Exams for Droppers in Science Field

Are you a dropper who has chosen Science Stream for 10+2? You must be looking for entrance exams to get into a good college for your undergraduate studies. JEE and NEET are the usual options but many students do not want to go for IIT or Medical. Hence, they are confused. But do not worry. In this article, SciAstra has compiled a list of all the entrance exams that are open for droppers. Here, we mention in detail the eligibility criteria for each exam and also suggest strategies to crack these exams.

IISER Aptitude Test (IAT):

The IISER Aptitude Test (IAT) is conducted by IISER and is used for admission into the undergraduate programs at IISER, IISc and IIT Madras. It is an offline Computer Based Test containing questions from Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics and Biology at 10+2 levels.

Latest Eligibility Criteria for IAT (IISER Aptitude Test):

Overall-

• Citizenship: Must be an Indian National, Person of Indian Origin (PIO), or Overseas Citizen of India (OCI).
• Class XII: Passed Class XII (or equivalent) exam with science stream in 2022 or 2023 from a recognized board.
• Subjects: Must have taken at least three subjects among Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics during Class XII.

Minimum Marks-

• General/OBC/OBC-NCL: 60% aggregate marks or equivalent grade in Class XII.
• SC/ST/PwD: 55% aggregate marks or equivalent grade in Class XII.

Click here to know in detail about IAT.

How to prepare for IAT?

1. Master the Syllabus: Download the SciAstra app for concise notes, concept breakdowns, and bite-sized practice questions.
   
2. Build Your Foundation: Enroll in SciAstra’s Crash Course for targeted practice and expert guidance.
   
3. Time Management: Mimic the exam with SciAstra’s timed mock tests, analyze them with detailed solutions, and build confidence.
   
4. Stay Updated: Follow SciAstra YouTube channel and blog for exam updates, tips, and tricks from experts.
   
5. Conquer PYQs: Get to grips with past exam patterns with SciAstra’s  free PYQs

Download the SciAstra app to explore more!

National Entrance Screening Test (NEST):

NEST is an exam conducted by NISER for admission into 5 Year Integrated MSc in Chemistry, Physics, Biology or Mathematics. NEST contains questions from all four subjects (Maths, Chemistry, Physics and Biology) but students are allowed to attempt only three. Like IAT, it is an offline computer based test.

Latest Eligibility Criteria for NEST 2024:

Educational Qualification-

• • Must have passed the 12th Standard examination or equivalent in 2022, 2023, or appearing in 2024 from any recognized Board in India.
  • Must have studied at least three subjects among Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics in both Class XI and XII.

Minimum Marks-

• • General/OBC/OBC-NCL candidates: 60% aggregate marks or equivalent grade in Class XII.
  • SC/ST/PwD candidates: 55% aggregate marks or equivalent grade in Class XII.

Age Limit-

• • General and OBC category candidates born on or after August 01, 2004 are eligible for 2024.
  • Age limit is relaxed by 5 years for SC/ST/Divyangjan candidates.

Click here to know in detail about NEST.

How to prepare for NEST?

1. Master the NEST Syllabus: The foundation of NEST preparation lies in a thorough understanding of the syllabus. Dive deep into Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Mathematics concepts covered in NCERT and beyond.
2. Train your Problem-Solving Skills: NEST thrives on application. Don’t just memorize formulas; learn to think critically, analyze problems, and apply concepts strategically.

• SciAstra Advantage: Enroll in SciAstra’s NEST & IAT Course for targeted practice, expert guidance, and access to hundreds of solved examples.

3. Time Management is Key: NEST is a timed test, and managing your time effectively is crucial. Practice answering questions under pressure and develop a balanced approach to each section.

• SciAstra Advantage: Take SciAstra’s timed mock tests that mirror the actual NEST format. Analyze your performance with detailed solutions and learn to optimize your time management skills.

4. Stay Updated and Connected: The NEST landscape evolves. Keep yourself informed about exam updates, question patterns, and expert tips through reliable sources.

