NIMHANS Full Form: National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences.
Conducting Body: NIMHANS Bangalore – Central Government Institution.
Official Website: nimhans.ac.in.
When is NIMHANS Entrance Exam 2026? Confirmed: May 29-31, 2026 (Bengaluru).
NIMHANS Registration Last Date: April 8, 2026 (Extended).
NIMHANS Application Form 2026: Available at nimhans-admission.lntedutech.com.
Application Fee: ₹1,500 per course (General/OBC/EWS) | ₹1,000 (SC/ST).
Exam Mode: Online Computer-Based Test (CBT).
Total Questions: 100 MCQs in 90 minutes.
Negative Marking: 0.25 per wrong answer.
NIMHANS Hall Ticket / Admit Card Download: May 2026 (from nimhans.ac.in).
NIMHANS Result 2026: June 10, 2026 (Expected).
Courses Covered: BSc Nursing, BSc Neuroscience, MSc Neuroscience, MSc Nursing, MPH, MClin Psychology (M.Clin.Psy), MPhil Psychiatric Social Work, PhD (25+ departments), Post Doctoral Fellowship.
DM/MCh/MD Admission: Through INI CET 2026 (May 16, 2026) – NOT NIMHANS own exam.
Is NIMHANS Government or Private? Government – Central Government under Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
NIMHANS PhD Stipend: ₹37,000/month (Year I-II) | ₹42,000/month (Year III-V).
NIMHANS Bangalore (National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences) conducts the NIMHANS entrance exam 2026 for admission to its highly specialized programs in mental health and neuroscience – establishing it as one of India’s most prestigious government institutions for healthcare education, research, and patient care. The NIMHANS 2026 admission notification has been officially released, with confirmed exam dates of May 29-31, 2026 and an extended registration deadline of April 8, 2026.
The NIMHANS exam 2026 covers a wide range of specialized programs including BSc Nursing, BSc Neuroscience, MSc Neuroscience, MSc Nursing, MPH (Master of Public Health), MClin Psychology (M.Clin.Psy — the new RCI-recognized program officially replacing MPhil Clinical Psychology from 2026), PhD across 25+ departments, and Post Doctoral Fellowship programs. Additionally, DM Neurology, MCh Neurosurgery, and MD Psychiatry admissions now occur through INI CET 2026 conducted by AIIMS Delhi on May 16, 2026 — separate from the NIMHANS own entrance examination. This comprehensive guide covers everything about the NIMHANS entrance exam 2026-27 — including confirmed dates, registration process, eligibility, exam pattern, syllabus, admit card, result, and recruitment information.
Regulatory Authority Note: NIMHANS (National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences) operates as a Premier Institute of National Importance under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, located at Hosur Road, Bengaluru – 560029. All official NIMHANS exam information, application forms, admit cards, and results are published exclusively at nimhans.ac.in and the admission portal nimhans-admission.lntedutech.com. Wing Educations operates as an independent educational guidance platform providing free admission counselling and does not represent NIMHANS officially. |
Official Resources:
nimhans.ac.in | mohfw.gov.in | nmc.org.in | rehabcouncil.nic.in
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| NIMHANS Full Form | National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences |
| Exam Name | NIMHANS Entrance Exam 2026 |
| Conducting Body | National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru |
| NIMHANS Location | Hosur Road, Bengaluru (Bangalore), Karnataka – 560029 |
| Is NIMHANS Government or Private? | Government – Central Government Institution, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India |
| Official Website | nimhans.ac.in |
| Admission 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 for most courses) |
| Negative Marking | 0.25 marks per wrong answer |
| Application Fee | ₹1,500 per course (General/OBC/EWS) | ₹1,000 per course (SC/ST) | Maximum 3 courses |
| Courses Offered | BSc Nursing, BSc Neuroscience, MSc Neuroscience, MSc Nursing, MPH, MClin Psychology (M.Clin.Psy), MPhil (PSW/PN), PhD, Post Doctoral Fellowship |
| DM/MCh/MD Admission Route | Through INI CET 2026 (conducted by AIIMS Delhi) – NOT NIMHANS own exam |
| NIMHANS Exam Date 2026 (Confirmed) | May 29-31, 2026 – Bengaluru |
| NIMHANS Registration Last Date | April 8, 2026 (Extended) |
| NIMHANS Hall Ticket / Admit Card | May 2026 (Expected – from nimhans.ac.in) |
| NIMHANS Result 2026 | June 10, 2026 (Expected) |
| Course Commencement | July 1, 2026 |
| Qualifying Marks | Minimum 50% in written exam to qualify for interview |
| NIMHANS PhD Stipend | ₹37,000/month (Year I-II) | ₹42,000/month (Year III-V) |
| Eligibility – UG Courses | Class 12 (10+2) with PCB + 45-50% marks |
| Eligibility – PG Courses | Relevant Graduation with minimum 55% marks |
| Eligibility – PhD/Fellowship | Postgraduate degree (MD/MS/MPhil/MSc) with minimum 55% |
| Similar Exams | INI CET, AIIMS entrance, PGI Chandigarh entrance, JIPMER entrance, NEET PG |
What is NIMHANS Exam? NIMHANS Full Form = National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences
The NIMHANS entrance exam is a national-level Computer-Based Test (CBT) conducted by NIMHANS Bangalore for admission to specialized UG, PG, and Doctoral programs in mental health and neuroscience.
When is NIMHANS Entrance Exam 2026? Confirmed: May 29-31, 2026 (Bengaluru).
NIMHANS Registration Last Date: April 8, 2026 (Extended).
Exam Mode: Online CBT. Questions: 100 MCQs. Duration: 90 minutes.
Negative Marking: 0.25 per wrong answer.
Application Fee: ₹1,500 (General/OBC/EWS) | ₹1,000 (SC/ST).
Registration Portal: nimhans.ac.in and nimhans-admission.lntedutech.com.
Eligibility: Class 12 for UG | Graduation 55%+ for PG | PG degree 55%+ for PhD/Fellowship.
DM/MCh/MD: Through INI CET 2026 (May 16) – NOT NIMHANS own exam.
Is NIMHANS Government or Private? Government – Central Government, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
The NIMHANS entrance exam ranks as one of the most prestigious medical entrance examinations in India, primarily because NIMHANS itself holds a uniquely distinguished position in the Indian healthcare and education landscape. Established as an Institute of National Importance under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, NIMHANS Bangalore simultaneously functions as a world-class hospital, a deemed university, and a premier research center specializing exclusively in mental health and neurosciences.
