NEST ( National Entrance Screening Test )

NEST 2026

The NEST 2026 (National Entrance Screening Test) dates are yet to be released by the National Institute of Science Education and Research (NISER), Bhubaneswar, and the University of Mumbai – Department of Atomic Energy Centre for Excellence in Basic Sciences (UM-DAE CEBS). Based on previous trends, the NEST 2026 application process is expected to commence in February 2026, with the NEST 2026 exam likely to be held in June 2026.

NEST is a national-level entrance examination conducted jointly by NISER and UM-DAE CEBS for admission into the five-year Integrated M.Sc. programs in basic sciences – Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics. The NEST test is known for its high academic standards and serves as the gateway for students aspiring to build careers in research and scientific fields through these reputed institutes.

Candidates planning to appear for NEST 2026 must ensure that they meet the eligibility criteria, which typically include completion of Class 12 with science subjects and a minimum qualifying percentage. The NEST 2026 exam will be a computer-based test comprising multiple-choice questions that assess analytical ability, comprehension, and subject knowledge.

Applicants are advised to familiarize themselves with the NEST 2026 exam pattern, NEST 2026 syllabus, and NEST 2026 marking scheme well in advance. The NEST 2026 admit cards will be issued online through the official portal before the exam. All-important updates — including NEST 2026 result announcements, merit lists, and NEST 2026 counselling schedules — will be made available on the official NEST website. Candidates should keep track of all notifications to avoid missing crucial deadlines.

NEST 2026 – Key Highlights

Basic Information on NEST

The NEST (National Entrance Screening Test) is a national-level entrance exam conducted jointly by the National Institute of Science Education and Research (NISER), Bhubaneswar, and the University of Mumbai - Department of Atomic Energy Centre for Excellence in Basic Sciences (UM-DAE CEBS), Mumbai. The NEST exam is held annually to select candidates for admission to their 5-year integrated MSc programs in the core science subjects of Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology. NEST aims to assess the aptitude, conceptual understanding, and logical reasoning abilities of candidates in these subject areas. The NEST test is conducted online as a computer-based test (CBT), and the pattern includes multiple-choice questions distributed equally across the four sections. The NEST exam is recognized as a prominent gateway for science aspirants aspiring to advance their studies in basic sciences at prestigious institutes in India.

NEST 2026 Exam Dates (Tentative)

Following is the list of the NEST 2026 exam dates. Please note that these dates are only tentative as the authorities are yet to release the dates in their official website.

NEST 2026 Exam Highlights

NEST 2026 Preparation Tips

To prepare effectively for NEST 2026, candidates should thoroughly study the NCERT Class 11 and 12 syllabus in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology. A strategic study plan involving understanding core concepts, practicing previous years’ question papers, and regularly taking mock tests is essential. Time management during NEST 2026 preparation and exam day is crucial to handle the exam’s four sections efficiently. Candidates are also advised to focus on weaker subjects while maintaining strengths in others and to maintain good health and a stress-free mindset throughout the preparation phase.

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NEST 2026 Cut Offs

The NEST 2026 cut-offs are the minimum qualifying marks candidates must achieve to be eligible for admission to NISER and UM-DAE CEBS. The NEST 2026 cut-offs vary by category and depend on factors like exam difficulty and seat availability. For the General category, the expected cut-off marks fall between 75 to 85 out of 180, typically corresponding to the 90th percentile. Reserved categories have comparatively lower cut-offs. Candidates must also meet section-wise minimum admissible scores to qualify. NEST Cut-off trends help candidates set realistic target scores for admission.

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NEST 2026 Instructions

1. Candidates should upload their photograph and signature with the preferred size in the portal which should be clearly visible.
2. Candidates need to carry their admit card/hall ticket to the exam centre. Candidates will be prohibited from entering the exam hall without this document.
3. Candidates will also be required to carry a valid ID proof such as – Voter ID Card/ Aadhaar Card/ PAN Card/ Driving License, etc.
4. It is advisable for all candidates to enter the designated exam hall before time for a smooth security process before the beginning of exam.
5. Any candidate violating the rules will be strictly dealt as per the norms of the exam centre.
6. Any candidate pursuing any unfair means in the exam hall will be dealt with as per the rules and regulations of the test centre.

NEST 2026 – FAQs

Q1. What is the NEST 2026 exam and which institutes use its score for admission?

Ans. NEST 2026 stands for National Entrance Screening Test and is conducted by NISER Bhubaneswar and UM-DAE CEBS Mumbai. It is used for admission to their 5-year integrated MSc programs in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics.

Q2. When will the NEST 2026 exam be conducted?

Ans. The NEST 2026 exam is tentatively scheduled for the fourth week of June 2026, conducted online as a computer-based test.

Q3. What is the eligibility criteria for appearing in NEST 2026?

Ans. Candidates must have passed or be appearing for Class 12 or equivalent in 2024, 2025, or 2026 with science subjects including Physics, Chemistry, and either Mathematics or Biology, scoring minimum marks according to category.

Q4. How can candidates apply for the NEST 2026 exam?

Ans. The application process for NEST 2026 is fully online and will begin in the third week of February 2026, with forms available on the official website. Candidates must register, fill in details, upload documents, pay the fee, and submit the form before the deadline in May 2026.

Q5. What is the exam pattern and marking scheme for NEST 2026?

Ans. The NEST exam consists of four sections – Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology, each having 20 multiple-choice questions. Each correct answer earns 3 marks, and one mark is deducted for every wrong answer, with a total exam duration of 3 hours and 30 minutes.