NEST 2026 (National Entrance Screening Test) is being conducted today, June 6, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode across approximately 387 cities in India. Jointly organised 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, NEST is the single national gateway for admission to 5-year Integrated MSc programs in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics at two of India’s leading science research institutes under the Department of Atomic Energy. With the exam underway today, students must now look ahead to the answer key, result, and counselling for 257 total seats.
- Answer Key: The NEST 2026 provisional answer key is expected on June 10, 2026. Candidates can challenge incorrect answers during the objection window from June 10 to June 12, 2026 on nestexam.in. In 2025, the provisional key was released about 4 days after the exam.
- Result: NEST 2026 result is expected on June 24, 2026, along with separate merit lists for NISER Bhubaneswar and UM-DAE CEBS Mumbai. The final answer key corrections, if any, will be incorporated before result declaration. Scorecards follow on June 25, 2026.
- Scorecard: Individual NEST 2026 scorecards will be available for download from June 25, 2026 on nestexam.in. You need your application number and password to access the scorecard from the candidate login portal.
- Counselling: NEST 2026 counselling is expected to begin in the third week of July 2026 for a total of 257 seats — 200 at NISER Bhubaneswar and 57 at UM-DAE CEBS Mumbai — distributed across four 5-year Integrated MSc programs. All admitted students are eligible for the DAE DISHA scholarship of ₹60,000 per year.
What is NEST 2026?
NEST stands for National Entrance Screening Test. It is a national-level entrance exam conducted jointly by two premier government-funded science institutes: the National Institute of Science Education and Research (NISER) in Bhubaneswar and the University of Mumbai – Department of Atomic Energy Centre for Excellence in Basic Sciences (UM-DAE CEBS) in Mumbai. Both institutes function under the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), Government of India.
The exam gives admission to 5-year Integrated MSc programs in four subjects:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
- Physics
NEST 2026 is a Computer-Based Test (CBT) with 80 questions spread across four subject sections. Only your best three section scores count toward the final total, giving you a maximum of 180 marks. With just 257 seats across both institutes — 200 at NISER and 57 at UM-DAE CEBS — NEST is one of India’s most selective science entrance exams.
NISER Bhubaneswar holds a NAAC A++ accreditation and is among India’s best science research institutes. UM-DAE CEBS, located on the Kalina campus of the University of Mumbai, offers equal research intensity in a metropolitan setting. Graduates from both institutes regularly go on to PhD programs at IITs, IISc, TIFR, and international universities.
What makes NEST stand out is that there is no upper age limit. Any Indian citizen who has studied at least three of the four science subjects (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Biology) in Class XII can appear, making it accessible to students from both the PCM and PCB streams.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | NEST 2026 (National Entrance Screening Test) |
| Conducting Bodies | NISER Bhubaneswar and UM-DAE CEBS Mumbai |
| Governing Department | Department of Atomic Energy, Government of India |
| Exam Level | National Level |
| Exam Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Exam Medium | English and Hindi |
| Exam Date 2026 | June 6, 2026 (2:00 PM – 5:00 PM) |
| Exam Duration | 3 Hours |
| Total Questions | 80 (20 per subject section) |
| Maximum Marks | 180 (Best 3 of 4 sections × 60 marks each) |
| Negative Marking | -1 per incorrect answer |
| Programs Offered | 5-year Integrated MSc in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics |
| Total Seats | 257 (200 at NISER + 57 at UM-DAE CEBS) |
| Exam Cities | Approximately 387 cities across India |
| Scholarship | ₹60,000/year (DAE DISHA) + ₹20,000 summer internship grant |
| Official Website | nestexam.in |
NEST 2026 Important Dates
The NEST 2026 exam is being held today, June 6, 2026. The table below lists all key events — upcoming events appear first so you know what to act on right now, followed by events that are already over.
| Event | Date | Status |
|---|---|---|
| NEST 2026 Exam | June 6, 2026 (Today) | 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Today |
| Provisional Answer Key Release | June 10, 2026 | Upcoming |
| Answer Key Challenge/Objection Window | June 10 – 12, 2026 | Upcoming |
| Result Declaration + Merit List | June 24, 2026 | Upcoming |
| Scorecard Download | June 25, 2026 | Upcoming |
| Counselling Begins (Expected) | Third week of July 2026 | Upcoming |
| Application Portal Opens | January 5, 2026 (12:00 Noon) | (Over) |
| Application Portal Closes | April 8, 2026 (11:30 PM) | (Over) |
| Mock Test Available on Portal | April 14, 2026 onwards | (Over) |
| Application Correction Window | April 18 – 19, 2026 | (Over) |
| Admit Card Download (Re-released) | May 24, 2026 (12:00 Noon) | (Over) |
Counselling dates are expected based on previous year patterns and will be officially confirmed on nestexam.in after the result is declared on June 24, 2026.