Unlike conventional medical colleges that offer broad medical programs, NIMHANS provides a highly specialized curriculum focused exclusively on psychiatry, neurology, neurosurgery, clinical psychology, neuroscience, and allied health sciences. Consequently, admission to NIMHANS programs remains extraordinarily competitive, with thousands of candidates from across India and internationally competing for a very limited number of seats each year. Furthermore, NIMHANS graduates consistently rank among the most sought-after mental health professionals in India’s rapidly expanding healthcare sector.
Expert Insight by Wing Educations Medical Admissions Research Team:
The NIMHANS entrance exam 2026 represents one of the most unique opportunities in Indian medical and mental health education. Unlike NEET PG or AIIMS entrance exams that test broad medical knowledge, the NIMHANS exam is highly specialized — focusing exclusively on mental health and neuroscience disciplines. Therefore, targeted preparation using NIMHANS-specific study resources, previous year question papers, and domain-specific mock tests consistently produces significantly better results than generic medical entrance preparation. Additionally, since the NIMHANS selection process for PhD programs involves both a written examination (70% weightage) and a personal interview (30% weightage), strong communication skills and research awareness matter equally alongside examination scores. We strongly recommend focused preparation beginning at least 6 months before the confirmed May 29-31, 2026 exam date.
To explore related medical entrance exams and healthcare career paths, also check our guides on
AIIMS Entrance Exam 2026, NEET PG 2026, and BSc Nursing Admission 2026.
Several significant changes have been implemented for the NIMHANS admission 2026 cycle. Understanding these changes before applying is absolutely critical because missing these updates could result in applying for the wrong program or through the incorrect portal. The following five changes affect most categories of NIMHANS applicants for the 2026-27 session.
NIMHANS has officially replaced MPhil Clinical Psychology with the new MClin Psychology (M.Clin.Psy) program from the July 2026 session. This change aligns with NEP 2020 and RCI directives mandating the phase-out of MPhil programs nationwide. Consequently, candidates searching for “NIMHANS MPhil Clinical Psychology 2026” should note that the program is now called MClin Psychology (M.Clin.Psy). The new program carries full RCI recognition, qualifying graduates as licensed Clinical Psychologists.
DM Neurology, MCh Neurosurgery, MD Psychiatry, and MD Ayurveda admissions at NIMHANS are now conducted through INI CET 2026 conducted by AIIMS Delhi, NOT through NIMHANS’s own entrance examination. Therefore, candidates targeting these super-specialty programs must register separately at the AIIMS INI CET portal for the May 16, 2026 examination. Registration window: March 28 – April 25, 2026 at the INI CET portal.
PG course applications for 2026 are now processed through a dedicated new portal at nimhans-admission.lntedutech.com in addition to the main nimhans.ac.in website. Candidates should bookmark both portals and use the specific portal mentioned in the official notification for their target program to avoid submission errors.
The original registration last date of March 31, 2026 was officially extended to April 8, 2026 for the July 2026 session. Despite this extension, NIMHANS does not grant further registration extensions under any circumstances beyond this revised deadline. Early application remains essential to avoid technical issues near the deadline.
NIMHANS has increased the monthly stipend for PhD scholars under Institute Support. The new stipend amounts are ₹37,000/month (Year I-II) and ₹42,000/month (Year III-V), making the NIMHANS PhD program significantly more financially attractive for research-oriented candidates compared to previous years.
When is the NIMHANS Entrance Exam 2026?
The NIMHANS entrance exam 2026 is confirmed for May 29-31, 2026 at Bengaluru.
PhD entrance exam: May 30, 2026.
MClin Psychology (M.Clin.Psy) exam: May 31, 2026.
Registration opened: March 2, 2026.
Registration last date: April 8, 2026 (Extended).
Application portal: nimhans-admission.lntedutech.com.
NIMHANS Hall Ticket / Admit Card: May 2026 (from nimhans.ac.in).
NIMHANS Result 2026: June 10, 2026 (Expected).
PhD Interview: June 2-3, 2026 (Expected).
Admission – non-medical: June 23, 2026.
Admission – PhD: June 25, 2026.
Course commencement: July 1, 2026.
For DM/MCh/MD (INI CET): May 16, 2026 (separate AIIMS registration at INI CET portal).
| Event | Confirmed Date 2026 |
|---|---|
| Admission Notification Released | March 2, 2026 ✅ |
| Online Application Start Date | March 2, 2026 ✅ |
| NIMHANS Registration Last Date (Extended) | April 8, 2026 ✅ |
| NIMHANS Hall Ticket / Admit Card Download | May 2026 (Expected – check nimhans.ac.in) |
| NIMHANS Exam Date 2026 – All Courses | May 29-31, 2026 ✅ (Bengaluru) |
| PhD Entrance Exam | May 30, 2026 ✅ |
| MClin Psychology (M.Clin.Psy) Entrance Exam | May 31, 2026 ✅ |
| PhD Written Test Result | June 1, 2026 (Expected) |
| PhD Interview | June 2-3, 2026 (Expected) |
| NIMHANS Result 2026 – All Courses | June 10, 2026 (Expected) |
| PhD Provisional Selection List | June 10, 2026 (Expected) |
| Provisional List – All Other Courses | June 20, 2026 (Expected) |
| Admission – Non-Medical Courses | June 23, 2026 (Expected) |
| Admission – PhD Courses | June 25, 2026 (Expected) |
| Course Commencement | July 1, 2026 |
Since DM Neurology, MCh Neurosurgery, MD Psychiatry, MD Ayurveda Manovigyan, and other super-specialty admissions at NIMHANS now occur through INI CET 2026 conducted by AIIMS Delhi, candidates targeting these programs must follow the separate INI CET schedule. Registration and examination processes for INI CET are entirely independent from the NIMHANS own entrance examination system.
| Event | INI CET July 2026 Session Date |
|---|---|
| INI CET 2026 Registration | March 28 – April 25, 2026 |
| INI CET Application Correction Window | April 30 – May 2, 2026 |
| INI CET Admit Card Release | May 9, 2026 |
| INI CET Exam Date 2026 | May 16, 2026 |
| INI CET Result 2026 | May 23, 2026 |
| Event | Expected Date – Session 2 |
|---|---|
| NIMHANS Session 2 Application Form Release | August 2026 (Expected) |
| NIMHANS Session 2 Registration Last Date | September 2026 (Expected) |
| NIMHANS Session 2 Exam Date | October – November 2026 (Expected) |
| NIMHANS Session 2 Result | November – December 2026 (Expected) |
Important Note: The Session 1 dates reflect confirmed information from the official NIMHANS 2026 prospectus. However, candidates must continuously monitor nimhans.ac.in for any last-minute changes. Since NIMHANS does not grant registration extensions beyond the stated deadline, early application before April 8, 2026 is absolutely essential.
