Government of India introduced the National Overseas Scholarship for Students with Disabilities, a powerful initiative aimed at creating equal educati

National Overseas Scholarship For Students With Disabilities – Eligibility, Benefits, Application Process & Documents

Studying abroad is a dream for many students, but for students with disabilities, the journey can be even more challenging. Financial limitations, accessibility barriers, and lack of support often prevent talented individuals from pursuing higher education in international universities. To bridge this gap, the Government of India introduced the National Overseas Scholarship for Students with Disabilities, a powerful initiative aimed at creating equal educational opportunities for all.

This scholarship is offered by the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment and is specially designed for students with benchmark disabilities who want to pursue Master’s or Ph.D. programs abroad. The scheme provides extensive financial support, covering tuition fees, travel expenses, maintenance allowance, insurance, and more. By removing financial burdens, the scholarship allows students to focus on their academic and personal growth without worrying about the cost of studying overseas.

The main objective of this scheme is not just education, but empowerment. It helps students build skills, gain global exposure, and achieve independence while preparing them for better career opportunities. With comprehensive benefits and strong government backing, the scholarship plays an important role in promoting inclusivity and equal access to global education.

In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the National Overseas Scholarship for Students with Disabilities, including eligibility criteria, benefits, application process, and required documents in simple and easy-to-understand language.

Scholarship Name	National Overseas Scholarship for Students with Disabilities
Launched By	Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India
Beneficiaries	Students with 40%+ disability
Courses Covered	Master’s and Ph.D. abroad
Age Limit	Up to 35 years
Income Limit	₹6 lakh per year
Tuition Fees	Fully covered (actual amount)
Maintenance Allowance	$15,400 (USA/others), £9,900 (UK)
Application Mode	Offline
Application Validity	Accepted throughout the year

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What is National Overseas Scholarship (NOS)?

The National Overseas Scholarship is a government-funded program for students with disabilities who want to pursue higher education abroad. It supports regular, full-time courses like:

• Master’s Degree

• Ph.D. Programs

The scheme is implemented by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD).

It aims to empower students with disabilities so they can gain skills, earn a livelihood, and live with dignity in society.

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Who Can Apply?

This scholarship is meant for students with disabilities defined under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.

Eligible disability categories include:

• Visual impairment

• Hearing impairment

• Speech disability

• Locomotor disability

• Intellectual disability

• Multiple disabilities

The disability percentage must be 40% or above.

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Key Benefits of the Scholarship

The National Overseas Scholarship provides extensive financial support covering almost all study-related expenses.

1. Annual Maintenance Allowance

• USA & other countries (except UK): $15,400 per year

• United Kingdom: £9,900 per year

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2. Contingency Allowance

• USA & other countries: $1,500 per year

• UK: £1,100 per year

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3. Tuition Fees

• Fully covered (actual amount charged by university)

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4. Travel Support

• Economy class air travel (India to foreign university and return)

• Local travel expenses covered

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5. Other Benefits

• Visa fees (actual)

• Medical insurance premium

• Equipment allowance

• Poll tax (if applicable)

• Incidental allowances

This makes it one of the most comprehensive scholarships offered by the Indian government.

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Eligibility Criteria

To apply for this scholarship, you must meet the following conditions:

• Must be a student with 40% or more disability

• Must have admission (or offer letter) for:

  • Master’s or Ph.D. abroad

• Age must be 35 years or below

• Family income must not exceed ₹6 lakh per year

• University must be recognized by the authorized body of that country

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Who is NOT Eligible?

You cannot apply if:

• You are pursuing Bachelor’s level courses

• You already studied abroad using another scholarship

• You are applying for the same degree level again

• You are receiving another scholarship/stipend simultaneously

• More than two children from the same parents apply (except twins)

Also, the scholarship is only given once for a specific level (Master’s or Ph.D.).

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Application Process (Offline)

Unlike many schemes, the National Overseas Scholarship currently follows an offline application process.

Step 1: Download Application Form

Download the form from the official website:
http://disabilityaffairs.gov.in

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Step 2: Fill the Form

Carefully fill all required details and attach necessary documents.

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Step 3: Send Application by Post

Send the completed application to:

Under Secretary (Scholarships)
Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities
Room No. 516, 5th Floor
Pt. Deendayal Antyodaya Bhawan
CGO Complex, Lodhi Road
New Delhi – 110003

📌 Applications are accepted throughout the year.

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Documents Required

Applicants must submit the following documents:

• Completed application form (in duplicate)

• Birth certificate or Class 10 certificate (age proof)

• Disability certificate

• Aadhaar Card

• Voter ID

• PAN card (applicant and parents/guardian)

• Bank account details linked with Aadhaar

• Proof of residence

• Educational certificates and mark sheets

• Income certificate and ITR copies

• Admission letter from foreign university

• Study plan (up to 500 words)

• Self-declaration (not availing other scholarship)

Make sure all documents are self-attested.

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Important Rules

Here are some key conditions to remember:

• Scholarship is available only once per course level

• No scholarship for repeating a year

• Students cannot hold two scholarships simultaneously

• You can accept additional help only for books or accommodation

These rules ensure fair distribution of benefits.

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Why This Scholarship Matters

Students with disabilities often face:

• Financial barriers

• Accessibility challenges

• Social limitations

This scholarship helps bridge that gap by giving equal opportunities for global education. It encourages independence, confidence, and professional growth.

By studying abroad, students can gain international exposure and better career opportunities.

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Final Words

The National Overseas Scholarship for Students with Disabilities is a life-changing opportunity for eligible students who dream of studying abroad. With full financial support, it removes the biggest barrier — cost.

If you or someone you know meets the eligibility criteria, don’t miss this chance. Prepare your documents, secure admission in a foreign university, and apply for the scholarship.

This scheme not only supports education but also empowers individuals to live with dignity and independence.