NEST 2026 Exam Pattern
NEST 2026 is a Computer-Based Test with four subject sections. You must attempt all four sections during the exam, but only your best three section scores count toward your final total. This design means you can effectively skip your weakest subject and still compete on full marks. The maximum score you can achieve is 180.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Duration | 3 Hours (2:00 PM to 5:00 PM) |
| Medium | English and Hindi (bilingual since 2024) |
| Total Sections | 4 (Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics) |
| Questions per Section | 20 |
| Total Questions | 80 |
| Question Type | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ) with single correct answer |
| Marks per Correct Answer | +3 |
| Marks for Incorrect Answer | -1 (negative marking) |
| Marks for Unattempted Question | 0 |
| Sections Counted for Final Score | Best 3 of 4 (the section with the lowest score is dropped) |
| Maximum Score per Section | 60 marks (20 questions × 3 marks) |
| Maximum Total Score | 180 marks (3 sections × 60 marks) |
| Calculators/Devices Allowed | No |
Section-wise Marks Distribution in NEST 2026
| Section | Subject | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks (per section) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Section 1 | Physics | 20 | 60 |
| Section 2 | Chemistry | 20 | 60 |
| Section 3 | Biology | 20 | 60 |
| Section 4 | Mathematics | 20 | 60 |
| Total (Best 3 sections counted) | 60 (from 3 sections) | 180 | |
The negative marking rule is important: you lose 1 mark for every wrong answer. If you are not confident about a question, it is better to leave it blank — 0 marks is always better than -1. With 80 questions in 3 hours, you have about 2 minutes 15 seconds per question on average. Do not spend more than 3 minutes on any single question.
NEST does not allow any calculators, mobile phones, or electronic devices inside the exam hall. The mock test available on nestexam.in lets you practise the exact CBT interface before exam day, so you are comfortable with the platform on the day of the exam.
Note: Students appearing for NISER and UM-DAE CEBS admissions both sit for the same NEST exam. Separate merit lists are then prepared for each institute based on the same NEST scores, with different SMAS (Section-wise Minimum Admissible Score) thresholds for each.
NEST 2026 Syllabus
The NEST 2026 syllabus is based on the CBSE curriculum (2025–26) and NCERT textbooks for Classes XI and XII. If you have been preparing for JEE or NEET, most of the NEST syllabus will already be familiar. The focus is on conceptual clarity and application over formula-heavy calculations. Here is the subject-wise syllabus:
Physics Syllabus for NEST 2026
- Mechanics: Laws of motion, work and energy, rotational motion, gravitation, simple harmonic motion
- Properties of Matter: Elasticity, surface tension, viscosity, fluid mechanics
- Thermal Physics and Thermodynamics: Kinetic theory of gases, heat transfer, laws of thermodynamics, Carnot engine
- Electricity and Magnetism: Electrostatics (Coulomb’s law, electric field, potential), current electricity (Ohm’s law, circuits), magnetic effects of current, electromagnetic induction, alternating current
- Optics: Ray optics (reflection, refraction, lenses, prisms), wave optics (interference, diffraction, polarisation)
- Modern Physics: Photoelectric effect, atomic structure (Bohr model), nuclear physics, semiconductors, communication systems
- Waves and Oscillations: Wave properties, Doppler effect, sound waves
Chemistry Syllabus for NEST 2026
- Physical Chemistry: Atomic structure, chemical bonding, states of matter (gases, liquids, solids), thermodynamics, chemical equilibrium, ionic equilibrium, electrochemistry, chemical kinetics, solutions, surface chemistry
- Inorganic Chemistry: Periodic table and periodicity, s-block elements, p-block elements, d-block and f-block elements, coordination compounds, qualitative analysis, environmental chemistry
- Organic Chemistry: Basic concepts (hybridisation, IUPAC nomenclature, isomerism), hydrocarbons, haloalkanes, alcohols, phenols, ethers, aldehydes, ketones, carboxylic acids and derivatives, amines, biomolecules (carbohydrates, proteins, nucleic acids), polymers, chemistry in everyday life
Mathematics Syllabus for NEST 2026
- Sets, relations, and functions; complex numbers and quadratic equations
