NEST 2026, the National Entrance Screening Test, offers a great opportunity for aspirants to get into the top science institutions that offer integrated MSc programs in basic sciences, including NISER and CEBS. However, when aiming to get into these elite institutions, it is crucial to understand the syllabus and exam pattern. We are here to simplify this process, so you can prepare smartly and confidently.
Overview of NEST 2026
NEST 2026 is scheduled for June 6, 2026, with the application window open from January 5 to April 6. This exam mainly targets Class 12 science students who aspire to choose research-oriented careers in Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics, and interdisciplinary fields.
Administered by NISER Bhubaneswar, the syllabus features questions primarily from the NCERT textbooks of classes 11 and 12. However, as the pattern follows an analytical question style, advanced books can help aspirants achieve high scores, as the NCERT mostly covers the basics.
The eligibility criteria include a score of 60% in Class 12 (55% for SC/ST/PwD), with no age limit. Moreover, success in this exam results in fully funded MSc programs with stipends.
Detailed NEST 2026 Syllabus
The syllabus of NEST 2026 includes four sections: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Mathematics. Questions test conceptual depth, not rote learning.
Physics Syllabus
The topics from class XI include Physical World and Measurement, Kinematics, Laws of Motion, Work, Energy, Power, Motion of Systems of Particles, Gravitation, Properties of Bulk Matter, Thermodynamics, Kinetic Theory of Gases, Oscillations, and Waves.
Whereas class XII covers Electric Charges and Fields, Electrostatic Potential, Current Electricity, Moving Charges and Magnetism, Magnetism and Matter, Electromagnetic Induction, Alternating Current, Electromagnetic Waves, Ray Optics, Wave Optics, Dual Nature of Radiation, Atoms, Nuclei, Semiconductor Electronics.
It is important to focus more on problem-solving in mechanics, electromagnetism, and modern physics.
Chemistry Syllabus
Class XI topics cover: Some Basic Concepts, Structure of Atom, Classification of Elements, Chemical Bonding, States of Matter, Thermodynamics, Equilibrium, Redox Reactions, Hydrogen, s-Block, p-Block Elements, Organic Chemistry Basics, Hydrocarbons, Environmental Chemistry.
Meanwhile, class XII includes Solid State, Solutions, Electrochemistry, Chemical Kinetics, Surface Chemistry, General Principles of Isolation of Elements, p-Block, d- and f-Block Elements, Coordination Compounds, Haloalkanes, Alcohols, Phenols, Ethers, Aldehydes, Ketones, Carboxylic Acids, Amines, Biomolecules, Polymers, Chemistry in Everyday Life.
In addition, numericals in physical chemistry and reaction mechanisms in organic chemistry are more focus points.
Biology Syllabus
Covers Diversity of Living Organisms, Structural Organization in Plants and Animals, Cell Structure and Function, Plant Physiology, Human Physiology, Reproduction, Genetics and Evolution, Biology and Human Welfare, Biotechnology, Ecology and Environment.
Detailed subtopics include systematics, morphology, digestion, breathing, body fluids, flowering plants’ transport, mineral nutrition, photosynthesis, respiration, principles of inheritance, molecular basis of inheritance, evolution, health, microbes, strategies for enhancement, recombinant DNA, and environmental issues.
Prioritize genetics, ecology, and human physiology for frequent questions.
Mathematics Syllabus
Class XI: Sets, Relations and Functions, Trigonometric Functions, Complex Numbers, Linear Inequalities, Permutations and Combinations, Binomial Theorem, Sequences and Series, Straight Lines, Conic Sections, Introduction to 3D Geometry, Limits and Derivatives, Mathematical Reasoning, Statistics, Probability.
Class XII: Relations and Functions, Inverse Trigonometric Functions, Matrices, Determinants, Continuity and Differentiability, Application of Derivatives, Integrals, Differential Equations, Vectors, 3D Geometry, Linear Programming, Probability.
Practice calculus, algebra, and coordinate geometry intensively.
NEST 2026 Exam Pattern
NEST 2026 is a 3.5-hour-long online test worth 240 marks, with four sections of 20 questions each (60 marks per section).
| Section | Subject | Questions | Marks | Type |
| A | Biology | 20 | 60 | MCQs, Multi-correct |
| B | Chemistry | 20 | 60 | MCQs, Multi-correct |
| C | Mathematics | 20 | 60 | MCQs, Multi-correct |
| D | Physics | 20 | 60 | MCQs, Multi-correct |
| Total | – | 80 | 240 | – |
Marking: +3 for correct single-answer MCQs, partial/full marks for multi-correct (some questions have multiple right options), -1 for wrong answers, 0 for unattempted.
Minimum Admissible Score (MS): 20% per section, 50% aggregate for the general category (relaxed for reserved). The best three sections count for merit.
No negative marking on unattempted, and note that strategic skipping is key, so you can easily avoid negative markings.
Preparation Strategies
Start with NCERT for conceptual clarity, then solve past papers for patterns. Dedicate equal time to all subjects, regardless of your stream, as NEST tests versatility.
Create a timetable: 2 hours daily per subject, weekly mocks. Focus on weak areas via error logs. Use books like HC Verma (Physics), OP Tandon (Chemistry), Trueman (Biology), and RD Sharma (Maths).
Join online forums or coaching for doubts. Revise formulas and reactions nightly. Simulate exam conditions weekly.
For Kolkata aspirants, book an appointment with the Best education consultant in Kolkata for personalized NEST guidance tailored to your needs.
Subject-Wise Tips
Physics: Master vector algebra and derivations. Practice 50 problems daily from mechanics and electrodynamics.
Chemistry: Memorize periodic trends, name reactions. Solve numericals on the mole concept, equilibrium.
Biology: Draw diagrams for processes like the Krebs cycle and DNA replication. Link ecology with current issues.
Mathematics: Speed up calculations; focus on integration techniques, probability distributions.
Analyze past cutoffs: General ~140-160 aggregate. Aim for 180+ for top ranks.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Many falter on multiple-choice questions, so read options carefully and eliminate wrong ones. Time management: Allocate 50 minutes per section.
If Biology is weak, integrate with Chemistry (biomolecules). Use apps for flashcards.
Post-exam, counselling starts in July; track merit lists on nestexam.in.
FAQs
- When is NEST 2026?
The exam is scheduled for June 6, 2026, and applications run from January 5 to April 6.
- Is NEST syllabus only NCERT?
Yes, the syllabus is primarily based on class 11-12 NCERT, but advanced problems may need reference books.
- What is the marking scheme?
+3 for correct answers, -1 for wrong answers, 0 for unattempted questions, and partial marking for multi-correct answers.
- Can I choose sections?
No, all four sections must be attempted, with the best three scores accounting for merit.
- What after qualifying NEST?
After qualification, one can get admission via counselling to elite science institutions, including NISER/CEBS MSc programs, along with stipends provided.