NEST 2026 Exam Pattern consists of a single 3-hour Computer-Based Test (CBT) with four subject sections: Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics. Each section includes 20 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) worth 60 marks each. Candidates must attempt at least three sections to qualify. The marking scheme awards +3 marks for each correct answer, deducts -1 mark for each incorrect response, and assigns 0 marks for unattempted questions. This exam serves as the gateway for admission into the 5-year Integrated MSc Program (2026-31) at NISER Bhubaneswar and UM-DAE CEBS Mumbai. For more details, visit the official website at https://www.nestexam.in.
Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Board/University | NISER Bhubaneswar and UM-DAE CEBS Mumbai |
| Notification Title | NEST 2026 Exam Pattern |
| Category | Education Notifications |
| Website | https://www.nestexam.in |
Key Information
| Event | Date & Time |
|---|---|
| Online Application Start | 05/01/2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 06/04/2026 (11:30 PM) |
| Last Date for Payment | 12/04/2026 (11:30 PM) |
| Admit Card Release | 15/05/2026 onwards |
| NEST 2026 Exam Date | 06/06/2026 (2 PM – 5 PM) |
| Result Announcement | To be announced |
Eligibility Criteria
- Candidates must have studied at least three of the four subjects (Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics) in Classes 11 and 12.
- Candidates should have passed or be appearing in Class 12 in 2024, 2025, or 2026.
- Minimum marks required are 60% for the General category and 55% for SC/ST/Divyangjan.
- There is no age limit for applicants.
Detailed NEST 2026 Exam Pattern & Marking Scheme
- The question paper comprises four independent sections.
- Candidates can attempt all four sections; however, only the best three sections (after fulfilling the SMAS) will be considered for the total score.
- Negative marking is applicable (-1 for incorrect answers).
- Section-wise Minimum Admissible Score (SMAS) is enforced.
- A merit list is prepared based on percentile and Minimum Admissible Percentile (MAP).
NEST 2026 Detailed Syllabus
The syllabus is based on NCERT/CBSE Classes XI and XII. Below is the complete official syllabus.
BIOLOGY
Class XI
- Unit I: Diversity of Living Organisms
- Unit II: Structural Organization in Plants and Animals
- Unit III: Cell: Structure and Function
- Unit IV: Plant Physiology
- Unit V: Human Physiology
Class XII
- Unit VI: Reproduction
- Unit VII: Genetics and Evolution
- Unit VIII: Biology and Human Welfare
- Unit IX: Biotechnology and Its Applications
- Unit X: Ecology and Environment
CHEMISTRY
Class XI
- Some Basic Concepts of Chemistry
- Structure of an Atom
- Classification of Elements and Periodicity in Properties
- Chemical Bonding and Molecular Structure
- Chemical Thermodynamics
- Equilibrium
- Redox Reactions
- Organic Chemistry: Some Basic Principles and Techniques
- Hydrocarbons
Class XII
- Solutions
- Electrochemistry
- Chemical Kinetics
- d- and f-Block Elements
- Coordination Compounds
- Haloalkanes and Haloarenes
- Alcohols, Phenols, and Ethers
- Aldehydes, Ketones, and Carboxylic Acids
- Amines
- Biomolecules
MATHEMATICS
Class XI
- Sets and Functions
- Algebra (Complex Numbers, Quadratic Equations, Permutations, Binomial Theorem, Sequences & Series)
- Coordinate Geometry
- Calculus (Limits and Derivatives)
- Statistics and Probability
Class XII
- Relations and Functions
- Algebra (Matrices & Determinants)
- Calculus (Continuity, Derivatives, Integrals, Applications, Differential Equations)
- Vectors and Three-Dimensional Geometry
- Linear Programming
- Probability
PHYSICS
Class XI
- Units and Measurements
- Motion in a Straight Line & Plane
- Laws of Motion
- Work, Energy, and Power
- System of Particles and Rotational Motion
- Gravitation
- Mechanical Properties of Solids & Fluids
- Thermal Properties of Matter
- Oscillations and Waves
Class XII
- Electrostatics
- Current Electricity
- Magnetic Effects & Magnetism
- Electromagnetic Induction & Alternating Current
- Electromagnetic Waves
- Optics
- Dual Nature, Atoms, Nuclei
- Semiconductor Electronics
How to Prepare for NEST 2026
- Thoroughly master the NCERT books.
- Focus on strong performance in at least three subjects.
- Practice the previous year’s NEST papers.
- Understand the implications of SMAS and negative marking.
How to Apply for NEST 2026
Click the official apply link below to access the application portal at https://www.nestexam.in.
Important Links
| Particulars | Link |
|---|---|
| Official Notice/PDF | Click Here |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Where do I apply for the NEST 2026 exam?
Ans. You can submit your application directly through the official website at nestexam.in.
Q2. When is the deadline to submit the NEST application?
Ans. Make sure to complete your registration by April 6, 2026, at 11:30 PM.
Q3. Which subjects make up the NEST paper?
Ans. The test covers four sections: Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics. You will need to answer questions from at least three of these.
Q4. Does NEST 2026 have negative marking?
Ans. Yes, it does. You lose one mark (-1) for every incorrect answer, while correct answers earn you three marks (+3).
Q5. When can we expect the NEST 2026 results?
Ans. The official date for the result declaration hasn’t been announced yet.
Q6. How long does the examination last?
Ans. You will have a total of 3 hours to complete the computer-based test.
Q7. What are the qualifying marks for SC and ST candidates?
Ans. Candidates belonging to the SC, ST, and Divyangjan categories need a minimum of 55% in their Class 12 exams to be eligible.
