List of BSc Nursing Entrance Exams 2026
Pursuing a career in nursing is a noble and rewarding choice, offering immense opportunities to make a meaningful impact in healthcare. As the demand for skilled nurses continues to rise in India and globally, securing admission to a reputable BSc Nursing program has become highly competitive. For the academic year 2026, numerous prestigious institutions conduct their own entrance exams or accept scores from state-level tests to select deserving candidates.
This comprehensive guide lists the key BSc Nursing entrance exams for 2026, including national and institute-level exams such as AIIMS BSc Nursing, PGIMER Nursing, CMC Ludhiana BSc Nursing, RUHS Nursing, MH CET BSc Nursing, KGMU Nursing, and BHU Nursing. These exams open doors to top-tier colleges with excellent faculty, infrastructure, and clinical exposure.
Whether you’re aiming for government institutes like AIIMS or renowned private ones like CMC Ludhiana, staying informed about exam dates, eligibility, syllabus, and preparation strategies is crucial. Dive into the details below to plan your preparation effectively and take the first step toward a fulfilling nursing career.
BSc Nursing Entrance Exams 2026: Comprehensive List
India offers a variety of prestigious BSc Nursing entrance exams at national, state, and institute levels for the 2026 academic session. These exams provide access to top government and private nursing colleges, with admissions based on merit, cutoffs, and counselling processes.
While some institutions accept NEET UG 2026 scores (especially for many state and private colleges), several premier institutes conduct their own separate entrance tests for highly competitive seats.
Below is a comprehensive table of major BSc Nursing entrance exams relevant for 2026 admissions (based on official notifications, trends, and expected patterns as of early 2026):
| Exam Name | Conducting Body | Registration Dates (Tentative) | Exam Dates (Tentative) | Key Details / Eligibility Highlights | Approx. Seats / Focus Institutions |
| AIIMS BSc Nursing | AIIMS, New Delhi | March–April 2026 | June 14 (Post Basic), June 28 (Hons.) | 10+2 with PCB & English (50-55% aggregate); CBT mode, includes Physics, Chemistry, Biology, GK | 571+ seats across 18+ AIIMS campuses |
| PGIMER BSc Nursing | PGIMER, Chandigarh | May–June 2026 | June–July 2026 | 10+2 PCB 50%; Highly competitive for quality clinical training | Seats at PGIMER Chandigarh |
| CMC Ludhiana BSc Nursing | Christian Medical College, Ludhiana | May 2026 (e.g., early–late May) | June 2026 | Open to all India; 10+2 PCB; Affiliated with BFUHS | Limited seats at CMC Ludhiana & associated colleges |
| RUHS Nursing | Rajasthan University of Health Sciences | June 2026 | July 2026 | Rajasthan domicile preferred; 10+2 PCB 45-50% | Government & private colleges in Rajasthan |
| MH CET BSc Nursing | State CET Cell, Maharashtra | January 2026 (ongoing/early) | May 6–7, 2026 | Maharashtra domicile for state quota; PCB & English | Numerous colleges in Maharashtra |
| KGMU Nursing | King George’s Medical University, Lucknow (via UP CNET) | March–May 2026 | May–July 2026 | 10+2 PCB; Uttar Pradesh focus but open applications | KGMU & affiliated UP institutions |
| BHU Nursing | Banaras Hindu University | Post-NEET UG (June–July 2026) | Via NEET UG (May 2026) | 10+2 PCB 50%; Prestigious central university; NEET UG mandatory | BHU College of Nursing |
| JENPAS UG | WBJEEB (West Bengal) | September 2026 | October 2026 | Open for BSc Nursing & allied; PCB based | West Bengal state colleges |
| NEET UG (for Nursing) | NTA | February–March 2026 | May 2026 (e.g., early May) | Widely accepted by many colleges; 10+2 PCB | Various govt/private colleges accepting NEET scores |
AIIMS BSc Nursing 2026
The AIIMS BSc Nursing 2026 entrance exam, conducted by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, is one of the most prestigious and competitive national-level tests for admission to the 4-year BSc (Hons) Nursing program and the 2-year BSc Nursing (Post-Basic) program across 18+ AIIMS campuses. Known for its rigorous selection process, the exam offers access to world-class education, advanced clinical training, and excellent career prospects in government healthcare institutions. It is a computer-based test (CBT) focusing on Class 11-12 level subjects, with high competition due to limited seats and top-tier reputation.
- Conducting Body: AIIMS, New Delhi (official website: aiimsexams.ac.in or bsccourses.aiimsexams.ac.in)
- Exam Mode: Online CBT
- Tentative Registration Dates: March–April/May 2026 (basic registration often starts early, followed by final registration)
- Tentative Exam Dates: June 14, 2026 (Post-Basic); June 28, 2026 (BSc Hons.)
