Are you preparing for IAT 2025 (IISER Aptitude Test) or NEST 2025 (National Entrance Screening Test)? Both are highly competitive exams for admission into premier science institutes like IISERs (Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research) and NISER (National Institute of Science Education and Research). Success in these exams requires a solid study strategy, smart time management, and the right resources.
In this blog, we will provide a detailed preparation strategy, subject-wise tips, best books, and expert advice to help you crack IAT 2025 and NEST 2025 with confidence!
A must read: IISER Admissions 2025: Your Gateway to Premier Science Education
Stay Tuned!
IAT 2025 Latest Update
This year, IISER Tirupati is conducting the IISER Aptitude Test 2025. For the first time, the IISER Aptitude Test 2025 will not be taken by different IISERs in turns but by IISER Tirupati alone.
Major Changes in IAT 2025:
1. Increase in Competition
Since 2021, the number of registrations for IAT has increased 3X to 4X. This year, the competition is expected to rise even further as there are no upper limits on the number of applications.
2. New Courses Offered
A new 4-year BS course in Economics and Statistical Sciences has been initiated at IISER Tirupati.
IISER Bhopal has overhauled its course in engineering sciences by replacing a BS degree by B.Tech in Chemical Engineering, Data Science & Engineering and Electrical & Computer Science Engineering.
3. Eligibility Criteria – Biggest Change!
Earlier, IAT eligibility was determined by the year of passing Class 12. But, for IAT 2025, eligibility has been changed to date of birth, and that’s a radical change!
New Age Criteria:
- General/OBC candidates must have been born on or after October 1, 2000.
- SC/ST/PWD candidates get 5 years relaxation and are eligible if born on or after October 1, 1995.
- No class 12 year restriction! If you have completed your Class 12 years back, you are still eligible for the exam, provided you fall within the age bracket.
It means that now even candidates above their mid-20s and above can apply for IAT 2025, which makes the competition quite high.
NOTE: Candidates belonging to Kashmiri Pandit/Kashmiri Hindu Families (Non-Migrants) may apply for the IAT 2025 as Kashmiri Migrants subject to the fulfillment of other eligibility criteria. These candidates must upload a valid domicile certificate at the time of application under “Kashmiri Migrant Certificate”.
Understanding IAT 2025 and NEST 2025 Exam Pattern
Before diving into preparation, let’s understand the exam structure and syllabus for both exams.
IAT 2025 Exam Pattern (IISER Aptitude Test)
- Mode: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
- Duration: 3 Hours
- Total Marks: 240
- Subjects & Marking:
- Physics: 60 marks
- Chemistry: 60 marks
- Mathematics: 60 marks
- Biology: 60 marks
- Marking Scheme:
- +3 for each correct answer
- -1 for each wrong answer
NEST 2025 Exam Pattern (National Entrance Screening Test)
- Mode: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
- Duration: 3.5 Hours
- Total Marks: 150
- Subjects & Marking:
- General Section: 30 marks
- Physics: 40 marks
- Chemistry: 40 marks
- Mathematics: 40 marks
- Biology: 40 marks
- Marking Scheme:
- Variable marking scheme in different sections
- No negative marking in General Section
How to Prepare for IAT 2025 and NEST 2025?
1. Master the Syllabus
Both exams cover Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology at the Class 11 and Class 12 level (NCERT-based).
- Focus on NCERT textbooks first before moving to advanced books.
- Identify important topics with high weightage (listed below).
2. Subject-Wise Study Plan
📌 Physics
✅ Focus on Mechanics, Optics, Electromagnetism, and Modern Physics.
✅ Practice concept-based numerical problems.
✅ Recommended Books:
- NCERT Class 11 & 12 Physics
- HC Verma (Concepts of Physics)
- DC Pandey (Arihant Series)
📌 Chemistry
✅ Divide into Physical, Organic, and Inorganic Chemistry.
✅ Strengthen reaction mechanisms and numerical problems.
✅ Recommended Books:
- NCERT Chemistry (Most Important)
- OP Tandon (Physical & Organic)
- JD Lee (Inorganic)
📌 Mathematics
✅ Focus on Algebra, Calculus, Trigonometry, and Coordinate Geometry.
✅ Practice MCQs and conceptual questions.
✅ Recommended Books:
- NCERT Class 11 & 12 Mathematics
- RD Sharma (Objective)
- Cengage Mathematics
📌 Biology
✅ Prioritize Genetics, Cell Biology, Human Physiology, and Ecology.
✅ Learn diagrams and conceptual details.
✅ Recommended Books:
- NCERT Biology (Both Classes)
- Trueman’s Biology
3. Best Strategy for Last 3 Months
Daily Study Routine (Ideal Timetable)
Morning (7 AM – 10 AM): Physics & Numerical Practice
Afternoon (12 PM – 3 PM): Chemistry & Reactions
Evening (5 PM – 8 PM): Mathematics & Problem Solving
Night (9 PM – 11 PM): Biology & Quick Revision
Tip: Keep 1 hour for previous year paper solving daily.
4. Solve Previous Year Papers & Mock Tests
- Download IAT and NEST previous year question papers.
- Solve at least 2 mock tests per week and analyze mistakes.
- Use online test series for time management.
5. Time Management & Smart Tips for Success
Prioritize NCERT Books – 70% of the questions are NCERT-based.
Make Short Notes & Flashcards for quick revision.
Follow the Pomodoro Technique – Study in 25-minute sessions with 5-minute breaks.
Solve 50+ MCQs daily from different subjects.
Stay Consistent & Keep Revising every week.
Which SciAstra Course Should I Choose For IAT 2025 and NEST 2026?
If you are a NEST aspirant who is looking for a program, SciAstra has come to your rescue. SciAstra has recently launched two courses that can help you excel in NEST. These two courses are Vikram 1.0 and HOMI 2026.
Enroll Now! Click here to learn more about these courses.
Strategies:
You will find many guides and resources for JEE and NEET aspirants. However, there is not much resource for IAT aspirants. So, how do you know the best way to prepare for the IAT? Do not worry much because SciAstra is here for you. To learn about the preparation strategies for IAT, check the following blog:
Complete Guide On How To Prepare For IAT 2025
We keep posting such guides on our website, YouTube and Instagram. To not miss any updates, follow the following steps:
- Subscribe to us on YouTube.
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- Download our app – For Android | For IOS
- Visit our website: https://www.sciastra.com
About us: Sciastra
At SciAstra, we guide students who want to become scientists and pursue research by helping them secure admissions in the top colleges for the same like IISER, NISER, CEBS, ICAR, CMI, etc.
Our mentors are from the top research institutes like IISER, NISER, IACS, CMI, ISI, IISC Bangalore, and so on. If you are looking to prepare for IAT / NEST 2025, you can check out our courses and get access to live classes, recorded lectures, study material, mock tests, doubt-clearing classes, and much more!
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