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PMSS 2025-26 Complete Guide: Eligibility, Application & December 31 Deadline

Bharat

31 October 2025

Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme (PMSS) 2025-26: Complete Guide for Ex-Servicemen and Their Wards

The Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme (PMSS) is a prestigious government initiative designed to support the dependent wards and widows of Ex-Servicemen and Ex-Coast Guard personnel in pursuing higher technical and professional education. Administered by the Kendriya Sainik Board (KSB) under the Ministry of Defence, this scholarship program has been transforming lives since its inception in the academic year 2006-07.

Funded entirely through the National Defence Fund, the PMSS scholarship recognizes the sacrifices made by defence personnel and their families by providing substantial financial assistance for quality education. This comprehensive guide will help you understand every aspect of the PMSS application process, eligibility criteria, benefits, and how to successfully apply for this scholarship.

IMPORTANT UPDATE – DEADLINE CHANGE

ATTENTION: The application deadline for PMSS 2025-26 has been EXTENDED to 31 DECEMBER 2025 (not November 30 as previously announced). This extension provides additional time for eligible students to submit their applications. Please refer to the official KSB news and announcements for the latest updates.

Why PMSS Was Introduced

Service conditions of Armed Forces personnel are extremely tough, rigorous, and challenging. Defence personnel, particularly those in lower ranks, retire at a young age with limited pension and often come from modest backgrounds. The widows and children of Ex-Servicemen who were killed in action, died in harness, or passed away post-retirement face significant difficulties in financing higher education, especially technical and professional studies for their children.

Recognizing these challenges, the Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme was introduced with the sole aim to encourage dependent wards of Ex-Servicemen, Ex-Coast Guard personnel, and their widows to pursue higher technical and professional education. The Kendriya Sainik Board (KSB), being the apex body of the Government of India that oversees rehabilitation and welfare of Ex-Servicemen and their dependents, was designated as the nodal agency to implement this scholarship scheme.

PMSS Scholarship Amount and Number of Scholarships

Current Scholarship Benefits (2025-26)

The PMSS scholarship amount has been structured to provide equal opportunities for both boys and girls, with higher support for girls to promote gender equity in education:

For Boys: ₹30,000 per annum (₹2,500 per month)

For Girls: ₹36,000 per annum (₹3,000 per month)

Number of Scholarships Available

A total of 5,500 new scholarships are awarded each academic year under PMSS, equally divided between boys and girls:

• 2,750 scholarships for boys
• 2,750 scholarships for girls

Historical Changes in PMSS Scholarship Amount

The scholarship benefits have evolved over the years to keep pace with inflation and rising educational costs:

PMSS Eligibility Criteria

Understanding the PMSS eligibility requirements is crucial before applying for this scholarship. Here are the detailed eligibility conditions:

Who Can Apply for PMSS

Relationship to Ex-Servicemen:

• Must be dependent wards or widows of Ex-Servicemen (ESM) who served in the Army, Navy, or Air Force
• Must be dependent wards or widows of Ex-Indian Coast Guard (ex-ICG) personnel

Rank Requirements:

• Ex-Servicemen should be below the rank of Officer (JCO/OR or equivalent of Navy and Air Force, Pradhan Adhikari and below of ICG) at the time of discharge
• Special Exception: If the ESM/ex-ICG personnel died or were disabled due to causes attributable to military/Coast Guard service, or have been awarded a gallantry award, they are eligible irrespective of rank (including commissioned officers)

Important: Wards of civilians, including Para Military and CAPF personnel, are NOT ELIGIBLE for PMSS.

