NSP Scholarships for Merit-Based (All Categories)
Two major NSP schemes are awarded on merit rather than community affiliation. The Central Sector Scheme of Scholarships (CSSS) from the Ministry of Education rewards students who scored in the top 20 percentile of their state board in Class 12, with the only financial criterion being family income below ₹8 lakh — the highest income ceiling of any major NSP scheme. The PM Scholarship Scheme for CAPF/RPF wards requires no income proof at all and is based entirely on the parent's service record and the student's academic marks at entry. Both schemes are particularly well-structured for disbursement and have among the lowest rejection rates on NSP.
Scholarship Schemes for Merit-Based (All Categories)
Who Qualifies
- CSSS: scored in top 20 percentile of state board Class 12 examination
- CSSS: annual family income must not exceed ₹8 lakh
- PMSS-CAPF: ward or widow of CAPF, RPF, or Assam Rifles personnel
- PMSS-CAPF: minimum 60% marks in qualifying examination
- PMSS-CAPF: enrolled in a recognised professional degree course in the first year
Documents Commonly Required
Most schemes in this category require the following documents. Some schemes may need additional certificates — check each scheme's detail page for specifics.
- Class 12 marksheet with rank / top-20-percentile proof (for CSSS)
- Parent's CAPF / RPF service or discharge certificate (for PMSS-CAPF)
- Relationship certificate with serving/ex-personnel
- Aadhaar card
- Aadhaar-seeded bank passbook
- Admission letter and fee structure from institution
For CSSS, your state board must publish the 20 percentile cut-off score — this is different from rank or percentage. Check the board's official website or ask your school before applying; incorrect self-assessment of eligibility is the most common reason for CSSS rejection.
Other NSP Scholarship Categories
Ready to Apply on NSP?
Applications are submitted free of charge on the official portal. Mahadev Maitri Foundation publishes free guides to help students navigate the process.