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NTSE 2026 Syllabus

NTSE 2026 – Syllabus (Stage I & Stage II)

The National Talent Search Examination (NTSE) is a national-level scholarship examination conducted by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) for students studying in Class X. The NTSE syllabus plays a vital role in students’ preparation. Understanding the syllabus thoroughly is one of the most essential components to scoring good marks in the exam.

Eligibility: Only students studying in Class X (below 18 years of age) are eligible to appear for the NTSE examination. The syllabus for both Stage I (State Level) and Stage II (National Level) is the same.

The NTSE exam consists of two papers:

  • Mental Ability Test (MAT) – 100 questions, 100 marks
  • Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) – 100 questions, 100 marks (Science – 40, Mathematics – 20, Social Science – 40)

NTSE 2026 – Mental Ability Test (MAT) Syllabus

The Mental Ability Test (MAT) evaluates a student’s problem-solving and logical reasoning abilities. It measures mental sharpness through questions on data analytics, shape problems, verbal and non-verbal reasoning. The MAT section tests a student’s general approach to mapping and problem-solving, as well as their thought process.

MAT Syllabus: Verbal Reasoning

Topics
Analogy Puzzle Test Alphabet Test
Classification Logical Venn Diagrams Blood Relations
Series Completion Logical Sequence of Words Verification of Truth of Statement
Coding-Decoding Problems on Clocks Analytical Reasoning
Direction Sense Test Arithmetical Reasoning Test Inserting a Missing Character
Mathematical Operations

MAT Syllabus: Non-Verbal Reasoning

Topics
Classification (Non-Verbal) Series (Non-Verbal) Analogy (Non-Verbal)
Transparent Paper Folding Embedded Figures Dot Fixing Situation
Analytical Reasoning Water Images Problems on Cubes and Dice
Incomplete Figures Paper Cutting and Folding Mirror Images

NTSE 2026 – Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) Syllabus

The Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) evaluates students’ knowledge in Science, Mathematics, and Social Science. The syllabus is based on topics covered in Classes IX and X as per NCERT curriculum.

Subject-wise Marks Distribution in SAT

Subject Number of Questions Total Marks
Science 40 40
Mathematics 20 20
Social Science 40 40
Total 100 100

NTSE Science Syllabus

Science Topics
Acids, Bases and Salts Soil Heredity and Evolution
Air Sound Our Environment
Carbon and its Compounds Structure of Atom Physical and Chemical Changes
Cellular Level of Organisation Water Reproduction
Diversity in Living Organisms Magnetism and Electricity Some Common Diseases
Fibers and Plastics Measurements Sources of Energy
Food Production and Management Metals and Non-Metals The Universe
Microorganisms Light Work and Energy
Periodic Classification of Elements Life Processes
Plant and Animal Nutrition Human Body

NTSE Mathematics Syllabus

Mathematics Topics
Algebraic Expressions Simple Interest and Compound Interest Number System
Arithmetic Statistics Mensuration
Arithmetic Progressions Triangles Linear Equations
Basic Geometry Rational Numbers Square Roots and Cube Roots
Circles Quadratic Equations Surface Areas and Volumes
Coordinate Geometry Probability Trigonometry
Direct and Inverse Variation Playing with Numbers
Exponents and Powers Percentage and Its Applications

NTSE 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
  • French Revolution
  • Industrial Revolution
  • World War I and II

Civics Topics:

  • Democracy
  • Diversity and Livelihood
  • Economic Presence of the Government
  • India and Its Neighbors
  • Indian Constitution
  • State Government
  • 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
  • Transport and Communication

NTSE General Knowledge Syllabus

General Knowledge Topics
Abbreviations Books and Authors Sports
Awards and Recognitions India (National Symbols, States, Capitals) World (Countries, Capitals, Currencies)
Current Affairs (National and International) Important Dates and Events Science and Technology

NTSE Mental Ability Syllabus (Additional Topics)

Mental Ability Topics
Alphabet and Number Test Direction Sense Series (Verbal)
Analogy (Verbal) Embedded Figures Series (Non-Verbal)
Analogy (Non-Verbal) Figure Partition and Dot Situation Venn Diagrams
Blood Relations Missing Character Water and Mirror Images
Calendar, Time and Clock Mathematical Operations Word Problems
Coding-Decoding Ranking and Arrangements Classification

NTSE 2026 – Recommended Books

Using good preparation books is essential for NTSE success. Since NCERT is the conducting body, NCERT textbooks (Class IX and X) are the most important resources. However, students may also refer to the following popular NTSE preparation books for additional practice:

  • Study Package for NTSE Class X (English) I & II Edition
  • A Comprehensive Manual for NTSE for Class X (English)
  • Study Guide for NTSE National Talent Search Exam Class X (English)
  • Practice Test Papers for NTSE Class X First Edition
  • Pearson’s Guide to NTSE Class X (English) First Edition
  • Lakshya NTSE Class X Phase I & II Solved Papers (2015 – 2025)
  • NCERT Textbooks for Class IX and X (Science, Mathematics, Social Science)

NTSE 2026 – Key Tips for Preparation

Students can follow these essential tips to increase the efficiency of their NTSE preparation:

  • Study the syllabus thoroughly: Go through the complete NTSE syllabus and understand the exam pattern (MAT and SAT). Keep the syllabus handy while studying.
  • Master NCERT textbooks: Since NTSE is conducted by NCERT, the questions are largely based on NCERT textbooks for Class IX and X. Read them line by line.
  • Identify strengths and weaknesses: Take diagnostic tests to identify your strong and weak areas. Focus more time on weak areas.
  • Practice MAT regularly: Mental Ability requires regular practice. Solve at least 20-30 reasoning questions daily.
  • Revise daily: Set aside time for daily revision of concepts, formulas, and important facts.
  • Solve previous years’ papers: Practice at least 5-10 years of NTSE previous year question papers under timed conditions.
  • Take mock tests: Regular mock tests help build speed, accuracy, and confidence. Analyze your performance after each test.
  • Create an effective revision plan: Plan your revision schedule to cover the entire syllabus multiple times before the exam.
  • Stay updated with current affairs: For the General Knowledge section, read newspapers and monthly current affairs magazines regularly.
  • Stay healthy and positive: Eat well, sleep 7-8 hours daily, and maintain a positive attitude throughout your preparation.

Important Notes and Disclaimers

  • This page is updated for NTSE 2026 (Stage I and Stage II) based on the official syllabus prescribed by NCERT.
  • The NTSE syllabus remains largely consistent year-on-year. However, students are advised to check the official notifications from NCERT and their respective State/UT Liaison Officers for any updates.
  • For the latest updates, circulars, and examination dates, candidates must regularly visit the official NCERT website (https://www.ncert.nic.in).
  • For specific queries related to NTSE eligibility, syllabus, or examination 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.

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