National Scholarship Portal (NSP) 2.0 – The National Scholarship Portal (NSP) 2.0 is a revamped platform with an updated web version now. It features a redesigned homepage along with several new features. It has now been made live and accessible to the public. Newly added features allow students to register online for OTR on the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) conveniently. The NSP application, including OTR, leverages cutting-edge technologies and boasts of an enhanced user interface. The NSP portal is now open for one-time registration as well as application for fresh and renewal scholarships. A new mobile app has also been launched incorporating the newly added features.
As we are aware of the fact that National Scholarship Portal (NSP) 2.0 is being implemented as a ‘Mission Mode Project’ under the National e-Governance Plan (NeGP), it has come a long way. According to data released for the academic year 2023, the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) is currently managing around 150 scholarship schemes valued at several hundreds of crores and it has facilitated disbursal of scholarships worth ₹1824.21 crores. The platform has processed over 135.17 lakh applications along with a count of 33.95 lakh verified applications.
Over a shorter duration NSP 2.0 has emerged as a transformative platform embracing state-of-the-art technologies and consolidating various scholarship schemes offered by ministries and their departments, state governments including other public agencies. By streamlining the application process and ensuring efficient disbursement of funds, NSP has revolutionised the way the scholarship ecosystem works.
NSP 2024 – Latest Changes
- Introduction of One Time Registration (OTR): This is a new feature introduced in order to simplify the application process. Once registered, students can use the uniquely allotted OTR for all subsequent scholarship applications throughout his or her academic life cycle. It must be pointed out that OTR is required on NSP for submission of fresh and renewal applications. The OTR Module will remain available to students across the year. OTR is a unique 14-digit number which is issued on the basis of Aadhaar/Aadhaar Enrolment ID (EID). It has been made mandatory in order to apply for the scholarship on NSP. Upon successful completion of the OTR process, an OTR_ID is issued which will remain valid for the entire academic life cycle of the student as already mentioned. On submission of an application, the System will generate an Application ID against the OTR_ID. This is to ensure that not more than one Application_ID remains active against an OTR_ID at any point in time.
- Aadhaar Linking/Seeding: Aadhaar verification process has been revamped incorporating enhanced security measures. It is important to mention that linking Aadhaar with your mobile number is different from seeding it with your Bank A/C which is essential for students to avail the benefits of the NSP Scholarship 2024. The process of linking Aadhaar is simple and can be completed online.
National Scholarship Portal (NSP) 2.0 – Types of Scholarships
The National Scholarship Portal (NSP) serves as a comprehensive platform for students from diverse backgrounds. It houses a plethora of scholarship schemes catering to different categories, including:
- Merit-based Scholarships: Merit-based scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional abilities in specific areas. Unlike need-based scholarships, which consider financial need, merit scholarships recognise and reward talent and achievement.
- Need-based Scholarships: Need-based scholarships are financial awards given to students based on their demonstrated financial need. These scholarships aim to make higher education more accessible to students who might not otherwise be able to afford it. Eligibility for need-based scholarships is typically determined by evaluating the student’s family’s financial situation, including income, assets, and other relevant factors.
- Minority Scholarships: Minority scholarships are financial aid specifically designed to support students from the minority communities notified under Section 2 (c) of the National Commission for Minorities Act, 1992. These include Muslims, Sikhs, Christians, Buddhists, Jain and Zorastrians (Parsis). These scholarships aim to promote diversity and inclusion in promotion of education by providing financial assistance to students.
- Disability Scholarships: Disability scholarships are financial awards specifically designed to support students faced with disabilities. These scholarships aim to reduce financial barriers and promote equal access to education for individuals with physical, mental, or learning disabilities.
- Pre-Matric and Post-Matric Scholarships: Pre-matric and post-matric scholarships are financial aid programs designed to support students at different stages of their education.