- Eligibility: 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English; minimum 50-55% aggregate (relaxations for reserved categories); age typically 17+ years
- Key Subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, General Knowledge/Aptitude
- Seats: Approximately 571+ across AIIMS institutes
- Why Choose?: Prestigious degree, no tuition fees in many cases, strong clinical exposure, and high placement opportunities
PGIMER Nursing 2026
PGIMER BSc Nursing 2026, organised by the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, is a highly regarded institute-level entrance exam for the 4-year BSc Nursing program. It attracts candidates seeking exceptional training in a premier tertiary care institute with advanced facilities and research opportunities. The exam emphasises strong foundational knowledge in sciences and is known for its quality education leading to rewarding careers in nursing and healthcare.
- Conducting Body: PGIMER, Chandigarh
- Exam Mode: Offline/Online (as per recent patterns)
- Tentative Registration Dates: May–June 2026
- Tentative Exam Dates: June–August 2026 (often July/August)
- Eligibility: 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English; minimum 50% aggregate (relaxations for SC/ST/OBC); age 17–25 years
- Key Subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, English, and aptitude-related questions
- Seats: Limited seats at PGIMER Chandigarh
- Why Choose?: Renowned for clinical excellence, research focus, and placement in top hospitals
CMC Ludhiana BSc Nursing 2026
The CMC Ludhiana BSc Nursing 2026 entrance exam, conducted by Christian Medical College, Ludhiana (affiliated with Baba Farid University of Health Sciences), is a popular choice for candidates aiming for quality Christian minority institution education with a strong emphasis on compassionate care and community service. This institute-level exam provides admission to a well-established BSc Nursing program known for its holistic training, ethical values, and excellent infrastructure.
- Conducting Body: Christian Medical College, Ludhiana
- Exam Mode: Offline/Online entrance test (followed by interviews/counselling in some cases)
- Tentative Registration Dates: April–May/June 2026
- Tentative Exam Dates: June–July 2026
- Eligibility: 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology (and English); minimum 45-50% aggregate; age 17+ years by December 31, 2026; open to all India (minority quotas apply)
- Key Subjects: PCB-based questions, English, and general aptitude
- Seats: Limited (around 50-60, with provisions for Christian minority candidates)
- Why Choose?: Emphasis on ethics, community health, strong clinical rotations, and supportive environment
RUHS Nursing 2026
RUHS Nursing 2026, managed by the Rajasthan University of Health Sciences (RUHS), Jaipur, is a key state-level entrance exam (often through RUHS CUET or a separate test) for BSc Nursing admissions in government and private nursing colleges across Rajasthan. It serves as a gateway for Rajasthan-domiciled and other eligible candidates to secure seats in affordable, quality programs with good state-level opportunities in healthcare.
- Conducting Body: Rajasthan University of Health Sciences (RUHS), Jaipur (official website: ruhsraj.org)
- Exam Mode: Offline/Online (state-level test)
- Tentative Registration Dates: April–June 2026
- Tentative Exam Dates: May–July 2026
- Eligibility: 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English; minimum 45-50% aggregate (relaxations for reserved categories); Rajasthan domicile preferred for state quota
- Key Subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, English
- Seats: Numerous in government and private colleges in Rajasthan
- Why Choose?: Affordable fees in government colleges, state-wide options, and focus on local healthcare needs
MH CET BSc Nursing 2026
The MH CET BSc Nursing 2026 (also known as MH Nursing CET) is a state-level computer-based entrance exam conducted by the State Common Entrance Test Cell, Maharashtra, for admission to the 4-year BSc Nursing program in government and private nursing colleges across Maharashtra. It serves as the primary gateway for thousands of aspirants seeking affordable, quality nursing education in the state, with a focus on PCB subjects from Class 11-12. The exam is highly competitive, and admissions are merit-based through centralized counselling, making it essential for Maharashtra-domicile candidates and others eligible under open quota.
- Conducting Body: State Common Entrance Test Cell, Maharashtra (official website: cetcell.mahacet.org)
- Exam Mode: Online CBT (Computer-Based Test)
- Tentative Registration Dates: January 24 – February 24, 2026 (ongoing as per official notice)
- Tentative Exam Dates: May 6–7, 2026
- Eligibility: 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English; minimum 45-50% aggregate (relaxations for reserved categories); minimum age 17 years; Maharashtra domicile preferred for state quota seats
- Key Subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, English (100 MCQs, 100 marks, 90 minutes duration; no negative marking)
- Seats: Numerous seats across government and private colleges in Maharashtra
- Why Choose?: Wide network of colleges, state-level reservations, good clinical exposure in Maharashtra hospitals, and relatively lower fees in government institutions
KGMU Nursing 2026
KGMU Nursing 2026 refers to admissions for the BSc Nursing program at King George’s Medical University (KGMU), Lucknow, and its affiliated institutions, now primarily through the UP Common Nursing Entrance Test (UP CNET) conducted by Atal Bihari Vajpayee Medical University (ABVMU), Lucknow. This state-level exam has replaced separate KGMU entrance tests, providing access to prestigious government nursing colleges in Uttar Pradesh with excellent faculty, infrastructure, and hands-on training in one of India’s top medical universities. It is ideal for candidates seeking quality education in a central Uttar Pradesh hub with strong career prospects.
