Cracking the Code: Your Guide to Nursing Entrance Exams in 2026
Admissions to nursing programs in India have undergone a massive shift this year. Gone are the days of simple merit-based entry. In 2026, your seat in a top-tier nursing college depends almost entirely on your performance in competitive entrance exams.
Whether you are aiming for the prestigious halls of AIIMS or a top state government college, staying ahead of the exam calendar is crucial. Here is everything you need to know about the Nursing Entrance Exams 2026.
1. The Big Three: National-Level Exams
AIIMS B.Sc. (Hons) Nursing 2026
AIIMS remains the “Gold Standard” for nursing education in India.
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Registration Start: Mid-March 2026 (Expected)
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Exam Date: June 27, 2026 (Tentative)
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Status: Open to female candidates only for the Hons program.
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Why it matters: AIIMS offers the highest ROI with minimal fees and world-class clinical exposure.
NEET-UG 2026 (Nursing Integration)
While NEET is primarily for MBBS, many top universities now use NEET scores for B.Sc. Nursing admissions.
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Participating Institutes: JIPMER (Puducherry), BHU (Varanasi), and several IP University colleges in Delhi.
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Important: If you haven’t registered for NEET-UG by now, your options for these specific central universities will be limited.
Indian Army B.Sc. Nursing (MNS) 2026
The Military Nursing Service (MNS) is one of the most disciplined and respected pathways.
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Entrance Path: Candidates must qualify for NEET-UG first, followed by a separate interview and medical test conducted by the Indian Army.
2. State-Level Common Entrance Tests (CETs)
Most students will secure admissions through State CETs. Each state has its own schedule. Here are the highlights for 2026:
| State | Entrance Exam | Expected Month |
| Maharashtra | MH-CET Nursing | May 2026 |
| Uttar Pradesh | UP-CNET (ABVMU) | June 2026 |
| West Bengal | JENPAS-UG | June 2026 |
| Kerala | KEAM (Nursing) | May 2026 |
| Rajasthan | RUHS Nursing |
July 2026 |
Pro Tip: Always check if your state requires a domicile certificate for government seat quotas before the application deadline.
3. The 2026 Exam Pattern & Syllabus
The syllabus for 2026 has been streamlined to align with the New Education Policy (NEP).
Biology (50%): Focus heavily on Human Physiology, Genetics, and Ecology.
Physics & Chemistry (25% each): Stick to NCERT Class 11 & 12 fundamentals.
Nursing Aptitude (New Section): Most state exams now include 10–20 marks for “Nursing Aptitude.” This tests your basic logic, empathy-based decision-making, and general healthcare awareness.
General Knowledge: Stay updated on current health schemes like Ayushman Bharat 2.0 and 2025–2026 WHO health themes.
4. Preparation Strategy: 3 Months to Go
With exams starting as early as May, your “Final Push” should start now.
Solve Previous Year Papers (PYPs): AIIMS and MH-CET often repeat question patterns.
Mock Tests: Practice 2-hour timed tests to build speed.
Digital Health Awareness: Be prepared for questions regarding digital health records and tele-nursing—topics that are now part of the 2026 entrance logic.
Final Thoughts
2026 is a competitive year for nursing. With over 2 million aspirants expected across various exams, early registration and a clear schedule are your best friends.