- Pre-matric scholarships are awarded to students from Class I to Class X, aiming to encourage school enrolment and reduce dropout rates by alleviating the financial burden on families. These scholarships cover costs incurred on tuition fees, books, uniforms, and other educational expenses.
- Post-matric scholarships, on the other hand, are intended for students pursuing their studies in Class XI and onwards, including undergraduate, postgraduate, and professional courses. These scholarships help students continue their education beyond high school by covering costs incurred on tuition fees including maintenance allowances, and other related expenses.
- National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMMSS) – Under the NMMSS scholarships are awarded to meritorious students of economically weaker sections to arrest their drop out in Class 8 and encourage them to continue their education up to the secondary stage. One lakh fresh scholarships are awarded to selected students from Class 9 every year and their continuation/renewal in Class 10 to 12 for pursuing their studies in State Government, Government-aided and local body schools. The amount of the scholarship is ₹12000 per annum. NMMSS scholarships are disbursed directly into the bank accounts of selected students by electronic transfer through the Public Financial Management System (PFMS) following DBT mode. The National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMMSS) is boarded on the National Scholarship Portal (NSP). This is a 100% centrally funded scheme. Students whose parental income from all sources is not more than ₹3,50,000 per annum are eligible to avail the scholarship benefits. The students must have a minimum of 55% marks or equivalent grade in the Class 7 examination to appear in the selection test for the award of a scholarship (relaxable by 5% for students from SC/ST categories).
By providing a unified platform for all these scholarships, NSP simplifies the application process and reduces the burden on students.
National Scholarship Portal (NSP) 2.0 – Key Features
- Centralised Application Process: The students can apply for multiple scholarships on a single platform, saving time and effort.
- Online Verification: The portal employs robust verification mechanisms to ensure transparency and authenticity.
- Real-time Tracking: The students can monitor the status of their applications and scholarship disbursement.
- Secure Payment System: Safe and efficient transfer of scholarship funds directly to students’ bank accounts.
- Comprehensive Information: Detailed information about eligibility criteria, documents required, and application deadlines is available on the portal.
National Scholarship Portal (NSP) 2.0 – Benefits
- Increased Accessibility: NSP has made scholarship opportunities accessible to students across the country, irrespective of their geographical location.
- Reduced Paperwork: The online application process minimises the need for physical documents, making it convenient for students.
- Faster Disbursement: Efficient processing of applications and direct bank transfers ensure timely disbursement of scholarship benefits.
- Transparency and Accountability: The portal promotes transparency by providing real-time information about the scholarship process.
- Data-Driven Decision Making: The collected data helps policymakers identify trends and allocate resources effectively.
राष्ट्रीय छात्रवृत्ति पोर्टल/नेशनल स्कॉलरशिप पोर्टल 2.0 – लाभ
- नेशनल स्कॉलरशिप पोर्टल (एनएसपी) पर सभी स्कॉलरशिप की जानकारी एक ही स्थान पर उपलब्ध है।
- आवेदक छात्रों को एक ही प्लेटफार्म पर स्कॉलरशिप और एप्लीकेशन प्रणाली की संपूर्ण जानकारी मिल जाती है।
- इस पोर्टल पर एक छात्र एक स्कीम के लिए केवल एक बार फॉर्म भर सकता है, जिससे डुप्लीकेट एप्लीकेशन्स की संभावना बहुत कम हो जाती है।
- नेशनल स्कॉलरशिप पोर्टल सभी छात्रों को उपयुक्त स्कॉलरशिप स्कीमों की जानकारी प्रदान करता है और यह विभिन्न मंत्रालयों और विभागों के निर्णय समर्थन प्रणाली के रूप में काम करता है, जिससे छात्रों को अपडेटेड जानकारी मिलती है।
National Scholarship Portal (NSP) 2.0 – Category of Schemes
The National Scholarship Portal is renowned for its extensive nationwide coverage, offering a broad range of scholarships for students from Class 1 to PhD level. The scholarships available on the NSP are primarily categorised into the following sections:
- Central Schemes
- UGC Schemes
- State Schemes
National Scholarship Portal (NSP) 2.0 – Central Schemes
Several departments under the Indian Government offer scholarships to help students achieve their academic goals without facing undue financial constraints. Prominent scholarship providers include the following:
- Department of Higher Education (DHE)
- Ministry of Labour & Employment
- Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD)
- Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA)
- Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MSJE)
- Ministry of Minority Affairs (MoMA), among others
Students interested in these opportunities can find a comprehensive list of NSP 2.0 scholarships offered by the central government in the table provided below.
