National Entrance Screening Test (NEST 2025) is the required test for students seeking 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.
So, if you are one such aspirant and preparing for NEST 2025, this blog is a must for you.
Stay Tuned!
How to Prepare for NEST 2025?
1. Master the Syllabus
Both exams cover Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology at the Class 11 and Class 12 level (NCERT-based).
- Focus on NCERT textbooks first before moving to advanced books.
- Identify important topics with high weightage (listed below).
2. Subject-Wise Study Plan
📌 Physics
✅ Focus on Full Mechanics (kinematics, rotation, etc.), Optics, Electromagnetism, and Modern Physics.
✅ Practice concept-based numerical problems.
✅ Recommended Books:
- NCERT Class 11 & 12 Physics
- HC Verma (Concepts of Physics)
- DC Pandey (Arihant Series)
📌 Chemistry
✅ Divide into Physical, Organic, and Inorganic Chemistry.
✅ Strengthen reaction mechanisms and numerical problems.
✅ Recommended Books:
- NCERT Chemistry (Most Important)
- OP Tandon (Physical & Organic)
- JD Lee (Inorganic)
📌 Mathematics
✅ Focus on Algebra, Calculus, Trigonometry, and Coordinate Geometry.
✅ Practice MCQs and conceptual questions.
✅ Recommended Books:
- NCERT Class 11 & 12 Mathematics
- RD Sharma (Objective)
- Cengage Mathematics
📌 Biology
✅ Prioritize Genetics, Cell Biology, Human Physiology, and Ecology.
✅ Learn diagrams and conceptual details.
✅ Recommended Books:
- NCERT Biology (Both Classes)
- Trueman’s Biology
2. Best Strategy for Last 3 Months
Daily Study Routine (Ideal Timetable)
Morning (7 AM – 10 AM): Physics & Numerical Practice
Afternoon (12 PM – 3 PM): Chemistry & Reactions
Evening (5 PM – 8 PM): Mathematics & Problem Solving
Night (9 PM – 11 PM): Biology & Quick Revision
Tip: Keep 1 hour for previous year paper solving daily. This is adjustable according to your comfort with the above-mentioned timings.
3. Solve Previous Year Papers & Mock Tests
- Download IAT and NEST previous year question papers.
- Solve at least 2 mock tests per week and analyze mistakes.
- Use online test series for time management.
4. Time Management & Smart Tips for Success
Prioritize NCERT Books – 70% of the questions are NCERT-based.
Make Short Notes & Flashcards for quick revision.
Follow the Pomodoro Technique – Study in 25-minute sessions with 5-minute breaks.
Solve 50+ MCQs daily from different subjects.
Stay Consistent & Keep Revising every week.
Exam Pattern for NEST 2025
| Mode: | Computer-Based Test (CBT).
The question paper will consist of four sections of objective (MCQ) |
| Duration: | 3 Hours |
| Total Marks: | 240 |
| Subjects & Marking: | Physics: 60 marks
Chemistry: 60 marks Mathematics: 60 marks Biology: 60 marks (Each section is worth 60 marks and will contain subject-specific questions from biology, chemistry, mathematics, and physics. Each section will have 20 questions, with exactly one correct answer. ) |
| Marking Scheme: | +3 for each correct answer
-1 for each wrong answer (No marks will be deducted for not answering a question.) |
The language of the question paper will be Hindi and English. The English question paper will be considered the standard if there is any confusion/discrepancy due to language.
The merit list for both institutes will be prepared using the best three scores out of the four sections, and the section with the worst score will not be considered. That is, scores out of 180 will be considered for preparing the merit list.
Resourses:
Which SciAstra Course Should I Choose For NEST 2025 and NEST 2026?
If you are a NEST aspirant who is looking for a program, SciAstra has come to your rescue. SciAstra has recently launched two courses that can help you excel in NEST. These two courses are Vikram 1.0 and HOMI 2026. Details of these courses are given below:
The Vikram 1.0 Batch 2025 is designed for students aiming to excel in competitive exams like NEST, IAT, and other science entrance exams. This batch targets the 2025 examination cycle and provides a comprehensive learning experience.
Key Features of Vikram 1.0 Batch 2025:
Comprehensive Curriculum:
- Detailed coverage of Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology.
- All SciAstra books are provided in PDF format on the SciAstra app.
- The complete syllabus of the 12th will be covered along with the revision of the 11th syllabus.
Personalised Mentorship:
- One-on-one mentorship sessions to address individual learning needs
- Continuous guidance and motivation from mentors throughout the course.
- Private telegram group of the course for each subject.
- Special doubt-clearing groups with mentors from all over India’s top research institutes.
Resource Accessibility:
- Access to research study materials, question papers from previous years, and practice questions.
- SciAstra app for easy access to course content and additional resources.
Focused Preparation for NonMath and NonBio Students:
- Emphasis on non-maths and bio students
- Strategies and tips for tackling complex questions and improving performance.
Key Features of Homi 2026 Batch:
- Curriculum:
-
- Complete Syllabus of 11th,
- Best course for IISc, NISER, IISER, etc.,
- Special guidance for non-biology and non-mathematics students to excel in competitive exams.
HighQuality Study Materials:
- Best research-level study materials,
- All 8 SciAstra Books in PDF format, featuring the best theory and question bank.
Interactive Learning and Support:
- Weekly interaction sessions with flexible timings.
- Private Telegram group for course participants.
- Special doubt-clearing groups for each subject (PCMB).
- Interaction and seminar talks with top researchers and scientists.
Holistic Development:
- Meditation and stress buster sessions to help cope with exam pressure.
Enroll Now! Click here to learn more about these courses.
About us: Sciastra
At SciAstra, we guide students who want to become scientists and pursue research by helping them secure admissions in the top colleges for the same like IISER, NISER, CEBS, ICAR, CMI, etc.
Our mentors are from the top research institutes like IISER, NISER, IACS, CMI, ISI, IISC Bangalore, and so on. If you are looking to prepare for IAT / NEST 2025, 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 Play Store or App Store!