Academic Requirements for PMSS

For New Applicants:

• Students must have taken admission in the 1st year of the course in the current academic year (except lateral entry cases)
• Minimum 60% marks in Minimum Educational Qualification (MEQ) – 10+2/Diploma/Graduation
• All subjects are considered for calculating the 60% marks, including optional subjects

For Renewal (2nd and Subsequent Years):

• Minimum 50% aggregate marks in each academic year
• Passing all subjects in FIRST ATTEMPT is mandatory
• If a student fails or gets “Re-Appear” (RA) in any subject, the scholarship will be terminated permanently
• Exception: Students who pass in re-evaluation without re-appearing for the subject remain eligible

Age Criteria

• Male wards: Up to 25 years of age at the time of admission
• Female wards: No age limit, but eligible only until marriage
• Widow candidates: No age limit, but eligible only until re-marriage

Family Limitations

• PMSS scholarship is admissible for only two children of an individual Ex-Serviceman
• Particulars of all children must be indicated in the application

Bank Account Requirements

• Students must hold an active bank account linked to Aadhaar
• The account must have Electronic Clearing System (ECS)/Core Banking facility
• Account can be a joint account with parents
• Minor accounts must be converted to major accounts when the student turns 18

Priority Categories for PMSS Selection

When applications exceed the available scholarships, the selection follows a strict priority order:

Eligible Courses Under PMSS

Professional Degree Courses Covered

The PMSS scholarship is available for first professional degree courses recognized by government regulatory bodies such as AICTE, National Medical Commission, UGC, etc.

Engineering and Technical Courses:

• BE/B.Tech (all streams) – 4 years
• BE/B.Tech (Lateral Entry – Direct 2nd Year Admission) – 3 years
• Arch (Bachelor of Architecture) – 4 years
• Plan (Bachelor of Planning) – 4 years

Medical Courses:

• MBBS
• BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery)
• Sc (Nursing)
• Pharma (Bachelor of Pharmacy)
• BVSc (Veterinary Science)

Management Courses:

• BBA (Bachelor of Business Administration) – 3 years
• BMS (Bachelor of Management Studies) – 3 years
• MBA (Master of Business Administration) – 2 years (lateral entry only)
• MCA (Master of Computer Applications) – 2 years (lateral entry only)

Other Professional Courses:

• Ed (Bachelor of Education)
• BCA (Bachelor of Computer Applications) – 3 years
• LLB (5-year integrated law course)
• Sc (Agriculture)
• Various other professional courses approved by regulatory bodies

Courses NOT Eligible for PMSS

• Distance learning courses
• Diploma or vocational courses
• Courses pursued abroad
• Second professional degree (except MBA/MCA after graduation)
• Courses not recognized by AICTE/UGC/National Medical Commission

Important Notes on Course Eligibility

• Lateral Entry: Students admitted to 2nd year of technical/professional Bachelor Degree courses through lateral entry after completing diploma courses are eligible
• Integrated Courses: For integrated courses where the 1st portion is academic and 2nd portion is professional (e.g., BA+B.Ed, B.Tech+M.Tech), scholarship is awarded only for the professional component
• One Course Only: PMSS can be availed by a student for one course only

Minimum Educational Qualification (MEQ) Explained

The Minimum Educational Qualification for PMSS varies depending on the course:

Important Points:

• For CBSE students, marks obtained in best of five subjects out of 500 are considered for calculating MEQ percentage
• If marks and CGPA are both mentioned, marks are taken for calculation
• If only CGPA/Grade Points are mentioned, students must mention CGPA as per university-issued percentage conversion formula
• For integrated courses, MEQ is 10+2

How to Apply for PMSS: Step-by-Step Application Process

PMSS Application Timeline – UPDATED DECEMBER 2025

CRITICAL DATES FOR 2025-26 ACADEMIC YEAR:

• Application Opens: August/September 2025
• Last Date for Online Application:31 DECEMBER 2025 (EXTENDED – This is crucial!)
• Last Date for Physical Document Submission to ZSB/RSB: Details to be confirmed by KSB (typically within 15 days of online submission)
• Defective Application Verification: By ZSB/RSB (typically by mid-January)
• Regional/Zonal Sainik Board Processing: By end of January 2026
• Merit List Declaration: Typically January-February 2026

IMPORTANT NOTE: The deadline has been extended to 31 December 2025. Students must apply online by this date. Applications submitted after this date will NOT be accepted.