National Scholarship Portal (NSP) 2.0 – UGC schemes
The University Grants Commission (UGC) is a statutory organisation of the Government of India engaged in coordination, determination and maintenance of standards of teaching, examination and research in university education. As an authoritative body, the UGC grants recognition to universities and advises the Central and State Governments on the measures which are necessary for the development of Higher Education. Additionally, the UGC provides various scholarship schemes for students pursuing higher education at the college level.
Available UGC schemes listed on the National Scholarship Portal for application are as under:
| Scholarship Schemes | Providers | Application Deadline |
| ISHAN UDAY – Special Scholarship Scheme for North Eastern Region | University Grants Commission (UGC) | 31st October 2024 |
| National Scholarship for Post-Graduate Studies | 31st October 2024 |
National Scholarship Portal (NSP) 2.0 – AICTE Schemes
The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) looks after the proper planning and co-ordinated development of a technical education system throughout the country. The purview of AICTE covers programmes of technical education including training and research at different levels. There are special scholarship schemes run by the AICTE to promote technical education.
The AICTE schemes available on the National Scholarship Portal are as follows:
| Scholarship Schemes | Providers | Application Deadline |
| Pragati Scholarship Scheme for Girls (Degree) for Technical Education | All India Council for Technical Education | 31st October 2024 |
| Pragati Scholarship Scheme for Girls (Diploma) for Technical Education | 31st October 2024 | |
| Saksham Scholarship Scheme for Differently Abled Students (Degree) for Technical Education | 31st October 2024 | |
| Saksham Scholarship Scheme for Differently Abled Students (Diploma) for Technical Education | 31st October 2024 | |
| AICTE – Swanath Scholarship Scheme (Technical Diploma/Degree) | 31st October 2024 |
National Scholarship Portal (NSP) 2.0 – List of Schemes of the States and UTs
Similar to the scholarship schemes provided by the central government, state governments also offer scholarships to students domiciled in their respective states. While many state governments distribute funds through their own scholarship portals, some prefer to invite applications via the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) too.
Currently, the NSP includes region-specific schemes from the following Indian States and Union Territories. They are as under:
States
- Assam
- Arunachal Pradesh
- Chhattisgarh
- Goa
- Himachal Pradesh
- Manipur
- Meghalaya
- Mizoram
- Punjab
- Sikkim
- Tripura
- Uttarakhand
Union Territories (UTs)
- Dadra Nagar Haveli & Daman and Diu
- Ladakh
- Lakshadweep
- Puducherry
- Andaman and Nicobar
- Chandigarh
- Jammu and Kashmir
Students can find the detailed list of state-level NSP scholarships in the table below.
Union Territories (UTs)
| Jammu and Kashmir | Post-Matric Scholarship to ST Students | 26th June 2024 |
| Centrally Sponsored Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme for SC Students | 26th June 2024 | |
| Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Post-Matric Scholarship For SC Students | 26th June 2024 | |
| Umbrella Scheme for Education of ST Students, Pre-Matric Scholarship | 26th June 2024 |
National Scholarship Portal (NSP) 2.0 – Introduction of OTR
This year, NSP has introduced the functionality of OTR to simplify the scholarship application process for future years. So, before proceeding to the registration and application process, here is an overview of OTR.