How to Apply for NIMHANS Entrance Exam 2026 (www.nimhans.ac.in Application Form):
Step 1: Visit nimhans.ac.in or nimhans-admission.lntedutech.com.
Step 2: Read prospectus carefully and verify eligibility for your target course.
Step 3: Register with email and mobile number.
Step 4: Complete application form with accurate personal and academic details.
Step 5: Upload required documents (photo, ID proof, academic certificates, registration certificates).
Step 6: Pay application fee – ₹1,500 per course (General/OBC/EWS) | ₹1,000 (SC/ST). Maximum 3 courses.
Step 7: Submit form and download confirmation page.
NIMHANS Registration Last Date: April 8, 2026 (Extended – No further extension).
Maximum 3 courses per candidate. No refund on incorrectly submitted applications.
The NIMHANS registration last date 2026 is April 8, 2026 (extended from the original March 31 deadline). This extension represents the final deadline – NIMHANS categorically does not grant any further extensions beyond this date under any circumstances. Technical issues near the deadline are common across all online application systems, and resolving them requires sufficient buffer time. Therefore, completing the application at least 5-7 days before April 8, 2026 is strongly recommended to avoid losing the opportunity due to preventable technical problems.
Begin by visiting the official NIMHANS website at nimhans.ac.in or the dedicated admission portal at nimhans-admission.lntedutech.com and navigate to the PG Courses 2026 section. During the active registration window, the application link appears prominently on the homepage. Bookmark both portals and use whichever is specifically mentioned for your target program in the official notification.
Before proceeding with the application, carefully read the complete NIMHANS 2026 prospectus and all eligibility conditions specific to your target program. This step is critically important because NIMHANS does not refund incorrectly submitted applications. Verifying eligibility thoroughly at this stage saves both money and the stress of discovering ineligibility at the interview stage after months of preparation.
After confirming eligibility, register by providing basic personal details including your name, email address, and mobile number. This creates a secure login account. Subsequently, NIMHANS sends verification credentials to your registered email – use these to access the full application form. Using a professional, long-term email address that you actively check is essential for receiving all NIMHANS communication throughout the admission process.
Upon logging in, fill in all required personal, academic, and contact information with complete accuracy. All details must exactly match your official academic documents, since any discrepancy discovered during document verification at the interview stage results in automatic disqualification. Double-checking every field before moving to the next step significantly reduces the risk of errors that cannot be corrected after form submission.
Following form completion, upload all required documents in the specific format and file size mentioned in the NIMHANS 2026 prospectus. Incorrectly sized or formatted documents commonly cause application rejection, so carefully verifying all technical specifications before uploading is essential. Having all documents scanned and ready before beginning the application significantly speeds up the upload process.
Pay the application fee of ₹1,500 per course (General/OBC/EWS) or ₹1,000 per course (SC/ST) through Debit Card, Credit Card, Net Banking, or Demand Draft as specified. Since candidates can apply for a maximum of 3 courses, the maximum total fee ranges from ₹3,000 to ₹4,500. After payment confirmation, submit the complete application and download the confirmation page for all subsequent NIMHANS admission process requirements.
| Document Type | Accepted Documents |
|---|---|
| Photo Identity Proof | Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Voter’s ID, Driving License, Passport |
| College or Institution ID | Valid College ID Card |
| Bank Proof | Bank Passbook with Photograph |
| Academic Documents | Marks Cards or Transcripts for all qualifying examinations |
| Recent Photograph | Passport-size photograph (white background, specified dimensions) |
| Category Certificate | SC/ST/OBC/EWS/PwBD certificate (if applicable) |
| Registration Certificate | Valid nursing or medical registration (for nursing and medical courses) |
| Experience Certificate | Work experience certificate (for courses requiring clinical experience) |
NIMHANS Courses 2026-27 Complete List:
UG: BSc Nursing (85 seats, ₹38,000-53,000 PA), BSc Neuroscience (7-15 seats), Diploma in Clinical Neurophysiology Technology.
PG: MSc Neuroscience (15 seats), MSc Nursing Psychiatric and Neuroscience (9 seats each), MSc Biostatistics (5 seats), MSc Yoga Therapy (6 seats), MSc Medical Imaging (5 seats), MPH (10 seats, ₹96,500 PA), MClin Psychology/M.Clin.Psy (32 seats – NEW replacing MPhil).
MPhil: Psychiatric Social Work, Psychiatric Nursing (continuing alongside MClin).
Medical PG via INI CET (NOT NIMHANS exam): DM Neurology (8 specializations), MCh Neurosurgery, MD Psychiatry (41 seats), MD Ayurveda.
Doctoral: PhD in 25+ departments (₹32,000 PA fees, ₹37,000-42,000/month stipend), Post Doctoral Fellowship (23 programs).
Ayurveda PG: MD Ayurveda Manovigyan (4 seats) via INI CET.
| Level | Course Name | Duration | Seats | First Year Fees | Admission Route |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| UG | BSc Nursing | 4 Years | 85 | ₹38,000-53,000 | NIMHANS Entrance Exam |
| UG | BSc Neuroscience | 3 Years | 7-15 | ₹25,050 | NIMHANS Entrance Exam |
| UG | Diploma – Clinical Neurophysiology Technology | 2 Years | 2 | ₹7,950 | NIMHANS Entrance Exam |
| PG | MSc Neuroscience | 2 Years | 15 | ₹24,100 | NIMHANS Entrance Exam |
| PG | MSc Nursing (Psychiatric + Neuroscience) | 2 Years | 9 each | ₹24,400 | NIMHANS Entrance Exam |
| PG | MSc Biostatistics | 2 Years | 5 | ₹24,100 | NIMHANS Entrance Exam |
| PG | MSc Yoga Therapy (Mental Health) | 2 Years | 6 | ₹24,100 | NIMHANS Entrance Exam |
| PG | MSc Medical Imaging Technology | 2 Years | 5 | ₹24,100 | NIMHANS Entrance Exam |
| PG | MPH (Master of Public Health) | 2 Years | 10 | ₹96,500 | NIMHANS Entrance Exam |
| PG | MClin Psychology (M.Clin.Psy) – NEW | 2 Years | 32 | ₹24,800 | NIMHANS Entrance Exam (May 31) |
| MPhil | MPhil Psychiatric Social Work | 2 Years | Varies | ₹23,140 | NIMHANS Entrance Exam |
| MPhil | MPhil Psychiatric Nursing | 2 Years | Varies | ₹23,140 | NIMHANS Entrance Exam |
| Medical PG (INI CET) | MD Psychiatry | 3 Years | 41 (both sessions) | ₹73,250 | INI CET 2026 |
| Medical PG (INI CET) | MD Ayurveda Manovigyan Evam Manasa Roga | 3 Years | 4 | ₹73,250 | INI CET 2026 |
| Super Specialty (INI CET) | DM Neurology (+ 7 other DM specializations) | 3 Years | 4 per specialization | ₹91,150 | INI CET 2026 |
| Super Specialty (INI CET) | MCh Neurosurgery | 3 Years | 2-4 | ₹91,150 | INI CET 2026 |
| Doctoral | PhD (25+ Departments) | 3-5 Years | 1-8 per department | ₹32,000 | NIMHANS Entrance + Interview |
| Post-Doctoral | Post Doctoral Fellowship (23 programs) | 1-3 Years | 1-4 per specialization | ₹18,660-58,540 | NIMHANS Entrance + Interview |
NIMHANS Fees 2026 (Highly Affordable – Government Institution):
BSc Nursing: ₹38,000-53,000 first year (Total ₹1.4-1.77 lakhs).