Step 1: Preparation and Document Collection

Before starting the online application, collect all required documents in scanned format (PDF/JPEG/JPG):

1. Ex-Servicemen Certificate (Annexure-1) duly signed by ZSB/Coast Guard HQ
2. Bonafide Certificate (Annexure-2) signed by Vice Chancellor/Principal/Director
3. Bank Certificate (Annexure-3) confirming Aadhaar linkage with student’s bank account
4. Copy of PPO (Pension Payment Order) or ESM Identity Card
5. Part-II Order/Award Certificate for gallantry award holders
6. Class X/Matriculation Certificate for date of birth verification
7. MEQ Documents: Class 10+2 mark sheet/Graduation mark sheets (all years)/Diploma mark sheets (all semesters)
8. Bank Account Proof: First page of bank passbook or cancelled cheque with Aadhaar Card
9. Copy of Aadhaar Card of student
10. Additional supporting documents based on priority category (1-6)

Download Annexure-1(137KB) Certificate (In Lieu of Discharge Book)

Download Annexure-2(366KB) Bonafide Certificate

Download Annexure-3(183KB) Certificate to be Signed by Concerned Bank

Step 2: Registration on KSB Portal

1. Visit the official KSB website: ksb.gov.in or https://ksb.gov.in/registration.htm
2. Download Annexures 1, 2, and 3 from the PMSS section
3. Complete these annexures in the prescribed format (do not use your own format)
4. Click on “Apply Online“under the PMSS link
5. Create new account registration with your details
6. Upload passport-size photograph
7. Fill in Part-1 and Part-2 with ESM details and personal information
8. Click Submit

Step 3: Account Activation

1. After registration, you will receive a login ID, password, and activation link via email
2. Click on the activation link sent to your registered email
3. This will activate your account on the KSB portal
4. Verify your email address to proceed

Step 4: Completing the PMSS Application

1. Visit ksb.gov.in or https://ksb.gov.in/KSBAdmin/Login.aspx and click on the login button
2. Log in using your User Name (Login ID) and Password
3. Access your dashboard
4. Click on “New Application”
5. Choose “Prime Minister Scholarship Scheme”
6. Fill all required fields in Part-1, Part-2, and Part-3 carefully
7. Upload all scanned documents at the designated places
8. Verify all information for accuracy
9. Review all documents before final submission
10. Click “Save and Forward”
11. Note down your system-generated application number for future reference and keep it safe

Step 5: Physical Verification at Zila Sainik Board (ZSB)

After submitting the online application:

1. Take physical copies of all uploaded documents (including original annexures)
2. Visit your respective Zila Sainik Board (ZSB)or Rajya Sainik Board (RSB) office
3. Submit the document package to the concerned officer
4. Get the acknowledgement receipt with date and stamp
5. ZSB will verify all documents and forward to Regional Sainik Board (RSB)
6. RSB will process and forward to KSB for final selection

Important: Physical submission must be done promptly after online submission. Delays can affect your application processing. Keep the receipt for tracking purposes.

PMSS Scholarship Renewal Process

The first installment of PMSS scholarship is paid immediately after selection in the merit list. For subsequent payments (2nd year onwards), students must apply for renewal.

PMSS Renewal Eligibility

• Must pass all subjects in FIRST ATTEMPT in each semester/academic year
• Must secure minimum 50% aggregate marks in each semester/academic year
• If a student fails or gets RA (Re-Appear) in any subject, scholarship is terminated permanently
• Exception: Students who pass in re-evaluation without re-appearing are eligible for renewal

How to Apply for PMSS Renewal

1. Log in to KSB portal using existing credentials (Student Login ID and Password)
2. Click on “Renewal Application”under PMSS section
3. Submit renewal application within ONE YEAR from declaration of result (not immediately after exams)
4. Upload the following documents:
   • Bonafide Certificate for the current year (Annexure-4)
   • Original mark sheets of both semesters/academic year from university
   • First page of bank passbook
   • Any supporting documents if marks have declined
5. Submit the renewal application through online portal

Download Annexure-4(17 KB) (NOT APPLICABLE TO ALL STUDENTS)

Note: Renewal applications are processed throughout the year. Original mark sheets must be issued by the university directly and cannot be photocopies.

