National Entrance Screening Test (NEST)

 

The National Entrance Screening Test (NEST) is a national-level computer‑based test for admission into 5‑year integrated M.Sc. programs in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics at prestigious institutes like NISER Bhubaneswar and UM‑DAE CEBS Mumbai. Established to identify young scientific talent, NEST evaluates conceptual clarity, problem‑solving skills, and scientific aptitude.

 

 Exam Month: May 2026

 

 Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes

 

 Mode: Computer‑Based Test (CBT)

 

 Total Marks: 200

 

Why NEST matters: Graduates secure top research positions, PhD slots, and high‑impact careers in academia, industry, and government labs. 

 

2.  Purpose of NEST Exam

 

Identify Excellence: Screen for strong aptitude in basic sciences. 

 

Premium Education: Offer seats in NISER and UM‑DAE CEBS for holistic, research‑oriented training. 

 

Career Launchpad: Facilitate entry into advanced research, teaching, and scientific innovation. 

 

Interdisciplinary Exposure: Promote cross‑disciplinary learning across four core sciences. 

 

3.  Conducting Body

 

NEST is jointly conducted by:

 

These institutes ensure a fair, transparent, and rigorous evaluation process. 

 

4.  Exam Type and Subjects

 

Exam Type: Computer‑Based Test (CBT)

 

Subjects & Sections (4 total):

 

1.  Biology

 

2.  Chemistry

 

3.  Mathematics

 

4.  Physics

 

Each section carries 50 marks, blending MCQs, MSQs, and Numerical Answer Type (NAT) questions.

 

5.  Eligibility Criteria

 

 Stream: Physics, Chemistry, Biology and/or Mathematics in Class XII.

 

 Attempts: Unlimited if eligibility met.

 

 

6.  NEST Exam Pattern 2026

 

MCQ: 4 options, single correct answer.

 

MSQ: May have multiple correct options; no negative marking.

 

NAT: Numeric answers; no negative marking.

 

7.  NEST Syllabus 2026

 

Based on NCERT Class XI–XII curriculum.

 

7.1 Biology 

 

Cell Biology & Biochemistry

 

Genetics & Evolution

 

Human & Plant Physiology

 

Microbiology & Immunology

 

Ecology & Environment

 

7.2 Chemistry 

 

Physical Chemistry: Thermodynamics, Equilibrium, Kinetics

 

Inorganic Chemistry: Periodic Table, Coordination Compounds

 

Organic Chemistry: Mechanisms, Functional Groups

 

Analytical Techniques: Spectroscopy, Chromatography

 

7.3 Mathematics 

 

Algebra & Matrices

 

Calculus: Differentiation & Integration

 

Probability & Statistics

 

Coordinate Geometry & Vectors

 

7.4 Physics 

 

Mechanics & Fluid Dynamics

 

Electrodynamics

 

Thermodynamics & Kinetic Theory

 

Waves, Optics & Modern Physics

 

8.  Best Books for NEST Preparation

 

 

9.  NEST Preparation Strategy & Tips

 

1.  Create a Study Plan: Map topics with weekly targets.

 

2.  Focus on Basics: Master NCERT before advanced texts.

 

3.  Active Recall: Use flashcards and mind maps.

 

4.  Timed Practice: Weekly full‑length mock tests.

 

5.  Analyze Performance: Maintain error log to identify weak areas.

 

6.  Group Study: Peer discussions and doubt‑clearing sessions.

7.  Healthy Routine: Balanced diet, sleep, and short breaks.

 

8.  Stress Buster: Meditation or light exercise.

10.  Admission Process

 

1. Result Declaration: Check NEST website for score and rank.

2. Merit List: Category‑wise and overall.

 

3. Online Counseling: Register, fill preferences (institutes & disciplines).

4. Seat Allotment: Based on rank, category, and choices.

 

5. Document Verification: Class XII marksheet, NEST scorecard, ID proof, category certificate.

6. Fee Payment: Confirm seat by paying admission fees.

 

 Best Coaching Institutes (GATEIIT)

 

Why GATEIIT is India’s Top Choice for NEST Preparation:

 

 Expert Faculty: PhD mentors with proven track records.

 

 Tailored Study Material: Aligned with NEST 2025 syllabus.

 

 Mock Test Series: Real‑exam simulations with analytics.

 

 24×7 Doubt Support: Online forums & one‑on‑one sessions.

 

 Flexi‑Classes: Offline (JP Nagar, Bangalore) & live online.

 

 Performance Tracking: Weekly assessments & personalized feedback.

 

Success Stats: 85% of GATEIIT NEST students secure seats at NISER/UM‑DAE CEBS annually! 

 

Enroll Now: www.gateiit.com  +91‑8884416155, 8884416154.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 

Q1: How many sections are in NEST? A1: Four sections—Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics; 200 marks total. 

 

Q2: Is coaching necessary? A2: Self‑study can work, but expert guidance from GATEIIT boosts your success rate. 

 

Q3: What is a good NEST score? A3: 140+ out of 200 is competitive for General category. 

 

Q4: Are NCERT books enough? A4: Yes for basics; supplement with advanced references and mock tests. 

 

Q5: Can I apply to both NISER and UM‑DAE CEBS? A5: Yes, single NEST application covers both institutes. 

 

Q6: How to improve speed? A6: Timed sectional tests and regular mock exams under exam conditions.