Are you a student with a curious mind and a PCM, PCB, or PCMB background? Do you dream of decoding the universe, curing diseases, or maybe just building something that the world hasn't seen before? If you’ve just cleared class 10 and you're already wondering what next — pause right here. Because we’re about to unpack some of the most sought-after science entrance exams that can shape your future.  And trust us — it’s not just about JEE or NEET anymore. Stay tuned!

Best Science Entrance Exams After Class 12

Let’s not sugarcoat it — competition is fierce. But if you’ve got passion and preparation on your side, you’re already halfway there. Here are the major gateways to India’s premier institutes:

  • JEE Mains: 

JEE Mains is your golden ticket to top-tier engineering colleges like NITs, IIITs, and even the top premier IISc Bangalore. The JEE exam is conducted every year by the National Testing Agency (NTA), and around 10+ lakh aspirants sit for it every year between January and April. There are 75 questions with 300-mark.  This online exam tests your mettle in Physics, Chemistry, and Maths. If you clear it, and you're eligible for JEE Advanced. 

  • JEE Advanced: 

You can give JEE Advanced only after clearing JEE Mains. It is reserved for the top qualifiers of JEE Mains. This exam is conducted by one of the IITs every year (yes, it rotates!). Roughly 2 lakh students sit for it, aiming for — IITs, IIST, and even IISc.  It has 2 intense 3-hour papers, held online, testing not just knowledge but creativity and speed. 

  • IISER Aptitude Test (IAT): 

If you are really interested in Research or pure science, and want to join a premier institute without JEE/NEET, then welcome to the world of IISERs. The IAT opens doors to these cutting-edge institutes and even gets you a shot at IISc and IIT Madras (for specific programs). The exam covers Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Mathematics — yes, all four. Don’t worry; it’s slightly less competitive, with about 40,000 students appearing each year.  Eligibility is getting 60% in Class 12 (50% for SC/ST/PWD), and you’re in the race.

  • NEET:

NEET is your must-pass exam. It's your route into prestigious medical colleges like AIIMS, along with institutes offering science degrees like IISc and BHU. With 20 lakh+ candidates, NEET is no joke. Pen and paper-based, it's a 720-mark test spread over 3 hours and 20 minutes.  You’ll tackle Physics, Chemistry, and Biology — and need at least 50% in Class 12 (PCB/PCMB).

  • BITSAT:

BITS Pilani (and its Goa and Hyderabad campuses) conducts its own snappy exam: BITSAT. It’s online, lasts 3 hours, and tests your grip on PCM, English, and logical reasoning.  Applicants need 70% aggregate marks in PCM and should have passed Class 12 within the last two years.

  • NEST:

Want to get into NISER or CEBS? You’ll need to crack NEST — a science-heavy test designed for the bold and the brainy. It’s 3 hours long and lets you pick either Maths or Biology, making it flexible for both PCM and PCB students. You need to be a recent 12th-passer (within the last 3 years) which includes passing either in 2025, 2024 or 2023. 

  • CUET: 

Introduced in 2021, CUET is the one test to rule them all — at least when it comes to Central and some private universities. It covers domain-specific subjects, general reasoning, and languages. With around 9 lakh test-takers, it’s gaining traction fast. The best part? No more filling out multiple entrance forms. CUET streamlines it all.

  • ISI Entrance Test: 

ISI (Indian Statistical Institute) offers top-notch degrees in math, stats, and data science — if you’re up for the challenge. The exam has two parts: UGA (MCQ) and UGB (subjective), and lasts a total of 4 hours.

  • CMI Entrance Test: 

The Chennai Mathematical Institute is small but mighty. It offers a bunch of programs in the field of math, computer science, and physics. The entrance test is pen-and-paper based, 3 hours long, and divided into a 40-mark objective section and a 60-mark subjective section. Simple eligibility: just pass Class 12. 

How Should You Prepare?

Let’s be real — cracking these exams isn’t just about grinding textbooks. It’s about smart, sustained, and focused effort.
  • Understand each exam’s structure, syllabus, and strategy.
  •  If Physics is your jam but Bio gives you nightmares — plan accordingly.
  •  Mix in revision, practice, and rest days.
  • Give mock tests religiously. They train your brain for real-time pressure and improve timing.
  • Join SciAstra and assist yourself with everything including live classes,  PYQs, mentorship, crash courses and more you will know.
  • Eat well. Sleep better. Move around. 

FAQs:

Q: Can I prepare for JEE, NEET, and IAT all at once? Yes, but it takes serious discipline. Know the overlaps, customize your schedule, and don’t burn out. Q: Can I sit for multiple entrance exams? Absolutely. Just check each one's eligibility rules. Q: What career paths open up after these exams? A buffet of options — engineering, medicine, architecture, research, academia, data science, and many more. Q: Are there Any scholarships for students like me? Tons! From INSPIRE to KVPY to college-specific grants. We’ve listed them all — go check the scholarship blog.

About us: Sciastra

Not just someone who memorizes facts, but one who questions, explores, and reshapes what we know about the universe? That’s exactly the kind of curious mind we love working with at SciAstra. SciAstra is not your average coaching platform. We’re a community of passionate mentors from some of India’s top research powerhouses—IISERs, NISER, IACS, ISI, CMI, and even the mighty IISc Bangalore. We’ve been right where you are, and now we’re here to guide you on the same path—just with fewer bumps and a lot more clarity. If you're preparing for IAT/ NEST 2025. Whether you’re searching for live classes or recorded lectures, study material, mock test series, doubt-clearing classes, and so much more! Join Sciastra just by clicking here and also download the App from Play Store or App Store!