National Entrance Screening Test 2024: Exam Pattern & Syllabus

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 | 

Preparing for the NEST exam requires a well-planned study strategy, thorough understanding of the syllabus, and consistent practice. By following the recommended books, exam tips, and seeking guidance from coaching centers, candidates can enhance their chances of performing well in the exam and securing admission to prestigious institutes like NISER and CEBS. With the right guidance, preparation strategies, and mentorship programs, you can ace the NEST and pave the way for a successful academic journey. So, gear up for the exam, stay focused, and give it your best shot! Good luck!

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 scholarship. To get complete information about this scholarship, read this article till the end.

National Entrance Screening Test          

The National Entrance Screening Test (NEST) is a national level entrance examination conducted for admission to the five-year integrated MSc programme in basic sciences, including Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics. It is organized jointly 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.

The NEST examination is conducted annually and is open to candidates from all over India. It aims to identify talented students who have a passion for science and provide them with an opportunity to pursue their academic aspirations in the field of basic sciences. The examination is conducted in multiple cities across the country and consists of multiple-choice questions covering various subjects such as Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics. The test is designed to assess the candidate’s understanding and application of concepts, analytical skills, and scientific aptitude.

Highlights of National Entrance Screening Test 2024

The highlights of this scholarship are as follows:- 

Objectives of National Entrance Screening Test 2024

The National Entrance Screening Test has the following objectives:-

1. To identify and nurture young talent in the field of basic sciences.

2. To provide a platform for students to pursue their academic aspirations in the field of basic sciences.

Beneficiary Category

The NEST examination is open to candidates from all categories, including General, OBC, SC, ST, and PwD (Persons with Disabilities). There are no specific reservations for any category of candidates. However, candidates belonging to SC, ST, and PwD categories are provided certain relaxations in terms of eligibility criteria and selection process.

Application Enrollment and Last Dates

The application process for NEST usually begins in the month of January and the last date for enrollment is in the month of March. However, candidates are advised to check the official website for the exact dates as they may vary from year to year. Interested candidates can apply for NEST online through the official website. They are required to fill in the application form, upload the necessary documents, and pay the application fee online. It is important to complete the application process before the last date to avoid any last-minute hassles.

Selection Procedure

The selection of candidates for the five-year integrated MSc programme is based on their performance in the NEST examination. The examination consists of multiple-choice questions and is conducted in offline mode. Candidates who qualify the examination are then called for counseling and further admission process.

Implementation Procedure

The implementation of the NEST examination involves various stages, including:-

1. Setting up examination centers in multiple cities across the country.

2. Conducting the examination in a fair and transparent manner.

3. Evaluating the answer sheets and declaring the results.

4. Organizing counseling sessions for the qualified candidates.

Supervision Body

The National Entrance Screening Test is supervised and managed by a committee comprising representatives from NISER and UM-DAE CEBS. The committee is responsible for setting the examination pattern, conducting the examination, evaluating the answer sheets, and declaring the results.

Key Guidelines for NEST

Here are some key guidelines that candidates should keep in mind while preparing for the NEST examination:-

• Understand the examination pattern and syllabus thoroughly.
• Practice previous years’ question papers to get familiar with the type of questions asked.
• Focus on conceptual understanding rather than rote learning.
• Manage your time effectively during the examination.
• Stay updated with current affairs and developments in the field of basic sciences.
• Take regular breaks and maintain a healthy study routine.
• Seek guidance from teachers and mentors whenever required.
• Stay calm and confident during the examination.
• Read the questions carefully before attempting them.
• Revise and practice regularly to strengthen your knowledge and skills.

Important Instructions for NEST

Here are some important instructions that candidates should follow while appearing for the NEST examination:-

• Carry the admit card and a valid photo ID proof to the examination center.
• Reach the examination center well before the reporting time to avoid any last-minute rush.
• Follow the instructions given by the invigilators during the examination.
• Do not carry any electronic devices, calculators, or study materials inside the examination hall.
• Do not indulge in any unfair means or malpractices during the examination.
• Do not leave the examination hall without permission.
• Submit the answer sheet and other required documents before leaving the examination hall.
• Keep a copy of the filled application form and fee receipt for future reference.
• Check the official website regularly for updates and notifications.
• Stay positive and confident throughout the examination process.