PMSS Selection Procedure

1. Online Application Submission: Students submit applications on KSB portal by 31 December 2025
2. ZSB/RSB Verification: Zila Sainik Boards verify documents and forward to Regional Sainik Boards
3. RSB Processing: Regional Sainik Boards verify and recommend complete applications to KSB
4. Shortlisting: KSB shortlists applications based on:
   • Category of ESM/ex-ICG personnel (Priority Categories 1-6)
   • Percentage of marks in MEQ (all subjects)
   • Date of submission (earlier submissions prioritized)
5. Merit List Preparation: KSB prepares merit list of selected students
6. Approval: Merit list is approved by competent authority
7. Publication: Final merit list is uploaded on KSB website (typically January-February 2026)
8. Disbursement: Based on budget availability, scholarship amount is disbursed directly to students’ bank accounts through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)

PMSS Scholarship Duration

The duration of PMSS scholarship varies from 2 to 5 years depending on the course duration as approved by the concerned regulatory body (AICTE/UGC/National Medical Commission).

Examples:

• MBA/MCA: 2 years
• BBA/BCA: 3 years
• BE/B.Tech/MBBS/BDS: 4-5 years
• Ed: 1-2 years depending on program

Continuation Requirement: Student must pass all subjects in “First Attempt Only” in each academic year to continue receiving the scholarship.

Change of Course or College – PMSS Rules

Migration Within University (Same City)

Permitted:

• Migration from one college to another within the same university
• Same course or different stream in same course
• Academic year not changed

Not Permitted:

• Migration to another course
• Change in academic year

Migration from One University to Another

Permitted:

• Migration with same course
• Academic year not changed

Not Permitted:

• Migration to another course/program
• Change in academic year

PMSS Payment Through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)

The PMSS scholarship amount is transferred directly to the student’s bank account through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system via the Public Financial Management System (PFMS).

Benefits of DBT Payment

• Direct transfer to beneficiary’s account – no intermediaries
• Reduced chances of fraud– transparent system
• Faster processing of payments
• Transparency in fund flow
• Aadhaar-linked for accurate targeting
• Automatic updates when student passes exams

Payment Schedule

• First Installment: Paid annually after selection in merit list (typically February-March 2026)
• Subsequent Installments: Paid after successful renewal application and verification (annually after exam results)
• Payment Mode: PFMS (Public Financial Management System) to Aadhaar-linked bank account

Documents Required for PMSS Application

Mandatory Documents (All Applicants)

1. Ex-Servicemen/Ex-Coast Guard Certificate (Annexure-1) signed by ZSB/Coast Guard HQ
2. Bonafide Certificate (Annexure-2) from college/institute authorized personnel
3. Bank Certificate (Annexure-3) showing Aadhaar linkage with student’s bank account
4. PPO or ESM Identity Card– photostat copy
5. Aadhaar Card of student – photostat copy
6. Class X Certificate for date of birth verification
7. MEQ Proof: Original mark sheets – 10+2/Diploma/Graduation (all years/all semesters)
8. Bank Account Details: First page of passbook or cancelled cheque with bank details
9. Passport-size photograph (4×6 cm, colored)

Category-Specific Documents

Document Format Requirements

• All documents must be scanned in PDF/JPEG/JPG format
• Documents should be legible and clear (minimum resolution 150 DPI)
• File size should not exceed specified limits on portal
• Use only prescribed Annexure formats (available on KSB website)
• Do NOT use your own format or any other format
• Ensure dates and signatures are clearly visible
• Color scans preferred for certificates

Common Reasons for PMSS Application Rejection

Understanding why applications get rejected can help you avoid these mistakes:

1. Late submission after 31 December 2025 deadline
2. Incomplete documents or missing annexures
3. Less than 60% marks in MEQ
4. Admission in 2nd or subsequent years (not eligible – only 1st year)
5. Not eligible course (distance learning, diploma, vocational, etc.)
6. Aadhaar not linked with bank account (mandatory)
7. Wards of Para Military/CAPF personnel (not eligible)
8. More than two wards of same ESM applying (only 2 allowed)
9. Documents not verified by ZSB within timeline
10. False statement or misrepresentation of facts discovered
11. Failure to respond to observations/defects within specified time
12. Non-matching information in different documents
13. Invalid ESM certificate not signed by authorized ZSB/RSB officer
14. Bank account not linked with Aadhaar

