The NIMHANS entrance exam 2026-27 is a national-level competitive examination conducted by the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru — India’s premier government institution for mental health and neuroscience. Conducted twice annually (Session 1 for July batch and Session 2 for January batch), the NIMHANS entrance exam provides admission to BSc Nursing, BSc Neuroscience, MSc Neuroscience, MClin Psychology, MPH, MPhil programs, PhD, and Post-Doctoral Fellowship across 25+ specialized departments. Furthermore, DM Neurology, MCh Neurosurgery, and MD Psychiatry at NIMHANS are admitted through INI CET — a completely separate examination conducted by AIIMS Delhi.
Since the NIMHANS entrance exam 2026 Session 1 was completed on May 29–31, 2026, candidates targeting January 2027 batch admission must now focus on NIMHANS Session 2 2026, with application expected in August 2026 and exam in October–November 2026. This comprehensive guide covers everything about the NIMHANS entrance exam 2026-27 including registration process, last dates, application form, eligibility, fees, syllabus, exam pattern, cutoff, preparation strategy, and Session 2 complete guide.
🏥 Regulatory Authority Note: NIMHANS (National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences) is a Premier Institute of National Importance under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, Hosur Road, Bengaluru – 560029. All official notifications, admit cards, results, and admission information are published exclusively at nimhans.ac.in and nimhans-admission.lntedutech.com. Wing Educations is an independent educational guidance platform. | Official Resources: nimhans.ac.in | mohfw.gov.in | nmc.org.in
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| NIMHANS Full Form | National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences |
| Exam Name | NIMHANS Entrance Exam 2026-27 |
| Conducting Body | NIMHANS, Bengaluru |
| Location | Hosur Road, Bengaluru, Karnataka – 560029 |
| Government or Private? | Government – Central Government Institute of National Importance under Ministry of Health and Family Welfare |
| Official Website | nimhans.ac.in |
| Application Portal | nimhans-admission.lntedutech.com |
| Exam Level | National Level |
| Exam Frequency | Twice a Year – Session 1 (May/June) | Session 2 (October/November) |
| Exam Mode | Online – Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Total Questions | 100 MCQs – 90 minutes |
| Negative Marking | -0.25 per wrong answer |
| Application Fee | Rs 1,500/course (General/OBC/EWS) | Rs 1,000/course (SC/ST) | Maximum 3 courses per application |
| Session 1 Exam – Status | May 29–31, 2026 ✅ Completed (Bengaluru) |
| Session 2 Application (Expected) | August 2026 – Monitor nimhans.ac.in from July 2026 |
| Session 2 Last Date to Apply (Expected) | September 2026 |
| Session 2 Exam Date (Expected) | October – November 2026 (Bengaluru) |
| Session 2 Result (Expected) | November – December 2026 |
| Session 2 Admission (Expected) | December 2026 |
| Session 2 Course Commencement | January 2027 |
| NIMHANS PhD Stipend 2026 | Rs 37,000/month (Year I-II) | Rs 42,000/month (Year III-V) |
| DM/MCh/MD Route | INI CET 2026 by AIIMS Delhi – SEPARATE from NIMHANS entrance exam |
| NIMHANS Ayurveda PG | NIMHANS does NOT offer Ayurveda programs – for AYUSH PG: aaccc.gov.in (AIAPGET) |
NIMHANS Full Form = National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences.
NIMHANS is a Central Government institution (Institute of National Importance) under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, located at Hosur Road, Bengaluru – 560029. It operates simultaneously as a world-class hospital, a deemed university, and India’s premier research center for mental health and neuroscience. NIMHANS holds WHO Collaborating Center status for mental health research in South-East Asia. Official website: nimhans.ac.in.
NIMHANS is a Government institution — a Central Government Institute of National Importance under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. Since NIMHANS is entirely government-funded, it offers all programs at heavily subsidized fee rates. Furthermore, NIMHANS provides hospital treatment at accessible government-subsidized rates, making it one of India’s most important public mental health institutions. No private ownership or investment of any kind is involved in NIMHANS operations — it is fully publicly funded and administered.
The NIMHANS entrance exam ranks among India’s most competitive medical specialty entrance processes — not because of broad subject coverage like NEET PG, but because of extreme specialization in psychiatry, neurology, clinical psychology, neuroscience, and allied health sciences. NIMHANS graduates are consistently among India’s most sought-after mental health professionals. Since very limited seats are available across all programs and thousands of national applicants compete annually, even a 2–3 mark difference can determine admission outcomes in competitive programs like MClin Psychology and MSc Neuroscience.
Expert Note – Wing Educations Medical Team: The NIMHANS exam tests deep domain-specific knowledge, not broad medical coverage. Candidates who prepare using NIMHANS-specific resources and previous year papers consistently outperform those relying on generic medical entrance materials. For PhD programs, the personal interview carries 30% of the final selection score — subject mastery alone is not sufficient. Research awareness and communication quality matter equally alongside examination marks. Furthermore, since all NIMHANS interviews are held exclusively in Bengaluru, candidates must plan travel arrangements well in advance since no TA/DA reimbursement is provided.
