The Biotechnology Eligibility Test (BET) 2026 is a national-level entrance test conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on behalf of the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Ministry of Science and Technology. BET is the only gateway to the prestigious DBT-Junior Research Fellowship (DBT-JRF), which funds PhD research in biotechnology and life sciences across India. The BET 2026 exam was held on 17 May 2026 in computer-based mode, and the provisional answer key was released on 23 May 2026. The objection window has closed, and right now the final answer key and result are awaited.
- BET 2026 Result: The result is expected in June 2026. NTA usually declares it about 3 to 4 weeks after the exam, and the exam was held on 17 May 2026. The result will come only after the final answer key is published.
- Final Answer Key: The final answer key is expected soon. The objection window stayed open from 23 to 24 May 2026, and each challenge needed a fee of Rs 200 per question. NTA will release the final key after reviewing all objections.
- Merit List: Two merit lists will be prepared, Category-I and Category-II, as per Government of India reservation norms. DBT offers up to 500 Category-I fellowships every year.
- DBT-JRF Fellowship: Category-I qualifiers get a monthly stipend of Rs 37,000 as JRF for the first 2 years, which rises to Rs 42,000 as SRF for the next 3 years.
What is BET 2026?
The Biotechnology Eligibility Test (BET) 2026 is a national-level exam that selects candidates for the DBT-Junior Research Fellowship (DBT-JRF). The National Testing Agency (NTA) conducts BET every year on behalf of the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India. The fellowship programme is managed by the DBT-HRD Project and Management Unit at the Regional Centre for Biotechnology (RCB), Faridabad.
The DBT-JRF programme started in 2004. It funds bright students who want to pursue PhD research in biotechnology and life sciences. If you clear BET and get selected in the merit list, you can take the fellowship to any recognised university or institute in India where you register for a PhD.
This year, more than 26,000 candidates registered for the exam. BET is conducted along with the Graduate Aptitude Test - Biotechnology (GAT-B). Both exams were held on the same day, but they serve different purposes. GAT-B is used for admission to PG programmes in biotechnology, while BET is purely for the DBT-JRF fellowship.
The BET 2026 exam was held on 17 May 2026 in computer-based test (CBT) mode. The provisional answer key came out on 23 May 2026, and the objection window has now closed. The next big steps are the final answer key and the result, both of which are expected in June 2026.
BET 2026 Highlights
Here is a quick summary of the most important BET 2026 details. You should keep these handy before you read the full guide.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Biotechnology Eligibility Test (BET) 2026 |
| Conducting Body | National Testing Agency (NTA), on behalf of the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) |
| Purpose | Selection for DBT-Junior Research Fellowship (DBT-JRF) |
| Exam Level | National |
| Exam Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Exam Date | 17 May 2026 |
| Duration | 180 minutes (3 hours) |
| Registered Candidates | More than 26,000 |
| Fellowship Stipend | Rs 37,000 per month (JRF), Rs 42,000 per month (SRF) |
| Official Website | exams.nta.nic.in/gat-bet |
BET 2026 Important Dates
The BET 2026 important dates cover the full exam cycle, from notification to result. The exam is over, and the provisional answer key stage is also done. The final answer key and result are the next events you should wait for.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Final Answer Key | Expected June 2026 (Awaited) |
| BET 2026 Result | Expected June 2026 (Awaited) |
| Category-wise Merit List | To be announced (Awaited) |
| Notification Released | 19 March 2026 (Over) |
| Registration Start | 19 March 2026 (Over) |
| Registration Last Date | 9 April 2026 (Over) |
| Application Correction Window | 11 April 2026 onwards (Over) |
| Advance City Intimation | 8 May 2026 (Over) |
| Admit Card Release | 13 May 2026 (Over) |
| BET 2026 Exam Date | 17 May 2026 (Over) |
| Provisional Answer Key | 23 May 2026 (Over) |
| Answer Key Objection Window | 23 to 24 May 2026 (Over) |
The final answer key and result dates are not officially announced yet. You should keep checking the official NTA website for the latest update.
Source: exams.nta.nic.in/gat-bet
BET 2026 Answer Key
The BET 2026 answer key was released by NTA on 23 May 2026 in provisional form. Along with the answer key, NTA also released the question paper and the recorded responses of candidates. You could download these from the official website by logging in with your application number and password.
The answer key challenge window was open from 23 to 24 May 2026, up to 11:50 PM. If you found any answer wrong, you could raise an objection. The fee was Rs 200 per question, and it was non-refundable. You needed to pay this fee for every question you challenged.
Now that the objection window has closed, NTA will review all the challenges raised by candidates. A subject expert panel checks each objection. The final answer key is prepared after this review. The result is then calculated based on the final answer key, not the provisional one.
Here is how the BET answer key process works:
- Provisional Answer Key: Released first, so candidates can match their responses and estimate their score.
