National Entrance Screening Test
Pursue Integrated MSc at Premier DAE Institutes
NEST is the sole entrance for 5-year Integrated M.Sc. programs in Basic Sciences at NISER and UM-DAE CEBS. It evaluates candidates in Physics, Chemistry, Math, and Biology, targeting students motivated toward research and careers with the Department of Atomic Energy.
Exam Level
National
Frequency
Once Yearly
Mode
Computer Based (CBT)
Conducted By
NISER & CEBS
About NEST
What is the NEST Exam?
The National Entrance Screening Test (NEST) is a national-level exam for admission to the premier basic science institutes of India. These institutes were established by the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) to train scientific talent for India's high-end research and strategic programs.
Why Take the NEST?
Admitted students are eligible for the DISHA scholarship of ₹60,000 annually plus an ₹20,000 internship grant. Top scorers at NISER and CEBS can appear directly for the interview at the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) Training School for a career as a Scientist.
Key Highlights
Integrated 5-Year MSc Programs
DISHA Annual Scholarship of ₹60k
Direct Entry to BARC Interview
Best of 3 Sections Considered
DISHA Annual Scholarship of ₹60k
Integrated 5-Year MSc Programs
Sectional time limits enforced
50,000+
Annual Test Takers
180
Merit Score Basis
257
Total Seats
140+
Exam Cities
Eligibility Criteria
Mandatory
Board Aggregate
General and OBC candidates must score at least 60% in Class 12; 55% for SC/ST/PwD categories.
Mandatory
Passing Year Rule
Only those who passed Class 12 in the current or immediately preceding two years are eligible.
Mandatory
Subject Combination
Students must have studied at least three subjects among Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics in 10+2.
Mandatory
Citizenship Limit
Only Indian Citizens are eligible; NRI, PIO, and OCI candidates are not eligible for the NEST exam.
Relaxed Rule
Age Restriction
Candidates must satisfy the age criteria as specified in the official information brochure.
Good to Know
Grade Translation
Candidates from boards awarding only letter grades must provide an official equivalent percentage certificate.
Application Process
Visit official website nestexam.in
Verify email with OTP link
Upload photo and signature
Complete the registration form
Application Process
Fill academic details and preferences
Documents Required
Keep these documents ready before starting your application
Recent Passport Size Photograph
Class 10 Marksheet (DOB Proof)
Class 12 Marksheet (or appearing certificate)
PwD Certificate (if applicable)
Scanned Signature
Class 12 Marks/Appearing Cert
PwD/Medical Certificate (if any)
Scribe Request Letter (if required)
Exam Pattern
Understanding the structure and marking scheme
Section: Physics (60 Marks)
Section: Chemistry (60 Marks)
Section: Biology (60 Marks)
3 Correct, -1 Incorrect
240 (Merit on 180)
Section: Mathematics (60 Marks)
3 Hours 30 Minutes
Confused About Exam Selection?
Chat with our experts and get personalized Exams recommendations based on your profile and choices.
Important Dates
Keep note of the important dates regarding the examination.
Jan 5 - Apr 6, 2026
June 6, 2026
July 2026 Onwards
May 15, 2026
Fourth week of June 2026
Preparation
Tips
Focus on NCERT Science syllabus
Practice previous year papers
Utilize mock tests for CBT prep
Start Prep
Master time management
Avoid guessing to save marks
Practice previous year papers
Practice previous year papers
Top Colleges
NISER Bhubaneswar
UM-DAE CEBS Mumbai
Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI)
University of Mumbai (Basic Sciences)
DAE Research Institutions
Bhabha Atomic Research Centre
TIFR (Affiliate Research)
IISER (Similar Programs)
IISc Bangalore
IISER Pune
Powered by AI
AI - Powered Tools
Smart predictions and insights for your admission journey