NEST 2025 – Counselling, Cutoff, Result, Scorecard,Trend & Top colleges

The National Entrance Screening Test (NEST) is a national-level entrance exam conducted by the National Institute of Science Education and Research (NISER), Bhubaneswar, and the University of Mumbai – Department of Atomic Energy Centre for Excellence in Basic Sciences (UM-DAE CEBS), Mumbai. Held annually, the exam tests candidates in areas such as General Aptitude, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology, and serves as a gateway to top-ranked integrated Master of Science (M.Sc.) programs in basic sciences across these two prestigious institutions. Appearing for NEST is often the first major step for students aspiring to pursue a five-year integrated M.Sc. degree at India’s most reputed science institutions. With a single exam score, aspirants can apply to these premier colleges across the country, making it a centralised, merit-based selection tool. NEST is designed for students who have completed their 10+2 examination and are keen on pursuing a career in pure sciences. The examination is conducted in an online, computer-based test (CBT) mode, ensuring a standardized and efficient testing environment. The paper comprises five sections: General Aptitude, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology. While the General Aptitude section is compulsory, candidates have the flexibility to choose any three out of the remaining four science subjects. The total duration of the examination is three and a half hours, allowing ample time for candidates to attempt 120 multiple-choice questions for a total of 240 marks. The syllabus for NEST primarily aligns with the NCERT and CBSE syllabi of classes 11 and 12, ensuring that candidates are tested on fundamental concepts learned during their higher secondary education. Key topics covered across the science sections include mechanics, thermodynamics, electromagnetism, organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, physical chemistry, algebra, calculus, geometry, and a wide array of topics in biology such as genetics, cell biology, and ecology. The General Aptitude section assesses logical reasoning, quantitative ability, and general knowledge relevant to scientific pursuits. Exam trends indicate that NEST attracts a significant number of aspirants each year, with tens of thousands of students competing for a limited number of seats at NISER and UM-DAE CEBS. The cut-off marks for admission vary annually based on factors such as the difficulty level of the examination, the total number of applicants, and the performance of the candidates. Securing admission through NEST not only opens doors to rigorous academic programs but also provides opportunities for coveted scholarships, such as the DISHA/DAE scholarship, which supports students throughout their integrated M.Sc. journey. NEST stands as a crucial examination for science enthusiasts aiming for a foundational education and research-oriented careers in basic sciences.

Jointly conducted by two premier institutes for integrated M.Sc. programs in basic sciences, offering research-oriented career paths and scholarship opportunities like DISHA/DAE Scholarship.

Each institute conducts its own admission and counselling process based on NEST scores after results are declared. Candidates must apply separately to the desired institute.

Qualifying National Entrance Screening Test (NEST) opens up admission opportunities at India’s most prestigious institutions — known for their academic excellence, robust industry connections, and stellar placement records. NEST unlocks admission opportunities at two of India’s most prestigious institutions dedicated to fundamental scientific research and education: the National Institute of Science Education and Research (NISER) Bhubaneswar and the UM-DAE Centre for Excellence in Basic Sciences (CEBS) Mumbai. These institutions are acclaimed for their academic excellence, robust research infrastructure, and unwavering commitment to nurturing future scientists. Admission to these highly sought-after integrated M.Sc. programs is intensely competitive, determined by a candidate's merit in the NEST examination. NISER Bhubaneswar, an autonomous institution established by the Department of Atomic Energy, Government of India, offers a unique 5-year integrated M.Sc. program across various basic sciences. Students at NISER benefit from a research-intensive curriculum, state-of-the-art laboratories, and mentorship from leading scientists. Similarly, UM-DAE CEBS Mumbai, a collaboration between the University of Mumbai and the Department of Atomic Energy, provides an equally distinguished platform for integrated science education, located within the vibrant academic environment of the University of Mumbai. Both institutions are known for their exceptional faculty, fostering an environment of critical thinking and scientific inquiry. While traditional corporate placement packages are not the primary focus, the return on investment for qualifying NEST is exceptionally high, primarily through unparalleled academic and research career pathways. Students at both NISER and CEBS receive a substantial monthly scholarship and an annual contingency grant, significantly reducing the financial burden of higher education. Graduates from these institutions are highly regarded and often proceed to secure fully funded PhD positions at top-tier global universities and prestigious research organizations in India, including the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, and various other national laboratories. This pathway ensures a rewarding career in scientific research and academia, showcasing the profound value of a NEST qualification.