- Sequences and series; permutations and combinations; binomial theorem
- Limits, continuity, and differentiability; differentiation and applications; integration (definite and indefinite) and applications
- Differential equations
- Coordinate geometry: straight lines, circles, parabola, ellipse, hyperbola
- Vectors and 3D geometry
- Probability, statistics, mathematical reasoning
- Matrices and determinants; mathematical induction
Biology Syllabus for NEST 2026
- Cell Biology: Cell structure and functions, cell division (mitosis and meiosis), biomolecules (carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, nucleic acids)
- Genetics and Evolution: Mendelian genetics, molecular basis of inheritance, DNA replication, transcription, translation, evolution and natural selection
- Human Physiology: Digestion and absorption, breathing and gas exchange, body fluids and circulation, excretory system, locomotion, neural control, chemical coordination (endocrine system)
- Plant Physiology: Photosynthesis, respiration, plant growth and development, mineral nutrition, transport in plants
- Reproduction: Reproduction in organisms, sexual reproduction in plants and animals, human reproduction and reproductive health
- Ecology and Environment: Organisms and populations, ecosystems, biodiversity, environmental issues
The NEST question paper is available in English and Hindi — you choose your medium when you fill the application form. You get all four sections in the paper, but since only your best three count, you are free to attempt the fourth section partially and move on if time is short. NCERT books for Classes XI and XII are the primary reference. Previous year NEST question papers from 2007 to 2025 are available for free download on nestexam.in and are the best source of practice questions.
Source: nestexam.in – NEST 2026 Syllabus and Information Brochure
NEST 2026 Eligibility Criteria
You must check the NEST 2026 eligibility criteria before applying. If you do not meet even one condition, your admission can be cancelled at any stage — including after counselling. Here are all the requirements:
Academic Eligibility
- You must have passed Class XII (or equivalent) in 2024 or 2025, or be currently appearing in Class XII in 2026.
- Your Class XII must include at least three basic science subjects: Physics, Chemistry, and either Mathematics or Biology (or both).
- You must have secured at least 60% aggregate marks in Class XII from a recognised board.
- For SC, ST, and Divyangjan (PwD) candidates, the minimum aggregate is 55%.
- The aggregate is calculated from the marks mentioned on the board certificate.
Nationality and Other Conditions
- Only Indian citizens are eligible. NRI, OCI, and PIO candidates cannot apply.
- There is no upper age limit for NEST 2026.
- You must secure a merit rank in the NEST 2026 result to be eligible for admission at either NISER or UM-DAE CEBS.
| Eligibility Parameter | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Qualifying Exam | Class XII (or equivalent) from a recognised board |
| Eligible Year of Passing | 2024, 2025, or appearing in 2026 |
| Compulsory Subjects in Class XII | Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics or Biology |
| Minimum Marks (UR / OBC / EWS) | 60% aggregate in Class XII |
| Minimum Marks (SC / ST / Divyangjan) | 55% aggregate in Class XII |
| Age Limit | No upper age limit |
| Nationality | Indian citizens only (NRI/OCI/PIO not eligible) |
Important: Students who passed Class XII before 2024 are NOT eligible for NEST 2026, regardless of their marks or category.
If you are appearing in Class XII in 2026, you can appear for NEST and even complete the counselling process. However, you must submit proof of clearing Class XII with the required percentage when you report for document verification at NISER or UM-DAE CEBS. Failing to do so will result in cancellation of your admission.
NEST 2026 Application Process
The NEST 2026 application window is now closed. The portal was open from January 5, 2026 to April 8, 2026. If you are planning to apply for NEST 2027, here is how the entire application process works so you are well-prepared for the next cycle.
Step-by-Step Application Process for NEST
- Step 1 — Registration: Visit nestexam.in and click on the online application link. Create your account using a valid email ID and mobile number. Keep these credentials safe as you will need them for admit card and result downloads too.
