National Entrance Screening Test Apply Online & Application Form | National Entrance Screening Test Check Beneficiary Category & Last Date | National Entrance Screening Test Check Benefits & Features | National Entrance Screening Test Check Selection & Implementation Procedure | National Entrance Screening Test Check Eligibility & All Details | 

The National Entrance Screening Test (NEST) is an entrance exam for admission to undergraduate science programs. Its aim is to identify and nurture scientific talent in India. The last date for application submission varies annually. The syllabus covers biology, chemistry, mathematics, and physics. Successful candidates may receive scholarships and other financial benefits. NEST is a crucial step for students aspiring to pursue science at the undergraduate level.

This article will provide all types of information about the National Entrance Screening Test 2024 like purpose, Eligibility Criteria, Benefits, Features, important documents, etc. We will also share the process to apply online for this test. To get complete information about this test, read this article till the end.

National Entrance Screening Test          

A national entrance exam known as the National Entrance Screening Test (NEST) is required for enrollment in the five-year Integrated Master of Science programs in the basic sciences, which also include physics, biology, chemistry, and mathematics. The National Institute of Science Education and Research (NISER), based in Mumbai, Bhubaneswar, and the Department of Atomic Energy Centre for Excellence Basic Sciences (UM-DAE CEBS), jointly administer the exam.

The National Entrance Screening Test (NEST) is an annual examination for admission to undergraduate science programs. Its objectives include identifying and nurturing scientific talent. Successful candidates may receive scholarships and other financial benefits. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions in biology, chemistry, mathematics, and physics. The cutoff marks vary each year depending on factors like the number of applicants and the difficulty level of the exam.

Highlights of National Entrance Screening Test 2024

The highlights of this test are as follows:- 

Objectives of National Entrance Screening Test 2024

The National Entrance Screening Test (NEST) is a competitive examination conducted annually in India for admission to the 5-year integrated MSc program in basic sciences. It is an important examination that tests the knowledge and aptitude of students in various subjects. In this article, we will discuss the top 10 objectives of the NEST exam.

• One of the main objectives of the NEST exam is to assess the conceptual understanding of students in subjects like physics, chemistry, mathematics, biology, and general aptitude. It tests the depth of knowledge and the ability to apply concepts to solve problems.
• The NEST exam aims to evaluate the analytical and problem-solving skills of students. It includes questions that require logical reasoning, critical thinking, and the ability to analyze and solve complex problems.
• The exam aims to test the scientific temperament of students by assessing their understanding of scientific concepts, principles, and theories. It focuses on their ability to think scientifically and apply scientific methods to solve problems.
• NEST aims to promote research-oriented thinking among students. It includes questions that test their ability to think critically, analyze data, and draw conclusions. It encourages students to develop a scientific mindset and pursue a career in research.
• The exam helps in identifying potential candidates who have the aptitude and skills required for a career in science. It provides a platform for talented students to showcase their abilities and secure admission to prestigious institutes.
• NEST promotes interdisciplinary learning by testing students in multiple subjects. It emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to science and encourages students to develop a broad understanding of various scientific disciplines.
• The exam evaluates the time management skills of students as they have to solve a large number of questions within a limited time frame. It tests their ability to prioritize, allocate time to different sections, and complete the exam within the given time.
• NEST aims to enhance the problem-solving abilities of students by challenging them with complex and thought-provoking questions. It encourages them to think outside the box, explore different approaches, and come up with innovative solutions.
• The exam plays a crucial role in promoting scientific literacy among students. It tests their understanding of basic scientific concepts and principles, which are essential for informed decision-making and active participation in society.
• One of the main objectives of the NEST exam is to facilitate admissions to prestigious institutes like the National Institute of Science Education and Research (NISER) and the University of Mumbai – Department of Atomic Energy Centre for Excellence in Basic Sciences (UM-DAE CEBS). It provides a fair and transparent selection process based on merit.

National Entrance Screening Test: Beneficiary Category

The National Entrance Screening Test (NEST) is a national level entrance examination conducted for admission to the 5-year Integrated M.Sc. program in basic sciences. The test is conducted by the NEST Board, which is an autonomous body under the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD), Government of India.

• NEST offers special provisions for candidates belonging to various beneficiary categories. These categories include Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC), Persons with Disabilities (PwD), and Economically Weaker Sections (EWS).
• Under the beneficiary category, candidates belonging to SC, ST, and OBC categories are eligible for relaxation in the minimum qualifying marks for the entrance examination. This ensures that candidates from these categories have a fair chance of securing admission to the program.
• Candidates belonging to the PwD category are provided with additional facilities such as extra time, scribe/reader assistance, and other necessary accommodations as per the guidelines of the NEST Board. This ensures that candidates with disabilities can appear for the examination on an equal footing with other candidates.
• The EWS category has been introduced recently to provide reservations to economically weaker sections of the society. Candidates belonging to this category need to fulfill the eligibility criteria specified by the NEST Board to avail the benefits under this category.