BSc Neuroscience: ₹25,050 first year (Total ₹52,650).
MSc courses: ₹20,000-24,400 first year (Total ₹34,200).
MPH: ₹96,500 first year (Total ₹1.5-1.7 lakhs).
MClin Psychology: ₹24,800 first year.
MD Psychiatry: ₹73,250 first year.
DM/MCh: ₹91,150 first year.
PhD: ₹32,000 first year (Total ₹79,000) + ₹37,000-42,000/month stipend.
Fellowship: ₹18,660-58,540 first year.
Application fee: ₹1,500 per course (General/OBC/EWS) | ₹1,000 (SC/ST).
Since NIMHANS is a Central Government institution, fees are significantly lower than private medical colleges at comparable academic standards.
| Course | First Year Fees | Total Fees (Approx.) | Stipend or Financial Support |
|---|---|---|---|
| BSc Nursing | ₹38,000-53,000 | ₹1,40,000-1,77,000 | Scholarships for eligible SC/ST/OBC students |
| BSc Neuroscience | ₹25,050 | ₹52,650 | Merit-based scholarships available |
| MSc Neuroscience | ₹24,100 | ₹34,200 | JRF/SRF opportunities available |
| MSc Nursing (Psychiatric/Neuroscience) | ₹24,400 | ₹34,200 | Government nursing scholarships applicable |
| MSc Biostatistics | ₹24,100 | ₹34,200 | Research fellowships available |
| MPH | ₹96,500 | ₹1,50,000-1,70,000 | Public health fellowships applicable |
| MClin Psychology (M.Clin.Psy) | ₹24,800 | ~₹38,600 | RCI scholarships applicable |
| MPhil (PSW/PN) | ₹23,140 | ₹38,600 | Government scholarships applicable |
| MD Psychiatry | ₹73,250 | ₹1,83,000-2,20,000 | Stipend as per government norms |
| DM (various) | ₹91,150 | ₹1,92,000-2,73,000 | Senior Resident stipend applicable |
| MCh Neurosurgery | ₹91,150 | ₹1,96,000-2,73,000 | Senior Resident stipend applicable |
| PhD | ₹32,000 | ₹79,000 | ₹37,000/month (Yr I-II) | ₹42,000/month (Yr III-V) |
| Post Doctoral Fellowship | ₹18,660-58,540 | Varies by program | Fellowship stipend as per NIMHANS norms |
For scholarship information, visit the National Scholarship Portal at scholarships.gov.in. SC/ST/OBC/EWS students at NIMHANS may be eligible for complete or partial fee waivers through central government scholarship schemes administered by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
NIMHANS Eligibility 2026 – Summary:
BSc Nursing: Class 12 with PCB, minimum 45%, age 17-25 years.
BSc Neuroscience: Class 12 with PCB, minimum 50%, age 17-25 years.
MSc Neuroscience: BSc Life Sciences/Biochemistry/Biotechnology with 55%.
MSc Nursing: BSc Nursing with 55% + valid nursing registration.
MClin Psychology (M.Clin.Psy): 4-year BA/BSc Psychology OR 3-year BA/BSc + bridge course OR MA/MSc Psychology with 55%.
MPH: MBBS/BDS/BAMS/BSc Nursing/PG degree in relevant fields with 55%.
MPhil Psychiatric Social Work: MSW with 55%.
PhD: PG degree (MD/MS/MPhil/MSc) with 55%.
DM/MCh/MD (INI CET): MBBS + completed internship + NEET PG/INI CET qualification.
SC/ST candidates receive 5% relaxation in minimum marks across all programs.
For NIMHANS BSc Nursing 2026, candidates must hold Class 12 (10+2) with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as core subjects alongside a minimum of 45% aggregate marks from a recognized board. Age requirements specify that candidates must fall between 17-25 years at the time of admission. Additionally, candidates must possess a valid registration with the State Nursing Council. Regarding NIMHANS BSc Neuroscience, the minimum aggregate requirement increases to 50% in Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, plus English as a compulsory subject, with the same 17-25 years age requirement.
For non-medical postgraduate programs at NIMHANS, candidates must hold a relevant Bachelor’s or Master’s degree from a UGC-recognized university with a minimum of 55% aggregate marks. Specifically, for the new MClin Psychology (M.Clin.Psy) program, NIMHANS accepts three eligibility pathways: a 4-year BA or BSc in Psychology; a 3-year BA/BSc in Psychology followed by one-year bridge course; or a Master’s degree in Psychology with at least 55% marks. For NIMHANS MPH, eligible qualifications include MBBS, BDS, BAMS, BSc Nursing, or PG degrees in Sociology, Statistics, Environmental Sciences, Health Management, Social Work, and related fields. Final-year students may apply conditionally, provided they complete their qualifying degree before the interview date.
For DM Neurology, MCh Neurosurgery, MD Psychiatry, and MD Ayurveda admissions at NIMHANS, candidates must hold an MBBS qualification from an NMC-recognized university. Additionally, completion of the compulsory one-year rotatory internship before course commencement is mandatory. These programs are admitted exclusively through INI CET 2026 – candidates must register separately at the AIIMS INI CET portal and achieve the required cutoff rank for NIMHANS specifically.
