Biotechnology Eligibility Test (BET) 2026
Official Roadmap for DBT-Junior Research Fellowship (JRF)
⚠️ Important Update: Exam Merger
Starting from the December 2026 cycle, the DBT-BET and CSIR-NET (Life Sciences) are proposed to merge into a single unified fellowship exam. However, the early 2026 session (April) will proceed under the traditional BET format.
1. Examination Timeline & Application Costs
The BET is typically conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). Missing these windows often results in a lost academic year.
| Event Phase | Expected Schedule (2026) |
|---|---|
| Official Notification Release | First Week of February 2026 |
| Online Registration Window | February 8 – March 6, 2026 |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | March 7, 2026 |
| Admit Card Availability | Early April 2026 |
| BET 2026 Exam Date | April 19, 2026 (Sunday) |
Application Fees:
- General / OBC (NCL) / EWS: ₹1,300
- SC / ST / PwD: ₹650
2. Comprehensive Application Process
Step 1: NTA Portal Registration
Visit the official NTA-DBT website. Create a login using your mobile number and email. Verify via OTP to receive your System Generated Application Number.
Visit the official NTA-DBT website. Create a login using your mobile number and email. Verify via OTP to receive your System Generated Application Number.
Step 2: Educational Data Entry
Provide detailed marks of your PG degree (M.Sc/M.Tech/M.V.Sc). Final year students must select the 'Appearing' status and upload a declaration from their Head of Department.
Provide detailed marks of your PG degree (M.Sc/M.Tech/M.V.Sc). Final year students must select the 'Appearing' status and upload a declaration from their Head of Department.
Step 3: Uploading Specifications
Upload a recent passport photo (10KB-200KB) and signature (4KB-30KB) in JPG format. Ensure your face is 80% visible against a white background.
Upload a recent passport photo (10KB-200KB) and signature (4KB-30KB) in JPG format. Ensure your face is 80% visible against a white background.
Step 4: Center Selection & Payment
Select four cities of your preference. Complete the transaction using Net Banking, UPI, or Credit/Debit card. Download the Confirmation Page.
Select four cities of your preference. Complete the transaction using Net Banking, UPI, or Credit/Debit card. Download the Confirmation Page.
3. Educational & Age Eligibility
Eligibility is strictly monitored; ensure you meet these benchmarks before applying.
- Degree: M.Sc. / M.Tech. / M.V.Sc. in Biotechnology or any area of Life Sciences (Microbiology, Genetics, Biochemistry, etc.).
- Marks Requirement: Minimum 60% aggregate for General/OBC; 55% for SC/ST/PwD.
- Age Limit: Max 28 years as of the closing date of application.
- Relaxation: 5 years for SC/ST/Female/PwD; 3 years for OBC (Non-Creamy Layer).
4. BET 2026 Examination Structure
The exam consists of 200 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) in total, though you only need to attempt 100.
| Section | Coverage | Questions | Attempt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Part A | General Science, Math, Chemistry, Aptitude, Biotech Basics | 50 | 50 (Compulsory) |
| Part B | Core Biotechnology & Specialized Subjects | 150 | 50 (Your Choice) |
Marking Scheme: +3 for Correct Answer | -1 for Incorrect Answer.
5. Professional Preparation & Career Outcomes
Focus Areas for Part A
Focus on 10+2 level Physics and Chemistry. For Aptitude, practice data interpretation, probability, and basic biostatistics.Focus Areas for Part B
Prioritize high-weightage topics: Molecular Biology, Cell Signaling, Immunology, and Recombinant DNA Technology.Career Fellowship Benefits:
- Category I: Eligible for Ph.D. fellowship (₹37,000 + HRA) at any recognized University in India.
- Category II: Eligible to be appointed in DBT-sponsored projects with fellowship equivalent to NET/GATE.
Official Source: Visit DBT-BET Portal
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