National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) 2026: 125 Fully Funded Study Abroad Scholarships for Indian Students
National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) 2026The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has announced 125 annual awards. The move comes under the National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) scheme. This is projected to support study abroad 2026 for underrepresented communities. Meritorious students from deprived sections of the society can avail these scholarships to fund their higher education abroad. Students can get admission in more than 500 global universities through these study abroad scholarships.
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This scheme targets candidates from:
- Scheduled Castes (SC)
- De-notified
- Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Tribes (DNTs)
- landless agricultural labourers
- traditional artisan families
Study abroad for Indian students 2026 is now more accessible and inclusive via these scholarships.
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What Is the National Overseas Scholarship (NOS)?
The National Overseas Scholarship is a flagship study abroad scholarship. It is given to Indian students with financial support. Students can get these scholarships for Master’s and PhD programmes at foreign universities. Talented students can improve their socio-economic status with these study abroad scholarships.
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It is a golden opportunity for low-income background students to get access to global education.
Who Can Apply for Study Abroad Scholarships?
If you are planning to pursue postgraduate studies abroad, you can apply. Here’s the eligibility for NOS scholarships:
- Minimum 60% marks in the qualifying exam
- Age below 35 years (as on April 1 of selection year)
- Family income under Rs 8 lakh yearly
- For Master’s: Bachelor’s degree
- For PhD: Master’s degree
Study Abroad Scholarships: Latest Announcements
Other Countries also offer scholarships to encourage international students:
Number of Scholarships and Category-Wise Distribution
A total of 125 study abroad scholarships are given per year. This matrix is subject to change. 30% reservation is given for women candidates:
Category | Number of Slots |
Scheduled Castes (SC) | 115 |
DNTs (De-notified, Nomadic, Semi-Nomadic Tribes) | 6 |
Landless labourers & traditional artisans | 4 |
Total | 125 |
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Courses and Universities Covered
This scheme is only for higher education:
- Master’s programmes
- PhD courses
Note: Undergraduate courses do not come under this. If you have got admission in top 500 global ranked universities, you will get the preference.
Financial Benefits Under the Scheme
Selected candidates get comprehensive financial support. Therefore, it is one of the most attractive study abroad scholarships. Students get:
- Full tuition fees
- Annual maintenance allowance
- Contingency allowance
- Visa fees and medical insurance
- Economy class airfare
Duration of scholarship:
- Master’s: 3 years
- PhD: 4 years
How Are Funds Disbursed?
Indian Missions abroad manages the funds:
- Tuition fees are paid to universities
- Students get the allowance
Indian Mission ensures transparency and financial management.
Application Process and Selection
The official NOS portal accepts the application. The selection is based on two phases
Selection happens in two phases:
- First round: February-March
- Second round: September-October
Selection Criteria:
- University rankings
- Academic performance
Conditions Applicants Must Know
For study abroad scholarship for Indian students application, students must follow these:
- No existing study funded by government schemes
- Maximum two children per family
- Admission offer is mandatory
- Candidates must return to India once their studies are completed
Why This Matters for Indian Students
Study abroad demand is growing among Indian students. NOS makes it achievable for disadvantaged backgrounds. Students can get major expenses covered. It prioritises top-ranked institutions. Students can overcome financial barriers and open doors to world-class education.
Final Word
If your aim is to study abroad in 2026, but are worried about costs, these scholarships are your savior. The National Overseas Scholarship is a pathway to global opportunity. You can get global exposure, career growth, and long-term impact. Candidates must track application dates and deadlines. These competitive study abroad scholarships programmes are more than financial aids.