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NEST Exam Dates 2025: Admit Card, Answer Key, Counselling and Cut-offs

Vaishali Pandey
Updated On:
May 27, 2025

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The official announcement for NEST 2025 has been made, setting key milestones for students pursuing integrated MSc and PhD programmes. The registration process started on February 17, 2025, with the application deadline now extended to May 13, 2025. Candidates are encouraged to complete the application before the portal closes.

The NEST exam will be held on June 22, 2025, and the hall tickets will be issued on June 2, 2025. After the examination, the provisional answer key is expected in the first week of July, followed by the result announcement tentatively in the second week of July 2025. 

By the end of this blog, you will know

  • The key NEST exam dates 2025 and the registration and application timelines.
  • The eligibility criteria and the qualifications needed for admission to the NEST exam.
  • The essential steps to prepare for NEST 2025 and tips to maximise your chances of success.

NEST Exam Dates 2025 Highlights

Below are the key details for NEST 2025:

Particulars

Details

Exam Name

National Entrance Screening Test

Conducting Body

NISER Bhubaneswar and UM-DAE CEBS Mumbai

Exam Level

Undergraduate 

NEST Exam Dates

June 22, 2025

Exam Frequency

Once a Year

Mode of Exam

Computer-Based Test (CBT) or Online

Courses Offered

Integrated MSc Course, PhD, MSc

Exam Fees

INR 1,200 (General/OBC)

INR 700 (SC, ST, Pwd categories)

Exam Duration

3 hours and 30 minutes

NEST Exam Total Marks

200 Marks

Number of Questions

68

Marking Scheme

  • +2.5 for each correct answer (MCQ)
  • +4 for each correct answer (MSQ) 
  • -1 for each incorrect answer (MCQ)
  • 0 for unattempted questions

Language of Examination

English

NEST Exam 2025 Official Website

www.nestexam.in

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Important NEST Exam Dates 2025

Here are the essential dates for NEST 2025 to help you stay on track with your preparation and registration:

NEST 2025 Exam 

Important Dates 

NEST Exam 2025 Registration Date

February 17, 2025

NEST Exam Dates 2025 Registration Last Date

May 13, 2025

NEST Exam Dates 2025 Correction & Update window

May 16, 2025

NEST Exam Dates Mock Test 

May 16, 2025 

NEST Exam Dates Admit Card

June 5, 2025 

NEST Exam Dates 2025

June 22, 2025 (Sunday)

NEST Exam Dates Answer Key

July 2025

NEST Exam Dates Answer Key Challenge

July 2025

NEST Exam Result Date

August 2025

NEST Exam Dates Scorecard 

August 2025

NEST Exam Dates Counselling

August 2025

NEST 2025 Exam Schedule

The NEST 2025 exam will be conducted in two sessions.

  • Session I: 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM, with candidates required to report by 8:00 AM.
  • Session II: 2:30 PM to 6:00 PM, with candidates required to report by 1:30 PM.

NEST Exam 2025 Eligibility Criteria

Candidates must meet the eligibility criteria for admission to the MSc program:

Eligibility Criteria

Details

Educational Qualification

Candidates must complete the 12th standard or an equivalent exam in 2023, 2024, or appear in 2025, regardless of category or age.

Minimum Marks

At least 60% aggregate marks (or equivalent grade) in Class 12 from a recognised Board. For SC/ST/Divyangjan candidates, the minimum is 55%.

NEST 2025 Merit List

Candidates must secure a position in the NEST 2025 merit list.

Age Limit

There is no upper age limit for appearing in the NEST 2025 exam and for admission to NISER/UM-DAE CEBS, provided the other criteria are met.

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How do you Fill Out the NEST 2025 Application Form?

The NEST 2025 application form is available online through the official NEST website. It must be filled out and submitted online. The information you provide will be used on official documents such as the admit card and scorecard, so accuracy is critical. Any incorrect or false information could lead to disqualification.

Here is how you can fill out the NEST 2025 application form:

  • Step 1: Registration

Go to the official NEST website at www.nestexam.in. Register by entering your basic details such as name, contact information, etc. Confirm your registration through a link sent to your registered email address. Log in using the email ID and password you registered with.