Qualifying the National Entrance Screening Test (NEST) opens doors to some of the most prestigious institutions in India and unlocks access to high-growth career opportunities across sectors. NEST grants admission to two highly esteemed institutions: the National Institute of Science Education and Research (NISER) Bhubaneswar and the UM-DAE Centre for Excellence in Basic Sciences (CEBS) Mumbai. These institutions, established by the Department of Atomic Energy, Government of India, are renowned for their rigorous 5-year integrated M.Sc. programs in basic sciences. Studying at these premier centers offers access to world-class faculty, cutting-edge research facilities, and an intellectually stimulating environment, fostering a deep understanding of scientific principles. While direct corporate placements are not the primary focus, qualifying NEST offers an exceptional return on investment. Students at NISER and CEBS receive a substantial scholarship of ₹5000 per month, equivalent to a Junior Research Fellowship, along with an annual contingency grant of ₹20000. This financial support significantly eases the educational burden. Graduates from these institutions are highly sought after for higher studies, frequently securing admissions for PhD programs in top global universities like Oxford, Cambridge, and leading institutions in the USA and Europe. Many also join prestigious research organizations such as the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), and various labs under ISRO and DRDO. The integrated M.Sc. programs are meticulously designed to align with evolving scientific frontiers, preparing students for careers in emerging sectors like biotechnology, nanotechnology, data science, and advanced materials. The emphasis on research, internships, and projects provides practical exposure crucial for impactful contributions. Both NISER and CEBS foster international collaborations, offering pathways for global recognition, further research opportunities, and scholarships abroad. NEST truly serves as a launchpad for aspirants passionate about basic sciences, opening lifelong opportunities for academic and professional success in the global scientific community.

The National Entrance Screening Test (NEST) continues to evolve each year to stay aligned with modern academic frameworks and career readiness expectations. These updates are strategically implemented to enhance the fairness, comprehensive coverage, and overall utility of the examination for aspiring scientists. Candidates preparing for the examination should remain updated with the latest information to ensure their readiness. As of early 2024, the official information for NEST 2025-26 is yet to be released; however, the examination generally maintains a consistent structure based on the latest 2024 pattern. For NEST 2024, the exam continues to be a computer-based test, assessing candidates across four sections: General Ability, Physics, Chemistry, and either Mathematics or Biology. A notable aspect of the pattern allows candidates to choose any three out of the four subject sections (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Biology) in addition to the compulsory General Ability section. Each section now carries 50 marks, resulting in a total score of 200 marks, a shift from previous formats. The syllabus remains focused on the NCERT curricula for Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology at the 10+2 level, ensuring accessibility for a wide range of students. These refinements aim to provide a balanced assessment of a candidate's aptitude across various scientific disciplines while allowing some flexibility in subject choice. The consistent focus on fundamental sciences reflects the examination’s core mission: to identify and nurture talent for careers in basic science research. Prospective applicants are advised to regularly check the official NEST website for the most up-to-date information regarding the application process, exact schedule, and any minor adjustments that may be announced for future examination cycles, ensuring they are well-prepared to benefit from these opportunities.

The National Entrance Screening Test (NEST) serves as a vital national-level entrance examination for aspiring students aiming to enroll in the five-year integrated Master of Science (M.Sc.) programs offered by the National Institute of Science Education and Research (NISER), Bhubaneswar, and the University of Mumbai – Department of Atomic Energy Centre for Excellence in Basic Sciences (UM-DAE CEBS), Mumbai. Conducted annually in June, NEST facilitates admissions into specialized basic science courses. The application process for NEST typically commences in February and concludes by May each year. Prospective candidates are advised to verify their eligibility criteria rigorously before applying. Generally, applicants must have passed their 10+2 examination or its equivalent with a minimum aggregate of 60% marks for General, OBC, and EWS categories, and 55% for SC, ST, and PwD categories. An age limit of 20 years usually applies for General and OBC candidates, with a five-year relaxation for SC, ST, and PwD categories. Necessary documents often include recent photographs, signatures, academic certificates, and caste certificates where applicable. The application fee for male candidates belonging to General, EWS, and OBC categories is INR 1400, while for female candidates of all categories and male candidates from SC, ST, and PwD categories, it is INR 700. Fees are generally paid online through various digital payment methods. Candidates must ensure all information provided is accurate to avoid common application mistakes such as incomplete forms or incorrect personal details. The NEST examination is an online computer-based test lasting three and a half hours. It features 120 multiple-choice questions distributed across five sections: General Aptitude, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology. Candidates are required to attempt the General Aptitude section and any three out of the four science subjects, contributing to a total of 240 marks. The score obtained in NEST is valid solely for the admission year for which the examination is conducted. Following the declaration of results in July, NISER and UM-DAE CEBS individually release their merit lists and conduct separate admission and counselling processes. Aspirants must apply independently to their preferred institute after the NEST results are out, initiating the final phase of their admission journey.