About NEST
NEST is a compulsory national-level entrance test for admission to the 5-year Integrated M.Sc. program in basic sciences at NISER Bhubaneswar and UM-DAE CEBS Mumbai — both funded by the Department of Atomic Energy, Government of India.
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
Passed 10+2 in Science stream in 2025 or appearing in 2026
Minimum Marks
At least 60% in Class 12 (50% for SC/ST/PwD)
Age Limit
Born on or after August 1, 2006 (5-year relaxation for SC/ST/PwD)
Nationality
Indian citizens only
Important Dates
Application Window
February – April 2026
Admit Card Release
May 2026
Exam Date
June 2026
Answer Key Release
Late June 2026
IndicativeResult Declaration
July 2026
IndicativeAdmission Process
July – August 2026
IndicativeDates marked "Indicative" reflect the standard annual cycle. Always verify the latest dates from the official website before acting.