One Time Registration (OTR) is a mandatory process on the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) for all scholarship applicants. It is a unique 14-digit number assigned to a student based on their Aadhaar or Aadhaar Enrolment ID. Once obtained, the OTR will remain valid for the entire academic career. Students can use their OTR to apply for various scholarships offered on the NSP. The OTR process involves inclusion of basic student information, academic details, and Aadhaar-based verification for a secure and streamlined application experience.
Key points about OTR!
- OTR is mandatory for applying for various scholarship schemes on the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) and other similar portals.
- A valid mobile number is essential for completing the OTR process.
- Each student has a distinct OTR number.
- It is valid for the entire academic career, so students only need to register once.
- OTR registration is free of cost.
- Students need to complete face authentication to get the OTR number.
- It eliminates the need to re-enter details, reducing the chances of mistakes.
Steps for Registration
- Visit the NSP Portal: Go to https://scholarships.gov.in/
- Register: Create a new account or log in if you already have one.
- Provide Details: Fill in your personal details, including Aadhaar number or Aadhaar Enrolment ID.
- Reference Number: A reference number will be sent to your registered mobile number.
- Install NSP OTR App: Download and install the NSP OTR app from the Google Play Store.
- Face Authentication: Perform face authentication using the generated reference number through the NSP OTR app.
- OTR Generation: Upon successful face authentication, your OTR will be generated.
National Scholarship Portal (NSP) 2.0 – Latest Application Procedure
To access and apply for various scholarships, students must register on the National Scholarship Portal (NSP). It is essential for students to understand the application process through the scholarship portal.
Before applying for a scholarship, students must ensure their current educational institution is registered on the portal. If the institution is not registered, the student will be unable to apply for any scholarships. The portal also allows institutions to register themselves if they are not already listed.
To apply for an NSP scholarship through the national scholarship portal, candidates should follow these steps:
Step 1: One Time Registration (OTR)
- Visit the official NSP website.
- Click on ‘Apply for One Time Registration (OTR)’ option.
- For new users, click on the option ‘Register Yourself’.
- A page of Guidelines for Registration on NSP will open.
- Go through the guidelines carefully.
- Click on ‘Next’ to proceed.
- Fill in your mobile number and click on OTP.
- Enter the OTP generated and shared.
- Fill in the Captcha and click on the Verify tab.
Step 2: Complete the eKYC Update Option
- Select any of the 3 options present at the top of the eKYC update section.
- If you have an Aadhaar card, enter the Aadhaar number and click on OTP.
- Enter the OTP, and fill in the Captcha.
- Finally, click on Verify.
- The process will be the same for the ‘Aadhaar not assigned (I have EID)’ option and ‘Aadhaar not assigned (I have EID)’ option.
- Fill in the asked details like name, gender, date of birth, parents name, and email ID.
- After completing all the details and selecting the Verify option from any of the three choices given above, you will be able to enter your basic information.
Step 3: Completing the Registration Process
Once you complete all the steps including the eKYC update, the process of registration will be done and you will be able to see the final page with the message and your registration number.
Step 4: Logging in at the National Scholarship Portal
- Click on the login tab.
- Enter the application ID and password received on the registered number.
- Once you successfully log in, you will be able to view the confirmation pop up.
Step 5: Initiating the Application Process
- After logging in, click on the Apply Fresh option to apply for a scholarship opportunity.
- You can continue with your application after clicking the ‘I Agree’ button.
- Fill in the details carefully and click on Submit.
- Once the application is submitted from Apply Fresh, it will be available on the My Applications Listing Page.
- Click on the Proceed tab to complete the application process.
Step 6: Fill in the Application Details
- Fill in all registration details, academic details and other necessary details in the following mandatory sections:
- General Information
- Academic Details
- Application Specific
- Scheme Available
- Scheme Specific Details
- Upload Document(s)
- Click on ‘Next’ after completing every section.
- Once confirmed, click on the ‘Final Submit’ tab.
- Once applications are submitted, they cannot be edited. Therefore, applicants are advised to carefully review their information before clicking on the final submission, as no changes will be allowed afterwards.
