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.
Note: All information is sourced from the official notification. Students are advised to verify all details from the official website before proceeding.
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.
- 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 (As per Official Brochure)
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
- Visit the official website at https://www.nestexam.in.
- Navigate to the relevant section for NEST 2026.
- Click on the notification/link for the application.
- Enter the required credentials.
- View/download the information.
Expert Advice (Important)
Before submitting your application, ensure that you double-check your eligibility criteria and required documents to avoid any discrepancies.
Important Links
| Particulars | Link |
|---|---|
| Official Notice/PDF | Click Here |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. How can I apply for this course?
Ans. You can apply by visiting the official website and following the steps mentioned above.
Q2. What is the last date to apply?
Ans. The last date to apply is 06/04/2026 as per the official notification.
Q3. What subjects are included in the NEST 2026 Exam?
Ans. The subjects included are Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics.
Q4. Is there any negative marking in the exam?
Ans. Yes, there is negative marking; -1 mark is deducted for each incorrect answer.
Q5. When will the NEST 2026 results be announced?
Ans. The result announcement date is yet to be announced.
Q6. What is the duration of the NEST 2026 Exam?
Ans. The duration of the exam is 3 hours.
Q7. What is the minimum qualifying percentage for SC/ST candidates?
Ans. The minimum qualifying percentage for SC/ST candidates is 55%.
