The NSP Scholarship is a centralized online scholarship system managed through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP). It provides financial assistance to eligible students across India under various central and state government schemes. Every year, lakhs of students apply for pre-matric, post-matric, and merit-cum-means scholarships through this portal. Understanding how to apply NSP Scholarship correctly is important to avoid rejection, delays, or payment issues. This guide explains eligibility criteria, required documents, the online registration process, Aadhaar verification, institute verification, and Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) procedures in a clear step-by-step format.
What is NSP Scholarship?
The National Scholarship Portal (NSP) is a digital platform developed by the Government of India to simplify scholarship applications. It integrates multiple scholarship schemes from central ministries and state governments. The portal ensures transparency, efficient processing, and direct transfer of scholarship funds into the student’s bank account through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). Students from Class 1 to postgraduate level can apply depending on eligibility. Both fresh applications and renewal applications are processed through the same portal.
Types of Scholarships on NSP
NSP offers Pre-Matric Scholarships (Class 1–10), Post-Matric Scholarships (Class 11 to postgraduate), Merit-cum-Means Scholarships for professional courses, Central Sector Schemes, and category-based scholarships such as SC, ST, OBC, Minority, and EWS scholarships. Each scheme has specific eligibility conditions including income limits and academic performance requirements.
Eligibility Criteria for NSP Scholarship
Eligibility depends on the selected scheme. However, common requirements include Indian citizenship, enrollment in a recognized institution, family income within prescribed limits (usually ₹1 lakh to ₹2.5 lakh per annum), valid Aadhaar number, active bank account in the student’s name, and required academic performance. Students must ensure they meet all conditions before applying.
Documents Required for NSP Scholarship
| Document Name | Purpose | Mandatory/Optional |
|---|---|---|
| Aadhaar Card | Identity & Aadhaar Authentication | Mandatory |
| Income Certificate | Income Verification | Mandatory |
| Caste Certificate | Category Proof | Mandatory (if applicable) |
| Bank Passbook | DBT Transfer Confirmation | Mandatory |
| Previous Year Marksheet | Academic Eligibility Proof | Mandatory |
| Bonafide Certificate | Institution Enrollment Proof | Mandatory |
How to Apply NSP Scholarship – Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps carefully to complete your NSP scholarship registration and application successfully.
- Step 1: Visit the official National Scholarship Portal website.
- Step 2: Click on 'New Registration' if you are a first-time applicant.
- Step 3: Read all guidelines carefully and accept the declaration.
- Step 4: Enter your Aadhaar number and verify via OTP sent to your registered mobile number.
- Step 5: Create login credentials and note down your Application ID.
- Step 6: Log in using your Application ID and password.
- Step 7: Select the correct academic year and choose the appropriate scholarship scheme.
- Step 8: Fill in personal details, academic details, and bank account information accurately.
- Step 9: Upload required documents in the prescribed file size and format.
- Step 10: Review the entire application carefully and click on 'Final Submit'.
- Step 11: Download and print the submitted application form for future reference.
Application Timeline & Verification Process
| Stage | Authority | Process Description |
|---|---|---|
| Application Submission | Student | Online form submission on NSP portal |
| Institute Verification | School/College | Verification of academic & enrollment details |
| District/State Verification | Education Department | Cross-check documents & approve |
| Ministry Approval | Concerned Ministry | Final sanction of scholarship |
| DBT Payment | PFMS | Scholarship amount credited to bank account |
Advanced Approval Tips
- Ensure Aadhaar is correctly linked with your bank account.
- Double-check IFSC code and account number before submission.
- Apply early to avoid last-minute server issues.
- Track your application status regularly.
- Respond immediately if institute requests clarification.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Incorrect income certificate details.
- Mismatch between Aadhaar and bank account name.
- Uploading unclear or invalid documents.
- Missing the application deadline.
FAQs
How to apply NSP Scholarship for the first time?
Register as a new applicant on the NSP portal, verify Aadhaar via OTP, fill details, upload documents, and submit before deadline.
What documents are required for NSP Scholarship?
Aadhaar card, income certificate, caste certificate (if applicable), bank passbook, marksheet, and bonafide certificate are required.
What is the income limit for NSP Scholarship?
Income limits vary by scheme, usually between ₹1 lakh and ₹2.5 lakh per annum.
How to check NSP scholarship status?
Login to your NSP dashboard and click on 'Check Your Status'.
Is Aadhaar mandatory for NSP?
Yes, Aadhaar authentication is mandatory for DBT and identity verification.
Can I renew NSP scholarship?
Yes, existing beneficiaries can apply under the renewal option using previous credentials.
When does NSP application start?
Usually between July and October each academic year.
How long does approval take?
Typically 2–4 months depending on verification stages.
What if my application is rejected?
You can check the rejection reason in your dashboard and correct mistakes next academic year.
Can I edit my application after submission?
Limited edits may be allowed before final verification. After final submission, editing is usually not possible.