For NIMHANS PhD programs, candidates must hold a postgraduate degree (MD/MS/MPhil/MSc) from a recognized university in the relevant field with minimum 55% marks. A 5% relaxation in minimum marks applies to SC/ST and PwBD candidates. Selection combines a written test (70% weightage) with an interview (30% weightage) where candidates present their research proposals. For Post Doctoral Fellowship, candidates must hold a doctoral or super-specialty degree (DM/MCh/PhD/MPhil) along with demonstrated clinical or research experience in their specialization.
| Course Category | Age Limit | Age Calculation Date |
|---|---|---|
| BSc Nursing / BSc Neuroscience | 17 to 25 Years | July 1, 2026 (Session 1) |
| MBBS Degree Holders (MD Psychiatry via INI CET) | Maximum 32 Years | As per INI CET 2026 notification |
| PG Medical Degree Holders (DM/MCh via INI CET) | Maximum 37 Years | As per INI CET 2026 notification |
| MSc Biostatistics Candidates | Maximum 30 Years | July 1, 2026 |
| MClin Psychology / MPhil Candidates | As per NIMHANS 2026 prospectus | July 1, 2026 |
| SC/ST Candidates (Age Relaxation) | 5 Years relaxation in applicable upper age limit | As per NIMHANS 2026 official notification |
| PwBD Candidates (Age Relaxation) | As per Government of India norms (Rights of PwD Act, 2016) | As per official notification |
NIMHANS Admit Card / Hall Ticket Download 2026:
Release expected: May 2026 (approximately 10-15 days before the May 29-31 exam date).
Download from: nimhans.ac.in or nimhans-admission.lntedutech.com using registered login credentials.
Without a valid NIMHANS hall ticket, entry to the examination hall is not permitted under any circumstances.
Carry: Printed admit card + valid photo ID (Aadhaar/PAN/Passport/Voter ID) to exam center.
Email for discrepancies: admissions@nimhans.nte.
Keep multiple printed copies for the entire admission process – exam, interview, and document verification.
Visit the official NIMHANS website at nimhans.ac.in or the admission portal at nimhans-admission.lntedutech.com and look for the Admit Card or Hall Ticket announcement link, which becomes prominently visible approximately 10-15 days before the exam date.
Click on the NIMHANS 2026 Entrance Exam Admit Card link and log in using your registered application credentials – the email address and password created during the registration process. Ensuring these credentials are saved securely before the admit card release date prevents access issues when the hall ticket becomes available.
After accessing the admit card, meticulously verify all printed details including your name, date of birth, exam center address, exam date, and course name. Report any discrepancies immediately to admissions@nimhans.nte before the exam date. Corrections cannot be made on exam day itself.
Download the admit card PDF and take multiple printed copies, since you will need them throughout the entire NIMHANS 2026 admission process – at the exam center, during the interview, and at document verification. Storing a digital copy on your phone as backup is additionally advisable.
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Candidate Name | As registered in NIMHANS 2026 application form |
| Application or Roll Number | Unique candidate identification number |
| Exam Date and Reporting Time | Specific date (May 29/30/31, 2026) and reporting time |
| Exam Center Name and Address | Bengaluru (for most courses) or Chennai/Cochin/Hyderabad (for BSc Nursing UG) |
| Course Applied For | Specific NIMHANS program (BSc Nursing/MSc Neuroscience/MClin Psychology/PhD etc.) |
| Candidate Photograph | As uploaded during application |
| Important Instructions | Exam rules, permitted and prohibited items, reporting requirements |
NIMHANS Exam Pattern 2026:
Mode: Online Computer-Based Test (CBT).
Questions: 100 MCQs (single correct answer).
Duration: 90 minutes.
Marking: +1 per correct answer, -0.25 per wrong answer.
Unattempted questions: No deduction.
Language: English.
Mock test: Available at nimhans.ac.in approximately 15 days before exam – use it.
Qualifying marks: Minimum 50% (50/100) in written exam to qualify for interview stage.
PhD selection: 70% written test + 30% interview (combined for final merit).
NIMHANS exam tests deep domain-specific knowledge within specialized neuroscience and psychiatric disciplines – NOT broad general medicine.
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Mode of Exam | Online – Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Type of Questions | Multiple Choice Objective Type (Single Correct Answer) |
| Total Duration | 90 Minutes |
| Total Questions | 100 Questions |
| Correct Answer Marking | +1 Mark per correct answer |
| Negative Marking | -0.25 Marks for every wrong answer |
| Unattempted Questions | No marks deducted |
| Official Mock Test | Available at nimhans.ac.in approximately 15 days before exam |
| Language | English |
| Qualifying Marks | Minimum 50% (50 out of 100) to qualify for interview call |
| Component | Details | Weightage |
|---|---|---|
| Written Entrance Test | 100 MCQs, 90 minutes, online CBT | 70% |
| Interview | Research proposal presentation, subject knowledge, research experience, motivation | 30% |
| Minimum Qualifying Score | 50% in written test to qualify for interview | — |
| Final Merit Calculation | Combined written test score (70%) + interview score (30%) | 100% |
NIMHANS Syllabus 2026 – Key Points:
The NIMHANS entrance exam syllabus is highly specialized and differs significantly across programs.
Unlike broad medical entrance exams, NIMHANS tests deep domain knowledge within specific neuroscience and psychiatric disciplines.
MClin Psychology syllabus: Abnormal Psychology, Research Methods, Neuropsychology, Developmental Psychology, Psychotherapy, DSM-5/ICD-11.
MSc Neuroscience syllabus: Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Neuroanatomy, Neurophysiology, Biochemistry, Research Methodology.
MPH syllabus: Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Health Policy, Community Mental Health, Global Health.
BSc Nursing syllabus: Biology (Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry), Chemistry, Physics, General Aptitude.
PhD syllabus: Specialized domain knowledge relevant to the PhD specialization department.
Download the official course-specific syllabus from the NIMHANS 2026 prospectus at nimhans.ac.in.
For the new MClin Psychology (M.Clin.Psy) program (replacing MPhil Clinical Psychology), the entrance exam covers Foundations of Psychology and Psychological Assessment, Abnormal Psychology and Psychopathology (including DSM-5 and ICD-11 classification systems), Psychotherapy Techniques and Evidence-Based Interventions, Research Methodology and Biostatistics, Developmental Psychology and Lifespan Development, Neuropsychology and Cognitive Assessment, and Social Psychology and Community Mental Health. Given that this program has only 32 seats and receives thousands of applications nationally, candidates typically need to score 75-85+ out of 100 to secure admission in the competitive category. Therefore, thorough preparation across all syllabus areas – rather than selective topic preparation – is essential for this highly competitive program.