- Step 2 — Fill the Application Form: Enter your personal details, academic information, Class XII subjects and marks, preferred exam city, and language medium (English or Hindi). You can select up to three exam cities in order of preference.
- Step 3 — Upload Documents: Upload a recent passport-size photograph and your signature in the specified size and format. Additional documents may be required at the counselling stage.
- Step 4 — Pay the Application Fee: Pay online via debit card, credit card, or net banking. The fee is non-refundable. After payment, your application is submitted.
- Step 5 — Save Confirmation: Download and save the confirmation page with your application number. You will need the application number to download the admit card and check the result.
NEST 2026 Application Fee
| Category | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| Female applicants (all categories) | ₹700 |
| SC / ST / Divyangjan (all genders) | ₹700 |
| UR-EWS | ₹700 |
| Male candidates (General / UR and OBC) | ₹1,400 |
A correction window was available from April 18–19, 2026, during which candidates could modify certain details in their submitted form. After the correction window closed, no changes were permitted. If you plan to appear next year, make sure you fill in your details carefully the first time — especially your date of birth, category, and subject choices.
NEST 2026 Admit Card
The NEST 2026 admit card was released on May 24, 2026 at 12:00 noon on nestexam.in. An earlier version had been released on May 18, 2026, but NISER re-released an updated admit card on May 24. All candidates who downloaded the admit card before May 24 were asked to download the updated version again.
How to Download the NEST 2026 Admit Card
- Visit nestexam.in and click on the "Admit Card" link on the homepage.
- Log in using your application number and password.
- Download the admit card and print it on A4-size paper.
What to Carry to the NEST 2026 Exam Centre
- A printed hard copy of the NEST 2026 admit card. Digital copies on mobile phones will NOT be accepted at any exam centre.
- A valid government-issued photo ID: Aadhaar card, voter ID, PAN card, or passport.
- No electronic devices, calculators, books, or notes are allowed inside the exam hall.
The admit card shows your name, roll number, exam centre name and address, exam date, reporting time, and photograph. Check every detail carefully. If there is any discrepancy, contact the NEST helpdesk immediately at nest-exam@niser.ac.in or call +91-674-2494017 (Monday to Saturday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM).
No candidate will be allowed to enter the NEST 2026 exam hall without a printed admit card. A digital version on a phone is not acceptable.
NEST 2026 Answer Key
The NEST 2026 provisional answer key is expected to be released on June 10, 2026 on nestexam.in — four days after today’s exam. This is consistent with the pattern from previous years, where the answer key typically follows the exam within 3–5 days.
How to Challenge the NEST 2026 Answer Key
- The objection/challenge window for the provisional answer key will be open from June 10 to June 12, 2026 — just three days.
- Log in to nestexam.in with your application number and password.
- Select the question number you want to challenge and submit your objection with supporting reference material (such as a page from an NCERT book or other accepted source).
- The NEST authority will review all objections after the challenge window closes.
- A final answer key will be published after review, and the NEST 2026 result on June 24 will be based entirely on this final key.
In previous years, NEST authority has corrected a small number of answers based on valid challenges. If you are confident that an answer in the provisional key is wrong, do raise an objection with a proper reference. Unsupported objections are typically rejected. The challenge window closes on June 12, so act quickly once the provisional key is out on June 10.
NEST 2026 Result
The NEST 2026 result is expected to be declared on June 24, 2026 on nestexam.in. This is approximately 18 days after the exam — in line with previous year timelines. Along with the result, merit lists for both NISER Bhubaneswar and UM-DAE CEBS Mumbai will be published. Individual scorecards will be available for download from June 25, 2026.
How to Check the NEST 2026 Result
- Visit nestexam.in on or after June 24, 2026.
- Click on the "Result" or "Scorecard" link on the homepage.
- Log in with your application number and password.
- Download and save your scorecard. It will show your section-wise scores and total NEST score.
How the NEST 2026 Merit List Works
NEST prepares two separate merit lists — one for NISER and one for UM-DAE CEBS — both based on the same exam scores. To qualify for the merit list, you must meet the Section-wise Minimum Admissible Score (SMAS) in the sections that count toward your total. The SMAS thresholds differ by category (UR, OBC, SC, ST, Divyangjan) and by institute.
