Kerala students have hours left to register for the National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Examination. The official portal states applications close at 5 PM on October 5, 2026. The scheme awards ₹12,000 a year to eligible students studying in government or aided schools. Headmaster verification remains open until October 7, 5 PM.
The rush matters because missed registrations cannot be reopened at school level. Students anxious about eligibility or portal snags should apply now and allow time for school verification. The portal message confirms both the candidate cut-off and the separate headmaster deadline, so families can sequence steps confidently before the server gets busy.

Applicants must be regular Class 8 students in government or aided schools under Kerala. Residential or adopted schools are ineligible. Parental income must not exceed ₹3,50,000 annually. Candidates should have at least 55 percent in the previous Class 7 exam, with a five percent relaxation for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
Visit the NMMSE portal, choose New Registration, and create a candidate account using mobile and email. Log in, complete personal and school details, upload required files, and submit. Track status under Candidate Login. Headmasters must verify submissions by October 7, 5 PM. No application fee is indicated on the registration portal.
Keep a recent passport photo, previous year’s Class 7 mark statement, parental income certificate, and community or disability certificates if applicable. Ensure the registered mobile number is active for updates. After state selection, students must claim the award on the National Scholarship Portal, which requires One-Time Registration; the current NSP window runs till October 31, 2026.
The state test comprises two papers: Mental Ability Test and Scholastic Aptitude Test. Together, candidates must score 40 percent to qualify, or 32 percent for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. Each paper typically carries 90 questions. Admit cards are issued through schools; final dates will appear under Notifications.
| Milestone | Date and time |
|---|---|
| Registration deadline | October 5, 2026, 5 PM |
| Headmaster verification | October 7, 2026, 5 PM |
| Admit card release | Through schools; date to be announced |
| Exam date | To be announced on the NMMSE portal |
If you meet the criteria, register today and alert your school for timely verification. Save your login credentials, keep documents handy, and monitor the portal’s Notifications tab for the admit card and exam schedule. A prompt application safeguards your shot at the ₹12,000 annual scholarship this academic year.