Many students preparing for NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) wonder if their preparation can help them succeed in other exams like the IISER Aptitude Test (IAT) and the National Entrance Screening Test (NEST). Both IAT and NEST provide entry to top Indian science institutes such as IISERs and NISER. Though NEET covers similar subjects, relying on NEET preparation alone might not be enough to crack IAT and NEST.
Understanding NEET, IAT, and NEST:
What is NEET?
NEET is a national entrance exam for admission to MBBS and BDS programs in India. Conducted by NTA, NEET sees around 18 lakh candidates competing for about 80,000 seats. It includes 180 questions from Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, with a heavier focus on Biology.
What is IAT?
The IISER Aptitude Test (IAT) is an entrance exam for the 5-year Integrated BS-MS programs at IISERs. The test includes Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology, with 15 questions from each subject. The total marks are 180, and it assesses conceptual understanding and problem-solving skills.
What is NEST?
NEST is the entrance exam for NISER and UM-DAE CEBS, offering a 5-year Integrated MSc program. It has sections in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology. In NEST, only the top three section scores count towards the final result, making strategy essential.
Comparing NEET, IAT, and NEST:
Though NEET, IAT, and NEST cover similar subjects, the approach and depth of each exam differ. Here’s a comparison to help understand the differences:
| Aspect | NEET | IAT | NEST |
| Subjects | Physics, Chemistry, Biology | Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Biology | Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Biology |
| Question Type | Straightforward, multiple-choice | Complex, multi-step problems | Analytical, conceptual questions |
| Focus | Medical application | Conceptual understanding, problem-solving | Analytical skills, conceptual depth |
| Number of Candidates | Around 18 lakh | Around 200,000 | Around 50,000 |
| Difficulty Level | Moderate, time-pressured | High, requiring a deep understanding | High, focusing on problem-solving |
NEET centres around medical questions, while IAT and NEST test conceptual understanding. Both IAT and NEST include Mathematics, unlike NEET, and involve complex problem-solving.
How NEET Preparation Helps with IAT and NEST:
Overlapping Syllabus-
Both IAT and NEST cover topics from Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, which are also part of NEET. A strong foundation in these subjects from NEET preparation can be beneficial when preparing for IAT and NEST.
MCQ Practice-
NEET emphasises time management and answering multiple-choice questions (MCQs) under pressure. This practice can help in IAT and NEST, which also have negative markings for wrong answers.
Common Concepts-
The core principles of Physics and Chemistry are similar across NEET, IAT, and NEST. This overlap means NEET aspirants already have a head start in these subjects when preparing for the other exams.
Where You Need Extra Preparation:
Mathematics-
Both IAT and NEST include a Mathematics section, which NEET does not. PCB students must allocate time to study Mathematics, focusing on essential topics like algebra, calculus, and probability. Though you can skip Mathematics in IAT, preparing for it can boost your score and will give you an advantage over other students.
Conceptual Depth-
While NEET focuses on applying knowledge, IAT and NEST require deeper understanding. Both exams involve multi-step problems that demand analytical thinking. This means students need to go beyond surface-level understanding.
How To Prepare For IAT and NEST?
You will find many guides and resources for JEE and NEST aspirants. However, there is not much resource for IAT and NEST aspirants. So, how do you know the best way to prepare for IAT and NEST? Do not worry much because SciAstra is here for you. To learn about the preparation strategies for IAT and NEST, check the following blogs:
Complete Guide On How To Prepare For NEST 2025
Complete Guide On How To Prepare For IAT 2025
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SciAstra Course For IAT and NEST
Well, cracking IAT and NEST is not easy. But, with the right preparation, you can crack these exams. And for the right preparation, you need the best mentor. SciAstra offers the best courses for IAT and NEST, and we have hundreds of selections. So, start your preparation today by choosing any of the following courses:
- Vikram 2.0: If you are preparing for IAT or NEST 2025
- Kalam Batch: If you want to prepare for IAT or NEST 2025 and want the complete course in English only
- Homi 2026: If you are preparing for IAT or NEST 2026
To find the details of these courses, click here.
Conclusion:
While NEET preparation builds a solid foundation, it is not enough on its own to crack IAT and NEST. Both exams require additional preparation in Mathematics and conceptual problem-solving. By recognising the differences between NEET and these exams and using targeted strategies, students can increase their chances of success. Remember, combining NEET strengths with IAT and NEST-specific study techniques is key to excelling in all three exams.
FAQs:
Can NEET preparation help me crack IAT and NEST?
Yes, NEET preparation covers many topics in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology that are part of IAT and NEST. However, you will need extra preparation in Mathematics and a deeper understanding of scientific concepts for these exams.
What are the main differences between NEET and IAT/NEST?
NEET focuses on medical-based applications with straightforward questions. IAT and NEST are more conceptual and involve problem-solving. Both IAT and NEST also include Mathematics, unlike NEET.
Do I need to study Mathematics for IAT and NEST?
Yes, both exams include a Mathematics section. Even if you’re a PCB student, preparing for Mathematics can improve your overall score, especially in IAT.
Is IAT or NEST more difficult than NEET?
IAT and NEST are considered more conceptually difficult than NEET. NEET is a time-pressured exam, but IAT and NEST involve multi-step problems that require greater problem-solving skills.
What resources can help with IAT and NEST preparation?
You can use SciAstra’s mock tests, question papers from previous years, and online courses to prepare for IAT and NEST. These resources focus on the specific skills and concepts needed for these exams.
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