Your ability should decide how far you go.
If you are in Grade 9 or 10, love to learn, and want to go further than the opportunities around you allow, Nirīkṣayā was made with you in mind.
Who can apply
- Students in Grade 9 or Grade 10
- Studying in Nepal, with initial focus on Karnali and Sudurpashchim
- Any school type — community or institutional
- Your family's income does not decide whether you are selected
What Nirīkṣayā looks for
You ask questions and enjoy working things out.
You learn quickly — even if your school had few resources.
You keep going when something is difficult.
You think about how your education could help others.
You do not need to be top of your class, speak perfect English, or have had extra tuition. We look at how you think and what you have done with what was available to you.
Seven steps, explained simply
- 01Application / NominationStudents apply themselves, or are nominated by a teacher, head teacher or community member. No fee, no prior coaching expected.
- 02Academic ReviewSchool results are read in context — what was taught, how it was assessed, and how the student compares with their own peers.
- 03Nirīkṣayā Aptitude AssessmentA reasoning-based assessment designed so that preparation money cannot buy an advantage. Offered in Nepali and English.
- 04Personal EssayStudents write about what they hope to do and how they hope to contribute to their communities. Content matters more than polish.
- 05InterviewA conversation, not an interrogation — in the student's preferred language, with a guardian or teacher welcome to attend.
- 06Needs VerificationFinancial circumstances are reviewed separately and confidentially, after academic potential has been assessed.
- 07School & Scholarship MatchingScholars are matched with partner schools and scholarship programmes that fit their goals, with family agreement at every step.
What support may include
Support depends on each scholar's needs and on the partner schools and scholarships available. Nirīkṣayā will be clear about what is offered before anyone accepts.
- A place at a partner school with a stronger academic pathway
- Help with tuition, accommodation and other necessary costs, where needed
- A mentor who has made a similar journey
- Guidance on scholarships for Grades 11–12 and university
Questions students ask
Does it cost anything to apply?
No. Applying, the assessment and interviews will always be free.
Do I need to be top of my class?
No. We look at how you learn and think, and at what your school could offer — not only at your marks.
Can my teacher nominate me?
Yes. Teachers, head teachers and community members can nominate a student. You can also apply yourself.
Will I have to leave my family?
Some partner schools may be residential. Nothing is decided without you and your guardian agreeing.
Can I apply in Nepali?
Yes. You can write your application and essay in Nepali or English — whichever lets you express yourself best.
When do applications open?
The application page shows whether the current round is open. Your teacher can also nominate you at any time.