- Objection Window: A short window to challenge wrong answers by paying Rs 200 per question.
- Expert Review: NTA experts study every objection and decide if a change is needed.
- Final Answer Key: The corrected key used to prepare the result. It is final and cannot be challenged.
If your challenge is accepted, the fee of Rs 200 per question is refunded. If it is rejected, the fee is not returned.
BET 2026 Result
The BET 2026 result is expected in June 2026. NTA will declare it on the official website after the final answer key is published. The exam was held on 17 May 2026, and NTA usually takes about 3 to 4 weeks to announce the result. So a June 2026 result fits the usual pattern.
The result will be shown as a scorecard. You can download it by logging in with your application number and date of birth. The scorecard shows your marks, your rank, and your qualifying status.
After the result, NTA prepares two separate merit lists. These are called Category-I and Category-II. The merit lists follow the Government of India reservation norms. Only the candidates in the Category-I list get the DBT-JRF fellowship directly.
You should keep these documents ready to check your BET 2026 result:
- Application Number: Given to you at the time of registration.
- Date of Birth: As entered in your application form.
- Password: The one you created during registration.
The result is calculated only on the basis of the final answer key. The provisional answer key is just for reference and your own score estimate.
DBT-JRF Fellowship: Stipend and Benefits
The DBT-JRF fellowship is the main reason students appear for BET 2026. It is one of the best-paid research fellowships in India for biotechnology and life sciences. If you qualify in the Category-I merit list, you get a strong monthly stipend along with other benefits.
Here is the DBT-JRF stipend and benefit structure:
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| JRF Stipend (First 2 years) | Rs 37,000 per month |
| SRF Stipend (Next 3 years) | Rs 42,000 per month |
| Contingency Grant | Rs 30,000 per year |
| House Rent Allowance (HRA) | 8%, 16% or 24% of stipend, based on city |
| Total Duration | Up to 5 years (2 years JRF + 3 years SRF) |
The fellowship is given for up to 5 years, or until you finish your PhD, whichever is earlier. You start as a Junior Research Fellow (JRF) for the first 2 years. After a performance review, you become a Senior Research Fellow (SRF) for the next 3 years. The stipend goes up when you move to SRF.
You can use the DBT-JRF fellowship at any university or institute in India where you register for a PhD. This freedom of choice is a big plus, as you are not tied to one institute.
Category-I and Category-II Explained
BET prepares two merit lists. You should know the difference clearly:
- Category-I: These candidates get the DBT-JRF fellowship directly from DBT. DBT offers up to 500 Category-I fellowships each year.
- Category-II: These candidates also clear BET, but they do not get the DBT fellowship. They can still pursue a PhD if they arrange funding from another source, like a project grant at their institute.
Only Category-I selected fellows receive the DBT-JRF stipend. Category-II is a qualifying status, not a funded fellowship.
BET 2026 Eligibility Criteria
The BET 2026 eligibility criteria are set by DBT. You must meet the education, age, and percentage rules before you apply. If you do not meet these, your application can be rejected later.
Educational Qualification
You must hold a Master’s degree to apply for BET 2026. The accepted degrees are M.Sc, M.Tech, M.V.Sc, or MBBS in Biotechnology, Life Sciences, or allied subjects. Final year students can also apply, but they must get their degree before joining the fellowship.
The allied subjects accepted include:
- Core areas: Biotechnology, Life Sciences, Biochemistry, Biophysics, Microbiology, Genetics.
- Allied areas: Biomedical Sciences, Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Botany, Zoology, Chemistry.
- Other areas: Any allied branch of Biology or Life Sciences approved by DBT.
Minimum Marks
- General, EWS and OBC: At least 60% marks in aggregate in the qualifying degree.
- SC, ST and Differently Abled: At least 55% marks in aggregate.
Age Limit
The age limit for BET 2026 depends on your category. There is relaxation for reserved categories and women.
| Category | Maximum Age |
|---|---|
| General and EWS | 28 years |
| OBC | 31 years (3 years relaxation) |
| SC, ST, Differently Abled and Women | 33 years (5 years relaxation) |
Source: rcb.res.in/BET
BET 2026 Application Process and Fees
The BET 2026 application process was online and was open from 19 March 2026 to 9 April 2026. The registration window is now closed. If you have already applied, you can read this section to understand the steps you completed.
The BET registration was a step-by-step process. You should complete each step carefully to avoid rejection:
- Registration: Create your account with basic details and get the application number.
- Form Filling: Enter your personal, academic, and category details.
- Document Upload: Upload your photo, signature, and other documents in the correct size.
- Fee Payment: Pay the application fee online to complete the process.
