JEST: syllabus, exam pattern & eligibility

Joint Entrance Screening Test. PhD / Integrated PhD in Physics, Theoretical Computer Science and Neuroscience at participating institutes

Category

Science & Research

Conducted by

Consortium of institutes (ICTS-TIFR, IISc etc.); conducted by JEST office

Level

PhD entrance

Frequency

Once a year (April)

Mode

CBT (TCS in dual mode)

Languages

English

Eligibility

• Education: B.Sc./B.Tech/M.Sc. in physics or related

Exam pattern

JEST Physics / TCS

180 min · 50 questions · 100 marks

Syllabus

Physics

Mathematical methods, Classical mechanics, Electromagnetism, Quantum mechanics, Thermal & statistical physics, Optics & modern physics, Solid state, electronics

TCS

Discrete maths, Algorithms, Theory of computation, Probability

Important dates (2026)

• Exam: 2026-04-12
• Result: ~2026-04-30
• JEST 2027 registration (expected): 2027-02
• JEST 2027 exam (expected): 2027-04

Selection process

JEST score -> institute interviews

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Pricing

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Frequently asked questions

What is JEST?

JEST stands for Joint Entrance Screening Test. PhD / Integrated PhD in Physics, Theoretical Computer Science and Neuroscience at participating institutes. It is conducted by Consortium of institutes (ICTS-TIFR, IISc etc.); conducted by JEST office. Level: PhD entrance.

Who is eligible for JEST?

Education: B.Sc./B.Tech/M.Sc. in physics or related.

What is the exam pattern of JEST?

JEST Physics / TCS: 180 minutes, 50 questions, 100 marks. Mode: CBT (TCS in dual mode).

How often is JEST held?

Once a year (April).

When is JEST held?

2026 cycle: Exam 2026-04-12; Result ~2026-04-30; JEST 2027 registration (expected) 2027-02; JEST 2027 exam (expected) 2027-04.

How are candidates selected through JEST?

JEST score -> institute interviews.

Compiled from public sources, last checked 2026-09-25. Dates, fees and rules change, so confirm with the official website before you apply.