NSP Central Sector Scheme of Scholarship 2026: Apply Online for 82,000 Higher Education Awards
Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education
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NSP Central Sector Scheme of Scholarship 2026: Apply Online for 82,000 Higher Education Awards
Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education
Quick facts
About the role
The Department of Higher Education under the Ministry of Education invites applications for the Central Sector Scheme of Scholarship for College and University Students (PM-USP CSSS) for the academic year 2026-27. This national initiative sanctions 82,000 fresh scholarships every year, split equally between 41,000 male and 41,000 female students. Meritorious students who completed their Class 12 board examinations and scored above the 80th percentile in their relevant stream can register on the National Scholarship Portal. Applicants must be enrolled in regular undergraduate degree courses recognized by UGC or AICTE across universities, colleges, and medical or engineering institutions. Selected students receive financial support of ₹12,000 annually for the first three years of undergraduate study and ₹20,000 per year during postgraduate or fourth and fifth professional degree years. Total gross parental income must not cross ₹4.5 lakh annually. Students already drawing assistance from other Central or State government scholarship schemes cannot avail this award.
Highlights
- 82,000 fresh scholarships distributed across State Education Boards based on population quota
- ₹12,000 annual maintenance allowance for undergraduate level and ₹20,000 annually for postgraduate level
- Direct benefit transfer into Aadhaar-seeded bank accounts of selected scholars
- Equal 50:50 allocation of awards between male and female students across general and professional courses
Selection process
- 1Verification of Class 12 board marks and percentile cutoff issued by the respective State Education Board
- 2Scrutiny of applicant data and admission credentials by the Institute Nodal Officer
- 3State Nodal Officer authentication of annual family income certificates and domicile documents
- 4Generation of final merit list by Ministry of Education based on allocated state quotas
How to apply
- 1Visit scholarships.gov.in and complete One-Time Registration (OTR) using your Aadhaar number and mobile
- 2Log in with your OTR credentials and select Department of Higher Education - Central Sector Scheme
- 3Fill in college enrollment details, board roll number, course duration, and family income particulars
- 4Upload income certificate, caste certificate if applicable, and institute verification form before submitting online
Important dates
- Portal Registration Opened15 Jul 2026
- Last Date for Online Application31 Oct 2026
- Institute Level Verification Deadline15 Nov 2026
- State Level Verification Deadline30 Nov 2026
Official source & verification
Application status tracker
- Last date to apply31 Oct 2026
Frequently asked questions
Who is eligible for the Central Sector Scheme of Scholarship?
Candidates must clear Class 12 board exams ranking above the 80th percentile in their respective board. They should pursue regular degree courses in recognized institutes, with total family income under ₹4.50 lakh per annum. Correspondence and diploma students cannot apply.
What is the scholarship amount provided under CSSS?
Awardees receive ₹12,000 per year during the first three years of undergraduate studies. Those continuing to postgraduate studies receive ₹20,000 per year for two years. Professional 5-year integrated programs grant ₹20,000 annually during fourth and fifth years.
Is an Aadhaar card mandatory for NSP registration?
Yes, Aadhaar authentication is compulsory for registration on the National Scholarship Portal. Furthermore, the scholar must have an active bank account linked and seeded with Aadhaar to receive payments via Direct Benefit Transfer without rejection.
Can I renew my CSSS scholarship in subsequent college years?
Yes, renewal requires passing examinations with at least 50% marks in the annual evaluation, maintaining 75% attendance, and showing good conduct. Renewal applications must be submitted on the NSP portal each academic session before the specified deadline.
Can I hold another scholarship alongside this award?
No, beneficiaries under this central scheme cannot accept any other central or state government scholarship or fee concession concurrently. If found receiving double benefits, the scholarship stands cancelled and the disbursed sum must be refunded.