Application Enrollment Last Dates

The application enrollment for NEST typically opens in the month of January and closes in the month of March. Candidates are advised to regularly check the official website of NEST for updates regarding the application process and last dates. It is important to complete the application process within the specified timeline to avoid any last-minute complications.

During the application process, candidates need to provide their personal details, educational qualifications, and upload necessary documents as per the instructions provided. They are also required to pay the application fee as prescribed by the NEST Board.

Selection Procedure

The selection procedure for NEST consists of two stages: the entrance examination and the counseling process. The entrance examination is conducted in multiple cities across India and assesses the candidates’ knowledge in subjects such as physics, chemistry, mathematics, biology, and general aptitude. Based on the performance in the entrance examination, candidates are shortlisted for the counseling process. The counseling process involves document verification and seat allocation based on the candidate’s merit rank and preferences. The final admission is granted to candidates who successfully complete the counseling process and fulfill all the eligibility criteria.

Implementation Procedure

The implementation procedure of NEST involves various stakeholders including the NEST Board, examination conducting agency, examination centers, and counseling authorities. The NEST Board is responsible for formulating the examination policies, syllabus, and eligibility criteria. The examination conducting agency is responsible for conducting the entrance examination in a fair and transparent manner. The examination centers are designated across different cities to ensure accessibility for candidates from various regions. The counseling authorities are responsible for conducting the counseling process and facilitating the seat allocation process.

Supervision Body

The NEST Board, which operates under the supervision of the Ministry of Human Resource Development, is responsible for the overall supervision of the NEST examination. The Board ensures the smooth conduct of the examination, adherence to the prescribed guidelines, and the implementation of beneficiary category provisions. The NEST Board also takes necessary measures to maintain the integrity and credibility of the examination. It strives to provide equal opportunities to all eligible candidates and ensure a fair and transparent selection process.

Exam Syllabus

The NEST exam syllabus is designed to assess the candidate’s understanding of various topics in the fields of Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics. The syllabus is based on the curriculum of the NCERT/CBSE science and mathematics textbooks of class XI and XII. It is recommended that candidates thoroughly study these textbooks to prepare for the exam.

Exam Pattern and Format

The NEST exam is conducted in an offline mode, i.e., pen and paper-based. The duration of the exam is three hours. The question paper consists of five sections:- General section, Physics section, Chemistry section, Biology section, and Mathematics section. The general section tests the candidate’s proficiency in English, general knowledge, and logical reasoning.

The physics, chemistry, biology, and mathematics sections focus on testing the candidate’s knowledge and understanding of the respective subjects. The questions in these sections are a mix of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and short answer type questions. The marking scheme varies for different sections, and negative marking is applicable for incorrect answers.

Exam Tips

Here are some exam tips to help you prepare for the NEST exam:-

• Understand the exam pattern and syllabus thoroughly.
• Make a study schedule and allocate sufficient time for each subject.
• Practice solving previous years’ question papers and sample papers to get familiar with the exam format.
• Focus on understanding the concepts rather than rote memorization.
• Take regular breaks during study sessions to avoid burnout.
• Stay updated with current affairs and general knowledge.
• Seek guidance from teachers, mentors, or coaching institutes, if required.
• Stay calm and confident on the day of the exam.

Recommended Books

While preparing for the NEST exam, it is essential to refer to the right study materials. Here are some recommended books that can help you in your preparation:-

• “Concepts of Physics” by H.C. Verma
• “Physical Chemistry” by P. Bahadur
• “Biology:- Vol. 1 & Vol. 2” by Trueman
• “Mathematics for Class 11 & 12” by R.D. Sharma
• “NCERT Exemplar Problems:- Solutions Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics” by NCERT

List of Institutes Providing Teaching

Several institutes across India provide coaching and guidance for the NEST exam. Some of the renowned institutes include:-

• Resonance
• Allen Career Institute
• FITJEE
• Vibrant Academy
• Aakash Institute

These institutes offer comprehensive study materials, regular mock tests, and expert faculty to help students prepare for the exam effectively.