Automatic Cancellation of PMSS Scholarship

Your PMSS scholarship will be automatically cancelled or rejected in the following situations:

• Secured scholarship fraudulently by making false statements
• Misrepresentation or misinterpretation of facts discovered at any stage
• Failed or RA (Re-Appear) in any subject in any semester/year
• Not maintaining 50% aggregate marks in renewal years
• Not passing all subjects in first attempt
• Changing course without authorization during scholarship period
• Pursuing multiple scholarships for the same course simultaneously
• False information in bonafide certificate or other documents
• Scholarship amount already disbursed in such cases will be recovered by legal means

Important Instructions for PMSS Applicants

1. Email and Mobile Number: Must be of the student (not parent). Alternate mobile can be of parent. Do NOT change registered email/mobile as all communications are sent there.
2. Application Number: Note down the system-generated application number immediately after submission for future reference and tracking.
3. ZSB Verification: Ensure you submit physical documents to ZSB within 15 days of online submission. Delays can jeopardize your application.
4. Observation Rectification: If ZSB/RSB/KSB raises observations or defects, rectify within the specified timeline (usually 10 days) to avoid automatic rejection.
5. Application Status: Regularly check application status by logging into KSB portal using your credentials.
6. Timeline Awareness: Different teams process applications at different times. New applications are processed from January onwards.
7. Document Authenticity: All certificates must be signed by authorized personnel only (Vice Chancellor, Principal, Dean, Registrar, Director, etc.).
8. Single Course: PMSS can be availed for one course only. Cannot apply for another course later under same registration.
9. ZSB Contact: For any clarification, contact your respective Zila Sainik Board office with your application number.
10. Keep Copies: Maintain photocopies of all submitted documents for future reference.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About PMSS

Q1. What is the Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme (PMSS)?

Answer: PMSS is a scholarship scheme introduced by the Government of India in 2006-07 to encourage higher technical and professional education for dependent wards and widows of Ex-Servicemen and Ex-Coast Guard personnel. It is administered by Kendriya Sainik Board under the Ministry of Defence and funded through the National Defence Fund.

Q2. Who is eligible to apply for PMSS?

Answer: Dependent wards and widows of Ex-Servicemen (Army/Navy/Air Force) and Ex-Coast Guard personnel are eligible. The ESM should be below officer rank (JCO/OR or equivalent). However, if the ESM died or was disabled due to military service or received a gallantry award, then eligibility applies irrespective of rank. Wards of civilians and Para Military personnel are NOT eligible.

Q3. What is the scholarship amount under PMSS?

Answer: For boys, the scholarship is ₹30,000 per annum (₹2,500 per month), and for girls, it is ₹36,000 per annum (₹3,000 per month). The amount is paid annually through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to the student’s Aadhaar-linked bank account.

Q4. How many scholarships are available under PMSS each year?

Answer: A total of 5,500 new scholarships are awarded each academic year – 2,750 scholarships for boys and 2,750 scholarships for girls.

Q5. What is the minimum percentage required in MEQ for PMSS?

Answer: Students must have scored a minimum of 60% marks in their Minimum Educational Qualification (MEQ) – which can be 10+2, Diploma, or Graduation depending on the course. All subjects including optional subjects are considered for calculation.

Q6. Which courses are eligible under PMSS?

Answer: First professional degree courses recognized by AICTE/UGC/National Medical Commission are eligible, including BE/B.Tech, MBBS, BDS, B.Pharma, B.Ed, BBA, BCA, BA.LLB, B.Arch, etc. Master’s degree courses are generally not eligible except MBA and MCA (for lateral entry only). Distance learning, diploma, and courses abroad are NOT eligible.

Q7. What is the LAST DATE to apply for PMSS 2025-26?

Answer: The last date to submit the PMSS online application is 31 DECEMBER 2025 (EXTENDED from November 30). This is a critical deadline. Applications submitted after this date will NOT be accepted.