Also check: AIIMS INI CET Entrance Exam 2026 | NEET PG 2026 | BSc Nursing Admission 2026
Does NIMHANS Offer Ayurveda PG Entrance Exam? – Direct Answer: No. NIMHANS does NOT offer Ayurveda, AYUSH, or any traditional medicine programs. NIMHANS specializes exclusively in mental health and neuroscience — psychiatry, neurology, clinical psychology, neuroscience, nursing, and allied health sciences. If you are searching for “NIMHANS Ayurveda PG entrance exam 2026,” the correct examination for Ayurveda postgraduate admission in India is: AIAPGET (All India Ayush Post Graduate Entrance Test) conducted by NTA, with AYUSH counselling at aaccc.gov.in. For MD Ayurveda, MS Ayurveda admission: register at aaccc.gov.in.
| If You Want | Correct Examination | Official Portal |
|---|---|---|
| MD Ayurveda / MS Ayurveda admission | AIAPGET (All India Ayush PG Entrance Test) conducted by NTA | aaccc.gov.in |
| DM Neurology / MCh Neurosurgery / MD Psychiatry at NIMHANS | INI CET conducted by AIIMS Delhi | aiimsexams.ac.in |
| MClin Psychology / MSc Neuroscience / BSc Nursing at NIMHANS | NIMHANS Entrance Exam (Session 2: October-November 2026) | nimhans.ac.in |
| MBBS Ayurveda (BAMS admission) | NEET UG 2026 | neet.nta.nic.in |
NIMHANS officially replaced MPhil Clinical Psychology with the new MClin Psychology (M.Clin.Psy) from the July 2026 session, aligning with NEP 2020 and RCI directives. Candidates searching for “NIMHANS MPhil Clinical Psychology 2026” should therefore note that the program is now called MClin Psychology. Since the new program carries full RCI recognition, graduates qualify as licensed Clinical Psychologists for independent practice across India — maintaining all the professional benefits of the former MPhil while aligning with the national education policy framework.
DM Neurology, MCh Neurosurgery, and MD Psychiatry admissions at NIMHANS happen through INI CET 2026 by AIIMS Delhi — completely separate from the NIMHANS entrance exam. INI CET July 2026 was held May 16, 2026, with results published May 23, 2026. Counselling for INI CET is conducted separately through AIIMS New Delhi. Consequently, candidates targeting these medical postgraduate programs at NIMHANS must register for INI CET at aiimsexams.ac.in — not through nimhans.ac.in.
PG course applications are processed through the dedicated portal at nimhans-admission.lntedutech.com, alongside the main nimhans.ac.in. Applications submitted through any other platform are completely invalid and not accepted by NIMHANS. Furthermore, candidates must register freshly for each session — Session 1 registrations cannot be carried forward to Session 2 under any circumstances.
NIMHANS increased the PhD stipend to Rs 37,000 per month (Year I-II) and Rs 42,000 per month (Year III-V) for 2026-27. Since total program fees remain approximately Rs 79,000 for the complete duration, the PhD program is effectively a funded fellowship rather than a financial burden. Moreover, this stipend increase makes NIMHANS PhD one of the most financially attractive research programs in India’s mental health and neuroscience research landscape.
NIMHANS Entrance Exam 2026 – Direct Date Answer:
| Event | Date 2026 | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Admission Notification Released | March 2, 2026 | ✅ Completed |
| Application Window | March 2 – April 8, 2026 | ✅ Closed |
| Hall Ticket Download | May 2026 | ✅ Completed |
| NIMHANS Exam Date 2026 – Session 1 | May 29–31, 2026 (Bengaluru) | ✅ Completed |
| INI CET Exam (DM/MCh/MD – separate) | May 16, 2026 | ✅ Completed |
| INI CET Result | May 23, 2026 | ✅ Published |
| PhD Written Test Result | June 1, 2026 | ✅ Published |
| PhD Interview (Bengaluru) | June 2–3, 2026 | ✅ Completed |
| NIMHANS Result 2026 – All Courses | June 10, 2026 onwards | ⏳ Check nimhans.ac.in NOW |
| Provisional Merit List | June 20, 2026 | ⏳ Upcoming |
| Admission – Non-Medical Courses | June 23, 2026 | ⏳ Do NOT miss |
| Admission – PhD | June 25, 2026 | ⏳ Do NOT miss |
| Course Commencement – July 2026 Batch | July 1, 2026 | ⏳ Upcoming |
| Event | Expected Date – Session 2 2026 |
|---|---|
| Official Notification at nimhans.ac.in | July – August 2026 |
| Application Form Opens at nimhans-admission.lntedutech.com | August 2026 |
| NIMHANS Last Date to Apply – Session 2 | September 2026 (Expected) |
| Admit Card Download | October 2026 |
| NIMHANS Session 2 Exam Date 2026 | October – November 2026 (Bengaluru) |
| Result | November – December 2026 |
| Admission | December 2026 |
| Course Commencement | January 2027 |
⚠️ Important: All NIMHANS 2026-27 dates are confirmed exclusively at nimhans.ac.in. NIMHANS does NOT send individual notifications by email, SMS, or post — active monitoring of nimhans.ac.in is the only reliable way to track admission status. Missing the reporting date causes automatic seat cancellation without exception.
NIMHANS Application Form 2026 (Session 2) – Direct Answer: Session 2 application form will be available at nimhans-admission.lntedutech.com when Session 2 opens (August 2026 expected). Registration steps: (1) Visit nimhans-admission.lntedutech.com when notification releases. (2) Register with personal details and create login credentials. (3) Fill application form for up to 3 courses (maximum). (4) Upload required documents. (5) Pay application fee – Rs 1,500/course (General/OBC/EWS) or Rs 1,000/course (SC/ST). (6) Download and print application confirmation. Monitor nimhans.ac.in from July 2026 for official Session 2 notification and application portal activation.