• SciAstra Advantage: Follow SciAstra’s YouTube channel and blog for the latest NEST news, insightful strategies, and tips from top educators. Join the vibrant SciAstra community on the app to connect with fellow aspirants and share your preparation journey.

5. Conquer Past Year Question Papers (PYQs): Familiarize yourself with past exam patterns and frequently tested concepts by actively solving PYQs. Understand the examiner’s mindset and gain valuable insights into question framing.

• SciAstra Advantage: Access a comprehensive collection of NEST PYQs with detailed solutions on the SciAstra app. Analyze past trends and refine your preparation to face any curveballs the exam throws your way. The PYQs are available for free.

ISI Entrance Exam:

Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) is one of the best institutes in India. It offers two prestigious undergraduate programs: Bachelor of Mathematics (B.Math.) and Bachelor of Statistics (B.Stat.). Spanning three years, each program blends rigorous theoretical foundations with practical applications. B.Math. delves deep into pure and applied mathematics, equipping graduates for diverse careers in research, academia, and industry. On the other hand, B.Stat. focuses on data analysis and modeling, preparing graduates for impactful roles in data science, finance, and beyond.

The ISI conducts its own entrance exam for admission into these programs. The entrance exam comprises two offline papers combining objective and subjective questions. Click here to know the exam pattern in detail.

Eligibility Criteria-

The only thing required for ISI Entrance Exam is that you must have successfully completed 10+2 with Mathematics and English

How To Prepare For The ISI Entrance Exam?

Focus on Math & Stats: Deepen your understanding of core concepts beyond the syllabus.

• SciAstra Advantage: Download the app for concise notes, chapter-wise practice, and expert guidance.

Train Your Problem-Solving Skills: Think strategically and apply concepts to solve complex problems, not just memorize formulas.

• SciAstra Advantage: Enroll in the SciAstra ISI Course  for targeted practice, expert tips, and hundreds of solved examples.

Time Management is Key: Practice under pressure and take timed mock tests mirroring the actual exam format.

• SciAstra Advantage: Analyze your performance with SciAstra’s mock tests and learn to optimize your time in each section.

Stay Updated and Connected: Follow the trends and keep up with exam updates, question patterns, and expert advice.

• SciAstra Advantage: Join the SciAstra YouTube channel and blog for the latest news, insightful strategies, and tips from top educators.

Conquer Past Year Papers (PYQs): Learn from the past. Analyze past exam trends and frequently tested concepts.

• SciAstra Advantage: Access a comprehensive collection of free PYQs with detailed solutions on the SciAstra app.

CMI Entrance Exam:

The Chennai Mathematical Institute (CMI) is a prestigious Indian institution fostering excellence in pure mathematics, computer science, and theoretical physics. Its rigorous undergraduate and postgraduate programs, featuring interdisciplinary approaches and a dedication to intellectual exploration, equip graduates with powerful toolkits for diverse careers in academia, research, and industry.

CMI conducts its own challenging entrance exam for aspiring undergraduate students. This exam demands a deep understanding of mathematics, physics, and computer science, assessed through both objective and subjective questions. Top performers may also be invited for an interview as part of the selection process.

Click here to know more about the CMI Entrance Exam Pattern.

Eligibility Criteria-

Latest Eligibility Criteria for CMI (January 2024)-

1. Education: Successful completion of 10+2 years of higher secondary education (or its equivalent) with Mathematics and English as compulsory subjects.
2. No Age Limit: There is no upper age limit for applying to CMI undergraduate programs.

Additional Notes-

• No minimum marks requirement in 10+2 board exams is specified.
• Students with exceptionally good performance in national science olympiads may be exempted from the entrance exam (details on CMI website).
• Admission is based solely on the entrance exam score and, for shortlisted candidates, the interview performance.

How To Prepare For The CMI Entrance Exam?

• Start Early: Lay a strong foundation in Math, Physics, and CS concepts early on.