Q8. Can students in 2nd or 3rd year apply for PMSS?

Answer: No, only students who have taken admission in the 1st year in the current academic year are eligible to apply for PMSS. Students already in 2nd or subsequent years cannot apply. Exception: Lateral entry students admitted to 2nd year after diploma are eligible.

Q9. Is Aadhaar linking with bank account mandatory for PMSS?

Answer: Yes, students must have an active bank account linked with their Aadhaar number. You need to submit a bank certificate (Annexure-3) confirming this linkage. The scholarship amount is transferred through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to your Aadhaar-seeded account.

Q10. What happens if I fail in one subject? Will I lose the scholarship?

Answer: Yes, if you fail or get “Re-Appear” (RA) in any subject in any semester, your PMSS scholarship will be terminated permanently. You will not be entitled for any subsequent installments. However, if you pass in re-evaluation without re-appearing for the subject, you remain eligible for renewal.

Q11. How many children of one Ex-Serviceman can avail PMSS?

Answer: Only two children (wards) of an individual Ex-Serviceman can avail the PMSS scholarship.

Q12. What is the age limit for PMSS?

Answer: For male wards, the age limit is up to 25 years at the time of admission. For female wards and widow candidates, there is no age limit, but female wards are eligible only till marriage and widows only till re-marriage.

Q13. What is the selection process for PMSS?

Answer: Applications are shortlisted based on the priority category (Categories 1-6) of the Ex-Serviceman and percentage of marks in MEQ. The Kendriya Sainik Board prepares a merit list which is approved and published on the website. Scholarships are disbursed based on budget availability through DBT.

Q14. What are the priority categories for PMSS selection?

Answer:

• Category 1: Wards/Widows of ESM killed in action
• Category 2: Wards disabled in action and boarded out
• Category 3: Wards/Widows of ESM who died in service (attributable to service)
• Category 4: Wards of ESM disabled in service
• Category 5: Wards of gallantry award recipients
• Category 6: Wards of Ex-Servicemen (PBOR only)

Q15. How long is the PMSS scholarship valid?

Answer: The scholarship duration is 2 to 5 years depending on the course duration as approved by the regulatory body. The scholarship continues provided the student passes all subjects in first attempt with minimum 50% marks each year.

Q16. When will I receive my first scholarship payment?

Answer: The first installment is paid through DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer) to your Aadhaar-linked bank account after your name appears in the merit list (typically February-March 2026) and the payment file is generated by KSB.

Q17. What is the renewal process for PMSS in 2nd and subsequent years?

Answer: Students must submit an online renewal application on the KSB portal within one year of declaration of results. You need to upload a bonafide certificate, mark sheets of both semesters/academic year, and first page of bank passbook. You must have passed all subjects in first attempt with minimum 50% aggregate marks.

Q18. Can I change my course or college after getting PMSS?

Answer: Migration within the same university to another college with the same course (academic year unchanged) is permitted. Migration to another university with the same course (academic year unchanged) is also permitted. However, changing to another course or program, or where the academic year changes, is NOT permitted and will result in scholarship termination.

Q19. What documents are required for PMSS application?

Answer: You need: Ex-Servicemen Certificate (Annexure-1), Bonafide Certificate (Annexure-2), Bank Certificate with Aadhaar linkage (Annexure-3), PPO/ESM Identity Card, Aadhaar Card, Class X Certificate, MEQ mark sheets, bank account proof, and category-specific documents (Part II Order, Battle Casualty Certificate, Gallantry Award Certificate as applicable).

Q20. Where do I upload my PMSS application documents?

Answer: All documents must be uploaded on the KSB portal (www.ksb.gov.in or https://ksb.gov.in/registration.htm) during the online application process by 31 December 2025. After online submission, you also need to submit physical copies to your Zila Sainik Board (ZSB) for verification within 15 days.

Q21. What if I was born after my father’s retirement?

Answer: If you were born after your father’s (ESM’s) retirement, you may need to prepare and submit a self-declaration affidavit along with your application. Check with your ZSB for specific requirements.

