Country Focussed
Global
Scholarship Type
Merit Based
Organising Entity
Ministry of Social Justice and
Empowerment (MoSJE),
Government of India
Scholarship Coverage
Partly Funded
National Overseas Scholarship – Empowering Indian Students to Study Abroad
The National Overseas Scholarship (NOS), initiated by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, is a powerful financial support program aimed at students from marginalized communities. It provides fully funded opportunities to pursue Master’s and Doctoral degrees abroad, primarily for candidates belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC). With growing aspirations among Indian students to pursue international education, this scholarship helps ensure that financial constraints and socio-economic backgrounds do not stand in the way of excellence. From tuition and living expenses to visa and travel costs, the scholarship covers all essential areas, providing up to 100 deserving students each year with the means to transform their futures.
Why Study Abroad?
Studying Abroad offers a world-class education, globally recognized degrees, and access to some of the oldest and most prestigious universities. With a strong emphasis on research and innovation, Global institutions foster critical thinking and academic excellence. The multicultural environment, wide range of courses, and post-study work opportunities like the Graduate Route – make studying abroad an attractive destination for Indian students seeking quality education and career growth on a global scale.
Everything You need to Know about the National Overseas Scholarship
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the National Overseas Scholarship, candidates must meet the following requirements:
1. Academic Qualifications
For Master’s programs: Minimum 55% marks or equivalent grade in undergraduate studies. For Doctoral programs: Minimum 55% marks or equivalent in post-graduation.
2. Standardized Test Scores
Applicants must meet the minimum test score requirements (IELTS, TOEFL, GRE, GMAT, etc.) of the university they are applying to abroad. Each university sets its own English language and entrance score criteria.
3. Age Limit
The applicant must be under 35 years of age as of April 1, 2022.
4. Income Limit
The total family income from all sources must not exceed INR 6,00,000 per annum.
5. Children Limit
A maximum of two children from the same parents are eligible for this scholarship.
6. Experience
Candidates with relevant professional or academic experience will be given preference.
Organising Entity
Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE), Government of India
The scholarship is offered and administered directly by the Government of India under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. It focuses on empowering students from underprivileged communities by providing global academic exposure.
Is it Country Focused?
Various Countries Worldwide
This scholarship is not limited to a specific country. Students can apply to universities in the USA, UK, Canada, Germany, Australia, and other top education destinations, provided their chosen course and institution meet the scholarship criteria.
Is it University Focused?
No (Multi-university and Global Scope)
The NOS is not tied to a specific university. However, students must secure admission to accredited and recognized universities abroad to qualify for the scholarship.
Type of Scholarship
Need-Based
The scholarship primarily targets financially underprivileged candidates, particularly from SC, ST, and OBC categories, who wish to pursue postgraduate or doctoral studies overseas.
Number of Students Selected
Approximately 100 candidates are selected annually.
The selection process is competitive, and a panel reviews applications based on eligibility, academic merit, and socio-economic background.
What are the Benefits Available
The National Overseas Scholarship is a fully funded program. The benefits cover all essential expenses, including:
Maintenance Allowance
A monthly stipend to support living expenses abroad.
Contingency Allowance
Funds provided for unexpected or emergency academic needs.
Tuition Fees
Paid directly to the university or institution as per official invoices.
Air Passage
Economy class airfare to and from the host country.
Incidental Journey & Equipment Allowance
Additional support for travel and academic tools.
Visa Fees
Full coverage of visa application and processing costs.
Medical Insurance Premium
Coverage of health insurance during the study period.
Local Travel
Travel expenses within the destination country for academic purposes.
Why the National Overseas Scholarship is a Game Changer?
Empowers marginalised communities
By funding high-quality education for SC/ST/OBC students abroad, it promotes social equity.
Supports global competitiveness
Enables Indian students to match global standards in education and research.
Encourages academic and social impact
Many recipients return to contribute meaningfully to Indian society and governance.
How to Apply for the National Overseas Scholarship
- Visit the Official Website:
Go to https://nosmsje.gov.in/nosmsje/ - Register Online:
Create an account with your email ID and mobile number. - Fill in the Application Form:
Enter your personal details, academic qualifications, and socio-economic background. - Upload Documents:
Submit scanned copies of all required documents, including:- Valid Indian passport
- Academic certificates
- Proof of admission (if available)
- Caste certificate
- Income certificate
- Birth certificate
- Passport-size photograph
- Relevant entrance test scorecards (e.g., IELTS, GRE)
- Submit the Form:
After verifying all entries, submit the application. - Wait for Shortlisting and Verification:
A shortlist is prepared, and selected candidates are informed via email and the portal. - Final Selection and Award:
On confirmation of admission abroad and verification, the scholarship is awarded.
Application Dates
- The application window typically opens once a year, around February or March, and closes within a specified period (usually a month).
- For the most accurate timeline, applicants should regularly check the official website: https://nosmsje.gov.in/nosmsje/
Planning to Study Abroad?
Before you travel abroad, ensure your finances are well-planned. A Forex Card from Supreme Forex is a smart, secure, and cost-effective way to manage your expenses abroad. With zero markup on exchange rates, competitive pricing, and doorstep delivery of both forex cards and foreign currency, Supreme Forex helps you avoid hidden fees and enjoy a hassle-free experience. Travel confidently knowing your money is safe and easily accessible wherever you go.
Final Thoughts
The National Overseas Scholarship is more than just financial aid, it’s a transformational opportunity for students from underserved communities to rise above systemic challenges and fulfill their global academic dreams. For those who meet the eligibility criteria, this scholarship offers a complete support system, covering everything from tuition to airfare, and opens the doors to some of the world’s best universities.
If you’re an Indian student from the SC, ST, or OBC community with a stellar academic background and dreams of international education, start preparing for the National Overseas Scholarship. This could be your first step toward a world-class education, a global career, and lifelong impact.
