The National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMMSS) is a Central Government initiative implemented through State and Union Territory governments to support meritorious students from economically weaker sections. The selection test, conducted by each State/UT, is designed and guided by NCERT, but executed at the local level.
This post will give you complete clarity on the NMMSS 2025-26 exam pattern, subject-wise syllabus breakdown, and preparation tips as per the NCERT Class 7 & 8 curriculum.
Overview of NMMSS Exam
The NMMSS exam is conducted for Class 8 students and consists of two tests conducted on the same day:
| Test Name | Type | No. of Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mental Ability Test (MAT) | MCQ | 90 | 90 | 90 minutes |
| Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) | MCQ | 90 | 90 | 90 minutes |
- Total Marks: 180
- Negative Marking: None
NMMSS Syllabus 2025-26
There’s no prescribed syllabus for NMMSS, but questions are based on Class 7 and 8 NCERT and State Board syllabus. Below is a detailed breakdown of the MAT and SAT syllabi to streamline your preparation.
1. Mental Ability Test (MAT) Syllabus
This section tests your reasoning, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities. It includes 90 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) from the following areas:
- Analogy
- Classification
- Series (number/letter)
- Pattern perception
- Hidden figures
- Coding-decoding
- Spatial visualization
- Logical reasoning
- Puzzle-solving
- Non-verbal reasoning
2. Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) Syllabus
The SAT covers 90 MCQs from Science, Mathematics, and Social Science, based on Class 7 and Class 8 syllabus of NCERT or respective State Boards. Here’s a subject-wise breakdown:
Mathematics
- Number System: Integers, fractions, rational numbers, HCF/LCM, powers, square & cube roots
- Algebra: Expressions, linear equations, identities, factorization
- Geometry: Triangles, quadrilaterals, circles, symmetry, constructions
- Mensuration: Area, volume, perimeter, surface area
- Data Handling: Graphs, mean, median, mode, probability
- Ratio & Proportion: Percentages, profit/loss, interest, time-speed-work
Science
Physics
Topics related to physical phenomena, motion, force, energy, sound, light, electricity, and astronomy.
1. How Things Work
- Electricity: circuits, conductors, insulators, electromagnets
- Magnets: properties, poles, compass
- Force: friction, pressure, sound (production, propagation)
- Light: reflection, refraction, dispersion, human eye
2. Natural Phenomena
- Weather: rain, thunderstorms, lightning
- Earthquakes: causes, safety measures
- Astronomy: solar system, constellations, celestial objects
Chemistry
Topics related to substances, their properties, reactions, and changes.
1. Materials
- Natural vs. synthetic fibers (cotton, wool, plastics)
- Metals/non-metals: properties, reactions (displacement, corrosion)
- Acids, bases, salts, and neutralization
- Chemical changes: combustion, electroplating, rusting
2. Natural Resources
- Air/water pollution, water cycle, scarcity
- Waste management: recycling, composting, sewage
Biology
Topics related to living organisms, life processes, ecosystems, and health.
1. Food
- Sources of food (plants, animals), balanced diet, deficiency diseases
- Crop production: soil preparation, irrigation, storage
- Microorganisms: uses (fermentation), harms (spoilage), food preservation
2. The World of the Living
- Cells: structure (plant/animal), tissues, microorganisms
- Reproduction: sexual/asexual, human reproductive health
- Ecosystems: adaptation, biodiversity, conservation (forests, wildlife)
- Respiration, transportation (blood, xylem/phloem), excretion
3. Natural Resources (Partly Biology)
- Sustainable practices: reforestation, water conservation
Social Science
History
- Ancient India: Early societies, Harappan civilization, empires (Maurya, Gupta).
- Medieval India: Delhi Sultanate, Mughals, regional kingdoms.
- Modern India: Colonialism, 1857 revolt, independence movement, post-1947 India.
Geography
- Physical Geography: Earth’s structure, climate, soils, natural vegetation.
- Human Geography: Agriculture, industries, resources (water, minerals).
- Maps: Latitudes/longitudes, contour maps, interpreting data (e.g., rainfall charts).
- Disasters: Cyclones, tsunamis, mitigation strategies.
Social & Political Life
- Media: Role in democracy, advertising, RTI.
- Government: Democracy, elections, parliamentary system, local governance (Panchayati Raj).
- Constitution: Fundamental rights/duties, secularism, justice.
- Society: Gender equality, caste reform, marginalization (SC/ST, minorities).
- Economy: Markets, globalization, labor rights.
Qualifying Criteria
To be selected for the scholarship, a student must:
- Score at least 40% aggregate in MAT and SAT combined (General/SEBC category)
- Score at least 32% aggregate for SC/ST/PH candidates
In case of a tie, preference is given to:
- Higher MAT marks
- Younger candidate
NMMSS Syllabus 2025-26 – Important Notes
- The exam tests application-based knowledge, so focus on understanding concepts rather than rote learning.
- MAT requires logical thinking, while SAT demands subject mastery.
- No prescribed syllabus by NCERT or State Boards.
- Questions conform to Class 7 & 8 standard.
- Focus on understanding concepts, not rote learning.
- No negative marking in the examination.
- Practice with NCERT Class 7 & 8 books to cover the full scope.
Download NCERT Syllabus PDFs
You can download the subject-wise NCERT syllabus PDFs here:
- Mathematics Syllabus – Class 7 & 8
- Science Syllabus – Class 7 & 8
- Social Science Syllabus – Class 7 & 8
How to Prepare for NMMSS 2025-26
- Know the Structure: Focus equally on MAT and SAT. Practice both reasoning and academics.
- Study NCERT Books: NCERT textbooks for Maths, Science, and Social Science are your primary resources. Supplement with State Board books if needed.
- Solve Past Papers: Check your state’s previous year NMMS papers for pattern familiarity.
- Time Management: Practice solving 90 questions in 90 minutes.
- Revise Strategically: Divide topics weekly. Complete the syllabus one month before the exam.
- Mock Tests: Take weekly mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.
Frequently Asked Questions on NMMSS Exam Pattern and Syllabus
-
What is the exam pattern for NMMSS 2025?
The exam consists of two tests:
Mental Ability Test (MAT): 90 MCQs, 90 marks, 90 minutes.
Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT): 90 MCQs, 90 marks, 90 minutes.
There’s no negative marking, and both tests are conducted on the same day. -
What is the syllabus for NMMSS 2025?
The syllabus is based on Class 7 and 8 NCERT and State Board curricula:
MAT: Analogy, classification, numerical series, pattern perception, hidden figures.
SAT: Mathematics, Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology), Social Science (History, Geography, Civics). -
Is there negative marking in the NMMSS exam?
No, there is no negative marking in either the MAT or SAT.
-
What are the qualifying marks for NMMSS 2025?
General/SEBC: Minimum 40% aggregate in MAT + SAT.
Reserved (SC/ST/PH): Minimum 32% aggregate. -
What happens if there’s a tie in NMMSS results?
In case of a tie, preference is given to:
Higher MAT score.
Older candidate (based on age). -
Can I use a calculator in the NMMSS exam?
No, calculators or electronic devices are not allowed. The exam tests mental and conceptual skills.
The NMMSS 2025-26 exam is a golden opportunity for students to secure financial support for their education. By understanding the exam pattern and syllabus, and following a disciplined preparation strategy, you can boost your chances of success. Start early, practice consistently, and aim for those qualifying marks (40% for General, 32% for Reserved).
Got questions? Drop them in the comments below, and we’ll help you out!