the Class 7 and Class 8 curriculum.
How to Apply
The application process for NMMS is largely facilitated through the respective schools.
Eligible students must approach their School Headmaster or Principal to obtain the application forms.
Schools will collect the necessary documents (such as income certificates, caste certificates, and Class 7 mark sheets) and process the applications online on behalf of the students via the official portal (bse.telangana.gov.in).
The Headmasters must ensure all verified applications and fee receipts are submitted to the District Educational Officer (DEO) within the stipulated deadlines following the August 24 online closure.