NIMHANS Last Date to Apply 2026 – Direct Answer:
NIMHANS Session 2 2026 – Key Information: Application expected: August 2026 at nimhans-admission.lntedutech.com. Last date: September 2026 (expected). Exam date: October–November 2026 (Bengaluru). Result: November–December 2026. Admission: December 2026. Course commencement: January 2027. Who should target Session 2: Candidates who missed Session 1 (application closed April 8), those who appeared in Session 1 but did not clear the cutoff, and new graduates completing qualifying degrees in July–September 2026. Monitor nimhans.ac.in from July 2026 for the official Session 2 notification.
With Session 2 expected in October–November 2026, candidates currently have approximately 4–5 months of preparation time. A week-by-week plan covering the complete syllabus of your target course provides the strongest preparation foundation. Since the NIMHANS exam rewards depth of understanding rather than surface memorization, consistent daily study is far more effective than last-minute cramming — especially for competitive programs like MClin Psychology and MSc Neuroscience where cutoffs consistently exceed 75 out of 100.
Generic NEET PG or AIIMS materials are insufficient for NIMHANS preparation. Successful candidates study the exact syllabus from the official NIMHANS prospectus, use previous year papers as their primary practice resource, and complete official mock tests released at nimhans.ac.in approximately 15 days before each exam. These mock tests additionally familiarize candidates with the exact online CBT interface and question navigation system used in the actual examination — eliminating technical unfamiliarity that costs marks on exam day.
Candidates who appeared in Session 1 should immediately identify which topic areas cost them marks and restructure preparation accordingly. This targeted approach — focusing extra time on weaker areas while maintaining strong areas — consistently produces better outcomes in Session 2 compared to repeating the same preparation strategy that yielded insufficient results in Session 1.
For PhD applicants targeting Session 2, beginning to structure the research proposal, practicing discussing previous academic work in under 5 minutes, and staying current with developments in the target department significantly improves interview performance. Since all NIMHANS interviews are held exclusively in Bengaluru, travel and accommodation arrangements must be planned well in advance — NIMHANS provides no TA/DA reimbursement for interview travel under any circumstances.
For free NIMHANS Session 2 preparation guidance and admission support, contact Wing Educations today.
| Course | Minimum Qualification | Minimum Marks | Age Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| BSc Nursing | Class 12 with PCB and English | 45% in PCB aggregate | 17–25 years (30 for SC/ST) |
| BSc Neuroscience | Class 12 with PCB or PCM and English | 50% in PCB/PCM aggregate | No upper limit |
| Diploma Clinical Neurophysiology Technology | Class 12 with Science subjects | 45% minimum | 17–25 years |
| MSc Neuroscience | BSc Life Sciences/Biochemistry/Biotechnology/Physiology/Psychology | 55% in graduation | No upper limit |
| MSc Nursing | BSc Nursing + valid nursing council registration | 55% in BSc Nursing | No upper limit |
| MSc Biostatistics | BSc Mathematics/Statistics or MBBS/BDS | 55% in qualifying degree | No upper limit |
| MSc Yoga Therapy | MBBS/BDS/BAMS/BNYS/BSc Life Sciences | 55% in qualifying degree | No upper limit |
| MSc Medical Imaging Technology | BSc Medical Imaging/Radiology or equivalent | 55% in qualifying degree | No upper limit |
| MPH (Master of Public Health) | MBBS/BDS/BAMS/BSc Nursing OR PG in Sociology/Statistics/Social Work | 55% in qualifying degree | No upper limit |
| MClin Psychology (M.Clin.Psy) | 4-year BA/BSc Psychology OR 3-year + RCI bridge course OR MA/MSc Psychology | 55% in qualifying degree | No upper limit |
| MPhil Psychiatric Social Work | MSW from recognized university | 55% in MSW | No upper limit |
| MPhil Psychiatric Nursing | BSc Nursing + valid nursing council registration | 55% in BSc Nursing | No upper limit |
| PhD (All Departments) | MD/MS/MPhil/MSc in relevant discipline | 55% in PG degree | No upper limit (typically under 45 for stipend eligibility) |
| Post Doctoral Fellowship | DM/MCh/MD/MS/MPhil/PhD in relevant specialization | 55% in qualifying degree | No upper limit |
| Course | Duration | First Year Fees | Total Program Fees | Admission Route |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BSc Nursing | 4 Years | Rs 38,000–53,000 | Rs 1,40,000–1,77,000 | NIMHANS Entrance Exam |
| BSc Neuroscience | 3 Years | Rs 25,050 | Rs 75,150 | NIMHANS Entrance Exam |
| Diploma Clinical Neurophysiology | 2 Years | Rs 7,950 | Rs 15,900 | NIMHANS Entrance Exam |
| MSc Neuroscience | 2 Years | Rs 24,100 | Rs 48,200 | NIMHANS Entrance Exam |
| MSc Nursing | 2 Years | Rs 24,400 | Rs 48,800 | NIMHANS Entrance Exam |
| MSc Biostatistics | 2 Years | Rs 24,100 | Rs 48,200 | NIMHANS Entrance Exam |
| MSc Yoga Therapy | 2 Years | Rs 24,100 | Rs 48,200 | NIMHANS Entrance Exam |
| MSc Medical Imaging Technology | 2 Years | Rs 24,100 | Rs 48,200 | NIMHANS Entrance Exam |
| MPH (Master of Public Health) | 2 Years | Rs 96,500 | Rs 1,93,000 | NIMHANS Entrance Exam |
| MClin Psychology (NEW 2026) | 2 Years | Rs 24,800 | Rs 49,600 | NIMHANS Entrance Exam |
| MPhil Psychiatric Social Work | 2 Years | Rs 23,140 | Rs 46,280 | NIMHANS Entrance Exam |
| MPhil Psychiatric Nursing | 2 Years | Rs 23,140 | Rs 46,280 | NIMHANS Entrance Exam |
| MD Psychiatry | 3 Years | Rs 73,250 | Rs 2,19,750 | INI CET – NOT NIMHANS exam |
| DM Neurology / MCh Neurosurgery | 3 Years | Rs 91,150 | Rs 2,73,450 | INI CET – NOT NIMHANS exam |
| PhD (Complete Program) | 3–5 Years | Rs 32,000 (Year 1) | Rs 79,000 total | NIMHANS Entrance + Interview |
| Post Doctoral Fellowship | 1–3 Years | Rs 18,660–58,540 | Varies by program | NIMHANS Entrance + Interview |
NIMHANS offers outstanding value as a Central Government institution. Most programs cost under Rs 1 lakh for the complete duration. Furthermore, the PhD program is effectively a funded fellowship — the Rs 37,000–42,000 per month stipend far exceeds the Rs 79,000 total fee for the entire program duration.