BET 2026 Application Fee
The application fee depends on your category. You could also apply for both GAT-B and BET together. Here are the fee details:
| Category | BET Only | GAT-B + BET |
|---|---|---|
| General, OBC and EWS | Rs 1,300 | Rs 2,600 |
| SC, ST and PwD | Rs 650 | Rs 1,300 |
The fee was paid online only, through net banking, debit card, credit card, or UPI. Extra GST and processing charges applied on top of the base fee. The fee, once paid, was non-refundable.
The registration window has closed. No fresh BET 2026 applications are being accepted now.
BET 2026 Exam Pattern
The BET 2026 exam pattern is important to understand even after the exam, as it helps you estimate your score from the answer key. The exam was a 180-minute computer-based test. It had two sections, A and B.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Duration | 180 minutes (3 hours) |
| Section A | 50 compulsory questions (10+2 level) |
| Section B | 150 questions, attempt any 50 |
| Marks per Question | 3 marks |
| Negative Marking | 1 mark deducted for each wrong answer |
| Unanswered Questions | Zero marks |
Section A has 50 questions of 10+2 level. These cover General Science, Mathematics, Chemistry, General Aptitude, Analytical and Quantitative Ability, and General Biotechnology. All 50 questions are compulsory.
Section B has 150 questions from specific areas of biotechnology. You had to attempt only 50 of these. This gives you a choice, so you can pick the questions you know best.
In total, you attempted 100 questions, with each question carrying 3 marks. There is negative marking in both sections. For every wrong answer, 1 mark is deducted. So you should attempt only those questions you are sure about.
BET 2026 Syllabus
The BET 2026 syllabus is based on the full Master’s level biotechnology curriculum. It tests both your basic science knowledge and your deep subject understanding. The syllabus is broad, so you should focus on the core topics first.
The syllabus is split across the two sections of the exam:
Section A Syllabus (10+2 Level)
- General Science: Basic Physics, Chemistry, and Biology concepts.
- Mathematics: Class 12 level maths and basic calculations.
- General Aptitude: Analytical and quantitative ability.
- General Biotechnology: Basic biotechnology ideas and applications.
Section B Syllabus (Master’s Level)
- Biochemistry: Enzymes, metabolism, proteins, and biomolecules.
- Molecular Biology and Genetics: DNA, RNA, gene expression, and inheritance.
- Cell Biology: Cell structure, organelles, and cell signalling.
- Microbiology and Immunology: Microbes, immune system, and antibodies.
- Plant and Animal Biotechnology: Tissue culture, transgenics, and applications.
- Bioprocess and Genetic Engineering: Recombinant DNA technology, cloning, and fermentation.
- Bioinformatics: Sequence analysis, databases, and computational tools.
You should give more time to Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Cell Biology. These areas carry a large share of the questions every year. A strong base in NCERT and standard Master’s textbooks helps a lot.
BET 2026 Admit Card
The BET 2026 admit card was released by NTA on 13 May 2026. You could download it from the official website by logging in with your application number and password. The admit card was needed to enter the exam centre on 17 May 2026.
The admit card carried important details that you should always check:
- Candidate Details: Your name, roll number, photo, and signature.
- Exam Details: Date, reporting time, and shift timing.
- Centre Details: The full address of your allotted exam centre.
- Instructions: The dos and don’ts you had to follow at the centre.
Before the admit card, NTA had released the advance city intimation slip on 8 May 2026. This slip told you the city of your exam centre in advance, so you could plan your travel. The slip is not the same as the admit card.
You should keep your BET 2026 admit card safe even after the exam. It may be needed at later stages like counselling or fellowship activation.
BET 2026 Exam Centres
The BET 2026 exam was held across 54 cities in India. NTA set up the exam at 79 centres in these cities. More than 26,000 candidates registered for the exam this year.
During the application, you could choose your preferred exam cities in order of choice. NTA then allotted a centre based on your choice and seat availability. The exam was held in a single shift on 17 May 2026.
Here are a few key points about the BET 2026 exam centres:
- Number of Cities: The exam was held in 54 cities across the country.
- Number of Centres: NTA arranged 79 exam centres in total.
- City Choice: You could pick your preferred cities during the application.
- City Slip: The advance city slip came out on 8 May 2026, before the admit card.
BET 2026 Cutoff and Merit List
The BET 2026 cutoff will be decided after the result is declared. The cutoff is the minimum score you need to be placed in the merit list. NTA and DBT will release it along with the result, which is expected in June 2026.
The cutoff depends on a few factors every year:
- Number of Candidates: More than 26,000 candidates registered this year, which adds to the competition.
- Difficulty Level: A tough paper usually brings the cutoff down.
- Number of Fellowships: DBT offers up to 500 Category-I fellowships, which sets the merit limit.
- Category: The cutoff is different for General, OBC, SC, ST, and other categories.
After the result, two merit lists are prepared. The Category-I list has the top scorers who get the DBT-JRF fellowship. The Category-II list has the next set of qualifiers who can pursue a PhD with other funding. Both lists follow the Government of India reservation norms.
