IISER Aptitude Test and NEST — Science Research Courses After Plus Two

If you enjoy science itself, not only engineering or medicine, you can join a five-year research-focused degree straight after Plus Two. The two main national entrance tests for these courses are the IISER Aptitude Test (IAT) and the National Entrance Screening Test (NEST).

This guide explains both, based on the 2026 cycle. The 2027 dates had not been announced as of 6 November 2026, so check the official websites from early 2027.

IISER Aptitude Test (IAT)

The IAT is the entrance test for the BS-MS dual degree at the Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISERs), including IISER Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala. Applications are on iiseradmission.in.
In 2026, registration ran from about 5 March to 13 April and the test was on 7 June 2026.
It is a computer-based test of 3 hours with 60 questions: 15 each from Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics and Physics, based on Plus One and Plus Two topics. Each correct answer gets 4 marks and each wrong answer loses 1 mark (check the year’s brochure).

NEST (National Entrance Screening Test)

NEST is the common entrance test for the five-year integrated MSc at NISER Bhubaneswar and the UM-DAE Centre for Excellence in Basic Sciences (CEBS), Mumbai. Applications are on nestexam.in.
In 2026, registration closed in April, admit cards came out from 24 May, answer keys were open for challenge in June and scorecards were issued in July.
Read the NEST brochure for the paper pattern and subject rules, which are set each year.

Who these courses suit

Students who like asking “why” and want a career in research, teaching or science-based industry.
You study all sciences in the first years and then specialise, with research projects in the final years.
Plus Two Science students (usually with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics or Biology) are the main applicants; check each year’s eligibility rules.

How to prepare alongside Plus Two

Both tests are based on the Plus One and Plus Two syllabus, so strong board preparation is the base. Revise NCERT-level concepts in all four sciences.
Because the IAT has equal questions in four subjects, do not drop Biology or Mathematics; even basic marks in a weaker subject help.
After the Plus Two exam in March, take timed mock tests until the June exams. Register for both IAT and NEST, along with KEAM and other entrances you need; see our entrance exams map.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the IISER Aptitude Test?

The IISER Aptitude Test (IAT) is the entrance test for the BS-MS dual degree at the IISERs, including IISER Thiruvananthapuram. In 2026 it was a 3-hour computer-based test on 7 June with 60 questions, 15 each from Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics and Physics.

When is IAT 2027?

The IAT 2027 dates had not been announced as of 6 November 2026. In 2026, registration ran from about 5 March to 13 April and the exam was on 7 June. Watch iiseradmission.in from early 2027.

What is NEST?

NEST (National Entrance Screening Test) is the common entrance test for the five-year integrated MSc at NISER Bhubaneswar and UM-DAE CEBS Mumbai. Details are on nestexam.in.

Is there an IISER in Kerala?

Yes. IISER Thiruvananthapuram is one of the IISERs that admit BS-MS students through the IISER Aptitude Test.

Does WonderZ help with Plus Two Science and entrance preparation?

Yes. WonderZ Learning offers online Plus Two Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Maths tuition, with 1-on-1, small batch and app classes, so board preparation and entrance practice go together. Fees are flexible and negotiable, and you can book a free demo class.

Learn With WonderZ

WonderZ Learning offers 1-on-1, small batch and WonderZ App live + recorded classes for Kerala syllabus and CBSE students. Fees are flexible and negotiable, and every family can start with a free demo class.

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