The State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) in Bihar has officially opened applications for the 2025 National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMMS).
This initiative, designed to support meritorious students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, provides financial assistance to selected students as they pursue higher education. Eligible students currently studying in Class 8 across Bihar are encouraged to apply.
Who is Eligible?
The scholarship is available for students in Class 8 who have maintained a minimum academic performance of 55% in Class 7. However, the threshold is lowered to 50% for students from Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) communities. Additionally, applicants’ families must have an annual income below ₹1.5 lakhs. These criteria ensure that the program targets students who demonstrate academic promise but may lack the financial means to continue their education without assistance.
Application Process and Key Dates
The application process, which began immediately upon the SCERT’s announcement, allows eligible students to apply online through the official SCERT Bihar website (scert.bihar.gov.in). The last date to apply and the examination date are expected to be announced soon, giving students time to prepare. The application fee is set at ₹100 for students from General and OBC categories, while SC/ST applicants will pay a reduced cost of ₹50.
Once the application is submitted, students will receive updates on examination schedules and other critical dates from SCERT.
The NMMS program awards approximately 100,000 scholarships annually across India, with selected students receiving ₹12,000 annually from Class 9 to Class 12. This financial aid helps students meet essential educational expenses, reducing the likelihood of financial barriers interrupting their studies.
Through programs like the NMMS, the Bihar government aims to elevate the educational landscape by enabling more students to complete their schooling. By focusing on merit and need, the NMMS program ensures a fair distribution of scholarships to those who might otherwise face barriers to continuing their education.
Interested students and parents can find further details or seek clarification by contacting SCERT Bihar directly. The organisation has provided a helpline number (0612-2233333) and an email address (
As applications roll in, SCERT Bihar anticipates a strong response, reflecting the need and enthusiasm for education among Bihar’s youth. Eligible students are encouraged to apply promptly to secure their chance for support and join the ranks of NMMS scholars nationwide.