The MSc Neuroscience entrance exam syllabus covers Basic Neurosciences at cellular, molecular, and systemic levels, including Neuroanatomy (brain structures and functional mapping), Neurophysiology (electrophysiology and neurochemical signaling), Cell Biology and Molecular Biology, Research Methodology and Biostatistics, and Biochemistry and Pharmacology fundamentals. Because NIMHANS operates as Asia’s premier neuroscience research center, this exam tests deep understanding of neuroscience principles rather than surface-level familiarity. Regarding BSc Neuroscience, the syllabus includes Class 12 level Biology (Cell Biology, Genetics, Physiology), Chemistry, Physics, and General Aptitude.
The NIMHANS BSc Nursing entrance exam syllabus tests Class 12 level Biology (Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry), Chemistry (Organic, Inorganic, Physical), Physics, and General Aptitude. Since BSc Nursing has 85 seats – the largest intake at NIMHANS – the competition, while significant, is somewhat less intense than programs with very limited seats. However, given NIMHANS’s national reputation, candidates from across India apply, making even this relatively larger-intake program highly competitive at the national level.
The MPH syllabus includes Epidemiology and Disease Burden Analysis, Health Policy and Health Systems Management, Community Mental Health Programs, Biostatistics and Research Design, Social Determinants of Health, and Global Mental Health frameworks. For MSc Nursing (Psychiatric/Neuroscience), the syllabus covers Fundamentals of Nursing, Psychiatric Nursing, Medical-Surgical Nursing, Community Health Nursing, Pharmacology, Research Methodology, and Mental Health concepts. The official subject-wise syllabus for each program is published in the NIMHANS 2026 prospectus at nimhans.ac.in – downloading and studying this official document is the most reliable preparation starting point.
| Session | Course Type | Exam Centre Cities |
|---|---|---|
| Session 1 (May 2026) | PhD, MClin Psychology, MPhil, MSc, MPH and other PG courses | Bengaluru ONLY (as per 2026 prospectus) |
| Session 1 (May 2026) | BSc Nursing, BSc Neuroscience (UG courses) | Bangalore, Chennai, Cochin, Hyderabad |
| Session 2 (Oct-Nov 2026) | PG courses (if offered) | Bangalore, Delhi (Expected – verify at nimhans.ac.in) |
Important Update Regarding Exam Centres: Unlike previous years when PG exams were conducted across multiple cities, the NIMHANS 2026 July session entrance exam for most PG, MPhil, and PhD courses is conducted only in Bengaluru. Consequently, candidates from other states planning to appear for these programs must arrange travel and accommodation for the May 29-31, 2026 exam dates well in advance. NIMHANS does not provide TA/DA for the entrance examination, interview, or document submission visits. Only BSc Nursing and BSc Neuroscience UG entrance exams are conducted across four cities – Bangalore, Chennai, Cochin, and Hyderabad.
All candidates must first clear the NIMHANS entrance exam with a minimum of 50% marks (50 out of 100). NIMHANS strictly enforces this qualifying threshold – candidates scoring below 50% do not advance to the interview stage, regardless of their academic background or professional experience. However, the competitive cutoff for most programs is significantly higher than this official minimum. Specifically, for MClin Psychology (32 seats) and MSc Neuroscience (15 seats), competitive candidates typically score 75-85+ out of 100 to secure a position within the final merit list.
After qualifying the entrance exam, NIMHANS calls shortlisted candidates for a personal interview conducted exclusively at NIMHANS Bengaluru – no provision exists for interview through video call or in other cities. For PhD programs, the interview carries 30% weightage in the final selection, while the written exam carries 70%. Beyond subject knowledge, the interview assesses research aptitude, communication skills, clarity of research interest, and genuine motivation for the chosen program. Additionally, NIMHANS conducts mandatory biometric verification for all interview candidates to confirm identity consistency with the application.
Subsequently, NIMHANS publishes the final merit list on nimhans.ac.in based on combined performance. Seats are allotted strictly in merit order within each category and program. Crucially, NIMHANS does not send separate individual intimation to candidates about interview schedules, merit list positions, or admission offers – consequently, all candidates must actively and regularly monitor nimhans.ac.in throughout the entire selection process. When two candidates achieve equal scores, the following tie-breaking criteria apply sequentially: first, fewer attempts in qualifying exam; second, highest marks in qualifying exam; third, older candidate by date of birth.
NIMHANS announces exam results on nimhans.ac.in after each entrance exam session concludes. Based on the confirmed 2026 schedule, the NIMHANS Result 2026 for PhD courses is expected on June 1, 2026 (with interviews on June 2-3, 2026), while results for all other courses are expected on June 10, 2026. To check your result, visit nimhans.ac.in, navigate to the Announcements section, click on the NIMHANS Result 2026 link for your course category, and search the published merit list PDF for your name or roll number. Download and save the result document immediately, and begin interview preparation without delay if your name appears on the shortlist, since the interview dates follow within days of the result publication.
NIMHANS conducts the NIMHANS UG entrance exam 2026 for admission to undergraduate programs, primarily BSc Nursing (85 seats) and BSc Neuroscience (7-15 seats). Unlike PG and doctoral entrance exams – which are conducted exclusively in Bengaluru for the 2026 session – the NIMHANS UG entrance exam is held across four cities: Bangalore, Chennai, Cochin, and Hyderabad. This four-city accessibility significantly reduces travel burden for UG applicants from South India. The exam follows the standard 100 MCQ in 90-minute format with 0.25 negative marking, testing Class 12 level Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and General Aptitude.
NIMHANS BSc Nursing Entrance Exam 2026:
Program: 4-year BSc Nursing.
Seats: 85 (largest single intake at NIMHANS).
Eligibility: Class 12 with PCB, minimum 45% marks, age 17-25 years.
NIMHANS BSc Nursing Application Date 2026: March – April 8, 2026 (extended deadline).
NIMHANS BSc Nursing Entrance Exam Date: May 29-31, 2026.
Exam: 100 MCQs, 90 minutes, 0.25 negative marking, online CBT.
Exam centres: Bangalore, Chennai, Cochin, Hyderabad.
First year fees: ₹38,000-53,000 (Total ₹1.4-1.77 lakhs).
Registration: nimhans.ac.in.
Career: Psychiatric nursing specialist, mental health nurse, nursing educator, NIMHANS staff nurse.
NIMHANS BSc Nursing is India’s most sought-after undergraduate nursing program for psychiatric and mental health nursing specialization.
