The Dilemma: Two Exams, One Dream
IAT vs NEST: If you’re a science enthusiast dreaming of a research career, you’ve probably asked yourself:
“Which is tougher—IAT (IISER Aptitude Test) or NEST (National Entrance Screening Test)? Which one should I focus on?”
The confusion is real.
Both exams open doors to prestigious institutes—IAT for IISERs and NEST for NISER & CEBS—and both promise a future in cutting-edge science and research.
But which one is more challenging? Which one demands more effort, smarter strategy, and a stronger mindset?
Stay Tuned!
Understanding the Nature of IAT vs NEST
🔬 IAT (IISER Aptitude Test)
- For Admission to: IISERs (Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research)
- Subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Biology
- Difficulty Level: Between JEE Main and JEE Advanced
- Exam Mode: MCQs (Multiple Choice Questions)
- Attempts Allowed: Only once in a lifetime
- Focus: More conceptual, direct, and based on NCERT
How Many Attempts are Allowed for the IISER Aptitude Test?
🧪 NEST (National Entrance Screening Test)
- For Admission to: NISER Bhubaneswar & CEBS Mumbai
- Subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Biology & General Section
- Difficulty Level: Similar to JEE Advanced (logical & application-based)
- Exam Mode: MCQs + Subjective weightage (more reasoning-based)
- Attempts Allowed: No official restriction
- Focus: Logical reasoning, deeper problem-solving, and time-intensive questions
How to Prepare for the NEST Exam 2025? Best Study Plan, Tips
Which Exam is Tougher?
The answer isn’t straightforward because difficulty depends on your strengths and mindset.
1.The Battle of Exam Pattern
- IAT is more direct. If you’ve prepared well using NCERT and PYQs, you stand a strong chance.
- NEST is more analytical. It demands a deeper problem-solving ability and logical reasoning skills.
📝 Verdict: NEST is slightly tougher in terms of the type of questions.
2. Syllabus & Subject Weightage
- IAT covers all four science subjects equally.
- NEST gives you a choice to select your strongest three subjects.
📝 Verdict: IAT can be trickier if you’re weak in any one subject because you must attempt all sections.
3. Time Pressure & Negative Marking
- IAT has negative marking in some sections but not all.
- NEST has a stricter marking system, where incorrect answers can pull you down significantly.
📝 Verdict: NEST is harder under time constraints and precision.
4. Competition & Acceptance Rates
- IISERs have around 1700+ seats, making IAT a highly competitive exam.
- NEST has fewer seats (~250 in total), making it even more selective.
📝 Verdict: NEST is more competitive due to fewer seats, but IISERs have broader acceptance.
Which One Should You Choose?
💡 Choose IAT if:
✔️ You are comfortable with all four subjects (PCM + Bio).
✔️ You prefer direct NCERT-based questions.
✔️ You can handle the pressure of a single attempt.
✔️ You want to explore IISER’s interdisciplinary science environment.
💡 Choose NEST if:
✔️ You enjoy complex problem-solving and logical thinking.
✔️ You are strong in reasoning-based questions.
✔️ You want to study at NISER or CEBS, with a strong government. research backing.
✔️ You can handle negative marking and analytical difficulty.
Final Thoughts: The Exam Doesn’t Define You—Your Effort Does
At the end of the day, the exam is just a gateway.
What truly matters is:
✔️ Your dedication.
✔️ Your passion for science.
✔️ Your ability to push through challenges.
No exam is “impossible.” It all comes down to preparation, mindset, and belief in yourself.
So instead of worrying about which is tougher, ask yourself:
“Am I ready to give my best effort, no matter what?”
Because whether it’s IAT vs NEST, the real challenge isn’t the exam itself.
It’s the fight against your doubts, distractions, and fears.
Win that fight, and you’ll succeed in any exam—and in life. 🚀
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 Non-Math and Non-Bio 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.
High-quality 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.
What’s Your Take?
Are you preparing for IAT vs NEST? Which one do you find tougher? Drop a comment below and let’s discuss! 👇
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 vs 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!
