B.Sc Nursing Without NEET in 2026: Colleges, Exams & Eligibility
- Vaishnavi Mestry
- Dec 23
- 4 min read
The Landscape of B.Sc Nursing Without NEET in 2026
In 2026, many top medical institutions and private colleges in India will continue to offer B.Sc Nursing admissions without requiring a NEET-UG score. While some prestigious government institutions—such as Banaras Hindu University (BHU) and JIPMER—have shifted toward NEET-based selection, a vast majority of the country's nursing seats remain accessible through independent channels.
Choosing the non-NEET route does not mean compromising on quality. In fact, many institutions that conduct their own exams are ranked among the best in Asia for clinical exposure and research.
Why Choose the Non-NEET Pathway?
Specialized Focus:
Exams like AIIMS Nursing focus specifically on the aptitude required for the nursing profession rather than the broader medical curriculum.
Multiple Opportunities:
Instead of relying on a single exam date, students can appear for various state and university exams, increasing their chances of selection.
Direct Merit Admission:
Several high-quality private universities allow students to secure seats based on their 10+2 performance.
Top Colleges Offering B.Sc Nursing Without NEET (Entrance-Based)
For students aiming for premier medical institutions in 2026, several "Big Name" colleges continue to hold their own dedicated entrance tests. These are highly competitive but offer world-class infrastructure.
1. AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Sciences)
AIIMS remains the most sought-after destination. It conducts the AIIMS B.Sc Nursing Exam, typically reserved for female candidates. With over 18 campuses including Delhi, Rishikesh, and Jodhpur, AIIMS provides nearly free education with heavy clinical rotations.
2. PGIMER, Chandigarh
The Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) is legendary for its nursing standards. For the 2026 session, it is expected to hold its own entrance test for approximately 93 seats.
3. CMC Vellore & Ludhiana
Christian Medical College (CMC) is synonymous with excellence in the medical domain. These institutions conduct separate entrance tests (e.g., CMC Ludhiana B.Sc Nursing Exam) followed by personal interviews and aptitude assessments.
4. King George’s Medical University (KGMU)
Located in Lucknow, KGMU is a giant in medical education. While it previously had its own test, it now primarily accepts candidates through the UP CNET (Common Nursing Entrance Test).
5. RUHS (Rajasthan University of Health Sciences)
For those looking to study in Northern India, the RUHS Nursing Entrance Exam is the mandatory gateway for all government and private nursing colleges in Rajasthan.
Alternative State-Level Entrance Exams for 2026
If you are not appearing for NEET, your best strategy is to target state-level Common Entrance Tests (CETs). These exams are the primary mode of entry for thousands of seats across the country.
State | Entrance Exam Name | Target Colleges |
|---|---|---|
Maharashtra | MH BSc Nursing CET | All Govt & Private Colleges in MH |
West Bengal | JENPAS UG | WB Health Sciences University & JENPAS affiliated |
Karnataka | KCET | St. John’s, Bangalore City College, etc. |
UP | UP CNET | KGMU, SGPGIMS, and private UP colleges |
Andhra/TS | AP/TS EAMCET | Major University-affiliated colleges |
Direct & Merit-Based Admission in Top Private Universities
Many students prefer the "Direct Admission" route to avoid the stress of multiple entrance exams. In 2026, top-tier private universities will offer seats based on the Class 12 board marks (Physics, Chemistry, and Biology aggregate).
Manipal College of Nursing:
Consistently ranked among the top private nursing colleges in India.
Amity University:
Offers modern simulation labs across various campuses (Noida, Gurugram, etc.).
SRM University:
Known for its global healthcare tie-ups and excellent placement records in Chennai.
Galgotias University:
A rising star in the NCR region with a dedicated hospital for training.
Vydehi Institute of Nursing Sciences (Bangalore):
Offers intense clinical exposure due to its massive multi-specialty hospital.
Standard B.Sc Nursing Eligibility Criteria (2026)
To ensure your application is successful, you must meet the regulatory standards set by the Indian Nursing Council (INC) and respective universities.
Educational Qualification:
You must have completed 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology (PCB), and English as core subjects.
Minimum Marks:
Most institutions require a minimum aggregate of 45% to 50% in PCB subjects. However, AIIMS usually sets the bar higher at 55% for General category students.
Age Limit:
You must be at least 17 years old by December 31, 2026. The maximum age limit is generally 35 years.
Medical Fitness:
As nursing is a physically demanding profession in the medical domain, a medical fitness certificate from a registered practitioner is mandatory at the time of admission.
Career Scope and Salary Expectations in 2026
The year 2026 is expected to see a 15% increase in the recruitment of Nursing Officers in the government sector. A B.Sc Nursing degree is not just a qualification; it is a global passport.
Government Sector:
Starting salaries for Nursing Officers in AIIMS or Central Govt hospitals can range from ₹70,000 to ₹85,000 per month (including allowances).
Private Sector:
Premier hospitals like Apollo, Fortis, and Max offer starting packages of ₹3.5 LPA to ₹5 LPA.
International Opportunities:
There is a critical shortage of nurses in the UK, Canada, and Australia. 2026 will see streamlined visa processes for Indian nursing graduates.
Conclusion
Pursuing B.Sc Nursing without NEET in 2026 is a strategic move for students who want to focus on a dedicated nursing career without the pressure of the NEET-UG race. By targeting state CETs and premier university exams, you can secure a seat in some of the finest medical institutions in the country.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is it possible to get B.Sc Nursing without NEET in 2026?
Yes, it is absolutely possible. While some central universities use NEET, many top-tier institutions like AIIMS and PGIMER conduct their own exams. Additionally, state-level exams like MH-CET and JENPAS UG allow you to secure B.Sc Nursing without NEET in 2026.
2. Can male candidates apply for AIIMS Nursing?
No, the B.Sc (Hons) Nursing course at AIIMS is currently open only to female candidates. However, male candidates can apply for other exams like KGMU, RUHS, and various private university admissions.
3. What is the syllabus for nursing entrance exams in 2026?
Most exams follow the NCERT Class 11 and 12 syllabus for Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. Some exams also include a section on General Knowledge, English, and Nursing Aptitude.
4. Which private college is best for direct admission?
Manipal College of Nursing and SRM University are highly recommended due to their high placement rates and state-of-the-art medical facilities.
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