NEST 2026 – Exam Date, Eligibility, Syllabus, Pattern, Registration & Preparation Guide

Overview

NEST (National Entrance Screening Test) is a national-level entrance examination conducted for admission into the prestigious 5-year Integrated MSc programs offered by:

• NISER Bhubaneswar (National Institute of Science Education and Research)

• UM-DAE CEBS Mumbai (Centre for Excellence in Basic Sciences)

Both institutes are run by the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), Government of India, and are known for world-class research facilities, academic excellence, and high-quality scientific training.

NEST is a gateway for students aspiring to build careers in research, science, academia, and innovation.

The exam is expected to be held in June 2026 in computer-based mode.

NEST 2026 – Key Highlights

NEST 2026 – Important Dates (Tentative)

NEST 2026 Eligibility Criteria

1. Educational Qualification

• Must have passed Class 12 (Science) in 2024 or 2025.

• Students appearing in Class 12 in 2026 are also eligible.

2. Minimum Marks

• At least 60% marks in Class 12 for General/OBC.

• 55% marks for SC/ST/PwD candidates.

3. Age Limit

• Candidates born on or after 1 August 2006.

• Relaxation for reserved categories as per Government rules.

4. Combination of Subjects

Students must have studied three of the four subjects in Class 12:
→ Physics
→ Chemistry
→ Mathematics
→ Biology

NEST 2026 Exam Pattern

Marking Scheme

• +3 for each correct answer

• –1 for each wrong answer

• Some questions may have multiple correct answers

• 0 for unattempted questions

NEST 2026 Syllabus

NEST syllabus is based on NCERT Class 11 & 12 for all four subjects.

Biology

Cell Biology, Genetics, Plant Physiology, Human Physiology, Ecology, Evolution, Biotechnology, Reproduction.

Chemistry

Atomic Structure, Thermodynamics, Chemical Bonding, Organic Chemistry, Solutions, Electrochemistry, Coordination Chemistry.

Mathematics

Algebra, Trigonometry, Calculus, Coordinate Geometry, Probability, Vectors, Complex Numbers, Differential Equations.

Physics

Kinematics, Laws of Motion, Work & Energy, Heat & Thermodynamics, Electrostatics, Magnetism, Optics, Modern Physics.

NEST 2026 Application Process

Steps to Apply:

1. Visit the NEST official website

2. Register with basic details

3. Fill in personal & academic information

4. Upload photo, signature & documents

5. Pay the application fee

6. Download confirmation page

Expected Application Fee

NEST 2026 Cut-Off (Expected Percentile)

Cut-offs depend on difficulty level, total candidates, and seat availability.

NEST 2026 Seats (Expected)

NEST 2026 Counselling Process

1. Check NEST Merit List

2. Download Offer Letter

3. Participate in institute-specific counselling

4. Submit documents

5. Confirm admission by paying fees

Both institutes conduct counselling independently.

Why Choose NISER or CEBS?

• Government-funded institutions: Full support by DAE, Government of India, ensuring strong academic & research facilities.

• Research-focused careers: 

Ideal for students aiming for careers in:

• Scientific Research

• Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Maths

• Academia

• DRDO, ISRO, BARC, TIFR

• International research labs

Scholarships:  Eligible students receive INSPIRE / DAE scholarships during the course.

Excellent Faculty & Labs: World-class training in research, lab work, and scientific methodology.

NEST 2026 Preparation Strategy

1. Focus on NCERT Classes 11 & 12: These form the core of the NEST syllabus.

2. Practice Concept-Based Questions: NEST contains many analytical + multi-correct questions.

3. Study All Four Subjects: Even though students specialize later, equal weightage is given to all areas.

4. Solve Mock Tests Regularly: Time management is key for the 3.5-hour exam.

5. Strengthen Calculation & Reasoning Skills

Physics & Maths questions can be application-heavy.

Final Thoughts

NEST 2026 is the perfect gateway for students who are passionate about science, research, and innovation. NISER & CEBS offer some of the best integrated MSc programs in India with excellent research exposure and career opportunities.

Start your preparation early, revise consistently, and focus on conceptual clarity to excel in NEST 2026.