The qualifying cutoff is set by DBT based on the number of fellowships and the performance of candidates. It is released only after the final result.
BET vs GAT-B: What is the Difference?
Many students get confused between BET and GAT-B because both are conducted by NTA on the same day for DBT. But they are two different exams with different goals. You should know the difference clearly.
| Feature | BET | GAT-B |
|---|---|---|
| Full Form | Biotechnology Eligibility Test | Graduate Aptitude Test - Biotechnology |
| Purpose | DBT-JRF fellowship for PhD research | Admission to PG biotechnology programmes |
| Level | Master’s degree holders | Graduate degree holders |
| Outcome | Fellowship with monthly stipend | Seat in a participating institute |
In short, BET is for those who already have a Master’s degree and want to do funded PhD research. GAT-B is for graduates who want to join a Master’s level biotechnology programme. You can apply for both if you are eligible and pay the combined fee.
BET 2026 Preparation Tips
If you are planning for the next BET cycle, you should start your preparation early. BET has a wide syllabus and negative marking, so a smart strategy matters more than just hard work. Here are some useful tips.
- Master the basics: Build a strong base in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Cell Biology, as these carry the most questions.
- Use standard books: Stick to trusted Master’s level textbooks and your own class notes.
- Solve past papers: Practising previous year question papers helps you understand the pattern and level.
- Take mock tests: Regular mock tests in CBT mode improve your speed and accuracy.
- Avoid blind guessing: Because of negative marking, attempt only those questions you are sure about.
- Use the Section B choice: You attempt only 50 of 150 questions in Section B, so pick your strongest topics.
You should also revise short notes in the last month before the exam. A good revision plan helps you remember key facts and formulas. Time management in the 3-hour exam is just as important as your knowledge.
FAQs
Ques. When will the BET 2026 result be declared?
Ans. The BET 2026 result is expected in June 2026. NTA will declare it after the final answer key is released. The exam was held on 17 May 2026, and the result usually comes 3 to 4 weeks later.
Ques. What is BET exam for?
Ans. BET stands for Biotechnology Eligibility Test. It selects candidates for the DBT-Junior Research Fellowship (DBT-JRF). If you qualify, you can pursue PhD research in biotechnology and life sciences with a monthly stipend.
Ques. What is the DBT-JRF stipend amount?
Ans. The DBT-JRF stipend is Rs 37,000 per month for the first 2 years as JRF. It rises to Rs 42,000 per month for the next 3 years as SRF. You also get a contingency grant of Rs 30,000 per year and HRA as per your city.
Ques. What is the difference between Category-I and Category-II in BET?
Ans. Category-I candidates get the DBT-JRF fellowship directly from DBT, with up to 500 fellowships offered each year. Category-II candidates also clear BET, but they must arrange funding from another source to pursue their PhD.
Ques. What is the BET 2026 exam pattern?
Ans. BET 2026 is a 180-minute CBT with two sections. Section A has 50 compulsory questions of 10+2 level. Section B has 150 questions, of which you attempt 50. Each question carries 3 marks, and 1 mark is deducted for each wrong answer.
Ques. What is the eligibility for BET 2026?
Ans. You need a Master’s degree (M.Sc, M.Tech, M.V.Sc, or MBBS) in biotechnology, life sciences, or an allied subject. The minimum marks are 60% for General, EWS, and OBC, and 55% for SC, ST, and Differently Abled candidates.
Ques. What is the age limit for BET 2026?
Ans. The age limit is 28 years for General and EWS candidates. OBC candidates get 3 years of relaxation (up to 31 years). SC, ST, Differently Abled, and women candidates get 5 years of relaxation (up to 33 years).
Ques. Was the BET 2026 answer key released?
Ans. Yes, the provisional answer key was released on 23 May 2026. The objection window was open from 23 to 24 May 2026, with a fee of Rs 200 per question. The final answer key is now awaited.
Ques. How many candidates appeared for BET 2026?
Ans. More than 26,000 candidates registered for BET and GAT-B 2026. The exam was held on 17 May 2026 in CBT mode across 54 cities and 79 centres.
Ques. Can I use the DBT-JRF fellowship at any institute?
Ans. Yes, if you are selected in the Category-I merit list, you can use the DBT-JRF fellowship at any recognised university or institute in India where you register for a PhD programme.
Ques. Is there negative marking in BET 2026?
Ans. Yes, BET 2026 has negative marking. For every wrong answer, 1 mark is deducted from your total in both sections. Unanswered questions get zero marks, so you should avoid blind guessing.
Ques. Who conducts the BET exam?
Ans. The National Testing Agency (NTA) conducts BET on behalf of the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Ministry of Science and Technology. The fellowship is managed by the Regional Centre for Biotechnology (RCB), Faridabad.
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