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSc Nursing) |
| Duration | 4 Years (including clinical internship) |
| Seats Available | 85 (across all categories) |
| Eligibility | Class 12 with PCB, minimum 45% marks, age 17-25 years |
| NIMHANS BSc Nursing Application Date 2026 | March 2 – April 8, 2026 (Extended deadline) |
| NIMHANS BSc Nursing Entrance Exam Date | May 29-31, 2026 (Bengaluru session) |
| First Year Fees | ₹38,000-53,000 (category-wise) |
| Total Fees (3 years academic) | ₹1,40,000-1,77,000 |
| Exam Pattern | 100 MCQs, 90 minutes, 0.25 negative marking, online CBT |
| Exam Centers | Bangalore, Chennai, Cochin, Hyderabad |
| Registration Portal | nimhans.ac.in |
| Career After BSc Nursing NIMHANS | Psychiatric Nurse, Mental Health Nurse, Nursing Officer, Nursing Educator |
NIMHANS conducts the NIMHANS BSc Neuroscience entrance exam for admission to one of the very few dedicated undergraduate neuroscience programs available in India. To qualify, candidates must hold Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology at minimum 50% aggregate marks, with English as a compulsory subject, and age between 17-25 years. The exam follows the standard 100 MCQ in 90-minute CBT format with 0.25 negative marking. Seats are limited to 7-15 students per intake, making NIMHANS BSc Neuroscience one of the most exclusive undergraduate science programs in the country. Career pathways from this program include MSc Neuroscience at NIMHANS itself, PhD research at premier institutes like NCBS and TIFR, pharmaceutical industry research roles, and academic positions. First year fees are approximately ₹25,050.
NIMHANS MClin Psychology (M.Clin.Psy) 2026 – IMPORTANT UPDATE:
NIMHANS has officially replaced MPhil Clinical Psychology with the new MClin Psychology (M.Clin.Psy) from July 2026 session, aligning with NEP 2020 and RCI directives.
Duration: 2 years full-time residential.
Seats: 32 (one of India’s most competitive clinical psychology admissions).
Eligibility: 4-year BA/BSc Psychology from UGC-recognized university, OR 3-year BA/BSc Psychology + 1-year bridge course, OR Master’s in Psychology with 55%+.
Entrance exam date: May 31, 2026 (Bengaluru only).
Application last date: April 8, 2026.
NIMHANS MClin Psychology exam date: May 31, 2026.
Result: June 10, 2026. Provisional list: June 20, 2026. Admission: June 23, 2026.
RCI recognized: Yes – graduates qualify as licensed Clinical Psychologists eligible for independent clinical practice.
Competitive cutoff: Typically 75-85+ out of 100.
Fees: ~₹24,800 first year.
The transition from MPhil Clinical Psychology to MClin Psychology (M.Clin.Psy) reflects a nationwide shift mandated by the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI). Under NEP 2020, MPhil programs are being phased out across all Indian universities and institutions. Simultaneously, clinical psychology training is being restructured into RCI-aligned Master’s-level professional programs. Since NIMHANS operates as an Institute of National Importance with academic autonomy, it has independently named its new program “MClin Psychology” (M.Clin.Psy) while ensuring full RCI recognition. Graduates of this program are eligible for RCI registration as licensed Clinical Psychologists with authority to practice independently in clinical settings.
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | MClin Psychology (M.Clin.Psy) – formerly MPhil Clinical Psychology |
| Duration | 2 Years Full-Time Residential at NIMHANS Bengaluru |
| Seats Available | 32 (across all categories – highly competitive) |
| Eligibility | 4-year BA/BSc Psychology OR 3-year BA/BSc + bridge course OR MA/MSc Psychology with 55%+ |
| Application Last Date | April 8, 2026 (Extended) |
| NIMHANS MClin Psychology Exam Date | May 31, 2026 (Bengaluru only) |
| Exam Pattern | 100 MCQs, 90 minutes, 0.25 negative marking |
| Result Date | June 10, 2026 (Expected) |
| Provisional List | June 20, 2026 (Expected) |
| Admission Date | June 23, 2026 (Expected) |
| Course Commencement | July 1, 2026 |
| RCI Recognition | Yes – qualifies graduates as licensed Clinical Psychologists |
| First Year Fees | ~₹24,800 |
| Competitive Cutoff (Reference) | 75-85+ out of 100 (highly competitive) |
For detailed information about clinical psychology career pathways, explore our guide on MClin/MPhil Clinical Psychology Admission 2026.
While MPhil Clinical Psychology has been replaced by MClin Psychology, NIMHANS continues to offer MPhil Psychiatric Social Work and MPhil Psychiatric Nursing programs for the 2026 session. The NIMHANS MPhil Psychiatric Social Work program targets MSW graduates wanting to specialize in mental health social work – a growing and critically underserved field across India. Eligibility requires an MSW degree with minimum 55% marks. The NIMHANS MPhil Psychiatric Nursing targets BSc Nursing graduates with valid nursing registration and minimum 55% marks in their qualifying degree. Both programs follow the standard 100 MCQ examination format with 0.25 negative marking. Graduates rank among the most employable psychiatric social workers and psychiatric nurses nationally, given NIMHANS’s unparalleled reputation in mental health professional training.
NIMHANS conducts the NIMHANS MPH entrance exam 2026 for admission to one of India’s most specialized public health programs – focused exclusively on mental health epidemiology and health systems. The program offers 10 seats, making it moderately competitive relative to MClin Psychology or MSc Neuroscience. Eligibility requires MBBS, BDS, BAMS, BSc Nursing, or PG degrees in Sociology, Statistics, Environmental Sciences, Health Management, Social Work, and related fields with minimum 55% marks. The 2-year full-time residential program at NIMHANS costs approximately ₹96,500 in the first year. Career prospects after NIMHANS MPH include positions at WHO, UNICEF, World Bank, government health departments, and research institutions focused on mental health policy and systems strengthening. The expected exam date falls within the May 29-31, 2026 window.
NIMHANS conducts the NIMHANS MSc Nursing entrance exam 2026 for MSc Nursing programs with specialized tracks in Psychiatric Nursing and Neuroscience Nursing (9 seats each, 18 total). Eligibility requires BSc Nursing with minimum 55% aggregate marks and a valid registration from State or Indian Nursing Council. NIMHANS-trained psychiatric nursing specialists are consistently in high demand across government hospitals, private psychiatric facilities, mental health NGOs, and international healthcare organizations. Furthermore, NIMHANS MSc Nursing graduates are often preferred for Nursing Officer positions at premier government institutions due to their specialized mental health training background. The first year fees are approximately ₹24,400, and the exam follows the standard 100 MCQ format with 0.25 negative marking.
