NMMS Goa 2025–26 | Eligibility | Exam Pattern | Renewal

NMMS Goa 2025–26: Complete Guide to Dates, Eligibility, Exam Pattern, Scholarship Amount & Selection Process

The National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship (NMMS) Goa 2025–26 is an excellent opportunity for Class 8 students studying in Goa’s government, government-aided, and local body schools. The scheme supports meritorious students from economically weaker families, ensuring they continue their studies with financial stability.

If you are a student, parent, or teacher in Goa and want a simple, complete, and updated guide on NMMS 2025–26, this article covers everything, from eligibility and application process to exam pattern, scholarship amount, and renewal rules.

What Is NMMS Goa 2025–26?

The National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship (NMMS) is a Central Sector Scheme launched to reduce dropout rates after Class 8 by supporting bright students with an annual scholarship.

• 1,00,000 scholarships are awarded every year in India.
• Goa’s quota is 144 scholarships.

The scholarship is meant only for students from economically weaker sections whose parents’ annual income does not exceed the prescribed limit.

NMMS scholarship continues from Class 9 to Class 12, making it one of the most impactful financial support schemes for school students.

The exam is conducted by the Goa Education Department for Class 8 students.

🗓️ What Are the Important Dates for NMMS Goa 2025–26?

The Goa Education Department conducts its NMMS selection exam every year as per state guidelines. While the official date announcement for 2025–26 is awaited, the schedule typically aligns with national guidelines.

Below is the expected structure (based on standard NMMS procedures):

Once the Goa Education Department publishes official dates, this table will be updated.

Who Can Apply for Scholarship 2025–26?

To be eligible for this scholarship, a student must meet the following criteria:

1. Income Limit
   Parents’ annual income from all sources must not exceed ₹1,50,000.
2. School Type
   The student must be studying as a regular student in:
   • Government school
   • Government-aided school
   • Local body school
     (Private school students are not eligible.)
3. Class Requirement
   • Student must be studying in Class 8 during the academic year 2025–26.
   • Must have scored minimum 55% marks in Class 7
   • Relaxation: 5% relaxation for SC/ST students (minimum 50%).
4. Attendance & Conduct
   • Must maintain regular attendance.
   • Must have good conduct certified by the school head.
5. Other Conditions
   The student must not be receiving any other scholarship.

How Much Scholarship Will a Student Receive?

Each selected student will receive:

• ₹12,000 per year (₹1,000 per month)
• Scholarship is paid directly into the student’s bank account via SBI or a scheduled bank.
• The scholarship continues from Class 9 to Class 12 (4 years), if renewal conditions are met.

What Is the NMMS Goa Exam Pattern 2025–26?

The exam consists of two tests, conducted on the same day by the Goa Education Department.

• 1. Mental Ability Test (MAT)
  • Total Questions: 90
  • Type: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
  • Focus Areas:
    • Analogy
    • Classification
    • Number Series
    • Pattern Perception
    • Critical Thinking
    • Hidden Figures
  • Duration
  • 90 minutes for MAT
• Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT)
  • Total Questions: 90
  • Subjects Covered:
    • Mathematics
    • Science
    • Social Studies
    • Based on Class 7 and Class 8 syllabus.
  • Duration
  • 90 minutes for SAT
  • Extra time given for differently-abled students

Qualifying Criteria

Must pass both MAT and SAT with:

• 40% marks (combined) for General category
• 32% marks for SC/ST students

How Are NMMS Goa Students Selected?

To be selected for the scholarship, a student must:

• Appear for both MAT and SAT.
• Score the required cutoff marks.
  • Have at least 55% in Class 8 (50% for SC/ST).
• Meet all income, school-type, and conduct requirements.
• The final list is prepared based on:
  • Total marks
  • Category reservation as per Goa norms
  • Goa’s fixed quota of 144 scholarships

How Is the NMMS Scholarship Disbursed in Goa?

Here’s how scholarship payment works:

Students who qualify must open a bank account (preferably SBI or any CBS-enabled bank).

State Education Department sends beneficiary list to the central portal.

Ministry verifies and sends funds to SBI.

SBI transfers ₹12,000 at once to the student’s bank account.

Scholarship is renewed each year if student meets renewal rules.

What Are the Renewal Rules for NMMS Goa?

To continue receiving the scholarship:

• Class 9 & 11: Must score 55% (50% for SC/ST).
• Class 10: Must score 60% (55% for SC/ST).
• Must be promoted to next class without break.
• Must remain a regular student in an eligible school.
• Cannot take up a job or enroll in diploma/certificate courses.
• No gap of one academic year, if gap occurs, scholarship stops permanently.

What Courses Are Eligible for Scholarship?

• Students must take up:
  • Full-time schooling
• Approved courses in Classes 9 to 12

Scholarship is not applicable for:

• Diploma courses
• Certificate programs
• Studies abroad

What Happens If A Student Misses the Exam Due to Illness?

If a student is unable to appear for the annual examination due to serious illness:

• They must submit a medical certificate from a registered doctor within 3 months.
• Must show overall yearly performance of at least 50%.

Only then can the scholarship continue.

Important Rules Students Must Remember

• Must join the next class within 3 months after results.
• Scholarship cannot be revived once discontinued.
• No arrears paid after 12 months.
• Must maintain good conduct.
• Must attend school regularly.

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Conclusion

This scholarship is a golden opportunity for hardworking and deserving students in Goa to receive financial support throughout their secondary and higher secondary education. With clear eligibility conditions, a transparent exam process, and a yearly scholarship of ₹12,000, this scheme truly empowers students from economically weaker backgrounds.

Students and parents should stay updated through the Goa Education Department announcements for dates and application details.