- For NISER: You must meet the SMAS in all four subject sections, even though only three count for the final score. Failing SMAS in any one section makes you ineligible for NISER, even if your total score is high.
- For UM-DAE CEBS: You must meet the SMAS in at least one of your three counted sections. This is a relatively more flexible criterion.
Once the merit list is published, candidates who qualify will be called for counselling (expected to begin in the third week of July 2026). There is no separate interview or test — your NEST rank is the only criterion for seat allotment.
NEST 2026 Cutoff
The NEST 2026 cutoff will be officially released along with the result on June 24, 2026. There are two types of thresholds you need to meet to make the NEST merit list:
- SMAS (Section-wise Minimum Admissible Score): The minimum score in each of the sections that count toward your total. Falling short of SMAS in even one counted section disqualifies you from the merit list for that institute.
- MAP (Minimum Admissible Percentile): An overall percentile floor that sets the minimum rank needed to appear on the merit list.
Both SMAS and MAP thresholds vary by category. SC, ST, and Divyangjan candidates have lower minimum requirements than the General/UR category. The authority publishes the full category-wise cutoff table along with the result on nestexam.in.
Estimated Competitive Score Ranges for NEST 2026
Based on NEST 2025 data and candidate feedback over the past few years, here are the estimated score ranges that are likely to put you in the qualifying zone for each category:
| Category | Estimated Competitive Score (out of 180) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| General / UR | 160 – 180 | Above 170 puts you in top ranks; 160+ typically qualifies for merit list |
| OBC-NCL | 140 – 160 | Relaxed SMAS thresholds apply for OBC candidates |
| EWS | 140 – 160 | Similar range to OBC-NCL based on reservation norms |
| SC | 110 – 140 | Reserved seats with lower SMAS requirements |
| ST | 100 – 130 | Reserved seats with further relaxed SMAS |
| Divyangjan (PwD) | 100 – 130 | Special provisions as per horizontal reservation norms |
Note: These are estimates based on previous year trends. The official NEST 2026 cutoff will be published on nestexam.in on June 24, 2026. Do not treat these as confirmed values.
Why NEST Cutoff Is Unique
Unlike most entrance exams where a single total score determines the cutoff, NEST uses both an overall score AND a section-wise minimum. This means a student who scores 175 out of 180 overall but scores only 5 in Biology (below SMAS for NISER) will not make the NISER merit list. For NISER aspirants, it is important to maintain a minimum threshold in all four sections, even the one that gets dropped from your final score calculation.
With only 257 seats and tens of thousands of aspirants each year, NEST is highly competitive. The actual cutoff also shifts based on paper difficulty — a tougher paper means a lower absolute cutoff even if the relative ranking (percentile) stays the same.
NEST 2026 Marks vs Rank
With only 257 seats, the NEST merit list is very tight at the top. Even a difference of 3–5 marks can separate rank 50 from rank 150. Here is how your NEST score translates to an expected rank, based on historical trends:
Expected NEST 2026 Marks vs Rank Analysis
| NEST Score (out of 180) | Expected Rank Range | Likely Admission Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| 170 – 180 | 1 – 30 | Top ranks; strong chance of first-choice program at NISER |
| 155 – 169 | 31 – 100 | Good rank; most NISER programs accessible |
| 140 – 154 | 101 – 200 | Qualifies for merit list; NISER or UM-DAE CEBS likely |
| 125 – 139 | 201 – 350 | May qualify for OBC/EWS reserved seats; borderline for UR |
| 100 – 124 | 351 – 600 | May qualify for SC/ST seats; unlikely for UR merit list |
| Below 100 | Below likely merit cutoff | Below qualifying threshold for General/UR category |
These rank ranges are estimates based on historical NEST data and are subject to change based on this year’s paper difficulty and the total number of candidates who appeared. Official merit list ranks will be clear after June 24, 2026.
NEST Registration vs Appearance: Historical Trend
The number of students who register versus those who actually appear gives you a sense of the real competition pool. Historically, only about 55–65% of registered candidates appear for the exam:
| Year | Registered Candidates | Appeared Candidates |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | ~45,000 | ~27,000 |
| 2021 | — | 24,328 |
| 2020 | — | 21,275 |
| 2019 | — | 37,510 |
| 2018 | — | 44,060 |
| 2017 | 68,544 | ~47,000 |
Even with around 27,000 appearing candidates (as in 2024), the ratio is roughly 105 candidates per seat. This makes accuracy more important than raw speed. A candidate who attempts 55 questions with 90% accuracy (scoring around 144 marks) will typically outscore someone who attempts 70 questions with 70% accuracy (scoring around 105 marks after negatives). Focus on your strongest three sections and attempt questions you are confident about.
