NEST 2026 Admission Process: Application Form Dates, Eligibility, Fees & Step‑by‑Step Registration

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• Updated February 05, 2026 10:09 AM
• by S Madhumitha

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NEST Admission Process 2026

• The NEST Admission Process 2026 is the gateway for students seeking entry into premier institutes offering integrated M.Sc. programs in science. Conducted through a national-level entrance examination, the process includes online registration, application submission, admit card release, and a computer-based test followed by result declaration and counseling. Candidates must carefully review eligibility criteria, exam pattern, and important dates before applying.
• The admission process is designed to assess conceptual understanding and analytical skills in core science subjects. Qualified candidates are allotted seats based on merit, preferences, and availability during the centralized counseling process.

NEST Exam 2026 Overview

NEST 2026 Important Dates

NEST Exam 2026 Eligibility Criteria

• Nationality: Candidates must be Indian citizens to be eligible for NEST 2026.
• Educational qualification: Candidates should have passed or be appearing in Class 12 (10+2) in Science stream with a combination of at least three subjects among Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics and Biology from a recognised board.
• Year of passing: Candidates must have passed Class 12 in 2024 or 2025, or be appearing in 2026 (as specified in the official brochure).
• Minimum marks: General/OBC candidates must secure at least 60% aggregate marks in Class 12 or equivalent; SC/ST/PwD candidates get 5% relaxation (minimum 55%).
• Age limit: There is generally no specific upper age limit, but candidates must meet the academic year and marks criteria as per the brochure.

NEST Exam 2026 Application Fee

• The NEST 2026 application fee has different amounts for General/OBC and SC/ST/PwD categories, payable only in online mode.
• Payment can be made via debit card, credit card, net banking or UPI through the payment gateway on the NEST portal.
• The fee is non‑refundable under normal circumstances, so candidates should verify all details before final submission.

Documents required for NEST Exam 2026 Application Form Filling

• Valid email ID and active mobile number for registration and communication.
• Class 10 certificate or mark sheet for date of birth verification.
• Class 12 (or equivalent) mark sheet / latest marks details or proof of appearing in 2026.
• Scanned passport‑size colour photograph as per prescribed dimensions and file size.
• Scanned signature of the candidate in the required format.
• Category certificate (SC/ST/OBC‑NCL/EWS) if applicable, in the prescribed format.
• PwD certificate, if applicable.
• Identity proof details (Aadhaar/other ID) if asked in the form.
• Online payment details – debit/credit card, net banking or UPI for application fee payment.