NEST 2026 follows a structured exam pattern designed to test conceptual understanding in basic sciences through a computer-based format. The syllabus draws directly from NCERT Class 11-12 content, emphasizing application over rote memorization.
The National Entrance Screening Test (NEST) is a 3-hour 30-minute online exam with four equal sections: Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics. Each section contains 20 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) for a total of 80 questions and 240 marks, though merit lists use the best three sections (180 marks maximum). Questions appear in English and Hindi, with single correct answers per MCQ.
NEST evaluates all science stream subjects uniformly to identify well-rounded candidates.
| Section | Subject | Questions | Marks per Section | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| I | Biology | 20 | 60 | 240 |
| II | Chemistry | 20 | 60 | |
| III | Mathematics | 20 | 60 | |
| IV | Physics | 20 | 60 |
Correct answers earn +3 marks, incorrect ones deduct -1 mark, and unanswered questions score 0. This negative marking encourages strategic attempts, with Section-wise Minimum Admissible Score (SMAS) set at 20% of the top 100 average per section (90% for OBC, 50% for SC/ST/Divyangjan).
| Response Type | Marks |
|---|---|
| Correct Answer | +3 |
| Incorrect Answer | -1 |
| Unanswered | 0 |
The syllabus matches rationalized NCERT Class 11-12 books, focusing on core concepts with analytical questions. Download detailed PDFs from nestexam.in for topics like those listed below.
Covers mechanics, thermodynamics, waves, optics, electricity, magnetism, and modern physics (e.g., units, motion, laws of motion, semiconductors).
Spans physical (atomic structure, thermodynamics), inorganic (periodic table, coordination compounds), and organic chemistry (hydrocarbons, biomolecules).
Includes algebra (sets, functions, matrices), calculus (limits, derivatives), coordinate geometry, trigonometry, probability, and vectors.
Encompasses diversity of life, structural organization, physiology, reproduction, genetics, evolution, ecology, and biotechnology.
Official Website - https://www.nestexam.in/
Practice past papers and mocks on nestexam.in to master CBT navigation and time allocation across sections. Aim for SMAS in at least three subjects plus the overall Minimum Admissible Percentile (95th for general category) for merit ranking. Focus on NCERT for 80-90% coverage, supplementing with conceptual problems.