- A confirmation pop-up will appear after the application submission.
National Scholarship Portal (NSP) 2.0 – How to Withdraw Application?
The applicants have the option to withdraw their application at any time. If you need to modify any field that is already locked after starting the application, you can withdraw it and make the necessary changes.
Changing domicile state, scholarship category, or application type requires withdrawing the current application and submitting a new one.
- The option to withdraw an application will appear when you click on the ‘Submit/Withdraw/Revoke’ button on the My Applications Page. It is important to note that you can only withdraw applications that are currently active.
- Once the page opens after clicking on the Proceed tab, you will find the Withdraw Application option.
- When the Withdraw Application page opens, enter the application ID, name of the applicant and the reason for withdrawal.
- Withdrawal options are shown hereafter:
- When you click the ‘Withdraw’ button, a confirmation will be requested.
- Upon confirming, you will see a confirmation message indicating that the application has been withdrawn. The application status on the ‘My Applications’ page will be updated to ‘Withdrawn’.
- You will be able to see your profile from this option.
National Scholarship Portal (NSP) 2.0 – Key Services
In addition to applying for scholarships, the portal offers a range of services for both students and institutions. Users can explore all available services through the ‘Services Section’ on the NSP portal. Key services include:
- NSP 2.0 User Manual – It provides a comprehensive guide to navigating NSP, detailing the registration and application processes for students.
- Scheme Eligibility – This feature allows students to filter scholarship schemes based on specific criteria, such as State/UTs of domicile, course level, religion, caste/category, gender, parental income, disability status, and captcha code.
- Aadhaar Seva Kendra – The National Scholarship Portal (NSP) offers a convenient Aadhaar Seva Kendra option for students. This feature simplifies the scholarship application process by enabling seamless integration of Aadhaar details. By utilising this service, students can efficiently verify their identity and other relevant information, streamlining the overall application and disbursement of scholarships.
- Check Bank Account (Aadhaar Linked) – The National Scholarship Portal’s ‘Check Bank Account (Aadhaar Linked)’ option is a crucial feature for scholarship recipients. This function allows students to verify if their Aadhaar-linked bank account is correctly registered for scholarship disbursement. By utilising this option, applicants can ensure a seamless and timely transfer of funds, reducing delays and discrepancies. It’s a convenient tool that promotes transparency and efficiency in the scholarship application process.
- Scheme-wise State Nodal Officers – It enables students to view state nodal officers associated with the scheme they are applying for, such as those for UGC schemes.
- Know the AISHE Code – It provides the ability to check AISHE codes for schools, colleges, or institutions registered on NSP by entering the institution type, state, district (optional), and university type (optional).
- Get AISHE Code for the Institute – It allows unregistered institutions to register by completing the provided form.
- List of Applicants Processed for Scholarship – It lists the selected scholarship applicants. Users can filter by academic year, application type, ministry, scheme, state, and district.
- Search Nodal Officer Details – This feature provides contact details for nodal officers across ministries, states, or districts.
- District Nodal Officer Details List – It offers a district-wise list of nodal officers for students to browse.
- Institute Operational Manual – It provides institutions with a manual on filling out the registration form, updating profiles, and removing DISE/AISHE/NCVT codes.
National Scholarship Portal (NSP) 2.0 – Helpdesk
The National Scholarship Portal (NSP) offers a dedicated helpdesk to assist students and institutions with inquiries and issues related to the scholarship application process. This support channel provides essential guidance on eligibility criteria, application procedures, document uploads, status tracking, and payment-related concerns.
Email – helpdesk@nsp.gov.in
Contact Number – 0120 – 6619540 (8:00 AM to 8:00 PM on all days, except government holidays)
National Scholarship Portal (NSP) 2.0 – FAQs
What is the last date to apply for scholarship schemes 2024 listed on NSP?
The application deadlines vary depending on the specific scholarship. Students can find the exact deadline for each scholarship mentioned in the article above.
