The National Entrance Screening Test (NEST) 2026 is one of India’s most prestigious national-level examinations for students aiming to join top science institutes like NISER Bhubaneswar and UM-DAE CBS Mumbai. Conducted annually, NEST offers admission into the 5-Year Integrated MSc programs in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics.
If you are preparing for NEST 2026, this detailed article covers the notification, exam date, eligibility, syllabus, exam pattern, application process, fee, and more, ensuring you have everything you need in one place.
Contents
NEST 2026 Notification Overview
The official NEST 2026 Notification is expected to be released in March 2026, and the entire application process will be conducted online. Candidates can visit www.nestexam.in for the official details and manabadi.co.in for quick updates, application links, and study material.
NEST is known for testing candidates’ analytical skills, scientific aptitude, and conceptual understanding. Since competition is increasing every year, aspirants must start early and understand the complete exam structure well.
NEST 2026: Important Exam Dates (Tentative)
Based on previous year trends, here are the tentative dates for NEST 2026:
| Event | Expected Date |
|---|---|
| NEST 2026 Notification Release | March 2026 |
| Online Application Start Date | March 2026 (3rd week) |
| Last Date to Apply | May 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | June 2026 |
| NEST 2026 Exam Date | June 2026 (Last Week) |
| Result Declaration | July 2026 |
| Counselling Process | July–August 2026 |
These dates are tentative and will be updated immediately once the official notice is released.
Eligibility Criteria for NEST 2026
Candidates must meet the following eligibility requirements before applying:
✔ Educational Qualification
- Must have passed Class 12 in Science stream (Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Mathematics).
- Year of passing: 2024, 2025, or appearing in 2026.
- Must have studied at least three of the four major science subjects.
✔ Minimum Marks
- Must have secured at least 60% marks in Class 12 (for General/OBC candidates).
- SC/ST/PwD candidates: minimum 55% marks.
✔ Age Limit
- No specific age limit.
- Candidates must have passed or appeared for 12th standard in the required years.
✔ Nationality
- Indian nationals are eligible.
- NRIs/PIOs may also apply, depending on institute-specific rules.
NEST 2026 Application Form at manabadi.co.in
The application process is online only. When the notification is released, candidates can visit manabadi.co.in for updates, direct links, eligibility, and guidance.
Steps to Apply for NEST 2026
- Visit the official portal (link will also be available on manabadi.co.in).
- Click on “NEST 2026 Online Application”.
- Register using your mobile number and email ID.
- Fill in personal, academic, and communication details.
- Upload the required documents:
- Passport photo
- Signature
- Class 10 certificate
- Category certificate (if applicable)
- Select your exam center preference.
- Pay the application fee online.
- Submit and download the confirmation page.
Application Fee
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| General / OBC / EWS | ₹1400/- |
| SC / ST / PwD / Female Candidates | ₹700/- |
NEST 2026 Exam Pattern
NEST 2026 is conducted in Computer Based Test (CBT) mode.
✔ Exam Mode
- Online – Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
✔ Total Sections
The paper consists of four subject sections:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
- Physics
✔ Important Features
- Each section carries equal weightage.
- Candidates can attempt any three sections, but best three scores are considered (depending on institute rules).
- No negative marking for some questions; however, certain question types may contain negative marking.
Detailed Syllabus for NEST 2026
The syllabus follows the NCERT Class 11 and Class 12 science curriculum.
1. Biology Syllabus
- Cell Structure and Functions
- Genetics & Evolution
- Biotechnology
- Plant Physiology
- Human Physiology
- Reproduction
- Ecology & Environment
- Diversity of Living Organisms
- Biology in Human Welfare
2. Chemistry Syllabus
- Atomic Structure
- Chemical Bonding
- Thermodynamics
- Organic Chemistry Basics
- Alcohols, Phenols, Ethers
- p-block, d-block, and f-block elements
- Chemical Kinetics
- Redox Reactions
- Equilibrium
- Coordination Chemistry
3. Physics Syllabus
- Laws of Motion
- Heat & Thermodynamics
- Gravitation
- Current Electricity
- Optics
- Waves & Oscillations
- Magnetism
- Modern Physics
- Work, Energy, Power
- Electrostatics
4. Mathematics Syllabus
- Relations & Functions
- Algebra
- Probability
- Calculus
- Coordinate Geometry
- Differential Equations
- Vector Algebra
- Trigonometry