| Level | Course Name | Duration | Seats | First Year Fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UG | BSc Nursing | 4 Years | 85 | Rs 38,000–53,000 |
| UG | BSc Neuroscience | 3 Years | 7–15 | Rs 25,050 |
| UG | Diploma – Clinical Neurophysiology Technology | 2 Years | 2 | Rs 7,950 |
| PG | MSc Neuroscience | 2 Years | 15 | Rs 24,100 |
| PG | MSc Nursing (Psychiatric + Neuroscience) | 2 Years | 9 each | Rs 24,400 |
| PG | MSc Biostatistics | 2 Years | 5 | Rs 24,100 |
| PG | MSc Yoga Therapy (Mental Health) | 2 Years | 6 | Rs 24,100 |
| PG | MSc Medical Imaging Technology | 2 Years | 5 | Rs 24,100 |
| PG | MPH (Master of Public Health) | 2 Years | 10 | Rs 96,500 |
| PG | MClin Psychology (M.Clin.Psy) – NEW 2026 | 2 Years | 32 | Rs 24,800 |
| MPhil | MPhil Psychiatric Social Work | 2 Years | Varies | Rs 23,140 |
| MPhil | MPhil Psychiatric Nursing | 2 Years | Varies | Rs 23,140 |
| Medical PG (INI CET ✅) | MD Psychiatry | 3 Years | 41 | Rs 73,250 |
| Super Specialty (INI CET ✅) | DM Neurology + 7 DM programs | 3 Years | 4 each | Rs 91,150 |
| Super Specialty (INI CET ✅) | MCh Neurosurgery | 3 Years | 2–4 | Rs 91,150 |
| Doctoral | PhD – 25+ Departments | 3–5 Years | 1–8 per dept | Rs 32,000 (Year 1) |
| Post-Doctoral | Post Doctoral Fellowship – 23 Programs | 1–3 Years | 1–4 per program | Rs 18,660–58,540 |
NIMHANS BSc Nursing Entrance Exam 2026 – Key Details: 85 seats (largest single intake – most accessible NIMHANS program). Session 1: May 29–31, 2026 ✅ Completed. Session 2 exam: October–November 2026 (expected). Eligibility: Class 12 PCB with minimum 45%, age 17–25 years (30 for SC/ST). Exam centers: Bangalore, Chennai, Cochin (Kochi), Hyderabad (4 cities – BSc Nursing is the only program with multiple exam cities). Application for Session 2: August 2026 at nimhans-admission.lntedutech.com. Expected cutoff: 65–75+ out of 100.
