IAT & NEST 2026 Preparation Tips: Marking Scheme, Syllabus, Strategy

Students aiming for research-oriented undergraduate programmes often appear for both the IAT and NEST entrance exams. The IISER Aptitude Test (IAT) is conducted for admission to BS-MS, BS and BTech programmes offered by IISERs, while the National Entrance Screening Test (NEST) is held for admission to integrated MSc programmes in basic sciences. Since both examinations follow a similar syllabus based on Class 11 and 12 science subjects, candidates can prepare for them simultaneously with a well-planned strategy.

IAT & NEST 2026: Key Highlights

Both exams are conducted annually and test students on Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics and Biology concepts.

IAT & NEST 2026 Preparation Tips

Preparing for both exams together requires a focused and organised study plan. Some effective preparation strategies include:

Understand the syllabus

Students should first compare the syllabi of both exams and identify common and unique topics. Preparing a structured timetable based on overlapping topics can help cover the syllabus efficiently.

Understand the marking scheme

Knowing the marking scheme helps candidates plan their attempt strategy. The IAT exam carries 240 marks, while the NEST exam is conducted for 180 marks.

Use the right study resources

Candidates should rely on quality study material such as:

• NCERT textbooks
• Class notes
• Reference books suggested by toppers
• Previous year question papers
• Mock tests

NCERT books are considered essential for building strong conceptual foundations.

Make short notes for revision

Preparing short notes containing formulas, definitions and key concepts helps during quick revision before the exam.

Clear doubts regularly

Students should resolve conceptual doubts immediately with the help of teachers, mentors or coaching institutes to avoid confusion during preparation.

Practice previous year papers

Solving previous year question papers helps candidates:

• Understand exam patterns
• Identify weak areas
• Improve time management
• Increase accuracy

Regular practice through mock tests can significantly improve overall performance.

IAT & NEST 2026 Marking Scheme

The marking scheme and exam pattern of the two exams differ slightly.

While IAT requires candidates to attempt all four sections, NEST allows students to attempt any three sections, giving them flexibility based on their strengths.

IAT & NEST 2026 Syllabus

The syllabus for both exams is largely based on the Class 11 and Class 12 science curriculum.

Biology Topics

• Diversity in the Living World
• Structural Organisation in Plants and Animals
• Cell Structure and Function
• Plant and Human Physiology
• Reproduction
• Genetics and Evolution
• Biotechnology
• Ecology and Environment

Chemistry Topics

• Atomic Structure
• Chemical Bonding
• Thermodynamics
• Equilibrium
• Electrochemistry
• Chemical Kinetics
• Hydrocarbons
• Organic Chemistry principles
• Biomolecules

Mathematics Topics

• Sets and Functions
• Algebra
• Coordinate Geometry
• Calculus
• Probability and Statistics
• Vectors and Three-dimensional Geometry

Physics Topics

• Laws of Motion
• Work, Energy and Power
• Gravitation
• Thermodynamics
• Oscillations and Waves
• Electricity and Magnetism
• Optics
• Modern Physics
• Semiconductor Electronics

Why Preparing for IAT and NEST Together Helps?

Since both exams focus on conceptual understanding and share similar syllabi, preparing for them together can save time and effort. With proper planning, students can cover the common topics and practice problem-solving across both exam formats. Strong conceptual clarity, consistent revision and regular mock tests remain the most effective strategies for scoring well in IAT and NEST 2026.