National Entrance Screening Test

NEST is a computer-based objective examination with sections in biology, chemistry, mathematics and physics, based on the class 11 and class 12 syllabus in those subjects. Candidates typically attempt a general section along with a chosen number of the subject sections, and the best-scoring sections are counted towards the total as set out in the information brochure; the marking scheme includes different question types and, in some sections, negative marking. A merit list is prepared from the scores, subject to any minimum sectional requirement, and candidates are then admitted to the five-year integrated MSc programmes at the participating institutes through their own counselling and seat-allotment process.

Students admitted through NEST usually enter a common first-year science curriculum before specialising. The section structure, question count, duration, syllabus, minimum admissible score rules and the admission timetable are published in the official NEST information brochure for each year.