| Parameter | Details – NIMHANS BSc Nursing 2026 |
|---|---|
| Duration | 4 Years (including clinical internship) |
| Seats | 85 – largest single intake, most accessible NIMHANS program |
| Eligibility | Class 12 PCB, minimum 45%, age 17–25 years (30 for SC/ST) |
| Session 1 Exam | May 29–31, 2026 ✅ Completed |
| Session 2 Exam (Next Opportunity) | October–November 2026 (Expected) |
| Session 2 Application Opens | August 2026 – at nimhans-admission.lntedutech.com |
| First Year Fees | Rs 38,000–53,000 |
| Total 4-Year Fees | Rs 1,40,000–1,77,000 |
| Exam Pattern | 100 MCQs, 90 minutes, -0.25 negative marking, online CBT |
| Exam Centers | Bangalore, Chennai, Cochin, Hyderabad – 4 cities (ONLY program with multiple cities) |
| Expected Cutoff | 65–75+ out of 100 |
| Career Roles | Psychiatric Nurse, Mental Health Nurse, Nursing Officer, Nursing Educator |
| Subject | Key Topics | Approximate Weightage |
|---|---|---|
| Biology – Anatomy | Human body systems, organ structure, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular anatomy | 20–25% |
| Biology – Physiology | Heart function, respiratory physiology, nervous system, renal physiology | 20–25% |
| Biology – Biochemistry | Metabolic processes, enzymes, vitamins, hormones, carbohydrate metabolism | 10–15% |
| Biology – Microbiology | Bacteria, viruses, fungi, infection control, communicable diseases | 5–10% |
| Chemistry | Organic chemistry basics, inorganic compounds, acids/bases, pharmaceuticals | 15–20% |
| Physics | Mechanics, thermodynamics, optics, electricity, radiation basics in medicine | 10–15% |
| General Aptitude and English | Logical reasoning, verbal ability, English comprehension, general knowledge | 5–10% |
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | MClin Psychology (M.Clin.Psy) – formerly MPhil Clinical Psychology |
| Duration | 2 Years Full-Time Residential at NIMHANS Bengaluru |
| Seats | 32 – highly competitive nationally |
| Eligibility | 4-year BA/BSc Psychology OR 3-year + bridge course OR MA/MSc Psychology with 55%+ |
| Session 2 Exam | October–November 2026 (Expected) |
| Session 2 Application | August 2026 – at nimhans-admission.lntedutech.com |
| Exam Pattern | 100 MCQs, 90 minutes, -0.25 negative marking |
| RCI Recognition | Yes – qualifies graduates as licensed Clinical Psychologists |
| First Year Fees | Rs 24,800 (approximately) |
| Expected Cutoff | 75–85+ out of 100 – most competitive NIMHANS program |
The MClin Psychology entrance exam covers: Foundations of Psychology and Psychological Assessment, Abnormal Psychology and Psychopathology (DSM-5 and ICD-11), Psychotherapy Techniques and Evidence-Based Interventions, Research Methodology and Biostatistics, Developmental Psychology, Neuropsychology and Cognitive Assessment, Social Psychology and Community Mental Health, and Ethics in Clinical Practice. With only 32 seats and national competition, candidates typically need 75–85+ out of 100. Since full syllabus coverage is essential at this competitive level, selective topic preparation is insufficient for this program.
The transition reflects NEP 2020 directives mandating the nationwide phase-out of MPhil programs and RCI’s restructuring of clinical psychology training into professional Master’s-level degrees. NIMHANS named its new program MClin Psychology (M.Clin.Psy) while maintaining full RCI recognition. Graduates consequently qualify for RCI registration as licensed Clinical Psychologists with authority for independent practice across India — maintaining all professional benefits of the former MPhil qualification within the new NEP-compliant framework.
Key Facts: 15 seats. Eligibility: BSc Life Sciences/Biochemistry/Biotechnology/Physiology/Psychology with 55%+. Session 2 exam: October–November 2026 (expected). Application: August 2026. Fees: Rs 24,100 first year. Expected cutoff: 70–80+ out of 100.
| Subject Area | Key Topics | Approximate Weightage |
|---|---|---|
| Cell Biology and Molecular Biology | Cell structure, DNA replication, transcription, translation, gene regulation | 20–25% |
| Neuroscience Fundamentals | Neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, synaptic transmission, action potentials, brain regions | 25–30% |
| Biochemistry and Physiology | Metabolic pathways, neurotransmitter synthesis, receptor pharmacology | 15–20% |
| Genetics and Genomics | Mendelian genetics, genetic disorders, genomics basics, epigenetics | 10–15% |
| Pharmacology Basics | Drug-receptor interactions, CNS pharmacology, psychopharmacology | 10–15% |
| Research Methodology | Experimental design, biostatistics, data interpretation | 5–10% |
Key Facts: 10 seats. Fees: Rs 96,500 first year (highest among NIMHANS programs). Eligibility: MBBS/BDS/BAMS/BSc Nursing or PG in relevant field, 55%+. Session 2 exam: October–November 2026. Application: August 2026. Cutoff: 60–70+ out of 100.
| Subject Area | Key Topics Tested |
|---|---|
| Epidemiology and Biostatistics | Study designs, disease frequency measures, hypothesis testing, regression analysis |
| Health Systems and Policy | Indian health system, NHP 2017, health financing, district health management |
| Mental Health Epidemiology | Burden of mental disorders in India, WHO mental health action plan, NMHP |
| Research Methodology | Qualitative and quantitative methods, sampling, data collection, research ethics |
| Environmental and Occupational Health | Environmental determinants of mental health, occupational hazards |
| Social Determinants of Health | Poverty, gender, education, urbanization – impact on mental and neurological health |
NIMHANS PhD 2026 – Key Facts for Session 2 Applicants: Session 2 exam: October–November 2026 (expected). Application: August 2026. PhD stipend: Rs 37,000/month (Year I-II) | Rs 42,000/month (Year III-V). Total fees: Rs 79,000 complete program. Selection: 70% written exam + 30% personal interview (Bengaluru only). All departments – from Psychiatry to Neurophysiology. Interview attendance in Bengaluru is mandatory – no online option. No TA/DA reimbursement for interview travel.