  • Step 2: Fill Out the Application Form

Once logged in, the NEST application form will appear on the screen. Enter valid personal information (name, gender, date of birth, religion, etc.) and academic details (address, email ID, mobile number). After completing the form, save and submit it. Choose a security question and provide your preferred examination centres. Download and print a copy of the application form.

  • Step 3: Uploading Documents

Upload your scanned passport-sized photograph and signature according to the specified format and size. Ensure the resolution and file size match the guidelines, as incorrect uploads will be rejected.

  • Step 4: Pay the Application Fee

Submit the application fee through the online payment options (Debit card/Credit card/Net Banking). The fees are non-refundable, so ensure that all details are correct before payment. After payment, print out the confirmation page for your records.

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NEST Exam Registration Details in the Application Form

The NEST 2025 application form will require you to provide the following details:

Details Required

Filling Criteria

Name

Full name in block letters

Gender

Select Male/Female/Transgender

Category

SC/ST/OBC/General

Academic Details

List your qualifications from the most recent to the oldest

Address

Full postal address

Nationality

Indian or Non-Indian

Father’s Name

Full name in block letters

Email Address

Valid email address

Date of Birth

Format: MM/DD/YYYY

Phone Number

Active mobile number

Identity Proof

Upload a valid ID proof

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NEST 2025 Application Form Correction

Students planning to take the NEST 2025 exam should ensure that the application form is filled out accurately in one attempt. The exam conducting authority takes any incorrect or invalid information seriously, and if any discrepancies are found, they have the right to invalidate the application.

It is crucial to enter correct details as there will be no correction window available for applicants. If any updates or corrections are allowed, they will be officially announced by NEST 2025 on its official website.

To avoid complications, applicants should double-check their information before submission to ensure everything is accurate.

NEST Exam 2025 Registration Fees

Below is the category-wise application fee structure:

Category

Application Fee

Female applicants (all categories)

INR 700

SC/ST/Divyangjan applicants

INR 700

Male/Other applicants (UR/OBC category)

INR 1,400

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Important Details About NEST Exam Application Guidelines

Before you begin your NEST 2025 application, it is essential to thoroughly review all the guidelines and requirements to ensure a smooth registration process. Follow these key steps to complete your application accurately:

  1. Review NEST 2025 Guidelines: 

Carefully read through the application guidelines to avoid any mistakes during the process.

  1. Check Registration Dates: 

Be mindful of the NEST 2025 registration timeline and submit your application before the deadline.

  1. Complete All Sections: 

Fill out every application form section and ensure all required details are provided.

  1. Verify Information: 

Double-check the accuracy of your details to avoid any errors or missing information.

  1. Confirm Contact Information: 

Ensure that your email address, phone number, and mailing address are active and correct for communication purposes.

  1. Upload Required Documents: 

Remember to upload all necessary documents as per the application requirements.

  1. Confirm Application Submission: 

After submitting your application, confirm that it has been successfully received.

  1. Pay Application Fee: 

Ensure you pay the NEST 2025 application fee promptly. Applications without fee payment will be automatically rejected after the registration period.

NEST Exam Dates: Admit Card

The admit card for NEST 2025 will be available for download starting June 2, 2025. Candidates can access the admit card after completing the application process. Both participating universities will issue it through the official NEST portal.

The admit card will provide essential information such as the assigned exam centre, which will be based on the location and preferences chosen during registration.

Steps to Download NEST 2025 Admit Card

Follow the instructions below to access and download your hall ticket:

  1. Visit the official NEST website: nestexam.in
  2. Click on the "Download Admit Card" link and enter your User ID and Password to sign in.
  3. After logging in, locate and click on the "Admit Card" section.
  4. Download the admit card and take a printout.

NEST Exam Dates: Answer Key 

The provisional answer key for NEST 2025 will be available in the first week of July 2025 (tentative). Once released, candidates can review their responses and raise objections if they find any discrepancies.

