SGPGI Nursing Officer Exam 2026: Notification, Syllabus, and Preparation Guide
- Swarangi Nawge
- 4 days ago
- 4 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
The SGPGI Nursing Officer Exam 2026 represents one of the most prestigious opportunities for nursing professionals in India. Conducted by the Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGIMS), Lucknow, this recruitment drive seeks to fill critical vacancies for Grade-B Nursing Officers. As a premier super-specialty medical institution, SGPGI offers not just a job, but a career defined by high-standard clinical protocols, advanced medical research, and a competitive salary structure under the 7th Pay Commission.
This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about the upcoming 2026 cycle, from eligibility and the revised syllabus to expert strategies for navigating the challenging negative marking system.
SGPGI Nursing Officer Exam 2026 Overview
For the 2026 recruitment cycle, SGPGIMS continues its tradition of rigorous selection to maintain its "Centre of Excellence" status. The examination is conducted as a Common Recruitment Test (CRT) via an online Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode.
Feature | Details |
Exam Name | SGPGI Nursing Officer Exam 2026 |
Conducting Body | Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGIMS) |
Post Name | Nursing Officer (formerly Sister Grade-II) |
Total Vacancies | 1,200+ (Expected) |
Selection Process | Common Recruitment Test (CRT) & Document Verification |
Pay Level | Level 7 (Rs. 44,900 to Rs. 1,42,400) |
Eligibility Criteria for SGPGI Nursing Officer 2026
Before applying, candidates must ensure they meet the stringent academic and professional requirements set by the institute.
1. Educational Qualifications
Candidates must possess one of the following from an Indian Nursing Council (INC) recognized institute:
B.Sc. (Hons.) Nursing / B.Sc. Nursing.
Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing.
GNM Diploma: Candidates with a Diploma in General Nursing and Midwifery must have at least two years of experience in a minimum 50-bedded hospital after acquiring the qualification.
2. Registration
It is mandatory to be registered as a Nurse and Midwife with the State or Indian Nursing Council at the time of application.
3. Age Limit (As of January 1, 2026)
Minimum Age: 18 Years
Maximum Age: 40 Years
Relaxation: Age relaxation for SC/ST/OBC and other categories is applicable as per the Uttar Pradesh Government rules (typically up to 5 years for UP domicile reserved candidates).
Updated SGPGI Nursing Officer Syllabus & Exam Pattern
The SGPGI Nursing Officer Exam 2026 is designed to test both clinical expertise and general mental ability. The 100-mark paper is divided into two distinct sections.
The Marking Scheme & Negative Marking
Understanding the marking scheme is critical for success.
Correct Answer: +1 Mark
Incorrect Answer: -0.33 (1/3 mark)
Duration: 120 Minutes (2 Hours)
Subject-Wise Weightage
Core Nursing Subjects (60 Marks): This is the heart of the exam. Topics include Anatomy, Physiology, Medical-Surgical Nursing, Psychiatric Nursing, Community Health, and Midwifery.
General English (10 Marks): Focuses on grammar, vocabulary, and sentence correction.
General Knowledge (10 Marks): Current affairs, Indian history, and geography.
Reasoning (10 Marks): Analytical and logical reasoning.
Mathematical Aptitude (10 Marks): Basic arithmetic, percentages, and data interpretation.
Navigating Nursing in Negative Marking Domain
One of the biggest hurdles for aspirants is the nursing in negative marking domain. Unlike some state-level exams, SGPGI penalizes "blind guessing."
Strategic Approach to Negative Marking
The 50-50 Rule: Only attempt a question if you can confidently eliminate two out of four options.
Accuracy over Speed: Since the cut-off usually hovers around 60–70% for the General category, focus on getting 75 questions right rather than attempting 100 with 30 mistakes.
Sectional Balance: Do not ignore the 40 marks of the General section. Often, the "Rank Deciders" are the Math and Reasoning questions which carry no ambiguity if solved correctly.
Salary and Career Growth at SGPGIMS
Selected candidates are placed in Pay Level 7 of the 7th Central Pay Commission (CPC).
Initial Basic Pay: Rs. 44,900
Estimated Monthly Gross Salary: Rs. 65,000 – Rs. 72,000 (including DA, HRA, and Nursing Allowances).
Career Path: Nursing Officer → Senior Nursing Officer → Assistant Nursing Superintendent → Deputy Nursing Superintendent → Nursing Superintendent.
How to Prepare for SGPGI Nursing Officer Exam 2026
Master the Basics: Use standard textbooks like Target High or PR Yadav to clear concepts in Medical-Surgical and Fundamentals of Nursing.
Daily Current Affairs: Spend 30 minutes daily on national news and medical advancements.
Mock Tests: Join a CBT-based test series to get used to the digital interface and the pressure of the ticking clock.
Focus on "Image-Based" Questions: Modern nursing exams frequently include clinical images or equipment identification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is there negative marking in the SGPGI Nursing Officer Exam 2026?
A: Yes, the SGPGI Nursing Officer Exam 2026 features a negative marking of 0.33 (1/3 mark) for every incorrect answer. Candidates are advised to be cautious during the CRT.
Q2: Can GNM freshers apply for this post?
A: No. GNM diploma holders must have a minimum of 2 years of experience in a 50-bedded hospital. B.Sc. Nursing graduates, however, can apply as freshers.
Q3: What are the qualifying marks for the SGPGI exam?
A: Generally, the minimum qualifying marks are 40% for General/EWS/OBC and 35% for SC/ST candidates. However, the final merit list is usually much higher.
Q4: Is the exam conducted in Hindi or English?
A: The medium of the SGPGI Nursing Officer recruitment exam is primarily English.
Conclusion & Next Steps
The SGPGI Nursing Officer Exam 2026 is a gateway to a rewarding career in one of India's top medical institutes. Success requires a blend of deep clinical knowledge and strategic exam-taking skills, especially in a negative-marking environment.
CTA
Stay updated with the latest in nursing and healthcare! Explore more expert guides and exam tips. For More :
Comments