Tips and Tricks for NEST

Here are some tips and tricks that can help candidates in preparing for the NEST examination:-

• Create a study schedule and stick to it.
• Focus on understanding the concepts rather than memorizing them.
• Practice solving numerical problems regularly.
• Take mock tests to assess your preparation level.
• Revise the topics regularly to strengthen your knowledge.
• Seek help from teachers or online resources for difficult topics.
• Stay updated with the latest developments in the field of basic sciences.
• Join study groups or discussion forums to exchange ideas and clarify doubts.
• Stay positive and motivated throughout the preparation phase.
• Take care of your health and well-being during the preparation phase.

General Points to Remember

Here are some general points that candidates should remember while preparing for the NEST examination:-

• Start your preparation early to have sufficient time for revision.
• Focus on understanding the concepts rather than memorizing them.
• Practice solving questions from previous years’ papers.
• Take regular breaks to avoid burnout.
• Stay updated with current affairs and developments in the field of basic sciences.
• Stay positive and motivated throughout the preparation phase.
• Believe in yourself and your abilities.
• Take care of your health and well-being.
• Seek help from teachers or mentors whenever required.
• Stay calm and confident during the examination.

Document verification and renewal of scholarship details are not provided in the given instructions. Please provide more specific instructions for these topics.

Exam Syllabus

The NEST exam syllabus covers various subjects, including:-

• General section (compulsory for all)
• Physics
• Chemistry
• Biology
• Mathematics

The detailed syllabus for each subject can be found on the official NEST website. It is important for candidates to thoroughly understand the syllabus and focus on the key topics to excel in the exam.

Exam Format and Pattern

The NEST exam is conducted in offline mode and consists of five sections, namely:-

• General section (compulsory for all)
• Physics
• Chemistry
• Biology
• Mathematics

Each section carries different weightage, and the total duration of the exam is three hours. The question paper consists of objective-type multiple-choice questions (MCQs) with negative marking for incorrect answers. Candidates must carefully manage their time and attempt all the sections to maximize their chances of scoring well.

Recommended Books to Prepare for NEST

While there are numerous books available in the market for NEST preparation, it is essential to choose the right ones that cover the entire syllabus comprehensively. Some popular books recommended by experts for NEST preparation include:-

• “Concepts of Physics” by H.C. Verma
• “Physical Chemistry” by P. Bahadur
• “Biology:- Class 11th and 12th NCERT textbooks”
• “Mathematics for Class 11th and 12th” by R.D. Sharma

These books provide a strong foundation and in-depth understanding of the subjects, helping candidates perform well in the exam.

Exam Tips

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

• Understand the exam pattern and syllabus thoroughly.
• Create a study plan and allocate sufficient time for each subject.
• Practice solving previous years’ question papers and sample papers.
• Take regular breaks to avoid burnout and maintain focus.
• Seek guidance from teachers, mentors, or coaching centers for specific doubts or difficulties.
• Stay updated with current affairs and developments in the field of science.
• Revise regularly and solve mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.
• Stay calm and confident on the day of the exam.

Coaching Centers for NEST Preparation

While self-study is crucial for NEST preparation, many students opt for coaching centers to enhance their understanding and performance. Some renowned coaching centers for NEST preparation include:-

• Resonance
• FIITJEE
• Vibrant Academy
• Allen Career Institute
• Super 30

These coaching centers offer comprehensive study materials, experienced faculty, and regular mock tests to help students excel in the exam.

Admit Card and Result Announcement

Once the application process is complete, registered candidates can download their admit cards from the official NEST website. The admit card contains important details such as the candidate’s name, roll number, exam center, and instructions for the exam day. After the exam, the answer keys are released, and candidates can calculate their probable scores.