Steps to Download the NEST 2025 Answer Key

To access the answer key, follow these instructions:

  1. Go to the official NEST 2025 website.
  2. Open the login page using the appropriate link and enter the User ID and Password.
  3. Click the link to view the answer key based on your subject and question paper set.
  4. Download it and compare the answers to calculate your estimated score.

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NEST Exam Dates Result 2025

Candidates can check their NEST 2025 result on the official website using their login details. The result is expected in the first week of August 2025, but this could change.

To view your result:

  1. Visit the official NEST website.
  2. Click on the "NEST 2025 Result" link.
  3. Log in with your Application Number/Roll Number and Date of Birth.
  4. Click "Submit" or "Go."
  5. Your result will appear on the screen. Download and print it for future use.

After the results, each institute will have its own counselling and admission process.

Tie Break Rules:

If two or more candidates have the same score, the following rules will decide their rank:

  1. General Section Score: 

The candidate with the higher score in the General section will rank higher.

  1. Subject Scores: 

If the tie remains, scores in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or Mathematics will be checked. The candidate with the higher score in any subject will be ranked higher.

  1. Final Tie-Break: 

If the tie is unresolved, the candidate's Class 12 marks or date of birth (older candidates preferred) will be used.

NEST Exam 2025 Cut Off

The cut-off for the NEST 2025 exam will be announced separately by NISER Bhubaneswar and CEBS Mumbai, and will vary based on session, subject, and candidate category. The results will include two key components: the Section-wise Minimum Admissible Score (SMAS) and the Minimum Acceptable Percentile (MAP).

SMAS refers to the minimum score required in each subject section. It is calculated as 20% of the average score of the top 100 candidates in that section, meaning the cut-off score may differ for each subject. Meeting the SMAS in all four sections is essential for qualification.

In addition to the sectional cutoff, candidates must meet the overall MAP to qualify. Based on previous trends:

  • General category candidates are expected to secure at least the 95th percentile,
  • OBC candidates should aim for the 90th percentile, and
  • Reserved category candidates (SC/ST/PwD) must reach a 75th percentile threshold.

NEST Exam Cut Off Dates (Tentative)

Event

Tentative Date

Exam Date

22nd June 2025

Release of Answer Key

1st week of July 2025

Result Declaration

2nd week of July 2025

Release of Cut Off

2nd week of July 2025

Counselling Begins

July/August 2025

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NEST Exam 2025 Counselling Process

After the declaration of results, qualified candidates will need to take part in the NEST 2025 counselling process to secure admission to the Integrated MSc programs offered by NISER Bhubaneswar and UM-DAE CEBS Mumbai. The counselling is conducted online, and only those who register on the official website will be considered for seat allocation.

Steps in the NEST 2025 Counselling Process:

The NEST 2025 counselling process consists of several important stages that candidates must follow to secure admission. Below are the key steps involved in the process:

  1. Online Registration:

The first step requires candidates to register on the official NEST counselling portal. Without registration, students will not be allowed to participate in further rounds.

  1. Choice Filling:

Once registered, applicants can select their preferred institutions and programs. It’s important to prioritise choices carefully, as allotments are based on these preferences.

  1. Seat Allotment:

Seats will be assigned based on the candidate's rank, category, preferences, and availability of seats. Multiple rounds of allotment may be conducted if necessary.

Essential Documents for Counselling

During counselling, candidates must present valid and original documents for verification. These include:

  • Marksheets and certificates of Class 10th and 12th
  • NEST 2025 Admit Card
  • NEST 2025 Scorecard/Result
  • Category/Caste Certificate (if applicable)
  • Government-issued ID proof (Aadhaar card, PAN card, etc.)
  • Provisional Call Letter issued during counselling
  • Recent passport-size photographs

NEST Exam Mock Test

One of the most effective strategies for preparing for the NEST exam is practising with mock test papers. These practice tests, often provided by coaching institutes, offer valuable insight into the types of questions asked in the exam and highlight key topics. By regularly attempting mock tests, candidates can familiarise themselves with the exam format and improve their time management skills.

