NTSE 2026 Stage 1

NTSE 2026 – Stage 1 (State Level) Complete Guide

The National Talent Search Examination (NTSE) 2026 Stage 1 is the first level of the two-stage scholarship examination conducted by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT). Stage 1 is conducted by respective States and Union Territories for students studying in Class X. Candidates who qualify Stage 1 become eligible to appear for Stage 2 (National Level) conducted by NCERT.

This comprehensive guide covers all aspects of NTSE 2026 Stage 1, including application process, eligibility criteria, syllabus, exam pattern, important dates, and admit card information.

NTSE 2026 Stage 1 – Application Process

The application process for NTSE Stage 1 varies slightly from state to state. Candidates can apply through offline or online mode as specified by their respective State/UT authorities.

How to Apply for NTSE Stage 1

• Online Mode: Many states have shifted to online application. Candidates must visit the official website of their State/UT education department, fill the application form online, and upload required documents.
• Offline Mode: In states where offline applications are accepted, candidates can obtain the application form from their school or from the designated State Liaison Officers. The form must be filled and submitted to the school principal for attestation before the last date, along with the application fee (if applicable).
• Application Fee: The application fee varies by state. Some states charge a nominal fee, while others provide free application. Candidates must check their state’s official notification for details.

Important Instructions for Application

• The notification for NTSE Stage 1 is published in local/national newspapers and through circulars circulated in schools by the concerned State/UT authorities.
• Students must ensure that the application form is filled carefully and correctly. Incorrect information may lead to rejection.
• The NTSE Admit Card is attached to the application form. It must be filled by the candidate, signed by the State Liaison Officer, and handed over to the candidate before the exam.
• Students should keep a copy of the filled application form and fee receipt (if applicable) for future reference.

NTSE 2026 Stage 1 – Eligibility Criteria

Students studying in schools in India are eligible to appear for the NTSE Stage 1 exam. The detailed eligibility criteria are as follows:

NTSE 2026 Stage 1 – Syllabus

The NTSE syllabus is divided into two papers – Mental Ability Test (MAT) and Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT). The syllabus is based on topics covered in Classes IX and X as per NCERT curriculum.

Paper I: Mental Ability Test (MAT) Syllabus

The MAT section tests logical and analytical reasoning abilities through verbal and non-verbal reasoning questions.

Verbal Reasoning Topics:

Non-Verbal Reasoning Topics:

Paper II: Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) Syllabus

The SAT section tests knowledge in Science, Mathematics, and Social Science. The subject-wise distribution of questions is:

• Science: 40 Questions
• Mathematics: 20 Questions
• Social Science: 40 Questions

Science Syllabus:

Mathematics Syllabus:

Social Science Syllabus:

History Topics:

• Culture, Science and Literature
• Early Medieval Period
• Indus Valley Civilization
• Introduction and Sources of Ancient Indian History
• Jainism, Buddhism, and Conquerors from Distant Lands
• Medieval Architecture and Culture
• National Movement (Indian Freedom Struggle)
• New Empires and Kingdoms
• Popular Movements and Social Reforms
• Revolt of 1857
• The Mauryan Empire
• The Mughal Empire

Civics Topics:

• Democracy
• Diversity and Livelihood
• Economic Presence of the Government
• India and Its Neighbors
• Indian Constitution
• State Government
• The Judiciary
• UN and International Agencies
• Union Government (Parliament, Executive)
• Local Self-Government (Panchayati Raj, Municipalities)

Geography Topics:

• Agriculture
• Atmosphere
• Industries
• Internal Structure of the Earth and Rocks
• Major Domains and Landforms
• Maps and Globe
• Motion of the Earth
• Natural Vegetation
• Our Country – India (Physical Features, Climate, Drainage)
• Our Environment
• Resources and Development
• Solar System
• Population

General Knowledge Syllabus:

NTSE 2026 Stage 1 – Exam Pattern

NTSE 2026 Stage 1 – Important Dates (Expected)

Note: The exact dates for NTSE 2026 Stage 1 will be announced by respective State/UT authorities. Candidates are advised to regularly check their state’s official website for updates.