NEST 2026 Counselling Process
NEST 2026 counselling is expected to begin in the third week of July 2026, after the result is declared on June 24. The counselling is fully online through nestexam.in. There is no group discussion, interview, or offline interaction required — your NEST rank entirely determines your seat.
Step-by-Step NEST 2026 Counselling Process
- Step 1 — Expression of Interest (EoI): After the result is published, qualified candidates must submit an Expression of Interest (EoI) on nestexam.in within the announced deadline. This step confirms that you want to participate in counselling. Missing the EoI deadline means you lose your chance of admission, even if your rank is high.
- Step 2 — Choice Filling: Fill in your preferred programs (Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics) and institutes (NISER or UM-DAE CEBS) in your order of preference on the portal. You can rank all four programs at both institutes.
- Step 3 — Seat Allotment (Round 1): Seats are allotted based on NEST rank, category, and choices submitted. The highest-ranked candidates in each category get their top-preference seats first. The Round 1 allotment result is published on the portal.
- Step 4 — Seat Acceptance and Fee Payment: If you are allotted a seat, accept it online and pay the admission fee within the given deadline. Not paying by the deadline automatically cancels your allotment, and the seat moves to the next candidate in the merit list.
- Step 5 — Document Verification: After accepting the seat, report to your allotted institute (NISER Bhubaneswar or UM-DAE CEBS Mumbai) on the specified date with original documents for physical verification.
- Step 6 — Subsequent Rounds: If seats remain vacant after Round 1, additional counselling rounds are conducted until all seats are filled. New candidates from the waiting list are offered seats in subsequent rounds.
Documents Required for NEST 2026 Counselling
- NEST 2026 scorecard (downloaded from nestexam.in)
- Class X mark sheet and pass certificate (for date of birth proof)
- Class XII mark sheet and pass certificate (or provisional certificate if result is recent)
- Category certificate: SC/ST/OBC-NCL/EWS certificate in the prescribed format, if applicable
- Divyangjan certificate from a competent medical authority, if applicable
- Passport-size photographs (carry at least 6 copies)
- Government-issued photo ID (Aadhaar card, passport, or voter ID)
Note: The detailed counselling schedule with exact dates for each round will be published on nestexam.in after the result is declared on June 24, 2026. Keep checking the official website regularly from late June 2026 onwards.
NISER and UM-DAE CEBS: Institutes Accepting NEST 2026 Score
Only two institutes in India use the NEST score for admission: NISER Bhubaneswar and UM-DAE CEBS Mumbai. Both are among India’s most prestigious science institutes, funded by the Department of Atomic Energy, Government of India. A degree from either of these institutes carries significant value for research-oriented careers and PhD admissions.
National Institute of Science Education and Research (NISER), Bhubaneswar
- Located at Jatni, near Bhubaneswar, Odisha — on a sprawling residential campus.
- One of the highest-rated science institutes in India with NAAC A++ accreditation.
- Offers 5-year Integrated MSc in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics.
- Total intake: 200 seats across all four programs.
- All students receive the DAE DISHA scholarship of ₹60,000 per year and a summer internship grant of ₹20,000 per year.
- Strong research infrastructure — students get exposure to active research labs from early in the program.
- On-campus hostels, library, sports complex, and a vibrant academic community.
- Graduates go on to PhD programs at IISc, IITs, TIFR, and top international universities.
University of Mumbai – DAE Centre for Excellence in Basic Sciences (UM-DAE CEBS), Mumbai
- Located on the Kalina campus of the University of Mumbai, Santacruz East, Mumbai.
- Also known as CBS (Centre for Basic Sciences) or UM-DAE CBS.
- Offers 5-year Integrated MSc in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics.
- Total intake: 57 seats across all four programs.
- Students receive the same DAE DISHA scholarship of ₹60,000 per year plus the ₹20,000 summer internship grant.
- Access to University of Mumbai’s extensive library, sports facilities, and collaborative research environment.
