This paper presents a neural network based variable structure control scheme for nonlinear systems. In this scheme, a set of local variable structure control laws are designed on the basis of the linear models about preselected representative points which cover the range of the system operation of interest. From the combination of the set of local variable structure control laws, neural networks infer the approximate control input in between the operating points. The neural network based variable structure control alleviates the effects of model uncertainties, which cannot be compensated by the control techniques using feedback linearization. It also relaxes the discontinuity in the system’s behavior that appears when the control schemes based on the family of the linear models are applied to nonlinear systems. Simulation results of a ball and beam system, to which feedback linearization cannot be applied, demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed method.