NTSE 2026 Stage 1 – Admit Card

• Release Date: The NTSE Stage 1 admit card is released 1 to 2 weeks before the examination.
• How to Download: In states with online application, the admit card can be downloaded from the official state website. In states with offline application, the admit card is attached to the application form and is signed by the State Liaison Officer and handed over to the candidate.
• Details Mentioned: Candidate’s name, roll number, photograph, signature, exam centre address, date and time of exam, and important instructions.
• Mandatory Documents: Candidates must carry the printed admit card along with a valid school ID card to the examination centre. No entry is permitted without a valid admit card.

NTSE 2026 Stage 1 – Result

• Declaration: NTSE Stage 1 results are declared state-wise, typically in January–February 2027.
• Qualification Criteria: Candidates must secure the minimum qualifying marks (cut-off) prescribed for their category and must qualify separately in both MAT and SAT.
• Merit List: Each state publishes a merit list of qualified candidates who are eligible to appear for NTSE Stage 2.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – NTSE 2026 Stage 1

1. When will NTSE 2026 Stage 1 application forms be released?
NTSE 2026 Stage 1 application forms are expected to be released in August 2026 onwards. The exact dates vary by state. Candidates should check their state’s official website for notifications.

2. Can I apply for NTSE Stage 1 from any state?
Yes. There is no domicile restriction. You can apply from the state/UT where your school is located, regardless of your permanent residence.

3. What is the age limit for NTSE 2026 Stage 1?
Candidates must be below 18 years of age as on July 1, 2026.

4. Is there any negative marking in NTSE Stage 1?
No. There is no negative marking in NTSE. One mark is awarded for each correct answer, and no marks are deducted for incorrect or unattempted questions.

5. What is the exam pattern for NTSE Stage 1?
NTSE Stage 1 consists of two papers: MAT (100 questions, 100 marks, 2 hours) and SAT (100 questions, 100 marks, 2 hours). SAT includes Science (40), Mathematics (20), and Social Science (40).

6. Can open school students apply for NTSE 2026?
Yes. Students from open schools (ODL/NIOS) are eligible, provided they are below 18 years, unemployed, and appearing for Class X for the first time.

7. How can I download the NTSE Stage 1 admit card?
In states with online application, admit cards are available for download on the official state website. In offline mode, the admit card is attached to the application form and signed by the State Liaison Officer.

8. When will NTSE Stage 1 2026 be held?
NTSE Stage 1 2026 is expected to be held on the 1st Sunday of November 2026 (1st Saturday for Nagaland, Mizoram, Meghalaya, and Andaman & Nicobar Islands).

9. What is the passing criteria for NTSE Stage 1?
Candidates must secure the minimum cut-off marks prescribed by their state and must qualify separately in both MAT and SAT to be eligible for Stage 2.

10. Is there any application fee for NTSE Stage 1?
The application fee varies by state. Some states charge a nominal fee, while others provide free application. Candidates must check their state’s official notification.

Important Notes and Disclaimers

• This page is updated for NTSE 2026 Stage 1 based on official notifications from NCERT and previous years’ patterns.
• State-wise application dates, fees, and procedures may vary. Candidates are advised to refer to the official notification issued by their respective State/UT Liaison Officer.
• For the latest updates, circulars, and notifications, candidates must regularly visit the official NCERT website (https://www.ncert.nic.in) and their state education department website.
• For specific queries related to NTSE Stage 1 application, eligibility, or exam dates, students should contact their school authorities or State/UT Liaison Officer.

This page is for informational purposes only. ALLEN Overseas has verified the information from official sources (ncert.nic.in). However, candidates must refer to official notifications from NCERT and their respective State/UT authorities for final confirmation.