| PhD Specialization | Required Qualifying Degree |
|---|---|
| PhD Psychiatry | MD Psychiatry / MPhil or MClin Clinical Psychology |
| PhD Neurology | DM Neurology / MSc Neuroscience |
| PhD Neuroscience | MSc Neuroscience / MSc Biochemistry / MSc Physiology |
| PhD Clinical Psychology | MPhil or MClin Clinical Psychology |
| PhD Biostatistics | MSc Biostatistics / Statistics / Mathematics |
| PhD Nursing | MSc Nursing (Psychiatric) / MPhil Psychiatric Nursing |
| PhD Psychiatric Social Work | MPhil Psychiatric Social Work / MSW |
| PhD Neurophysiology | MSc Neurophysiology or relevant MSc |
| PhD Neuropathology | MD Pathology or relevant MD |
| PhD Psychopharmacology | MD or MSc in relevant field |
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Mode | Online – Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Total Questions | 100 MCQs |
| Duration | 90 minutes |
| Marks Per Correct Answer | +1 Mark |
| Negative Marking | -0.25 per wrong answer |
| Maximum Score | 100 Marks |
| Minimum Qualifying Score | 50 out of 100 (50%) |
| Question Type | Single Best Answer MCQ |
| Language | English only |
| Unanswered Questions | No marks deducted |
| Program Level | Exam Center Cities |
|---|---|
| All PG, PhD, MPhil, MClin Psychology, Fellowship | Bengaluru ONLY |
| BSc Neuroscience | Bengaluru ONLY |
| BSc Nursing | Bangalore, Chennai, Cochin (Kochi), Hyderabad – 4 cities |
| Session 2 (Expected) | Bangalore + Delhi (expected for Session 2 – verify at nimhans.ac.in) |
| Program | Total Seats | General Cutoff | SC/ST Cutoff | Competitiveness |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MClin Psychology (M.Clin.Psy) | 32 | 75–85+ / 100 | 65–75+ / 100 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Extremely High |
| MSc Neuroscience | 15 | 70–80+ / 100 | 60–70+ / 100 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Extremely High |
| PhD (All Departments) | 1–8 per dept | 60–75+ / 100 | 50–65+ / 100 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Very High |
| MPH | 10 | 60–70+ / 100 | 50–60+ / 100 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Very High |
| MSc Nursing | 9 each | 60–70+ / 100 | 50–60+ / 100 | ⭐⭐⭐ Competitive |
| MPhil Psychiatric Social Work | Varies | 60–70+ / 100 | 50–60+ / 100 | ⭐⭐⭐ Competitive |
| BSc Nursing | 85 | 65–75+ / 100 | 55–65+ / 100 | ⭐⭐⭐ Competitive (most seats) |
| BSc Neuroscience | 7–15 | 60–70+ / 100 | 50–60+ / 100 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Very High |
All candidates must score at least 50 out of 100 in the NIMHANS entrance exam to be considered for seat allotment. Since the realistic competitive cutoff is significantly higher — MClin Psychology and MSc Neuroscience candidates typically need 75–85+ marks to secure a seat — consistent preparation using NIMHANS-specific materials is essential. Below the 50-mark threshold, no candidate advances regardless of academic background.
Shortlisted PhD candidates attend a personal interview at NIMHANS Bengaluru — no online or off-campus interview option exists under any circumstances. The interview carries 30% of the final selection score, while the written exam contributes 70%. Biometric verification is mandatory before the interview begins. Furthermore, interviewers assess research aptitude, clarity of interest, subject depth, and communication ability — all factors that carry equal weight alongside examination marks in the final selection decision.
NIMHANS publishes the final merit list at nimhans.ac.in. Since seats are allotted strictly by merit within each category and program, no individual communication is sent to any candidate at any stage. Active monitoring of nimhans.ac.in is therefore the only way to track admission status. When two candidates have equal scores, NIMHANS applies tie-breaking criteria in this specific order: fewer qualifying exam attempts first, then higher qualifying exam marks, then older candidate by date of birth. Missing the reporting date results in automatic seat cancellation without any exception or appeal process.
With Session 2 expected in October–November 2026, approximately 4–5 months of preparation time is currently available. A week-by-week plan covering the complete syllabus of your target course provides the strongest preparation foundation available. Since the NIMHANS exam rewards depth of understanding rather than surface memorization, consistent daily study over 4 months is far more effective than cramming in the final weeks before the examination.
Generic NEET PG or AIIMS materials are insufficient for NIMHANS preparation because the exam tests specialized knowledge in mental health and neuroscience that standard medical entrance materials do not cover adequately. Study the exact syllabus from the official NIMHANS prospectus, practice with previous year papers as your primary resource, and complete official mock tests released at nimhans.ac.in approximately 15 days before each exam. These official mock tests simultaneously familiarize you with the exact online CBT interface used in the actual examination.
The -0.25 penalty for wrong answers significantly impacts final scores in competitive programs like MClin Psychology and MSc Neuroscience where cutoffs are high. Practicing the discipline of attempting only questions where your confidence exceeds 70% — consistently across all mock tests — builds the controlled examination temperament needed before exam day. Developing this habit during preparation prevents the costly errors made under real examination time pressure when candidates attempt uncertain questions impulsively.
Previous NIMHANS exam papers reveal high-priority topics, question depth, and recurring patterns specific to the NIMHANS examination style. After identifying which areas appear most consistently, verify them against the official syllabus and allocate proportional study time. Candidates targeting MClin Psychology should prioritize psychopathology, DSM-5/ICD-11 classification, and evidence-based therapy approaches above all other topic areas — since these consistently form the core of MClin Psychology examination questions.