Additionally, it’s crucial to analyse the results of each mock test to identify strengths and areas that need improvement. This reflective practice helps refine exam strategies.

The NEST 2025 mock tests will be available starting May 16, 2025, according to the official notification on the website.

NEST Previous Year’s Question Paper

To prepare effectively for the NEST exam, getting familiar with the types of questions asked in previous years is essential. Solving past papers helps understand the exam format, boosts confidence, and improves time management skills. 

Below are the subject-wise previous year question papers to support your preparation:

NEST Exam Analysis 2025

The NEST 2025 entrance test is scheduled for the last week of June 2025 at multiple national exam centres. This national-level exam is organised in two sessions—one in the morning from 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM and the other in the afternoon from 2:30 PM to 6:00 PM.

Based on the trends observed in the previous year, candidates found the Physics section to be the most challenging, with complex problem-solving and conceptual questions. Mathematics also posed a moderate to high difficulty level for many aspirants. On the other hand, Chemistry and Biology were relatively straightforward and scored higher, offering some relief to test-takers.

A similar pattern may be expected for NEST 2025, though variations in difficulty can occur depending on the paper set.

NEST Participating Colleges and Seat Intake

Candidates who qualify for the NEST 2025 exam will be eligible for admission to the Integrated MSc programs offered by two premier institutes in India—NISER Bhubaneswar and UM-DAE CEBS Mumbai. These institutes offer a limited number of seats across various categories. 

The seat distribution for both institutes is as follows:

Category

Seats at NISER

Seats at UM-DAE CEBS

General

101

23

General EWS

0

06

OBC

54

15

SC

30

09

ST

15

04

PWD

5%

5%

Total

200

57

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NEST Exam Pattern 2025

Understanding the exam pattern is essential for adequate preparation. The NEST 2025 exam will be conducted as a computer-based test to evaluate candidates' understanding of four core science subjects. The exam includes both Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ) and Multiple Select Questions (MSQ), and spans 3 hours and 30 minutes. 

Here is a detailed breakdown of the exam format:

Aspect

Details

Mode of Exam

Online/Computer-based test

Number of Sections

4 (Biology, Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics)

Question Types

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ) and Multiple Select Questions (MSQ)

Duration

3 hours and 30 minutes

Section Wise Marks

Biology: 50 Marks

Physics: 50 Marks

Chemistry: 50 Marks

Mathematics: 50 Marks

Total Marks

200 Marks

Section-Wise NEST Exam Pattern

Subject

Marks

Physics

50

Chemistry

50

Mathematics

50

Biology

50

Total

200

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NEST Exam Preparation Tips 2025

For students aiming to join the integrated MSc programs at NISER, Bhubaneswar, and UM-DAE CEBS, Mumbai, the NEST 2025 exam is a key stepping stone. A strong preparation strategy can significantly enhance your chances of success. 

Here are some valuable tips to help you get started:

  1. Understand the Exam Pattern and Syllabus Thoroughly:

Begin by familiarising yourself with the complete syllabus, which primarily includes topics from Classes 11 and 12 in Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Mathematics. Also, review the exam pattern to get a clear idea of the marking scheme, section-wise distribution, and time constraints. Knowing what to expect is the first step toward adequate preparation.

  1. Practice Previous Years' Question Papers:

Solving past NEST question papers helps you understand the types of questions, the relative importance of different topics, and the overall difficulty level. It also gives insight into the exam's structure and boosts your time management skills.

  1. Create and Stick to a Study Plan:

A well-structured timetable can make your preparation more efficient. Allocate specific hours daily to each subject and reserve time for revision. Aim to study 2–3 subjects daily and dedicate at least an hour to revisiting earlier topics.

  1. Be Consistent and Regular with Studies:

Given the extensive syllabus, it is essential to maintain daily study habits. Consistency ensures better retention and keeps the preparation process manageable over time.

  1. Focus on NCERT Textbooks First:

Start with NCERT books, as they form the core of the NEST syllabus. These books explain concepts clearly and are essential for building strong fundamentals. Once comfortable, refer to advanced materials to deepen your understanding.