- Proximity to Mumbai’s science and technology ecosystem, including TIFR and BARC, provides networking opportunities.
| Institute | Location | Total Seats | Programs Offered | Annual Scholarship |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NISER Bhubaneswar | Jatni, Odisha | 200 | 5-year Integrated MSc: Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics | ₹60,000 (DAE DISHA) |
| UM-DAE CEBS Mumbai | Kalina, Mumbai, Maharashtra | 57 | 5-year Integrated MSc: Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics | ₹60,000 (DAE DISHA) |
| Total Seats | 257 | |||
The 5-year Integrated MSc format means you complete your BSc and MSc in a single, uninterrupted program. You do not need to apply separately for the MSc component — it is a continuous degree. This saves time and puts students in a focused research environment much earlier than a conventional 3+2 structure. The DISHA scholarship effectively covers a significant part of living and study expenses, making NISER and UM-DAE CEBS financially accessible.
NEST 2026 Preparation Tips
NEST rewards students who understand concepts deeply. The exam is not about speed or memorising tricks — it tests your ability to think through science problems from first principles. Here are practical tips to prepare effectively:
Make NCERT Your Foundation
- Read all NCERT textbooks for Classes XI and XII in Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Mathematics thoroughly — not just the main text, but also the examples, exercises, and boxed text.
- For Biology, NCERT is almost completely sufficient if you understand every concept, diagram, and example inside the books.
- Do not ignore the NCERT Exemplar problems, which test the same concepts at a slightly higher application level.
Practise with Previous Year NEST Papers
- NEST question papers from 2007 to 2025 are freely available on nestexam.in. Solve at least the last 5–7 years’ papers under timed exam conditions.
- Previous year papers show the types of questions NEST favours and the difficulty level you should aim for.
- After solving, go back to the NCERT source for any concept you got wrong and understand it fully before moving on.
Identify and Focus on Your Three Best Sections
- Since only your best 3 of 4 sections count, identify your strongest subjects early in your preparation and put the most time into those three.
- Still prepare all four sections and attempt all four in the exam — the weakest one gets dropped automatically, giving you the freedom to try.
- This also protects you: if an unexpected paper makes your usually-strong section harder, your fourth section acts as a backup.
Master the Negative Marking Strategy
- NEST has a -1 penalty for wrong answers. Never guess randomly.
- Only attempt a question if you can confidently eliminate at least two of the four options. If you are completely unsure, leave the question blank — 0 is better than -1.
- In 3 hours for 80 questions, you have about 2 minutes 15 seconds per question. Practise pacing so you cover your strongest sections fully before running short on time.
Use the Official Mock Test
- The official mock test on nestexam.in lets you experience the exact CBT platform before the exam. Practise navigating between sections and marking questions for review.
- Since NEST is entirely computer-based, practise reading and solving questions on a screen, not just on paper.
Recommended Reference Books (Beyond NCERT)
- Physics: H.C. Verma – Concepts of Physics (Volumes 1 and 2); DC Pandey for selected chapters
- Chemistry: JD Lee (Inorganic Chemistry), Atkins’ Physical Chemistry for concept depth, Morrison and Boyd (Organic Chemistry)
- Mathematics: RD Sharma for Class XII, SL Loney for trigonometry, coordinate geometry
- Biology: NCERT is the primary resource; Campbell Biology (selected chapters on genetics and cell biology) for additional depth
FAQs on NEST 2026
Ques. What is the NEST exam 2026?
Ans. NEST 2026 (National Entrance Screening Test) is a national-level Computer-Based Test jointly conducted by NISER Bhubaneswar and UM-DAE CEBS Mumbai. It gives admission to 5-year Integrated MSc programs in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics. The NEST 2026 exam is being held today, June 6, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM across approximately 387 cities in India.
Ques. What is the NEST 2026 result date?
Ans. The NEST 2026 result is expected to be declared on June 24, 2026 on the official website nestexam.in. The merit lists for both NISER and UM-DAE CEBS will be published on the same day. Individual scorecards will be available from June 25, 2026. The result comes approximately 18 days after the exam, which is consistent with previous year timelines.
Ques. What is the total marks and scoring in NEST 2026?