Q22. Can children of Para Military Forces or CAPF apply for PMSS?

Answer: No, wards of Para Military Forces and CAPF (Central Armed Police Forces) are NOT ELIGIBLE for the standard PMSS scheme administered by KSB. However, there are separate PMSS schemes for CAPF and State Police personnel administered by different authorities. Check the Welfare and Rehabilitation Board (WARB) website for CAPF-specific schemes.

Q23. Is distance learning or diploma eligible under PMSS?

Answer: No, distance learning courses, diploma courses, and vocational courses are NOT permitted under PMSS. Only regular first professional degree courses recognized by regulatory bodies are eligible.

Q24. Can I study abroad with PMSS scholarship?

Answer: No, students studying abroad are not eligible for the PMSS scheme. The scholarship is available only for courses pursued in India at recognized institutions.

Q25. What is the role of Zila Sainik Board (ZSB) in PMSS?

Answer: The Zila Sainik Board (ZSB) or Rajya Sainik Board (RSB) verifies your documents and Ex-Serviceman credentials. After online application submission, you must visit your ZSB with physical copies of documents for verification. ZSB then forwards verified applications to Regional Sainik Board (RSB) and then to Kendriya Sainik Board (KSB) for final processing and selection.

Q26. How is the scholarship amount paid?

Answer: The scholarship amount is paid annually through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system directly into the student’s Aadhaar-linked bank account via the Public Financial Management System (PFMS). Payments are made after merit list publication and after each successful renewal.

Q27. What is MEQ (Minimum Educational Qualification)?

Answer: MEQ is the minimum educational qualification required for entry to various professional courses. For MBBS/BDS, MEQ is 10+2. For BE/B.Tech, it is 10+2 or Diploma. For B.Ed and MBA, it is Graduation. You must have 60% marks in the concerned MEQ to apply for PMSS.

Q28. Can I apply for PMSS if I took admission through lateral entry?

Answer: Yes, students admitted to 2nd year of technical/professional Bachelor Degree courses (like BE/B.Tech) through lateral entry after completion of diploma courses are eligible for PMSS. In this case, your MEQ is the diploma, and you must have 60% marks in the diploma.

Q29. What happens if I don’t respond to ZSB/KSB observations in time?

Answer: If observations are raised by ZSB/RSB or KSB during application checking, and you do not rectify them within the stipulated timeframe (usually 10 days), your application will be automatically rejected by the system. Always respond promptly to any queries or observations from official sources.

Q30. Can I check my PMSS application status online?

Answer: Yes, you can check your application status by logging into the KSB portal (www.ksb.gov.in or https://ksb.gov.in/KSBAdmin/Login.aspx) using your login credentials. Your dashboard will show the current status of your application at each processing stage.

Q31. What if I have already availed another scholarship?

Answer: You must mention in your bonafide certificate whether you are drawing any other scholarship for the same course. Generally, you cannot avail multiple scholarships for the same course simultaneously. PMSS is meant for one course only.

Q32. Is there any reservation for girls in PMSS?

Answer: Yes, the 5,500 scholarships are equally divided – 2,750 scholarships are reserved for girls and 2,750 for boys. Additionally, girls receive a higher scholarship amount (₹36,000 per annum vs ₹30,000 for boys).

Q33. What is the National Defence Fund?

Answer: The National Defence Fund (NDF) was set up in 1962 to accept voluntary donations for promoting national defence efforts. It is used for the welfare of Armed Forces members and their dependents. The PMSS scheme is entirely funded by the NDF, which is administered by an Executive Committee with the Prime Minister as Chairperson.

Q34. Can widow candidates apply for PMSS?

Answer: Yes, widows of Ex-Servicemen and Ex-Coast Guard personnel can apply for PMSS provided they meet the eligibility criteria (60% in MEQ, admitted to 1st year of eligible course, etc.). They are eligible till re-marriage.

Q35. What if my application is rejected?

Answer: If your application is rejected, check the reason for rejection by logging into the KSB portal. The portal will display the specific reason. If rejection was due to incomplete documents or observations not responded to in time, you may reapply next year if still eligible. However, you can only apply in the 1st year of admission.