National Entrance Screening Test:- Key Points

The National Entrance Screening Test (NEST) is a national level entrance examination conducted for admission to the 5-year Integrated MSc program in basic sciences. Here are some key points to keep in mind:-

• Eligibility:- Candidates who have passed class 12th or equivalent examination with science stream are eligible to apply for NEST.
• Application Process:- The application form for NEST can be filled online on the official website. Candidates are required to provide their personal details, educational qualifications, and upload necessary documents.
• Exam Pattern:- NEST is a computer-based test consisting of multiple-choice questions. The exam is divided into five sections:- General Section, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Mathematics.
• Duration and Marking Scheme:- The duration of the exam is 3 hours. Each section carries different marks and negative marking is applicable for wrong answers.
• Admit Card:- Admit cards for NEST will be available for download from the official website. Candidates must carry a printout of the admit card to the examination center.
• Result and Counseling:- The result of NEST will be declared on the official website. Shortlisted candidates will be called for counseling and seat allocation based on their performance in the exam.
• Important Dates:- Candidates must keep track of the important dates related to NEST such as application form submission, admit card download, exam date, result declaration, and counseling.
• Preparation Material:- There are various books and online resources available for NEST preparation. Candidates can refer to these materials to enhance their knowledge and practice for the exam.
• Mock Tests:- It is advisable for candidates to take mock tests to get familiar with the exam pattern and improve their time management skills.
• Stay Calm and Confident:- It is important for candidates to stay calm and confident while preparing for and appearing in the NEST exam. Proper time management, regular practice, and revision are key to success.

Key Guidelines

Here are some key guidelines to follow while preparing for the NEST exam:-

• Create a Study Schedule:- Plan your study schedule in such a way that you can cover all the subjects and topics within the given time.
• Understand the Syllabus:- Go through the syllabus thoroughly and make sure you have a clear understanding of the topics that need to be covered.
• Focus on Conceptual Understanding:- Instead of rote learning, focus on understanding the concepts and principles behind each topic.
• Practice Previous Year Question Papers:- Solve previous year question papers to get an idea of the exam pattern and the type of questions asked.
• Take Regular Breaks:- Taking regular breaks during study sessions helps in maintaining focus and concentration.
• Revise Regularly:- Regular revision is crucial to retain what you have learned and to identify and fill any gaps in your knowledge.
• Stay Updated with Current Affairs:- Keep yourself updated with the latest current affairs, especially in the fields of science and technology.
• Seek Help if Required:- If you are facing difficulties in understanding any particular topic, don’t hesitate to seek help from your teachers or classmates.
• Stay Healthy:- Take care of your physical and mental well-being by eating nutritious food, getting enough sleep, and engaging in physical activities.
• Stay Positive:- Maintain a positive attitude and believe in yourself. Confidence plays a crucial role in performing well in any examination.

Important Instructions

Here are some important instructions to follow on the day of the NEST exam:-

• Reach the Exam Center on Time:- Make sure you reach the exam center well before the reporting time mentioned on the admit card.
• Carry Admit Card and ID Proof:- Don’t forget to carry a printout of your admit card and a valid photo ID proof (such as Aadhar card, PAN card, or passport).
• Follow Dress Code:- Check if there is any specific dress code mentioned in the instructions and adhere to it.
• Do Not Carry Prohibited Items:- Avoid carrying any prohibited items such as electronic gadgets, calculators, study materials, or any other items mentioned in the instructions.
• Listen to Instructions:- Pay attention to the instructions given by the invigilators and follow them carefully.
• Manage Time Effectively:- Divide your time wisely among different sections and questions to ensure that you are able to attempt all the questions within the given time.
• Read Questions Carefully:- Read each question carefully before attempting it to avoid any misunderstandings.
• Attempt Easy Questions First:- Start with the questions you find easy to build confidence and save time for the more challenging ones.
• Avoid Guesswork:- Avoid making random guesses as there is negative marking for wrong answers. If you are unsure about a question, it’s better to leave it unanswered.
• Review Your Answers:- If time permits, review your answers before submitting the exam.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some tips and tricks to enhance your performance in the NEST exam:-

• Time Management:- Practice time management while solving mock tests and previous year question papers to improve your speed and accuracy.
• Focus on Weak Areas:- Identify your weak areas and dedicate more time to practice and strengthen those topics.
• Stay Updated with Current Affairs:- Read newspapers, magazines, and online resources to stay updated with the latest current affairs.
• Join Study Groups:- Joining study groups or online forums can help you in discussing and clarifying doubts with fellow aspirants.
• Use Shortcuts and Tricks:- Learn and practice shortcuts and tricks to solve complex problems quickly.
• Stay Calm and Confident:- Avoid getting stressed or anxious during the exam. Stay calm and confident in your abilities.
• Practice Regularly:- Regular practice is the key to success. Solve as many sample papers and mock tests as possible to improve your problem-solving skills.
• Analyze Your Performance:- After each practice test, analyze your performance to identify your strengths and weaknesses.
• Take Care of Your Health:- Take breaks, exercise, and eat healthy to keep your mind and body in good shape.
• Stay Positive:- Believe in yourself and stay positive throughout your preparation and during the exam.

