NEST 2026 Application Starts January 5 – Apply Now for Science MSc

The application process for the National Entrance Screening Test ( NEST 2026 ) is set to begin soon. Students interested in science courses can start applying online from Monday, January 5, 2026, at 10 AM . The last date to submit the application form is April 6, 2026 . This exam is for admission to five-year Integrated Master of Science (MSc) programmes at top institutes like 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.

Key Dates for NEST 2026

It is important for all students to know these dates to apply on time. Make sure you mark them in your calendar.

What is the NEST Exam?

The NEST exam is held once every year. It helps students get into special five-year Integrated MSc programmes. These programmes combine Bachelor's and Master's degrees in science. They are offered by two well-known institutes: NISER Bhubaneswar and UM-DAE CEBS Mumbai . These institutes provide high-quality education in basic sciences for students who want to become scientists or researchers.

Who Can Apply for NEST 2026?

Any student who plans to appear for the NEST 2026 exam to join the Integrated MSc programmes at NISER Bhubaneswar or UM-DAE CEBS Mumbai must complete the online application. Students should check the official NEST website for full details on eligibility, such as minimum marks required in Class 12 exams. While the exact age and specific qualification details are not in this announcement, it is generally open to students who have completed or are appearing for their Class 12 exams with science subjects.

How to Fill the NEST 2026 Application Form

The application process for NEST 2026 is fully online. Follow these steps carefully to make sure your application is submitted correctly:

• Step 1: Visit the Official Website . Go to the official NEST website: nestexam.in .
• Step 2: Register Online . Look for the 'Register Now' button and click on it.
• Step 3: Fill Basic Details . You will need to fill in important information like your name, date of birth, mobile number, and email ID.
• Step 4: Create Login Details . After providing basic details, you will create a username and password. Keep these safe for future logins.
• Step 5: Log in to Your Account . Use your new username and password to log back into the application portal.
• Step 6: Complete the Application Form . Fill in all the required sections of the application form. This includes your educational background and other personal details.
• Step 7: Upload Documents . Upload scanned copies of any necessary documents, such as your photograph and signature. Make sure they meet the size and format requirements.
• Step 8: Pay the Application Fee . Pay the exam fee online using a Credit Card, Debit Card, Net Banking, or UPI.
• Step 9: Print Application Form . After you submit the form and pay the fee, take a printout of the completed application. Keep it safe for your records.

NEST 2026 Application Fee

The application fee depends on the candidate's category. Please check the fees below:

Remember to pay the fee by April 12, 2026 . This is six days after the last date to submit the application form. After the application closes, there will also be a short window for correcting any mistakes in your submitted form, from April 13–14, 2026 .

The NEST 2026 exam will be held on June 6, 2026, at 2 PM . The admit cards, which are your entry ticket to the exam, will be released on May 15, 2026 . Make sure you download and print your admit card when it becomes available. Applying on time and correctly is the first step towards joining these special science programmes.