For PhD applicants targeting Session 2, structuring your research proposal, practicing discussing previous academic work concisely, and staying current with developments in your target department all begin now — not after results are declared. Since NIMHANS interviews are held exclusively in Bengaluru, travel arrangements must be planned well in advance. Additionally, NIMHANS provides no TA/DA reimbursement for interview travel, making advance accommodation booking near NIMHANS campus in Bengaluru a financially prudent step.
| NIMHANS Course | Primary Career Roles | Salary Range | Top Employers |
|---|---|---|---|
| DM Neurology | Neurologist (Consultant/Academic) | Rs 15–30+ LPA | AIIMS, Government Hospitals, Apollo, Fortis |
| MCh Neurosurgery | Neurosurgeon | Rs 15–30+ LPA | Government Medical Colleges, Corporate Hospitals |
| MD Psychiatry | Psychiatrist (Government/Private/Academic) | Rs 10–40+ LPA | Government Hospitals, Private Practice, Mental Health NGOs |
| MClin Psychology | Clinical Psychologist, Rehabilitation Psychologist | Rs 4–12 LPA | Hospitals, Private Practice, Corporate Wellness |
| MPH | Public Health Specialist, Health Policy Analyst | Rs 6–15 LPA | WHO, UNICEF, Government Health Departments |
| MSc Neuroscience + PhD | Research Scientist, Academic Faculty | Rs 6–15 LPA | NIMHANS, NCBS, TIFR, International Universities |
| MSc Nursing (Psychiatric) | Psychiatric Nurse Specialist, Nursing Educator | Rs 4–8 LPA | Psychiatric Hospitals, Nursing Colleges |
| BSc Nursing | Staff Nurse, Nursing Officer, Mental Health Nurse | Rs 3–6 LPA | NIMHANS, Government Hospitals, Private Hospitals |
| MPhil Psychiatric Social Work | Psychiatric Social Worker, Community Mental Health Coordinator | Rs 4–8 LPA | NGOs, Government Health Programs, Hospitals |
NIMHANS Nursing Officers are paid under Central Government 7th Pay Commission scales. Basic pay: INR 44,900–1,42,400 per month (Pay Level 7). Total monthly compensation including DA, HRA, Transport Allowance, Night Duty Allowance, and Medical Allowance: INR 55,000–90,000+ per month. Since NIMHANS is a Central Government institution, additional benefits include Pension (NPS), Group Health Insurance, Provident Fund, leave encashment, annual increments, and Central Government medical facilities — together creating a comprehensive compensation package that significantly exceeds the basic pay figure. For latest Nursing Officer recruitment notifications, check nimhans.ac.in — Careers section.
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Vacancies (Group B and C) | 52 posts |
| Application Period | February 3 – March 4, 2026 ✅ Closed |
| Recruitment Exam Date 2026 | April–May 2026 (Bengaluru only) ✅ Conducted |
| Selection Process | MCQ Written Test → Skill Test → Document Verification → Medical Examination |
| Pay Level | Level 1 to Level 6 (7th Pay Commission) |
| Career Benefits | Central Government security, pension, DA, HRA, TA, medical allowance |
| New Recruitment Notifications | nimhans.ac.in – Careers section |
| Support Type | Eligibility | Amount | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| NIMHANS PhD Institute Stipend | All PhD scholars under Institute Support | Rs 37,000/month (Y1-2) | Rs 42,000/month (Y3-5) | NIMHANS Institution |
| ICMR Fellowship (JRF/SRF) | PhD scholars with ICMR-funded projects | Rs 31,000–40,000/month | Indian Council of Medical Research |
| DST INSPIRE Fellowship | PhD scholars with DST-INSPIRE award | Rs 31,000/month + contingency grant | Department of Science and Technology |
| Post-Matric Scholarship (SC/ST) | SC/ST students below income threshold | Fee reimbursement component | Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment |
| National Scholarship Portal | SC/ST/OBC/Minority/EWS students | Varies by category and income | scholarships.gov.in |
| Maulana Azad National Fellowship | Minority community PhD candidates | JRF equivalent monthly amount | Ministry of Minority Affairs |
NIMHANS – Bangalore Institution Summary:
Location: Hosur Road, Bengaluru, Karnataka – 560029. Type: Central Government – Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Status: Institute of National Importance + Deemed University. Government or Private: Government – fully Central Government funded. Departments: 26 specialized departments. Functions: Premier hospital + Deemed university + Research center. International Status: WHO Collaborating Center – South-East Asia. Heritage: One of Asia’s dedicated Brain Museums. Official Website: nimhans.ac.in.
NIMHANS Hospital provides psychiatric, neurological, and neurosurgical services at government-subsidized rates, making quality mental health care accessible to patients across economic backgrounds. Specialized clinics include the Memory Clinic, De-addiction Clinic, Child Psychiatry, Epilepsy Clinic, Movement Disorders, and Neurorehabilitation. Furthermore, the Centre for Well-Being offers individual therapy, group therapy, mindfulness programs, family psychoeducation, stress management, and workplace mental health interventions. Emergency services operate 24/7 for acute cases, while telemedicine consultations are available for remote patients. Since NIMHANS is the primary referral center for complex cases from Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Kerala, students gain exposure to an exceptionally diverse range of mental health and neurological presentations throughout their clinical training.
📚 Target NIMHANS Entrance Exam 2026-27 Session 2 — application expected August 2026 at nimhans-admission.lntedutech.com. Monitor nimhans.ac.in from July 2026 for the official notification. For Session 1 result holders: report on June 23, 2026 (non-medical) or June 25, 2026 (PhD) without fail. For free NIMHANS Session 2 preparation guidance, program selection, and admission counselling, contact Wing Educations today.
