Joint_Entrance_Screening_Test

Joint Entrance Screening Test

Joint Entrance Screening Test

Entrance test for PhD admissions in India

The Joint Entrance Screening Test (JEST) is a national entrance test in physics and theoretical computer science conducted annually in India. The test is utilised by various Indian public research institutes to shortlist candidates for admission to PhD and Integrated PhD programmes with fellowships in theoretical computer science and areas in physics.[1] JEST has been recognised as a National Eligibility Test (NET) by the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB).[2][3]

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As of 2024, there are a total of 33 participating institutes in JEST. Each year, the test is conducted by any one of the institutes as a common test for admission to all participating institutes. A PhD in theoretical computer science is provided only at the Institute of Mathematical Sciences.[4]

Qualification

Prospective candidates seeking admission should hold a Master of Science (MSc) degree in physics from a recognized institute or university. Furthermore, certain institutions also consider candidates with a background in Bachelor of Engineering (BE), Bachelor of Technology (BTech), Master of Engineering (ME), or Master of Technology (MTech) in disciplines of applied physics and mathematics.[5] Additionally, Bachelor of Science (BSc) and Master of Computer Application (MCA) are also considered by some institutes, while some others allow graduation in electronics, optoelectronics, and astronomy.[6]

JEST is conducted as a paper-based test. There is a fee of ₹800 for general candidates and ₹400 for reserved candidates.[7] The syllabus will be at the level of MSc in physics or computer science.[1] The test is held at centres around the country. Over 33 science institutes participate in the test. There are two core papers—physics and theoretical computer science; candidates can opt for any one. Each year, the test is conducted by any one of the participating institute. There is no age limitation or restriction on number of attempts to write the exam. However, joining institutes may have age restrictions. Some institutes also insist on a high cut-off mark. The JEST score is valid for one year.[6]

Passing the JEST exam does not guarantee an automatic fellowship. Candidates are required to submit separate applications to PhD programmes in their desired institution, as and when advertised. Shortlisted applicants, based on their JEST scores, may undergo an interview as part of their selection process. Each institute has its own set of research topics, eligibility criteria, and selection processes.[1] Fellowships are granted by the respective institutes.[4]

Participating institutes

Currently, there are a total of 33 premium public research institutes participating in JEST, as of 2023.[8]

Research subjects

Programmes include PhD, integrated MSc–PhD and M.Tech–PhD in physics, theoretical computer science, neuroscience, and computational biology.[8] Some of the research subjects for PhD, Integrated PhD, and MSc are:[1]

References

  1. [1]
    JEST (23 November 2023). "Joint Entrance Screening Test - 2024" (PDF). Joint Entrance Screening Test. Retrieved 25 November 2023.
  2. [2]
    "Office Memorandum No.SB/S9/Z-01/2015" (PDF). Science and Engineering Research Board. 7 January 2015. p. 2. Retrieved 26 April 2017.
  3. [3]
    S., Praveenkumar (7 January 2015). "No.SB/S9/Z-01/2015 - Office Memorandum" (PDF). Visva-Bharati University. Retrieved 24 November 2023.
  4. [4]
    Warrier, B. S. (30 March 2011). "JEST: a passport to science research". The Hindu. Retrieved 26 April 2017.
  5. [5]
    India Today Web Desk (24 February 2017). "JEST 2017 exam date extended: Check out the new schedule". India Today. Retrieved 26 April 2017.
  6. [6]
    Warrier, B. S. (11 November 2019). "Eyeing science research in top institutes? Apply for JEST now". OnManorama. Retrieved 25 November 2023.
  7. [7]
    Correspondent (3 March 2023). "JEST 2023 Application window closing today; Apply Now at jest.org.in". Telegraph India. Retrieved 25 November 2023.
  8. [8]
    Warrier, B. S. (18 December 2021). "JEST 2022: Apply online by January 18". OnManorama. Retrieved 25 November 2023.
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