Choosing a career in nursing is not only noble but also offers a wide range of career opportunities across India and abroad. If you are passionate about healthcare and aspire to become a nurse, cracking a nursing entrance exam is your first step. With the rising demand for skilled nurses in both government and private sectors, it’s essential to be informed about the top nursing entrance exams in India.
This detailed guide lists the top entrance exams for B.Sc Nursing, GNM, ANM, and M.Sc Nursing, their eligibility criteria, exam patterns, and scope—helping you make an informed decision.
Why Nursing Entrance Exams Matter?
Nursing entrance exams serve as the gateway to India’s top nursing colleges and institutes. These exams test a candidate’s knowledge of science subjects, logical reasoning, and English proficiency. Admission into prestigious institutions like AIIMS, JIPMER, BHU, PGIMER, and state-level colleges depends on your entrance score.
Top Nursing Entrance Exams in India (2024 List)
Below is a list of the most prominent nursing entrance exams in India for 2024.
AIIMS B.Sc Nursing Entrance Exam
- Conducted by: All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi
- Course Offered: B.Sc (Hons.) Nursing
- Eligibility: 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology & English
- Exam Pattern: 100 MCQs – Biology, Chemistry, Physics, GK & Aptitude
- Mode: Online (CBT)
- Scope: Direct entry into AIIMS Delhi & affiliated AIIMS institutes
Why choose AIIMS? It’s one of the most prestigious healthcare institutions in India with world-class education and job placements.
JIPMER Nursing Entrance Exam
- Conducted by: Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research
- Courses Offered: B.Sc Nursing & M.Sc Nursing
- Eligibility: 10+2 for B.Sc, B.Sc Nursing for M.Sc
- Exam Pattern: 100 questions – Physics, Chemistry, Biology, English, Logic
- Mode: Online
- Scope: Admission into JIPMER, Puducherry – a centrally-run medical college
PGIMER Nursing Entrance Exam
- Conducted by: Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh
- Course Offered: B.Sc Nursing (Post-Basic), M.Sc Nursing
- Eligibility: B.Sc Nursing or equivalent
- Exam Pattern: MCQs – core nursing subjects
- Mode: Online
- Scope: Advanced nursing education in a reputed postgraduate medical institute
BHU Nursing Entrance Test (IMS BHU)
- Conducted by: Banaras Hindu University – Institute of Medical Sciences
- Course Offered: B.Sc Nursing
- Eligibility: 10+2 with Biology, Physics, Chemistry
- Exam Pattern: MCQs based on 10+2 syllabus
- Scope: Education in one of the oldest and most reputed universities in India
State-Level Nursing CETs (Maharashtra, Kerala, etc.)
Many Indian states conduct their own Common Entrance Tests (CETs) for nursing admissions. Popular ones include:
- MH B.Sc Nursing CET (Maharashtra)
- Kerala Nursing Entrance
- Uttarakhand HNBUMU Nursing Exam
- West Bengal JENPAS-UG (WBJEEB)
These exams are ideal if you’re looking to join nursing colleges within your state.
Other Notable Nursing Exams
- RUHS Nursing Exam – Rajasthan
- SAAT Nursing Exam – Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan University, Odisha
- AMU Nursing Entrance – Aligarh Muslim University
- CMC Vellore Nursing Exam – Christian Medical College
Looking for the Best College After Clearing a Nursing Entrance Exam?
While clearing the entrance exam is important, choosing the right nursing college can define your future success. That’s why many aspirants trust Narayan Swaroop Nursing College, Prayagraj.
🏥 Why Choose Narayan Swaroop Nursing College?
- Approved by Indian Nursing Council (INC) and Uttar Pradesh State Medical Faculty
- Offers B.Sc Nursing, GNM, and ANM programs
- Modern classrooms, simulation labs, and tie-ups with reputed hospitals
- Expert faculty and dedicated placement support
- Centrally located in Prayagraj, making it accessible to students across Uttar Pradesh
Whether you’ve cleared AIIMS, UP-CET, or JIPMER, Narayan Swaroop Nursing College offers the right platform to launch your nursing career.
General Eligibility Criteria
While eligibility differs across exams, here are the common requirements:
| Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Academic | 10+2 with PCB and English (Minimum 45-50%) |
| Minimum Age | 17 years as of December 31, 2024 |
| Nationality | Indian (in most cases) |
| For M.Sc Nursing | B.Sc Nursing with minimum 55% |
Syllabus & Preparation Tips
Most nursing entrance exams in India cover the following topics:
- Biology (Human Physiology, Botany, Zoology)
- Physics (Class 11 & 12 level)
- Chemistry (Organic & Inorganic)
- English Grammar and Comprehension
- General Knowledge and Logical Reasoning
Preparation Tips:
- Study NCERT books thoroughly
- Solve previous year papers
- Practice mock tests regularly
- Focus on time management
- Stay updated with exam dates and notifications
Career Scope After Clearing Nursing Entrance Exams
Once you qualify, you can get admission into some of India’s top nursing colleges. Graduates from these institutions often get placed in:
- Government Hospitals
- Indian Army Nursing Services
- Private Healthcare Chains (Apollo, Fortis, Max, etc.)
- International Hospitals (Post-Nursing Licensure)
- NGOs and Community Health Programs
FAQs about Nursing Entrance Exams in India
1. What is the best entrance exam for B.Sc Nursing in India?
AIIMS B.Sc Nursing is considered the most prestigious due to its high academic standards and career scope.
2. Can I take multiple nursing entrance exams in one year?
Yes, most students apply for multiple exams to increase their chances of admission.
3. Are state-level nursing exams easier than national ones?
Generally, yes. State-level exams have lower competition compared to AIIMS or JIPMER.
4. How many marks are required to qualify for a nursing entrance exam?
It varies, but a score above 70% is considered competitive in most exams.
5. Do all nursing entrance exams follow the same syllabus?
Mostly, yes. The syllabus is based on Class 11 & 12 PCB subjects, with minor variations.
Conclusion
Choosing the right exam can significantly impact your nursing career. Whether you’re targeting AIIMS, JIPMER, BHU, PGIMER, or state-level colleges, planning and preparation are key. Start early, stay updated with official announcements, and practice consistently.
With the right approach and mindset, clearing nursing entrance exams in India can be your stepping stone to a fulfilling healthcare career.
