NSP Fresh vs Renewal Application: Key Differences, Eligibility, Documents & Step-by-Step Guide (2026)

Introduction

Understanding the difference between NSP Fresh vs Renewal Application is crucial for students applying for scholarships through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP). Choosing the wrong application type can lead to rejection, delays, or loss of scholarship benefits.

This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know—eligibility, documents required, application steps, deadlines, and common mistakes—so you can apply correctly and confidently.

NSP Fresh vs Renewal Application: What Is the Difference?

Criteria	NSP Fresh Application	NSP Renewal Application
Who should apply	First-time NSP applicants	Students who received NSP scholarship earlier
Registration required	Yes	Yes (existing registration)
Previous NSP ID	Not required	Mandatory
Academic progression	New admission	Promoted to next academic year
Verification	Full verification	Re-verification

What Is an NSP Fresh Application

An NSP Fresh Application is for students applying for an NSP scholarship for the first time in a particular academic year.

Eligibility for NSP Fresh Application

• New admission in school/college/university

• Never received NSP scholarship before

• Meets income and category criteria

• Institution registered on NSP portal

Documents Required (Fresh Application)

• Aadhaar Card

• Income Certificate

• Caste Certificate (if applicable)

• Bonafide Certificate

• Admission Proof

• Bank Passbook

• Fee Receipt

What Is an NSP Renewal Application?

An NSP Renewal Application is for students who already received a scholarship in the previous academic year and are continuing their studies.

Eligibility for NSP Renewal Application

• Received NSP scholarship last year

• Promoted to next class/year

• Same institution or updated institution details

• Minimum academic performance met

Documents Required (Renewal Application)

• Previous NSP Application ID

• Aadhaar Card

• Marksheet of previous year

• Bank Account Details

NSP Fresh vs Renewal Application: Which One Should You Choose?

Choose NSP Fresh Application if:

• You are applying for the first time

• You never received an NSP scholarship

Choose NSP Renewal Application if:

• You received NSP scholarship previously

• You are continuing the same course or institution

Incorrect selection may result in application rejection.

Step-by-Step Application Process on NSP Portal

Step 1: Visit Official Website

https://scholarships.gov.in

Step 2: Register/Login

• Fresh: New Registration

• Renewal: Login using Application ID

Step 3: Fill Application Form

• Personal details

• Academic details

• Bank details

Step 4: Upload Documents

Ensure documents are clear and valid.

Step 5: Final Submit

Take a printout or save acknowledgment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid (Fresh & Renewal)

• Selecting wrong application type

• Incorrect bank details

• Uploading blurred documents

• Missing renewal deadline

• Not checking application status

Important Dates (Tentative)

• Fresh Applications: July – October

• Renewal Applications: July – December

Always verify dates on the official portal:https://scholarships.gov.in

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I apply as Fresh if I missed Renewal?

No. If you previously received a scholarship, you must apply under Renewal only.

Q2:Can I change institution during renewal?

Yes, but institution details must be updated correctly.

Call to Action (With Actual Links)

Apply now through the official NSP portal:https://scholarships.gov.in

Check your application status:https://scholarships.gov.in/fresh/status