NSTSE Exam Pattern 2025-26, Check Class-wise Marking Scheme

NSTSE Exam Pattern 2025-26: The National Level Science Talent Search Examination (NSTSE) is a popular scholarship exam conducted by Unified Council for students from Class 2 to 12. Known for its unique approach, NSTSE evaluates students' conceptual understanding and analytical thinking rather than rote learning.

If you’re planning to appear for the NSTSE 2025-26, understanding its exam pattern is crucial for effective preparation. This article provides a detailed breakdown of the NSTSE exam pattern, including the number of questions, marking scheme, subject-wise weightage, and more — specifically tailored for each class.

NSTSE Exam Overview

NSTSE Exam Pattern 2025-26 – Key Highlights

• Separate Question Paper for each class.
• All questions are objective type (Multiple Choice Questions).
• No negative marking for wrong answers.
• Exam duration is the same for all classes: 90 minutes.
• Focus is on Mathematics and Science (with additional General Questions in higher classes).

NSTSE Class-wise Number of Questions and Marks

The total number of questions and marks vary depending on the class. Here's a class-wise breakdown:

NSTSE 2025-26 Subject-wise Division of Marks

NSTSE assesses subject-specific knowledge with a different mark distribution for each class level. Here’s the complete breakdown:

NSTSE Exam Marks For Class 2

NSTSE Exam Marks For Class 3

NSTSE Exam Marks For Class 4 & 5

NSTSE Exam Marks For Class 6 to 10

NSTSE Exam Marks For Class 11 & 12 (PCM Stream)

NSTSE Exam Marks For Class 11 & 12 (PCB Stream)

What are General Questions in NSTSE?

The General Questions section in NSTSE tests students' analytical ability, logical reasoning, and problem-solving skills. It is a common section for higher classes (Class 4 onwards) and carries 10 marks.

NSTSE Syllabus Coverage

NSTSE follows the CBSE syllabus, but it is also suitable for students studying under ICSE and various State Boards. The paper is framed to assess:

• Conceptual clarity
• Application of knowledge
• Logical thinking

Note: Around 85% of the CBSE syllabus is considered while framing the question papers.

NSTSE 2025-26 Exam Duration

The total time allotted for the NSTSE exam is 90 minutes for all classes (from Class 2 to Class 12), regardless of the number of questions.

Important Points About NSTSE Exam Pattern

Here are some crucial pointers students must keep in mind:

• No sectional timing: You can divide your 90 minutes as you prefer.
• No negative marking: Attempt every question to maximize your score.
• Objective-type format: All questions are MCQs (Multiple Choice Questions).
• Understanding > Memorization: Emphasis is on clarity of basic concepts.

Sample Question Types (General Format)

While exact questions change every year, the structure is mostly based on concept application. Here’s a general idea of what to expect:

Example – Class 6 Mathematics:

1. What is the sum of the first 10 natural numbers?
2. A) 55
   B) 45
   C) 50
   D) 60

Example – Class 10 Physics:

1. Which law explains the working of a rocket?
2. A) Newton’s First Law
   B) Newton’s Second Law
   C) Newton’s Third Law
   D) Law of Inertia

Example – General Question:

1. If all books are papers and some papers are pens, then which of the following is true?
2. A) All pens are books
   B) Some books are pens
   C) Some pens are books
   D) Cannot be determined

Benefits of Understanding the NSTSE Exam Pattern

Understanding the exam pattern helps students:

• Prepare a proper strategy for each subject
• Manage time efficiently during the exam
• Reduce surprises and anxiety on exam day
• Focus more on conceptual clarity

Tips to Prepare According to the Exam Pattern

• Understand the weightage of each subject and topic.
• Practice previous year question papers and mock tests.
• Focus more on Mathematics and Science fundamentals.
• Don’t ignore the General Questions section.
• Manage your time while practicing with 90-minute timers.

Conclusion

The NSTSE Exam Pattern 2025-26 is structured to reward understanding over memorization. Students who focus on concepts and logical reasoning stand a better chance of scoring high. Whether you're in primary school or senior secondary, the pattern is designed to gradually build higher-order thinking skills.

By familiarizing yourself with the class-wise paper format, subject weightage, and question style, you can confidently approach the exam and aim for national-level ranks and scholarships.

NSTSE Exam Pattern 2025-26 FAQs

Q1. Is there negative marking in the NSTSE exam?
A. No, there is no negative marking in NSTSE for any class.

Q2. Is the NSTSE syllabus same for all boards?
A. NSTSE follows the CBSE syllabus, but students from ICSE and state boards can also take part as 85% of the syllabus is covered.

Q3. Are calculators allowed in the NSTSE exam?
A. No, electronic devices including calculators are not allowed.

Q4. Is the General Questions section compulsory?
A. Yes, for classes 4 and above, General Questions are part of the exam and carry 10 marks.