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NSP OTR Face Authentication Failed: Fixes & Solutions

Kajal16 October 2026Updated 16 October 20266 min read

Facing an NSP Face Authentication problem or OTR error? Learn how to fix Error 904, update the official Aadhaar Face RD app, check camera permissions, unlock Aadhaar biometrics, and explore available alternatives when face authentication fails during NSP OTR registration.

Why Does NSP OTR Require Face Authentication?

National Scholarship Portal (NSP) has introduced a concept called One Time Registration (OTR) to identify the applicants even before he/she attempts for the eligible scholarship schemes. Aadhaar based face authentication verifies identity of the applicant in the process of registration.

Students might encounter NSP Face Authentication Problems due to outdated apps, camera permission problems, locked Aadhaar biometrics, poor lighting or poor internet connectivity. Knowing exactly what is wrong will be able to help you know which solution to pursue.

Basic Requirements Before You Begin

Before starting face authentication, check these requirements:

Device requirements

  • Have a compatible Android smart phone that has a front camera.

  • Have a reliable internet connection.

  • Clean camera lens and have enough camera storage.

Aadhaar requirements

  • Have Aadhaar information or eligible Enrolment ID (EID) with you.

  • Have your current mobile phone number handy for verification.

  • Make sure that the information you have entered in the sign-up process is accurate.

Official apps

Download the NSP OTR app from the official Google Play Store page and AadhaarFaceRD app from the official Google Play Store page. Don't download unofficial APK files and third party downloads. Install according to the instructions provided in the current app.

Permissions: Check Camera and Location Access

Incorrect permissions can prevent the face authentication process from starting.

How to fix permissions:

  • Open the Settings on your Android phone.

  • Tap on Apps and then select the NSP OTR app.

  • Tap Permissions and Grant access to Camera.

  • Grant access to location if requested by app.

  • Verify the permissions that are given to AadhaarFaceRD as well.

  • Close both Apps and reopen NSP OTR App.

If the camera still won't open, restart your phone and see if another application is still using it.

Read Also: NSP Scholarship College Not Showing? Here’s What Students Should Do?

NSP Face Authentication Problem: Error-Wise Solutions

Error 904: AadhaarFaceRD App Update

NSP has directed students who are facing Error 904 in face authentication to update the UIDAI AadhaarFaceRD app.

Solution:

  • Launch the Google Play Store app.

  • At the same time, check for any available updates of AadhaarFaceRD and install those.

  • If necessary, update the NSP OTR app.

  • Wait and start the phone again, try the authentication again.

Aadhaar Biometrics Locked

Face authentication may fail if Aadhaar biometrics are locked due to restrictions on biometric verification.

Solution:

  • Visit the official My Aadhaar portal and/or app.Go to the official My Aadhaar portal or app.

  • Look for the Biometric Lock/Unlock button.

  • Review your biometrics.

  • Unlock the biometric data following the prescribed procedures of UIDAI.

  • Try to re-authenticate the face with the NSP OTR app.

Face Not Matched or Authentication Failed

This may happen if the camera is unable to take your photograph correctly, or it is not similar to your Aadhaar photograph. Try these fixes:

  • Lighting: Be in a well-lit room; do not have strong light behind you.

  • Position: Keep your phone at eye level and keep your face in the centre of the phone.

  • Accessories: Take off sunglasses, masks and caps.

  • Movement: Ensure head remains stable and follow the directions on the screen.

  • Front camera: Wipe front camera lens.

  • Background: Make sure that no other face will be in the picture.

App Crashing or Camera Not Opening

Technical issues may arise from an outdated app, lack of storage space or permission settings. The solution:

  1. Shut the NSP OTR and AadhaarFaceRD Apps.

  2. Go to Settings → Apps → select the affected app.

  3. Tap Clear Cache in Storage.

  4. Re-press the power button to power on the phone again and try again.

  5. Update/re-install official app as needed.

OTP Not Received

If an OTP is not received during the registration process, please verify the following:

  • Verify the entered mobile number.

  • Ensure network coverage and SMS reception.

  • Wait a few moments before asking for another OTP.

  • If your Aadhaar linked mobile number is outdated, please adhere to the official update process of UIDAI.

  • If you are unable to recall your OTR number, please use the recovery feature in the NSP OTR app or portal.

Aadhaar Face RD App for NSP OTR: Correct Usage

Please open the official NSP app and follow the registration procedure. The following steps are generally followed:

  • Log in the official NSP OTR registration portal or app.

  • Fill in the desired mobile number verification.

  • Adhere to the relevant guidelines for registration with Aadhaar and/or EID.

  • If necessary, install AadhaarFaceRD from its official play store listing on google.

  • Go to the NSP OTR App and give the permissions.

  • When prompted, choose the Face authentication option.

  • Face in proper position and scan completed.

  • Complete the remaining verification procedures and create your OTR number.

  • Keep your OTR number in a safe place for future scholarship applications.

NSP OTR Without Face Authentication: Available Options

In the case of continued authentication failures, refrain from using unofficial bypass services. See if you meet an approved alternative.

1. Assistance Through a Common Service Centre (CSC)

Registration and biometric authentication services at the NSP may be offered by an authorised Common Service Centre. Call the centre prior to your visit to check on what is available and any charges that may apply.

2. Aadhaar Enrolment ID (EID)

Applicants who have already registered for Aadhaar and haven't received their Aadhaar number may apply to create OTR with their EID in the aforesaid procedure. Please adhere to the current official rules with the applicable deadline for updating Aadhaar details.

EID is not a generic solution for those who cannot pass a face scan, but an option for those who are eligible.

3. Minor Students Without Aadhaar

For some minor children, who do not have Aadhaar, NSP offers a prescribed route for registration. Aadhaar of parents/legal guardians may be used where allowed. Abide by current guidelines of consent and required details.

4. Special Regional or Scheme-Specific Instructions

Please don't think that all states or regions are exempt from face authentication. Please refer to the most recent NSP notice and the applicable notice of a scholarship scheme to see if there is another process.

Note: Do not use agents, Telegram groups or websites offering an OTR bypass service as they are untrustworthy. Do not provide Aadhaar information or OTP to strangers.

Quick Checklist for Successful Face Authentication

Before attempting once more, check that:

  • The NSP OTR app and AadhaarFaceRD are updated.

  • Access for cameras is granted.

  • All the applications permissions are granted.

  • Aadhaar biometrics are unlocked, if necessary.

  • Internet connection is stable.

  • The face is visible and the camera lens is clear.

  • You have followed the proper registration procedure.

  • There is enough time to meet the scholarship deadline.

Plan Ahead of the Deadline

Please register on OTR in advance so that there is time to troubleshoot or get official help. Securely save your OTR number and registration confirmation. Please be aware that there are technical and verification processes that can interfere with your application, so please don't delay until completion of the last day.

Conclusion

The NSP OTR Face Authentication Failed problem may be resolved with the implementation of updates to AadhaarFaceRD, review of app permissions, unlocking of Aadhaar biometrics (where applicable), and enhancing the camera setting. If the problem persists, refer to the official NSP instructions or ask for help via an authorised CSC. Make sure to check out alternative registration options according to the latest guidelines before proceeding.

Kajal

About the author

Kajal

Senior Content Writter

Kajal is a content writer with 2 years of experience in creating clear, engaging and reader-friendly content. She specialises in website content, blog articles and informative writing. Her approach focuses on research, readability, accuracy and SEO-friendly content. With an academic background in Arts (Economics), she aims to present information in a simple, well-structured and accessible way, helping readers understand topics easily and find answers to their queries.