Are you preparing for IAT 2025 (IISER Aptitude Test) or NEST 2025 (National Entrance Screening Test)? Both are highly competitive exams for admission into premier science institutes like IISERs (Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research) and NISER (National Institute of Science Education and Research). Success in these exams requires a solid study strategy, smart time management, and the right resources.
In this blog, we will provide a detailed preparation strategy, subject-wise tips, the best books, and expert advice to help you crack IAT 2025 and NEST 2025 with confidence!
Stay Tuned!
Understanding IAT 2025 and NEST 2025 Exam Pattern
Before diving into preparation, let’s understand the exam structure and syllabus for both exams.
IAT 2025 Exam Pattern (IISER Aptitude Test)
- Mode: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
- Duration: 3 Hours
- Total Marks: 240
- Subjects & Marking:
- Physics: 60 marks
- Chemistry: 60 marks
- Mathematics: 60 marks
- Biology: 60 marks
- Marking Scheme: (+3) for each correct answer and (-1) for each wrong answer
NEST 2025 Exam Pattern (National Entrance Screening Test)
- Mode: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
- Duration: 3.5 Hours
- Total Marks: 150
- Subjects & Marking:
- General Section: 30 marks
- Physics: 40 marks
- Chemistry: 40 marks
- Mathematics: 40 marks
- Biology: 40 marks
- Marking Scheme:
- Variable marking scheme in different sections
- No negative marking in General Section
Which Exam is Tougher?
The answer isn’t straightforward because difficulty depends on your strengths and mindset. More details are given here.
How to Prepare for the IAT or NEST 2025 in 3 Months?
The answer is again Yes, but you need trustworthy assistance for these 3 months and there is no room for mismanagement. Read here how!
One key factor is effectively managing pressure, which is often a challenge for many test-takers. If you ever find yourself feeling overwhelmed, it’s essential to have a support system in place and talk to someone. However, apart from this, here are some important strategies that you must not skip.
Know here: Is NCERT Sufficient to Crack IISER IAT with a Top Rank?
How to Prepare for Mathematics as a PCB Student:
For PCB students, preparing for Mathematics may seem overwhelming, especially since they may have left behind many mathematical concepts after the 10th grade. However, with strategic preparation, they can succeed:
- Start with the Basics: Begin your preparation with SciAstra Books, which provide a strong foundation in essential topics such as Algebra, Trigonometry, and Coordinate Geometry. Moreover, these textbooks break down complex ideas into simple steps, making it easier for students to grasp concepts.
- Prioritise Important Chapters: Since mastering the entire Mathematics syllabus might feel like too much, prioritise the most important chapters. Topics like Trigonometry, Probability, and Calculus are heavily tested. Additionally, concentrating on these topics first will maximise your chances of performing well on the exam. But to understand which topics are needed and important, you need expert guidance. Hence, SciAstra courses offer the best mentorships and guidance, specifically for PCB students. Choose our Vikram 2.0 or Kalam Batch for IAT and NEST 2025.
- Regular Practice is Essential: Mathematics requires consistent practice. Therefore, ensure that you solve previous years’ papers and mock tests regularly. By doing so, you improve your problem-solving speed and enhance your accuracy. Over time, your confidence in Mathematics will grow. Again, SciAstra courses can help you here. Our courses include regular mock tests and solved PYQs that can significantly boost your preparation, specifically if you are a PCB student.
- Create Formula Sheets: Since Mathematics relies heavily on formulas, create formula sheets that you can review regularly. Focus on important formulas related to Algebra, Trigonometry, and Calculus. Additionally, keeping these sheets handy will enable you to memorise formulas faster.
How to Prepare for Biology as a PCM Student:
For PCM students, Biology often feels like an additional burden because it involves extensive memorisation and less problem-solving compared to Physics or Mathematics. However, by focusing on strategic learning, PCM students can excel in Biology as well.
- Focus on SciAstra Books: SciAstra Biology books are the best starting point for PCM students. These books cover key concepts in Genetics, Human Physiology, and Plant Physiology in a simplified manner.
- Make Use of Diagrams: Biology involves processes that are easier to remember through diagrams and flowcharts. For instance, creating visual aids for processes like Photosynthesis or Cell Division can help reinforce understanding. Moreover, reviewing these diagrams regularly will improve recall during the exam.
- Flashcards and Short Notes: Since Biology involves memorizing facts and processes, creating flashcards and short notes will help retain information better. Make flashcards for key definitions and short notes for important processes like Respiration and Circulation. Additionally, review these cards frequently to ensure the material stays fresh in your mind
- Practice PYQs and Mock Tests: Regular practice using previous years’ question papers (PYQs) and mock tests will help you get familiar with the types of questions asked in the exam. Mock tests also help with time management and strategy. Moreover, analysing your results will help you focus on areas that need improvement. Again, SciAstra courses are the best tools for PCM students to manage biology. These courses provide question banks and mock tests and provide special guidance in Biology for PCM students. If you are appearing for IAT or NEST 2026, choose the Homi 2026 batch.
Must read: NEST 2025 Preparation: Best Books, Expert Tips for Success
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!