  1. Use Trusted Reference Books Wisely:

After mastering the NCERT content, choose additional reference books that cover basic to advanced-level questions. Selecting the right books will save you time and ensure focused learning.

  1. Prioritise Regular Revision:

Revision is just as essential as learning new topics. Make it a habit to return to previously studied material to reinforce memory and improve recall during the exam.

  1. Attempt Mock Tests Frequently:

Practice with chapter-wise mock tests during your preparation and switch to full-length mock exams once you complete the syllabus. This will help you evaluate your preparation level, identify weak areas, and develop speed and accuracy.

The NEST 2025 exam offers an excellent opportunity for students to advance their academic careers in science. By understanding the exam's structure, eligibility criteria, and key dates, candidates can better prepare for the exam and maximise their chances of success. Remember to stay updated with any official notifications, participate in mock tests, and carefully follow the application procedures to secure your seat at NISER Bhubaneswar or UM-DAE CEBS Mumbai.

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FAQ for Nest Exam Dates

How should I prepare for the NEST exam 2025?

A well-structured study plan is essential for NEST preparation. Begin by familiarising yourself with the syllabus and exam pattern. Allocate time for each subject, focusing on regular revisions and practice tests. NCERT books should be your foundation, supplemented with additional resources and mock exams.

NEST exam is for which course?

The NEST exam is mainly for admission to the M.Sc. programs in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics offered by NISER Bhubaneswar and UM-DAE CEBS Mumbai. It is also accepted for admission to Integrated MSc+PhD, MSc in Medical and Radiological Physics, and PhD programs at these institutes.

What is the salary after NEST?

While NEST is an entrance exam for academic programs, the salary information typically applies to jobs in the field. For example, positions in technology companies like Nest (a smart home company) offer varying salaries, such as INR 3 lakhs to INR 20 lakhs for software engineers.

What is the cutoff for NEST?

The NEST 2024 cutoff for NISER & UM-DAE CEBS varies by category:

  • General/EWS: Biology (8.054), Chemistry (8.504)
  • OBC-NCL: Biology (7.2486), Chemistry (7.6536)
  • SC/ST/Pwd/JK: Biology (4.027), Chemistry (4.252)

What is the application fee for NEST 2025?

The application fee for NEST 2025 is INR 700 for female candidates and SC/ST/Divyangjan candidates. For male/other applicants in the General/OBC categories, the fee is INR 1,400.

Which colleges accept NEST scores?

The top colleges that accept NEST scores include:

  • National Institute of Science Education and Research (NISER), Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
  • University of Mumbai - Department of Atomic Energy (UM-DAE), Mumbai, Maharashtra.

Who is eligible to appear for NEST 2025?

Students aiming to pursue science at a higher level must take the NEST 2025 exam. To be eligible, candidates should have passed their Class 12 board exams in 2023 or 2024, or be appearing for it in 2025 from any recognised Indian board.

What is the application deadline for the NEST Scholarship 2025?

The application window for NEST 2025 will close on May 13, 2025, at noon. Interested candidates can access and submit the form through the official NEST website.

How many seats are available through the NEST 2025 exam?

A total of 257 seats are offered through NEST 2025—200 at NISER, Bhubaneswar and 57 at CEBS, Mumbai, under their Integrated MSc programs.

Is there any age restriction for NEST 2025?

While no minimum age has been mentioned, candidates must have completed or be appearing for their Class 12 exams. Age relaxations are applicable for SC, ST, and Divyangjan candidates as per standard norms.

How many times can I take the NEST exam?

There is no restriction on the number of attempts for NEST. Candidates can reappear as long as they continue to meet the eligibility criteria.

What advantages does the NEST exam offer?

NEST serves as a gateway to premier institutes like NISER and CEBS, providing students with a strong foundation in science through a 5-year Integrated MSc program. It opens doors to advanced research opportunities and academic excellence in subjects such as Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Mathematics.

How many subjects are there in NEST?

The NEST exam consists of four sections: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics, each with 20 questions. Keep in mind that there is negative marking for incorrect answers.

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