National Standard Examination in Junior Science (NSEJS-2025)

The first and most important step for Indian students hoping to compete for their nation in the prestigious International Junior Science Olympiad (IJSO) is the National Standard Examination in Junior Science (NSEJS). The NSEJS, run by the Indian Association of Physics Teachers (IAPT), aims to identify and support students in Classes 9 and 10 with a scientific aptitude by assessing their knowledge of biology, chemistry, and physics at an advanced level for their age.

1.0NSEJS 2025–26 Important Dates

NSEJS Previous Year Papers with Answer Key - Download PDF

2.0Eligibility Criteria for NSEJS 2025–26

Students must confirm that they fulfill the eligibility requirements established by IAPT prior to submitting an application for the National Standard Examination in Junior Science (NSEJS) 2025–2026. For young science enthusiasts hoping to start their Olympiad journey through NSEJS, these criteria aid in maintaining a fair selection process.

1. Be eligible to hold an Indian passport
2. Be Born Between 1 January 2011 and 31 December 2012 (both days inclusive).
3. Be residing and studying in India since 30 November 2023 or earlier
4. OR be enrolled in an Indian school system since that date
5. Not have completed (or scheduled to complete) Class 10 board exam before 30 November 2025
6. Not be appearing in any of NSEA, NSEB, NSEC, or NSEP 2025

3.0NSEJS 2025–26 Exam Pattern

Multiple-choice questions (MCQs) covering physics, chemistry, and biology are part of the offline NSEJS 2025–26 exam. The purpose of the questions is to assess students in Classes 9 and 10 on their conceptual knowledge, logical reasoning, and scientific aptitude.

4.0NSEJS 2025–26 Syllabus Overview

Key subjects from physics, chemistry, and biology are covered in the NSEJS 2025–26 syllabus, which is largely based on the CBSE curriculum for Classes 9 and 10. The questions are intended to assess deeper conceptual understanding, application skills, and scientific reasoning, even though the content is in line with science taught in schools.

It focuses on:

• Conceptual understanding
• Analytical reasoning
• Interdisciplinary application

5.0How to Register for NSEJS 2025–26

Since NSEJS 2025–2026 is the official entrance exam for India's Junior Science Olympiad program, students must register for it. Students who do not register will not be able to take the test or move on to the next round, which includes the International Junior Science Olympiad (IJSO), OCSC, or INJSO.

1. Visit the official IAPT registration portal:iapt.org.in
2. Choose “NSEJS” from the Olympiad list
3. Fill in student details and click on ‘Generate OTP’
4. Log in using your credentials and complete the form
5. Upload the necessary documents
6. Submit the form and pay the registration fee

6.0Registration Fee for NSEJS 2025–26

Students can register through the IAPT-listed authorised exam centres or their individual schools. On the official website, the precise cost, method of payment, and due dates will be disclosed.

• Fee: ₹300 per student
• Mode: Online (during registration)
• Non-refundable
• Note: No additional fee is charged in future Olympiad stages

7.0Olympiad Journey: Pathway to IJSO

Starting with NSEJS, there are five competitive stages on the route to the International Junior Science Olympiad (IJSO) from India. The Indian National Junior Science Olympiad (INJSO) and the Orientation-Cum-Selection Camp (OCSC) are the next steps for qualified students. 

The final step involves representing India at the IJSO after the top performers at OCSC are chosen for a pre-departure training camp. Every step assesses the student's knowledge of biology, chemistry, and physics as well as their capacity for analysis and problem-solving.

1. NSEJS 2025–26 – First round, conducted in November 2025
2. INJSO 2026 – Indian National Junior Science Olympiad for shortlisted candidates
3. OCSC – Orientation-cum-Selection Camp for top ~35 students
4. Pre-Departure Camp – Final preparation for the international stage
5. IJSO 2026 – International Junior Science Olympiad

8.0Awards & Recognition

IAPT and HBCSE grant certificates and merit awards to students who excel in NSEJS and later stages. Medals and recognition for excellence are given to those who meet the requirements for the OCSC through INJSO. Indian finalists in the International Junior Science Olympiad (IJSO) receive academic opportunities at prestigious scientific universities, national recognition, and international medals (Gold, Silver, or Bronze).

• OCSC participants get Gold Medals and Merit Certificates
• National and state toppers are recognised
• The top 6 students from INJSO form the Indian IJSO team

9.0NSEJS 2025–26 Preparation Strategy

A solid understanding of Class 9 and 10 biology, chemistry, and physics concepts is necessary to prepare for NSEJS 2025–26. 

1. Understand the Syllabus: Analyse each topic from CBSE Class 9–10 science and math.
2. Practice Previous Year Papers: Understand patterns, important topics, and speed building.
3. Use NCERT Textbooks: Stick to concept clarity with Class 9 and 10 NCERT books.
4. Smart Time Management: Prepare a timetable to finish the syllabus at least 1 month early.
5. Refer to ALLEN Modules: Use Olympiad-targeted resources for higher-order thinking and problem-solving skills.