New Delhi.
The University Grants Commission (UGC) has opened the application window for the National Scholarship for Post Graduate Studies for the 2026–27 academic session. Hosted on the central National Scholarship Portal (NSP), this initiative provides financial aid to meritorious Indian students pursuing regular, full-time postgraduate degree programs.
Eligible first-year postgraduate students can submit their online applications until October 31, 2026.
Scheme Key Highlights
| Parameter | Scheme Details |
| Scholarship Name | National Scholarship for Post Graduate Studies |
| Academic Session | 2026–27 |
| Implementing Body | University Grants Commission (UGC) |
| Application Portal | National Scholarship Portal (NSP) |
| Application Mode | Online Only |
| Application Start Date | September 16, 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | October 31, 2026 |
| Financial Support | ₹1,50,000 per year (₹15,000/month for 10 months) |
| Maximum Tenure | 2 Years (Total ₹3,00,000) |
| Total Annual Slots | 10,000 |
| Maximum Age Limit | 30 Years |
| Course Level & Mode | Postgraduate (Regular / Full-Time) |
Key Dates & Verification Schedule
- Online Application Starts: September 16, 2026
- Student Application Submission Deadline: October 31, 2026
- Defective Application Rectification Deadline: November 15, 2026
- Institute Level Verification Deadline: November 15, 2026
- District/State Nodal Officer (L2) Verification: November 30, 2026
Detailed Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must fulfill the following UGC requirements before applying:
- First-Year PG Admission: Candidates must be admitted to the first year of a recognized postgraduate degree course during the 2026–27 academic year. Students in their second or final year are not eligible for fresh applications.
- First Postgraduate Degree: The scheme is strictly applicable to students pursuing their first PG degree. Those who already hold a master’s degree cannot apply.
- Regular Study Mode: The degree must be pursued through regular, full-time classroom study in an eligible higher education institution. Distance, open learning, part-time, or private courses are excluded.
- Eligible Institutions: Institutions must possess a valid AISHE Code and be recognized under Section 2(f) or 3 of the UGC Act, 1956.
- Integrated Courses: For dual-degree/integrated programs, scholarship support is applicable solely to the postgraduate component.
- Age Requirement: The candidate’s age must not exceed 30 years as of the date of admission.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Documents Required for Verification
Keep the following details and certificates ready for institutional verification:
- 14-Digit NSP OTR Number
- Class 10, Class 12, and Graduation Marksheets
- First-Year Postgraduate Admission Proof / Fee Receipt
- College Identity Card or Bonafide Student Certificate
- Aadhaar-seeded Active Bank Account Details
- Domicile Certificate (if requested by portal)
Related News & Links
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the annual financial aid offered under this scheme?
Selected students receive ₹1,50,000 per year (distributed as ₹15,000 per month for 10 months each academic year) for up to 2 years.
Is OTR mandatory on the National Scholarship Portal?
Yes, generating a 14-digit One-Time Registration (OTR) number is required before filling out any scholarship form on NSP.
What is the deadline to apply for the 2026–27 session?
The final date for student submission on NSP is October 31, 2026.
DISCLAIMER: This article is for informational purposes only. Applicants are advised to consult the official National Scholarship Portal (scholarships.gov.in) and official UGC guidelines for updates and confirmation.
