About the National Overseas Scholarship
The NOS is a Central Sector Scheme launched by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India. This scholarship improves access to international education for students from socially and economically disadvantaged communities. The scheme provides financial assistance for pursuing Master’s and PhD programmes at recognised universities abroad. Students must be admitted to universities ranked among the top 500 according to QS World Rankings.
Each year, 125 scholarships are awarded to Indian students. 115 scholarships are reserved for candidates belonging to the Scheduled Caste (SC). 6 scholarships are available for Denotified, Nomadic, and Semi-Nomadic Tribes. 4 scholarships are available for Landless Agricultural Labourers and Traditional Artisans. 30% of the scholarships are reserved for female candidates. This promotes greater gender representation in global education.
Benefits of the National Overseas Scholarship
The NOS provides comprehensive financial support, allowing students to pursue higher education abroad without worrying about major expenses.
|
Benefit |
Description |
|
Tuition Fees |
Covered as per the university’s actual charges |
|
Annual Maintenance Allowance |
$15,400 per year (USA & other countries) or £9,900 (UK) |
|
Contingency Allowance |
$1,500 annually (or £1,100 in the UK) |
|
Airfare |
Economy class airfare to and from the host country and other travel must be booked through one of the following travel agents: BLCL, IRCTc or ATT. |
|
Visa Fees |
Reimbursed as per actual cost. |
|
Medical Insurance |
Covered as per policy requirements. |
|
Incidental Allowance |
Additional allowance for travel-related expenses. Students will receive 20 USD or its equivalent in Indian Rupees as an Incidental Allowance for Journey and Equipment. |
These benefits ensure students can focus fully on their studies and academic growth abroad.
Eligibility Criteria
This scholarship is awarded specifically to postgraduate students. Undergraduate applicants are not eligible for the National Overseas Scholarship. To apply for the National Overseas Scholarship, candidates must meet several eligibility requirements set by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
- Citizenship: Applicants must be Indian citizens.
- Eligible Categories: Candidates must belong to one of the following groups
- Scheduled Castes (SC)
- Denotified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Tribes
- Landless Agricultural Labourers
- Traditional Artisans
- Academic Qualification
- For Master’s programmes: Bachelor’s degree with a minimum score of 60%
- For PhD programmes: Master’s degree with 60% at the minimum.
- Age Limit: Applicants must be 35 years or younger at the time of application.
- Family Income: The annual family income must not exceed ₹8 lakhs.
- University Requirement: Applicants must secure admission in a recognised foreign university.
Application Process
The National Overseas Scholarship involves several steps. Candidates should carefully prepare their documents. Students must submit their applications through the official portal.
- Check Eligibility: Review the scholarship guidelines and confirm that you meet all eligibility criteria.
- Secure University Admission: Obtain an unconditional offer letter from an eligible foreign university ranked in the top 500 QS ranking universities.
- Prepare Required Documents: Typical documents include academic transcripts, caste certificate, income certificate, passport, and admission proof.
- Submit Online Application: Complete the application form on the official NOS portal and upload all required documents.
- Verification and Review: Applications are reviewed by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
Selection Criteria
The selection process for the National Overseas Scholarship is merit-based and considers multiple factors. There are two application cycles conducted in February to March and September to October every year.
Key factors include:
- Academic performance and qualifications
- Admission to reputed international universities
- Eligibility verification and documentation
- University ranking and course relevance
Candidates are shortlisted based on these parameters and awarded scholarships according to available slots.
Fields of Study
The National Overseas Scholarship supports a wide range of academic disciplines. Applicants should ensure that their chosen university and programme meet the scholarship’s eligibility requirements.
Tips for a Strong Application
Applying for the National Overseas Scholarship requires careful planning and preparation. Start early by researching universities that match your academic goals and meet the scholarship’s eligibility criteria.
Secure an unconditional admission offer from a reputed university and prepare all required documents well in advance. Ensure your academic achievements and career goals align with the scholarship's purpose.
It’s also helpful to seek guidance from mentors, professors, or study abroad consultants who can help you strengthen your application and ensure that you meet all deadlines.
Conclusion
The National Overseas Scholarship is a transformative opportunity for Indian students from marginalised communities to access world-class education abroad. By covering tuition, living expenses, travel, and other costs, the programme removes financial barriers and empowers students to achieve their academic ambitions.
If you meet the eligibility requirements and aspire to study abroad, applying for the National Overseas Scholarship could be a major step toward building a successful global career. Discover more details with guidance from Uscholars scholarship experts. Begin your application journey today!