Who can apply for NSP Scholarships?
Eligibility criteria for NSP scholarships differ for each scholarship. Candidates should check the individual scholarship details to understand their eligibility. These scholarships are available for students from Class 1 to 12, as well as for undergraduate, postgraduate, PhD, and Postdoctoral students. Scholarships for SC, ST, OBC, EBC, and minority communities are also listed.
Can the students apply for scholarships from NSP 2.0 anytime during the year of admission?
No, students must apply online on the NSP within the specified period before the application deadline displayed on the website.
What is One-Time Registration (OTR) number?
OTR is a unique number issued after completing eKYC via mobile registration, simplifying access to multiple services. It remains valid throughout the student’s academic career.
What are the benefits of One-Time Registration (OTR)?
OTR streamlines the registration process, eliminates repetitive entries, provides a stable identifier, and enhances the user experience by making service access easier.
Which portals use One-Time Registration?
The NSP has introduced this feature in 2024 and going forward state portals may begin to use OTR in near future in order to simplify registration and prevent duplication.
Is One-Time Registration mandatory on NSP?
Yes, OTR is required for all services on NSP and is necessary for login and face authentication.
What are the documents needed for OTR?
The basic required documents are: Active mobile number, Aadhaar, and NPCI seeding status. Without Aadhaar, an enrolment slip or parent’s Aadhaar is required.
Which classes or courses are eligible for scholarships meant for students with disabilities (SwDs)?
Pre-Matric Scheme for SwDs: Students in Class IX and X enrolled in government or government-recognised schools, including those recognised by Central/State Boards. Post-Matric Scheme for SwDs: Students from Class XI onwards up to Post-graduate degree/diploma courses, whether full-time or distance education, are eligible. However, students repeating the same educational level in a different subject are not eligible, except for those pursuing professional courses like LLB/B.Ed./B.El.Ed. after graduation. Top Class Education for SwDs: Postgraduate students in 240 notified institutes as per the scheme’s guidelines are eligible.
Is Aadhaar a mandatory requirement for all NSP 2.0 scholarships?
Yes, an Aadhaar number is required to apply for any NSP scholarship. Students without an Aadhaar number must enrol for one and register using the Aadhaar enrolment ID.
What is the main objective of the National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMMSS)?
The NMMSS aims to support meritorious students from economically weaker sections by preventing dropouts after Class 8 and encouraging them to continue their education up to the secondary level.
How many scholarships are awarded under NMMSS each year?
Every year, one lakh fresh scholarships are awarded to Class 9 students, which can be renewed for Classes 10 to 12.
What is the scholarship amount provided under NMMSS?
The scholarship amount is ₹12,000 per annum, directly disbursed into the students’ bank accounts via the Public Financial Management System (PFMS) in the DBT mode.
What are the eligibility criteria for NMMSS?
Students must have a parental income not exceeding ₹3,50,000 per annum. They should have obtained at least 55% marks in Class 7 (with a 5% relaxation for SC/ST students) to qualify for the scholarship.
What role does the UGC play in higher education in India?
The UGC is a statutory organisation that coordinates, determines, and maintains standards in university education, while also advising the Central and State Governments on the development of higher education.
What are the UGC scholarship schemes available on NSP 2.0?
The available UGC scholarship schemes are the ISHAN UDAY – Special Scholarship Scheme for the North Eastern Region and the National Scholarship for Post-Graduate Studies, both with a deadline of 31st October 2024.
What is the primary focus of AICTE?
AICTE focuses on the planning and coordinated development of technical education, including training and research across various levels in India.
Which AICTE scholarship schemes are available on NSP 2.0?
Available AICTE scholarship schemes include Pragati Scholarship for Girls (Degree/Diploma), Saksham Scholarship for Differently Abled Students (Degree/Diploma), and the Swanath Scholarship Scheme (Technical Diploma/Degree), all with a 31st October 2024 deadline.
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