National overseas scholarship for SC and ST candidates 2026 (Fully Funded) | Apply before 31 Mar, 2026

The National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) is a central sector scheme designed to support students from marginalized communities in pursuing higher education abroad. Provided by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (for SC and other categories) and the Ministry of Tribal Affairs (for ST candidates), this scholarship is a prestigious initiative to uplift students through global academic exposure at the Masters and PhD levels.

Objective of the Scheme

The primary goal of the NOS is to facilitate low-income students from the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Landless Agricultural Labourers, and Traditional Artisan categories. By funding their education in top-ranked international universities, the scheme aims to improve their social and economic status.

• Providers: Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment | Ministry of Tribal Affairs
• Academic Levels: Masters and PhD
• University Eligibility: Top 500 universities in the QS World University Rankings

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the 2026 intake, candidates must meet the following requirements:

• Nationality: Must be an Indian national belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Denotified Nomadic/Semi-Nomadic Tribes, or Landless Agricultural Labourer/Traditional Artisan categories.
• Academic Record: Minimum 60% marks or equivalent grade in the qualifying degree (Bachelor’s for Masters; Master’s for PhD).
• Age Limit: Must not be more than 35 years of age as of April 1st of the selection year.
• Family Income: Total family income from all sources must not exceed ₹8 Lakh per annum (for SC) or ₹6 Lakh per annum (for ST) in the preceding financial year.
• Sibling Limit: Not more than two children of the same parents/guardians are eligible.

Scholarship Value & Benefits

The scholarship provides comprehensive financial assistance, though the exact amounts vary by country:

• Annual Maintenance Allowance: Approximately USD 15,400 (for USA and other countries) or GBP 9,900 (for UK).
• Tuition Fees: Actual fees as charged by the university.
• Contingency Allowance: Covers books, essential equipment, and study tours (approx. USD 1,500/GBP 1,100).
• Travel Costs: Economy class airfare (round trip) and incidental journey expenses.
• Other Costs: Visa fees, medical insurance premiums, and poll tax (where applicable).

Important Details

• Total Slots: 125 awards for SC and 20 awards for ST candidates annually.
• Reservation for Women: 30% of the awards are earmarked for female candidates.
• Application Deadline: 31 March 2026 (First Round).
• Course Selection: All subjects are eligible, though research on topics related to Indian culture/heritage is generally not funded.

Application Process

Applications must be submitted online through the respective ministry portals:

• For SC & Others: Visit the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment portal at nosmsje.gov.in.
• For ST: Visit the Ministry of Tribal Affairs portal at overseas.tribal.gov.in.
• Required Documents: Caste certificate, income certificate, 10th-grade certificate, all academic transcripts, and an unconditional admission offer from a QS Top 500 university.