Everything You Need to Know About the Everything You Need to Know About the National Entrance Screening Test (NEST)Updated 5 days ago

The National Entrance Screening Test (NEST) is a highly competitive national-level entrance exam conducted in India for admission into the five-year Integrated M.Sc. programs in basic sciences offered at NISER Bhubaneswar and UM–DAE CEBS, Mumbai. It is designed to identify students with strong aptitude in science and research.

Key Details About NEST

Eligibility: Candidates must have passed or be appearing in Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics/Biology. Minimum aggregate marks apply (with relaxations for reserved categories).

Exam Mode: Computer-based test (CBT).

Exam Pattern: Four sections – Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology. The paper is designed to test conceptual clarity, logical reasoning, and problem-solving. Negative marking is applicable in some sections.

Syllabus: Covers Class 11 and 12 NCERT topics –

Physics: Mechanics, Thermodynamics, Electricity & Magnetism, Optics, Modern Physics

Chemistry: Physical, Organic, and Inorganic chemistry

Mathematics: Algebra, Trigonometry, Calculus, Probability, Geometry

Biology: Genetics, Cell Biology, Ecology, Biotechnology, Physiology

Application Process: Online registration → Fill application form → Upload photo, signature & documents → Pay fees → Download admit card.

Result & Admission: Scores and ranks are published online. Shortlisted candidates are called for counseling and admission.

Preparation Tips: Study NCERTs thoroughly, solve previous year papers, practice mock tests, revise formulas regularly, and focus on accuracy and time management.

Career Opportunities: Successful candidates can pursue research, higher education in science, data science, education, or careers in emerging scientific fields