National Entrance Screening Test (NEST)

Aim

Need

National Entrance Screening Test (NEST) is a competitive exam conducted for admission to 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. The need for NEST arises from the fact that these two institutions offer five-year integrated M.Sc programs in basic sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology) and they aim to attract bright and motivated students from all over the country.

NEST provides a platform for students to showcase their aptitude and knowledge in the fields of basic sciences. The exam aims to assess the conceptual understanding and analytical ability of the candidates, which are crucial for pursuing a career in scientific research. The program offers a well-structured curriculum, laboratory experience, research projects, and opportunities to interact with eminent scientists, which can help students build a strong foundation for their future in science.

Moreover, NEST is designed to identify candidates with a passion for science and a curiosity to learn more. The program aims to nurture young minds and encourage them to pursue a career in scientific research. By selecting the best and brightest students from across the country, NEST ensures that these institutions are populated with students who are committed to pursuing a career in science and who have the potential to contribute significantly to the field.

In summary, NEST is needed to identify and attract the best and brightest students to pursue a career in basic sciences and to provide them with an opportunity to receive quality education and training in this field.

Features

The National Entrance Screening Test (NEST) is an annual entrance examination conducted for admission to the 5-year Integrated MSc programmes in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics and Physics at the National Institute of Science Education and Research (NISER), Bhubaneswar and University of Mumbai – Department of Atomic Energy Centre for Excellence in Basic Sciences (UM-DAE CBS), Mumbai.

Some of the key features of NEST include:

1. Eligibility: Candidates who have passed Class XII or equivalent examination in Science stream from any recognized board with a minimum of 60% marks (55% for SC/ST/PwD candidates) are eligible to apply for NEST.
2. Exam Pattern: NEST is a computer-based test consisting of five sections, namely General Ability, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology. The question paper contains a total of 230 marks, and the duration of the exam is 3 hours.
3. Negative Marking: There is negative marking for incorrect answers in some sections of the paper.
4. Syllabus: The syllabus of NEST includes topics from Class XI and XII in the subjects of Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology.
5. Admission Process: Candidates who qualify in the NEST exam are eligible to apply for admission to the 5-year Integrated MSc programmes at NISER and UM-DAE CBS. The admission process includes counselling and seat allocation based on merit.
6. Scholarship: The candidates admitted to the 5-year Integrated MSc programmes at NISER and UM-DAE CBS receive a scholarship of ₹5,000 per month for the first two years and ₹7,000 per month for the next three years, subject to satisfactory academic performance.

Important Dates

Application Procedure

The National Entrance Screening Test (NEST) is a national-level entrance examination conducted for admission to the 5-year Integrated MSc program in basic sciences – Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics – at 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.

The application procedure for NEST is usually conducted online and consists of the following steps:

1. Registration: Visit the official website of NEST and click on the ‘Apply Online’ link. Fill in the required details such as name, email ID, mobile number, date of birth, and password to create a new account.
2. Filling the application form: Log in using the registered email ID and password, and fill in the application form with the required personal and academic details such as name, gender, category, educational qualification, etc.
3. Upload Documents: Upload scanned copies of your passport-sized photograph, signature, and category certificate (if applicable).
4. Payment of Application Fee: Pay the application fee using the available online payment modes. The application fee for general category candidates is Rs. 1200, while for SC/ST/PWD candidates, it is Rs. 600.
5. Submit the Application Form: After filling in all the details and uploading the necessary documents, submit the application form.
6. Download the Application Form: Once the application form is submitted, download and take a printout of the filled-in application form for future reference.

It is advised to go through the instructions mentioned on the official website carefully before filling out the application form. The application process usually starts in January, and the examination is conducted in June. Candidates are advised to keep a track of the official website for any updates and notifications regarding the examination.

Benifits

The National Entrance Screening Test (NEST) is a national-level examination in India conducted to screen students for admission to the five-year integrated M.Sc. programme in basic sciences – Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics and Physics – offered by NISER (National Institute of Science Education and Research), Bhubaneswar, and UM-DAE CEBS (University of Mumbai-Department of Atomic Energy Centre for Excellence in Basic Sciences), Mumbai.

Some of the benefits of NEST include:

1. Opportunity to study at prestigious institutes: NISER and UM-DAE CEBS are two of the most prestigious institutes for basic sciences in India. Admission to these institutes is highly competitive and is based on performance in the NEST.
2. Comprehensive education: The five-year integrated M.Sc. programme provides a comprehensive education in basic sciences. Students are exposed to a wide range of subjects in their first year, after which they specialize in one or more subjects.
3. Excellent faculty: NISER and UM-DAE CEBS have some of the best faculty in the country, who are not only experts in their respective fields but are also passionate about teaching and research.
4. Research opportunities: Both institutes provide ample opportunities for students to engage in research projects and work with leading scientists in their fields.
5. Fellowship and stipend: Students admitted to the programme are provided with a monthly fellowship and stipend, which helps cover their expenses during the course of their studies.

Conclusion

Overall, the NEST provides a great opportunity for students who are interested in pursuing a career in basic sciences and are looking for a challenging and comprehensive programme.