Also explore: AIIMS INI CET Entrance Exam 2026 | NEET PG 2026 | BSc Nursing Admission 2026 | MSc Neuroscience Admission 2026 | MClin Psychology Admission 2026
The NIMHANS entrance exam 2026 Session 1 was completed on May 29–31, 2026 at Bengaluru. Session 1 is fully closed. The NIMHANS entrance exam 2026 Session 2 date is expected in October–November 2026, with application opening in August 2026. Monitor nimhans.ac.in from July 2026 for the confirmed Session 2 notification and official exam date.
The NIMHANS entrance exam 2026 Session 2 registration will open in August 2026 at nimhans-admission.lntedutech.com. Registration steps: (1) Visit the portal when Session 2 notification releases. (2) Register and create account. (3) Fill application for up to 3 courses. (4) Upload documents. (5) Pay Rs 1,500/course (General/OBC/EWS) or Rs 1,000/course (SC/ST). (6) Download confirmation. Session 1 registration closed April 8, 2026 — cannot be reopened.
The NIMHANS last date to apply for Session 1 was April 8, 2026 — now permanently closed. The Session 2 last date to apply is expected in September 2026. Since NIMHANS accepts no late applications under any circumstances, monitoring nimhans.ac.in from July 2026 and applying as soon as Session 2 opens is strongly recommended. Missing the registration deadline means waiting for the next session (Session 1, 2027).
No. NIMHANS does NOT offer Ayurveda or any AYUSH programs. NIMHANS specializes exclusively in mental health and neuroscience — psychiatry, neurology, clinical psychology, and allied health. For Ayurveda PG entrance exam 2026, the correct examination is AIAPGET (All India Ayush Post Graduate Entrance Test) conducted by NTA, with AYUSH counselling at aaccc.gov.in.
The NIMHANS BSc Nursing entrance exam 2026 Session 1 was completed May 29–31, 2026. The program has 85 seats (largest NIMHANS intake), eligibility of Class 12 PCB with 45% minimum and age 17–25 years. Session 2 exam date is expected October–November 2026. Unlike all other NIMHANS programs, BSc Nursing has multiple exam centers — Bangalore, Chennai, Cochin, and Hyderabad. Expected cutoff: 65–75+ out of 100. Apply at nimhans-admission.lntedutech.com when Session 2 opens (August 2026).
NIMHANS Bangalore admission 2026 for Session 1 has the following remaining dates: Non-medical courses reporting June 23, 2026. PhD admission June 25, 2026. Course commencement July 1, 2026. For Session 2 (January 2027 batch): admission December 2026, course commencement January 2027. All admissions, results, and notifications are published exclusively at nimhans.ac.in. NIMHANS does not send individual admission notifications.
NIMHANS is a Government institution — a Central Government Institute of National Importance under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. Entirely government-funded with no private ownership or investment of any kind. Since NIMHANS is government-funded, programs are offered at heavily subsidized fees — most programs cost under Rs 1 lakh for the complete duration, and the PhD program is effectively a funded fellowship.
NIMHANS PhD scholars receive Rs 37,000 per month (Year I-II) and Rs 42,000 per month (Year III-V) under Institute Support. Since total PhD program fees are only Rs 79,000 for the complete program, the PhD at NIMHANS is effectively a funded fellowship. Furthermore, additional external funding (ICMR JRF, DST INSPIRE) can supplement the stipend for eligible scholars. Selection: 70% written exam + 30% personal interview at NIMHANS Bengaluru (mandatory physical attendance).
NIMHANS officially replaced MPhil Clinical Psychology with MClin Psychology (M.Clin.Psy) from July 2026, following NEP 2020 and RCI directives. The new program maintains 32 seats and full RCI recognition — qualifying graduates as licensed Clinical Psychologists for independent practice across India. Candidates who previously searched for “NIMHANS MPhil Clinical Psychology 2026” should therefore apply for MClin Psychology (M.Clin.Psy) in Session 2 through nimhans-admission.lntedutech.com.
The NIMHANS application form 2026 for Session 2 will be available at nimhans-admission.lntedutech.com when Session 2 opens (August 2026 expected). Applications submitted through any other platform are completely invalid. The application fee is Rs 1,500/course (General/OBC/EWS) or Rs 1,000/course (SC/ST), with a maximum of 3 courses per application. Monitor nimhans.ac.in from July 2026 for the official Session 2 notification that activates the application portal.
NIMHANS 2026-27 courses: UG — BSc Nursing (85 seats), BSc Neuroscience, Diploma Clinical Neurophysiology. PG — MSc Neuroscience (15 seats), MSc Nursing, MSc Biostatistics, MSc Yoga Therapy, MSc Medical Imaging, MPH (10 seats), MClin Psychology M.Clin.Psy (32 seats — new 2026, replacing MPhil Clinical Psychology), MPhil programs. Medical PG via INI CET — MD Psychiatry, DM Neurology (8 programs), MCh Neurosurgery. Doctoral — PhD (25+ departments, Rs 37,000–42,000/month stipend), Post Doctoral Fellowship (23 programs).
Documents required at NIMHANS admission: NIMHANS 2026 result and merit list printout from nimhans.ac.in. All academic marksheets and certificates (Class 10, 12, graduation, postgraduation as applicable). Category certificate (SC/ST/OBC/EWS/PwBD if applicable). Valid photo ID (Aadhaar/PAN/Passport/Voter ID). Nursing or medical council registration where applicable. Recent passport photographs. Migration certificate from previous university. All documents must be original with attested photocopies. Report on June 23, 2026 (non-medical courses) or June 25, 2026 (PhD) — missing the reporting date causes automatic seat cancellation without any exception or appeal process.
