The National Scholarship Portal (NSP) is India’s largest government scholarship platform where students from school to post-graduation can apply for multiple central and state-funded scholarships. Managed under the Ministry of Electronics & IT, NSP ensures a transparent, fast, and hassle-free scholarship distribution system. This 800-word guide covers all major features, eligibility rules, benefits, documents, registration steps, tables, and FAQs to help students easily understand NSP in 2025.
What Is National Scholarship Portal (NSP)?
The NSP (National Scholarship Portal) is a one-stop digital platform for applying to various government scholarships such as:
- Central Government Scholarships
- State Government Scholarships
- UGC/AICTE Scholarships
- Ministry-wise Special Schemes
It helps students from minority, SC/ST, OBC, economically weaker, and meritorious categories receive financial assistance directly into their bank accounts.
Types of Scholarships Available on NSP
NSP hosts more than 100+ scholarships, which are mainly divided into three categories:
1. Central Schemes
Offered by different ministries such as:
- Ministry of Minority Affairs
- Ministry of Tribal Affairs
- Ministry of Social Justice
- Department of Higher Education
- Department of School Education
- Ministry of Labour & Employment
2. UGC/AICTE Schemes
For college/university students pursuing professional or technical courses.
3. State Government Schemes
Each state uploads its own scholarship schemes on NSP for school and college students.
Key Features of NSP
- Single portal for all scholarships
- 100% online verification
- Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)
- Transparent and fast application process
- Real-time application tracking
- Helpline and grievance redressal options
Eligibility Criteria for NSP Scholarships
Eligibility depends on the scheme, but the common conditions include:
- Student must be enrolled in a recognized school/college.
- Annual family income should be within the limit mentioned in the specific scheme (often between ₹1–6 lakh).
- Must meet category requirements (SC/ST/OBC/Minority/General EWS).
- Minimum marks requirement (usually 50–60%).
- Bank account in the name of the student (except minors).
- Aadhaar verification required.
Major Scholarships Under NSP
1. Pre-Matric Scholarships
For Classes 1 to 10
- Helps minority, SC/ST, OBC, and EWS students.
- Covers tuition fees, books, uniforms, and other school expenses.
2. Post-Matric Scholarships
For Classes 11 to Post-Graduation
- Tuition fees + academic allowances included.
- Widely used for college-level students.
3. Merit-Cum-Means Scholarships
For professional and technical courses
- Available for engineering, medical, IT, hotel management, architecture, and other programs.
4. UGC/AICTE Scholarships
- PG Indira Gandhi Scholarship
- PG Single Girl Child Scholarship
- AICTE Pragati & Saksham Scholarship
- AICTE Technical Diploma/Degree scholarships
5. State Scholarships
Every state provides its own category-wise scholarships through NSP.
Benefits of NSP Scholarships
- Financial support for studies
- Reduced education burden on families
- Scholarships for all levels – school to Ph.D.
- Seamless payment to bank accounts
- Transparent and corruption-free process
- Faster approvals and verifications
Documents Required for NSP Application
- Aadhaar Card
- Income Certificate
- Marksheet of previous class
- Bonafide Certificate from the institution
- Caste Certificate (if applicable)
- Domicile Certificate
- Bank Passbook (student’s name)
- Passport-size photograph
How to Apply for NSP Scholarships (Step-by-Step)
1. Registration
- Visit the official NSP portal and click New Registration.
- Read the guidelines and complete the basic details.
2. Login to the Portal
- Use the Application ID and password sent to your mobile/email.
3. Fill the Application Form
- Enter personal, academic, and bank details.
- Select the scholarship scheme you want to apply for.
4. Upload Documents
- Ensure scanned documents are clear and in the required format.
5. Submit and Track Application
- After submission, track status through the Check Your Status option.
Overview Table
| Category | Eligibility | Benefits | Portal Section | Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-Matric Scholarships | Class 1–10 students | Tuition + allowances | Central/State Schemes | School |
| Post-Matric Scholarships | Class 11–PG students | Tuition + maintenance fund | Central/State Schemes | School–College |
| Merit-Cum-Means | Technical/professional students | Course fee + allowances | Central Schemes | UG/PG |
| UGC Scholarships | University students | Stipend + tuition | UGC Section | UG/PG |
| AICTE Scholarships | Diploma/engineering students | Tuition support | AICTE Section | Technical |
| State Scholarships | Domicile-based students | Varies by state | State Schemes | School–PG |
Tips to Maximize Your Chances of Approval
- Fill the form early before deadline.
- Make sure all documents are updated and valid.
- Ensure bank account is active and Aadhaar-linked.
- Use correct category and income details.
- Keep checking application status for corrections.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Uploading unclear documents
- Incorrect bank IFSC code
- Mismatched name in Aadhaar and bank account
- Not verifying from institute
- Missing the deadline
FAQs
1. Can I apply for more than one NSP scholarship?
No, students can apply for only one scholarship at a time as per guidelines.
2. Is NSP registration free?
Yes, applying on NSP is completely free for all students.
3. When does NSP open every year?
NSP usually opens between July to October depending on government notifications.