General Points to Remember

Here are some general points to remember while preparing for the NEST exam:-

• Start Early:- Start your preparation early to have sufficient time to cover the entire syllabus.
• Follow a Study Plan:- Create a study plan and stick to it to ensure systematic preparation.
• Stay Consistent:- Consistency is key. Make sure you dedicate a fixed number of hours daily for studying.
• Stay Motivated:- Keep yourself motivated by setting realistic goals and rewarding yourself for achieving them.
• Stay Positive:- Surround yourself with positive influences and avoid negative distractions.
• Believe in Yourself:- Have confidence in your abilities and believe that you can crack the NEST exam.
• Take Care of Your Well-being:- Take breaks, relax, and engage in activities that help you de-stress.
• Stay Updated:- Keep yourself updated with the latest news and developments in the field of science.
• Stay Focused:- Avoid distractions and stay focused on your goal.
• Stay Balanced:- Maintain a balance between your studies and personal life.

Benefits & Features of NEST

The benefits and features of this exam are as follows:-

• Opportunity for Bright Minds: NEST provides a platform for talented individuals to showcase their academic prowess and secure admission to top-tier institutions.
• Integrated Science Program: The test focuses on various branches of science, including Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics, offering a holistic approach to education.
• Scholarship Opportunities: Successful candidates may be eligible for scholarships and financial support, easing the burden of higher education costs.
• Multiple Career Paths: NEST opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities in fields such as research, academia, and industry.
• National Recognition: Clearing NEST validates your knowledge and skills at a national level, enhancing your credibility as a budding scientist or researcher.
• Networking Opportunities: By participating in NEST, you can connect with like-minded individuals and mentors who can guide you on your academic journey.
• Foster Critical Thinking: The exam challenges students to think critically, analyze problems, and apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: NEST test centers are equipped with modern infrastructure and adhere to strict protocols to ensure a fair and transparent examination process.
• Merit-Based Selection: Admission to premier institutions through NEST is based on merit, rewarding hard work and dedication.
• Personal Growth: Preparing for NEST not only sharpens your academic skills but also fosters personal growth by instilling discipline and perseverance.

National Entrance Screening Test Eligibility Criteria 

The applicants will need to follow the below-mentioned points to apply online for this test:-

• Educational Qualifications: Applicants should have passed or appeared in the 12th standard examination in the Science stream or an equivalent qualifying examination.
• Age Limit: General and OBC category candidates must be born on or after July 15, 2001, while SC/ST/PwD category candidates have a relaxation of five years.
• Minimum Marks: Candidates must secure a minimum aggregate of 60% in the 12th standard examination (55% for SC/ST/PwD candidates).

Important Documents 

Some of the important documents required to apply online for this test are as follows:-

• Aadhar Card
• Residence Certificate
• Income Certificate 
• Educational Certificates 
• Bank Account Details 
• Latest Passport Size Photos 
• Mobile No
• Email ID 

National Entrance Screening Test Apply Online 2024

The applicants will need to follow the below-mentioned points to apply online:- 

• Visit the NEST Website for NEST.
• Choose the “How To Apply” option.
• Select the online application.
• Fill in details in the application form (Name, Date of birth, 10th standard roll number or registration number, Gender, Mobile number, Email ID).
• Enter the security code and hit the register button.
• Complete the registration process.
• Fill in details, upload documents, review application.
• Submit and make payment of the application fee.
• Print application and fee receipt.

Contact Information

In case queries and questions come to your mind regarding the National Entrance Screening Test, then you may contact this aforementioned helpline no and email ID:-

• Helpline No:- 1800-180-5522 
• Email ID:- helpline@antiragging.in

Top 10 FAQs about NEST

• What is the application process for NEST?
  • The application process for NEST typically involves online registration, fee payment, and uploading of documents. Detailed instructions are provided on the official website.
• Can I choose my examination center for NEST?
  • Yes, candidates can select their preferred examination center during the registration process based on availability.
• Is there negative marking in NEST?
  • Yes, there is a negative marking scheme for incorrect answers in NEST. Candidates are advised to answer questions carefully.
• When is the NEST exam conducted?
  • The NEST exam is usually held in the month of June every year. The exact date and schedule are announced on the official website.
• What is the syllabus for NEST?
  • The syllabus for NEST includes topics from Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics covered in the 11th and 12th standard NCERT textbooks.
• Are calculators allowed in the NEST exam?
  • No, candidates are not allowed to use calculators or any electronic devices during the NEST exam.
• How is the NEST exam pattern structured?
  • The NEST exam comprises multiple-choice questions across various subjects, with separate sections for Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics.
• Can I request a re-evaluation of my NEST score?
  • No, the NEST score is final and cannot be re-evaluated or reconsidered once the results are declared.
• Is coaching necessary for NEST preparation?
  • While coaching can be beneficial, self-study and practice are equally essential for success in the NEST exam.
• What are the participating institutions that accept NEST scores?
  • NEST scores are accepted by prestigious institutions such as NISER Bhubaneswar, CEBS Mumbai, and various Department of Atomic Energy centers for admission to their integrated programs.