Candidates applying for the National Entrance Screening Test (NEST) 2026 must strictly follow the document upload guidelines prescribed for the online application process. Uploading documents in the wrong format or size may result in the application being treated as incomplete. The NEST 2026 application process began on 5 January 2026, and the final date for submitting the form is 6 April 2026.
NEST 2026 Important Dates for Applicants
Before proceeding with document upload, candidates should be aware of the key deadlines related to registration, correction, and examination. The important NEST 2026 dates are as follows:
- Application start date: 5 January 2026
- Last date to apply: 6 April 2026 (11:30 PM)
- Application correction window: 13 April 2026 to 14 April 2026
- Admit card release: 15 May 2026 (10:00 AM)
- NEST 2026 exam date: 6 June 2026 (2:00 PM to 5:00 PM)
Documents Required for NEST 2026 Application Form
Candidates must upload the required documents while filling out the online application form. All uploads must follow the prescribed specifications to ensure successful submission. The documents required include:
- Recent passport-size photograph
- Candidate’s signature
- Jammu and Kashmir domicile certificate (if applicable)
NEST 2026 Document File Size and Format Specifications
Each document must meet the file size and format requirements set by the exam authorities. Applications with incorrect uploads may be rejected. The document upload specifications are:
- Photograph: Up to 200 KB, JPG/JPEG format
- Signature: Up to 200 KB, JPG/JPEG format
- J&K Domicile Certificate (if applicable): Up to 80 KB, PDF format
Photograph Guidelines for NEST 2026 Application
Candidates must ensure the uploaded photograph meets all quality and clarity requirements. Failure to comply may lead to application rejection. The photograph should:
- Be recent and not older than six months
- Be in colour with a plain white background
- Clearly show the full face, including ears
- Not include sunglasses, caps, or filters
- Not be a selfie or over/under-exposed image
Signature and Certificate Upload Instructions
Applicants must upload a clear signature and, where applicable, a valid domicile certificate. Key instructions include:
- Signature must be done on white paper using blue or black pen
- Full name should be signed without abbreviations
- Domicile certificate must be issued by a competent authority
- Details on the certificate must match Class 12 and application records
How to Apply for NEST 2026 Online?
The NEST 2026 application form is available only in online mode. Candidates must complete all steps carefully before final submission. The application process includes:
- Online registration and login generation
- Filling personal and academic details
- Uploading documents as per guidelines
- Payment of application fee
- Saving and printing the confirmation page
Candidates are advised to verify all uploaded documents during the application correction window to avoid issues at later stages of the admission process.