Q36. When is the PMSS merit list declared?

Answer: The merit list for new applications is typically declared in January-February 2026, though exact dates depend on KSB processing timelines. Keep checking the official website for announcements.

Q37. Can I apply for PMSS for an integrated course like BA+B.Ed or B.Tech+M.Tech?

Answer: For integrated courses where the 1st portion is non-professional and 2nd portion is professional, PMSS scholarship is awarded only for the professional component. For example, for BA+B.Ed, you apply when you enter the B.Ed portion (not during BA).

Q38. What should I do if I forgot my PMSS login credentials?

Answer: Visit the KSB portal and use the “Forgot Password” option. Follow the password recovery process using your registered email ID. If issues persist, contact your Zila Sainik Board or email KSB helpdesk for assistance.

Q39. Can commissioned officers’ children apply for PMSS?

Answer: Generally, no. PMSS is for wards of Ex-Servicemen below officer rank (JCO/OR or equivalent). However, if the commissioned officer was killed in action, disabled in action, died in service due to military service, or received a gallantry award, then their wards are eligible irrespective of rank.

Q40. How do I contact KSB for PMSS queries?

Answer: For PMSS-related queries, first contact your respective Zila Sainik Board (ZSB) office in person. You can also visit the KSB website (www.ksb.gov.in) for contact information, FAQs, and detailed guidelines. The KSB office operates under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India.

Important Websites and Resources

• Kendriya Sainik Board Portal: ksb.gov.in
• PMSS Online Portal: https://ksb.gov.in/KSBAdmin/Login.aspx
• National Scholarship Portal: scholarships.gov.in
• Prime Minister’s Office – National Defence Fund: pmindia.gov.in
• KSB News Updates: ksb.gov.in/newsdetail.htm

Key Takeaways for Ex-Servicemen and Their Wards

The Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme (PMSS) is a valuable opportunity for the children and widows of Ex-Servicemen to pursue higher education without financial burden. Here are the key points to remember:

1. Apply Before 31 December 2025: This is the EXTENDED deadline – submit your application well before this date
2. Maintain 60% in MEQ: Ensure you have at least 60% marks in your qualifying examination
3. Keep Documents Ready: Prepare all annexures and documents in prescribed format
4. Link Aadhaar with Bank: Mandatory for receiving scholarship through DBT
5. Verify Through ZSB: Submit physical documents to Zila Sainik Board within 15 days
6. First Attempt Mandatory: Must pass all subjects in first attempt to continue scholarship
7. Maintain 50% for Renewal: From 2nd year onwards, minimum 50% aggregate required
8. Respond Promptly: Answer any ZSB/KSB observations within specified time
9. Check Status Regularly: Log in to KSB portal to track application progress
10. Seek ZSB Guidance: Contact your Zila Sainik Board for any clarifications

Conclusion

The Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme (PMSS) stands as a testament to the nation’s gratitude towards the Armed Forces and Coast Guard personnel who serve selflessly to protect the country. This scholarship not only provides financial assistance but also opens doors to quality education and better career opportunities for the wards and widows of Ex-Servicemen.

With proper understanding of the eligibility criteria, timely application submission before the 31 DECEMBER 2025 deadline, and adherence to the guidelines, eligible students can benefit from this excellent scheme. The Kendriya Sainik Board has made the application process completely online and transparent, with direct benefit transfer ensuring that the scholarship reaches the beneficiaries without any delays or intermediaries.

We hope this comprehensive guide has clarified all aspects of the PMSS scholarship and will help you navigate the application process successfully. For the latest updates and notifications, regularly visit the official KSB website and stay in touch with your Zila Sainik Board.

Don’t Miss the 31 December 2025 Deadline!

Jai Hind! Best wishes for your educational journey!

Disclaimer: This article provides general information about PMSS based on official guidelines as of October 30, 2025. For the most current and detailed information, always refer to the official Kendriya Sainik Board website (www.ksb.gov.in) and your Zila Sainik Board. Scheme guidelines may be updated periodically by the Government of India. This article has been verified against official KSB news and announcements.