The final results of the NEST exam are usually announced in the month of June. Candidates can check their results on the official website by entering their roll number and other required details. The result announcement is followed by the counseling process for seat allocation in the respective institutes.

Free Coaching for NEST

One of the key advantages of preparing for the NEST is the availability of free coaching services provided by various institutions. These coaching classes are conducted by expert faculty members who have years of experience in guiding students towards success. By enrolling in these coaching programs, you can benefit from personalized attention and mentorship to enhance your preparation.

Expert Faculty Guidance

The expert faculty members at NEST coaching centers are well-versed with the exam pattern, syllabus, and marking scheme. They offer valuable insights and tips to help you tackle the most challenging sections of the exam. With their guidance, you can develop a strong foundation in key concepts and improve your problem-solving skills.

Personalized Attention and Mentorship Program

In addition to expert faculty guidance, NEST coaching centers also provide personalized attention to each student. This ensures that your weaknesses are identified early on and addressed through one-on-one sessions with mentors. The mentorship program helps you stay motivated and focused on your preparation goals.

Mock Tests and Assessments

Regular mock tests and assessments are an integral part of NEST preparation. These practice tests simulate the actual exam environment and help you gauge your performance. By analyzing your strengths and weaknesses through mock tests, you can focus on areas that need improvement and enhance your overall preparation.

Reward Details and Scholarship Opportunities

Scoring well in the NEST can open up a world of opportunities for you. Apart from securing admission to premier institutes, you may also be eligible for rewards and scholarship programs based on your performance. Make the most of these opportunities to further your academic and career prospects.

Comprehensive Syllabus and Mock Test Series

To excel in the NEST, it is essential to cover the entire syllabus and practice extensively through mock test series. These resources help you assess your preparation status and identify areas that need improvement. By dedicating ample time to each subject and taking regular mock tests, you can build confidence and excel in the exam.

Top 10 Benefits & Features of NEST

The benefits & features of this test are as follows:-

• Gateway to premier institutions: NEST scores are accepted by prestigious institutions like NISER, Bhubaneswar, and UM-DAE CEBS, Mumbai, for admission to their integrated MSc programs in basic sciences.
• Syllabus: The exam covers topics from multiple subjects including Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics, providing a comprehensive assessment of the candidate’s knowledge.
• Negative marking: Unlike many other competitive exams, NEST follows a negative marking scheme which encourages accuracy and precision in answers.
• Question pattern: The exam includes multiple-choice questions, as well as subjective questions, allowing candidates to showcase their understanding of concepts.
• Scholarship opportunity: Meritorious students can avail scholarships based on their NEST scores, providing financial assistance for their studies.
• Online mode: The exam is conducted in an online mode, ensuring a smooth and efficient testing process for candidates.
• Counselling support: NEST provides counselling support for successful candidates, guiding them through the admission process and program details.
• Research opportunities: Students who clear NEST gain access to cutting-edge research facilities and opportunities to work with top scientists in the field.
• Interdisciplinary approach: The program encourages an interdisciplinary approach, fostering a holistic understanding of science.
• Career prospects: Graduates from NEST-affiliated institutions have a high employability rate in fields such as research, academia, and industry.

Eligibility Criteria for NEST

To be eligible for the National Entrance Screening Test, candidates must meet the following criteria:

• Educational Qualification: Candidates should have passed the 10+2 examination or equivalent with at least 60% marks in aggregate.
• Age Limit: General and OBC category candidates should be born on or after July 2001, while SC/ST/PwD candidates have a relaxation of 5 years.
• Subject Combination: Candidates must have studied Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Mathematics at the 10+2 level.

Important Documents 

When appearing for the NEST exam, candidates are required to carry the following documents:

• Admit Card: Printout of the admit card downloaded from the official website.
• Photo ID: Any valid photo ID proof such as Aadhar card, PAN card, or passport.
• Photograph: Recent passport-size photograph affixed on the admit card.
• Caste Certificate: For candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC categories.

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:- [email protected]