Ans. The maximum score in NEST 2026 is 180 marks. The exam has four sections — Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Mathematics — with 20 questions each. Each correct answer carries 3 marks. However, only the best 3 of the 4 section scores are counted, so the maximum total is 3 × 60 = 180 marks. There is a negative marking of -1 for each wrong answer, and unattempted questions carry 0 marks.
Ques. Is there negative marking in NEST 2026?
Ans. Yes, NEST 2026 has negative marking. You lose 1 mark for each wrong answer. Leaving a question unattempted gives 0 marks, which is always better than guessing and getting it wrong. Only attempt a question if you are reasonably confident about the answer after eliminating some options.
Ques. What is the eligibility for NEST 2026?
Ans. To appear for NEST 2026, you must have passed or be appearing in Class XII in 2024, 2025, or 2026, with Physics, Chemistry, and at least one of Mathematics or Biology as subjects. You need a minimum of 60% aggregate marks in Class XII (55% for SC/ST/Divyangjan). Only Indian citizens are eligible — NRI, OCI, and PIO candidates cannot apply. There is no upper age limit.
Ques. How many seats are available through NEST 2026?
Ans. NEST 2026 offers a total of 257 seats — 200 at NISER Bhubaneswar and 57 at UM-DAE CEBS Mumbai. These are distributed across four 5-year Integrated MSc programs: Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics. The limited number of seats makes NEST one of India’s most competitive science entrance exams.
Ques. When will the NEST 2026 answer key be released?
Ans. The NEST 2026 provisional answer key is expected on June 10, 2026. The challenge/objection window will be open from June 10 to June 12, 2026 on nestexam.in. After reviewing objections, a final answer key will be published before the result declaration on June 24, 2026. The final result will be based entirely on the final answer key.
Ques. What is the NEST 2026 cutoff score?
Ans. The official NEST 2026 cutoff will be released along with the result on June 24, 2026. Based on previous year trends, a score above 160 out of 180 is considered competitive for the General/UR category at NISER. You must also clear the Section-wise Minimum Admissible Score (SMAS) in each counted section. Category-wise cutoffs are lower for SC, ST, and Divyangjan candidates.
Ques. What scholarship do NISER and UM-DAE CEBS students get?
Ans. All students admitted to NISER Bhubaneswar and UM-DAE CEBS Mumbai through NEST are eligible for the Department of Atomic Energy’s DISHA scholarship. This provides ₹60,000 per year for all five years of the Integrated MSc program. In addition, DISHA scholars also receive a ₹20,000 summer internship grant each year to support research internship expenses.
Ques. Can NRI or OCI candidates appear for NEST 2026?
Ans. No. NRI, OCI, and PIO candidates are not eligible for NEST 2026. Only Indian citizens can apply. This restriction applies to both NISER and UM-DAE CEBS admissions. If you are an Indian citizen currently studying abroad, check the official eligibility conditions on nestexam.in before applying for the next cycle.
Ques. How should I prepare for NEST? Which subjects matter most?
Ans. Since only the best 3 of 4 subject sections count in NEST, focus most of your preparation on your three strongest subjects. Start with NCERT textbooks for Classes XI and XII — they cover most of what NEST tests. Solve previous year NEST papers (available for free on nestexam.in from 2007 to 2025) under timed conditions. Use the official mock test on nestexam.in to get comfortable with the CBT interface before exam day.
Ques. When does NEST 2026 counselling begin?
Ans. NEST 2026 counselling is expected to begin in the third week of July 2026, after the result is declared on June 24. The counselling process is fully online through nestexam.in and involves submitting an Expression of Interest, choice filling, seat allotment, and document verification at the allotted institute. Exact counselling dates will be announced on nestexam.in after the result.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information available from the official NEST website (nestexam.in) and publicly available sources as of June 6, 2026. Details related to the answer key, result, cutoff, and counselling are expected and subject to confirmation by the conducting authorities — NISER Bhubaneswar and UM-DAE CEBS Mumbai. Candidates are advised to check nestexam.in regularly for the most up-to-date official information.
.jpeg?h=112&w=263&mode=stretch)
 - 2026-01-05T144002.432-min.png?h=112&w=263&mode=stretch)
 (1).png?h=112&w=263&mode=stretch)
Comments
Found 1 Comment
The notification for the regsitration process of NEST 2023 has not been released yet. The registration process for NEST 2023 is expected to begin in February 2023 and the examination to be conducted in June 2023.