• Master the Core: Dive deep beyond the syllabus, understanding not just formulas but their meaning.

• Sharpen the Sword: Train your problem-solving skills with targeted practice.

• Tame the Time Monster: Conquer your nerves with timed mock tests mirroring the real exam.

• Conquer Past Year Papers (PYQs): Analyze trends and frequently tested topics for valuable insights.

• Stay Updated and Connected: Follow CMI updates and connect with fellow aspirants.

SciAstra Advantage:

• CMI Course: Targeted practice, expert guidance, and hundreds of solved examples.

• Comprehensive Resources: Study materials, mock tests, and doubt-clearing sessions.

• Proven Track Record: We have many selections in top-research institutes.

• Live Classes & Mentorship: Learn from top researchers and scientists.

Conclusion:

Hence, apart from the conventional choices of NEET and JEE, there are several other exams for the droppers in the science field. In this article, we discussed in detail the eligibility criteria and preparation strategies for IAT, NEST, ISI Entrance Exam and CMI Entrance Exam. These exams serve as a gateway to premium institutes in India for Undergraduate Programs.

FAQs:

1. What alternative entrance exams are there for droppers in Science Stream besides NEET and JEE?

There are several exciting options! Some top choices include IISER Aptitude Test (IAT), National Entrance Screening Test (NEST), ISI Entrance Exam, and CMI Entrance Exam. These exams open doors to premier institutions like IISERs, NISER, ISI, and CMI, offering prestigious undergraduate programs in science and mathematics.

2. What are the eligibility criteria for these exams?

Most exams require successful completion of 10+2 with science subjects like Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Mathematics. Read the article to know in detail about the specific eligibility criterias for each exam.

3. How can I prepare for these exams effectively?

Start early to build a strong foundation in core concepts. Deepen your understanding beyond the syllabus, not just memorizing formulas. Practice targeted problem-solving with resources like SciAstra’s courses, mock tests, and past year papers (PYQs). Time management is crucial, so simulate the exam format with timed practice. Stay updated on exam trends and connect with fellow aspirants for support.

4. What are the advantages of using SciAstra for preparation?

SciAstra offers comprehensive resources for various science entrance exams, including IAT, NEST, ISI, and CMI. We provide concise notes, expert guidance, hundreds of solved examples, and targeted practice through courses, mock tests, and free PYQs. Additionally, our YouTube channel and blog keep you updated with exam news, strategies, and tips from top educators.

5. Which exam among these is the most challenging?

CMI Entrance Exam is known for its demanding nature, requiring deep understanding of Mathematics, Physics, and Computer Science, assessed through both objective and subjective questions. However, each exam has its own unique challenges, so thorough preparation is key for success.

6. Is there any financial aid available for these programs?

Yes! Many of these institutions offer scholarships and financial aid schemes to deserving students, making top-notch education accessible to diverse backgrounds.

7. Where can I find more information about these exams and admission procedures?

The official websites of each institution are the best source for updated information and detailed admission procedures. Additionally, SciAstra stays up-to-date on these exams and provides relevant resources and guidance on our website and app.

About us:

SciAstra is a team of scientists and research scholars from the top research institutes around the world, like Oxford, Harvard, Cambridge, and so on. Our vision is to promote critical thinking and scientific temperament by helping students pursue careers in science.

We offer many free and paid courses where our mentors from the top research institutes like IISER, NISER, IACS, CMI, ISI, IISC Bangalore, etc., teach students in live classes, with study materials,  mock tests, books, and everything needed. We have taught more than 10,000 students already since 2021 and achieved over 1000 selections with AIR 1, 7,10, 12, and 13 in  IISc Bengaluru, IISERs, NISER, IACS, and so on.  If you are looking to prepare for IAT / NEST 2024, you can check out our courses and get access to live classes, recorded lectures, study material, mock tests, doubt-clearing classes, and much more!

To know more about us, click here OR download the SciAstra App from the Play Store and App Store!