- Conducting Body: Atal Bihari Vajpayee Medical University (ABVMU), Lucknow (for UP CNET; official website: abvmuup.edu.in)
- Exam Mode: Offline/OMR-based (as per recent patterns)
- Tentative Registration Dates: March–April/May 2026 (application process expected to start soon)
- Tentative Exam Dates: May–June 2026
- Eligibility: 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English; minimum 45% aggregate (40% for SC/ST); age 17+ years by December 31, 2026; open to all but Uttar Pradesh focus for quotas
- Key Subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, English, and aptitude/nursing basics
- Seats: Significant seats at KGMU (around 100+) and other affiliated UP government/private colleges
- Why Choose?: Renowned medical university, advanced clinical facilities, research opportunities, and high employability in government healthcare sectors
BHU Nursing 2026
The BHU Nursing 2026 admission process for the 4-year BSc Nursing program at Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi, is now based on NEET UG 2026 scores, following the discontinuation of a separate entrance exam since 2022. This prestigious central university offers admission through national-level merit via NEET, providing access to top-notch education, modern infrastructure, and extensive clinical exposure at the Institute of Medical Sciences. It attracts candidates nationwide seeking a reputed degree with strong academic and professional foundations in nursing.
- Conducting Body: Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi (admissions via NTA NEET UG; official website: bhu.ac.in)
- Exam Mode: NEET UG (pen-and-paper/offline)
- Tentative Registration Dates: Post-NEET UG results (June–July 2026 for BHU counselling/application)
- Tentative Exam Dates: Via NEET UG (tentative May 2026)
- Eligibility: 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English; minimum 50% aggregate (relaxations for reserved categories); qualify NEET UG 2026
- Key Subjects: Based on NEET UG syllabus (Physics, Chemistry, Biology)
- Seats: Limited seats at BHU College of Nursing (highly competitive)
- Why Choose?: Central university prestige, holistic education, excellent faculty and research, and strong alumni network in healthcare
FAQs
1. Is NEET UG mandatory for all BSc Nursing admissions in 2026?
No, NEET UG is not mandatory for all BSc Nursing programs. It is required for many government and private colleges, including BHU Nursing, but premier institutes like AIIMS BSc Nursing, PGIMER Nursing, CMC Ludhiana, MH CET BSc Nursing, and RUHS Nursing conduct their own separate entrance exams.
2. What is the tentative exam date for AIIMS BSc Nursing 2026?
The AIIMS BSc Nursing (Hons) entrance exam is tentatively scheduled for June 28, 2026, while the Post-Basic BSc Nursing exam is expected on June 14, 2026. These are computer-based tests, and exact dates are confirmed on the official AIIMS website.
3. When does registration for MH CET BSc Nursing 2026 start?
Registration for MH CET BSc Nursing 2026 began on January 24, 2026, and continues until February 24, 2026. The exam is scheduled for May 6–7, 2026, as a state-level online test for Maharashtra nursing colleges.
4. Does BHU Nursing 2026 require a separate entrance exam?
No, BHU BSc Nursing admissions in 2026 are based solely on NEET UG 2026 scores. Candidates must qualify NEET, then participate in centralized counselling (often through MCC) for seats at Banaras Hindu University.
5. What is the eligibility for most BSc Nursing entrance exams in 2026?
Candidates need 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English, securing at least 45–55% aggregate (relaxations for reserved categories). Minimum age is usually 17 years by December 31, 2026. Specific requirements vary by exam, like domicile for state-level tests.
6. Which exams are institute-level and which are state-level?
Institute-level exams include AIIMS BSc Nursing, PGIMER Nursing, and CMC Ludhiana BSc Nursing (national open to all). State-level exams are RUHS Nursing (Rajasthan), MH CET BSc Nursing (Maharashtra), and KGMU Nursing (via UP CNET in Uttar Pradesh).
7. How competitive are these BSc Nursing entrance exams?
These exams are highly competitive due to limited seats in top institutes like AIIMS (571+ seats) and PGIMER. Focus on NCERT-based PCB concepts, practice previous papers, and manage time well, as thousands apply for quality government and private nursing programs.
8. Where should I check official updates for these exams?
Always visit official websites: aiimsexams.ac.in for AIIMS, pgimer.edu.in for PGIMER, cmcludhiana.in for CMC Ludhiana, ruhsraj.org for RUHS, cetcell.mahacet.org for MH CET, abvmuup.edu.in for KGMU/UP CNET, and bhu.ac.in for BHU. Notifications can change, so stay updated regularly.
