National Overseas Scholarship Scheme data shows that around 580 students received financial assistance to pursue higher education abroad between 2019-20 and 2025-26. The figures were shared by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment in Parliament. Maharashtra recorded the highest number of beneficiaries, with 234 students, accounting for more than two-fifths of the total. Delhi and Uttar Pradesh followed with 40 beneficiaries each, while Gujarat recorded 39. The number of beneficiaries peaked at 114 in 2023-24 before falling to 80 in 2024-25. In 2025-26, 78 students had benefited from the scheme as of August 6, 2026. The government is now taking steps to increase awareness and has moved the scholarship application process to the unified SAMAVESH portal. The scheme provides financial assistance to eligible students from disadvantaged communities pursuing higher education abroad.