The NIMHANS MSc Neuroscience entrance exam 2026 ranks as one of the most competitive MSc-level science entrance examinations in India. Because NIMHANS operates as Asia’s premier neuroscience research center, the MSc Neuroscience program (15 seats) provides unparalleled research exposure and mentorship from globally recognized neuroscientists. Eligibility requires BSc in Life Sciences, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Physiology, or Psychology with minimum 55% marks. The 2-year full-time program syllabus comprehensively covers Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Neuroanatomy, Neurophysiology, Neurochemistry, Research Methodology, and Biostatistics. First year fees are approximately ₹24,100. Career pathways include Research Scientist at NIMHANS or other premier neuroscience institutes (NCBS Bangalore, TIFR Mumbai), Academic Faculty positions, pharmaceutical industry research roles, and neurotech company positions. Given the highly limited seats and the intense national competition, candidates typically need to score 70-80+ out of 100 to secure admission.
NIMHANS PhD Admission 2026:
Application last date: April 8, 2026 (Extended).
NIMHANS PhD entrance exam date: May 30, 2026 (Bengaluru only).
Eligibility: PG degree (MD/MS/MPhil/MSc) with 55%+ marks.
Selection: Written test 70% + Interview 30%.
NIMHANS PhD Stipend: ₹37,000/month (Year I-II) | ₹42,000/month (Year III-V) for Institute Support scholars.
Duration: 3-5 years.
Available across 25+ departments.
Total fees: ₹79,000 (across full program).
Maximum 3 courses per candidate.
PhD Written Test Result: June 1, 2026 (Expected).
PhD Interview: June 2-3, 2026 (Expected).
PhD Admission: June 25, 2026 (Expected).
| PhD Specialization | Required Qualifying Degree |
|---|---|
| PhD Psychiatry | MD Psychiatry / MPhil Clinical Psychology |
| PhD Neurology | DM Neurology / MSc Neuroscience |
| PhD Neuroscience | MSc Neuroscience / MSc Biochemistry / MSc Physiology |
| PhD Clinical Psychology | MPhil/MClin Clinical Psychology |
| PhD Biostatistics | MSc Biostatistics / MSc Statistics / MSc Mathematics |
| PhD Nursing | MSc Nursing (Psychiatric) / MPhil Psychiatric Nursing |
| PhD Psychiatric Social Work | MPhil Psychiatric Social Work / MSW |
| PhD Neurophysiology | MSc Neurophysiology / relevant MSc degree |
| PhD Neuropathology | MD Pathology / relevant MD degree |
| PhD Psychopharmacology | MD or MSc in relevant field |
The NIMHANS Fellowship exam 2026 represents one of the most competitive post-doctoral selection processes in Indian medicine and neuroscience. NIMHANS offers 23 different Fellowship programs across Neurology, Neurosurgery, Psychiatry, and allied specializations. Eligibility requires DM, MCh, MD, MS, MPhil, or PhD along with relevant clinical or research experience. Duration ranges from 1 to 3 years depending on the specialization. First year fees range from ₹18,660 to ₹58,540. Key Fellowship specializations include Epilepsy Surgery, Movement Disorders, Stroke Medicine, Pediatric Neurosurgery, Neuro-oncology, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Forensic Psychiatry, Geriatric Psychiatry, Clinical Neurophysiology, and Neuroradiology. These fellowships provide unmatched subspecialty training within the specific NIMHANS super-specialty expertise areas and consistently produce the highest-quality subspecialty practitioners in India.
NIMHANS INI CET 2026 – Critical Distinction:
DM Neurology, MCh Neurosurgery, MD Psychiatry, MD Ayurveda Manovigyan, and all DM super-specialty admissions at NIMHANS are through INI CET 2026 conducted by AIIMS Delhi – NOT through NIMHANS’s own entrance exam.
INI CET July 2026 exam: May 16, 2026.
INI CET registration: March 28 – April 25, 2026 (at AIIMS INI CET portal).
INI CET admit card: May 9, 2026.
INI CET result: May 23, 2026.
INI CET cutoff for NIMHANS (reference – Jan 2026): Ranks 89-551 (General AI quota).
Register at the official AIIMS INI CET portal (separate from nimhans.ac.in).
NIMHANS MD Psychiatry: 41 seats (both sessions combined).
NIMHANS DM specializations: 8 different DM programs, approximately 4 seats each.
Understanding this critical distinction is absolutely essential because many candidates confuse the NIMHANS own entrance exam (for MSc, MClin Psychology, MPH, PhD, BSc programs) with the INI CET (for MD/DM/MCh programs). These are entirely separate examination processes with different registration portals, exam dates, exam patterns, and counselling systems. For NIMHANS INI CET admission guidance, explore our guide on AIIMS/INI CET Entrance Exam 2026.
| Program | Official Minimum Cutoff | Approximate Competitive Cutoff (Reference) |
|---|---|---|
| MClin Psychology (M.Clin.Psy) | 50% (50/100) | 75-85+ out of 100 (Highly competitive – 32 seats only) |
| MSc Neuroscience | 50% (50/100) | 70-80+ out of 100 (15 seats) |
| MPH | 50% (50/100) | 60-70+ out of 100 (10 seats) |
| MSc Nursing (Psychiatric + Neuroscience) | 50% (50/100) | 60-70+ out of 100 |
| BSc Nursing | 50% (50/100) | 65-75+ out of 100 (85 seats – more accessible) |
| BSc Neuroscience | 50% (50/100) | 65-75+ out of 100 (Very limited seats) |
| PhD (various departments) | 50% (50/100) | 65-75+ out of 100 (varies by department) |
| INI CET for NIMHANS DM/MCh/MD | As per AIIMS/INI CET cutoff | Ranks 89-551 (General AI quota, January 2026 session reference) |
| Course | Total Seats | Category Distribution |
|---|---|---|
| BSc Nursing | 85 | General, OBC, SC, ST, EWS, Karnataka Domicile, Foreign Nationals |
| BSc Neuroscience | 7-15 | General, OBC, SC, ST, EWS |
| MSc Neuroscience | 15 | General, OBC, SC, ST, EWS, Karnataka Domicile |
| MSc Nursing (Psychiatric + Neuroscience) | 9 each (18 total) | Category-wise as per NIMHANS norms |
| MSc Biostatistics | 5 | Category-wise distribution |
| MSc Yoga Therapy | 6 | Category-wise distribution |
| MPH | 10 | Category-wise distribution |
| MClin Psychology (M.Clin.Psy) | 32 | General, OBC, SC, ST, EWS, Karnataka Domicile, Foreign Nationals |
| MPhil Psychiatric Social Work | Varies (check prospectus) | Category-wise distribution |
| MPhil Psychiatric Nursing | Varies (check prospectus) | Category-wise distribution |
| MD Psychiatry | 41 (both sessions combined) | Via INI CET centralized counselling |
| MD Ayurveda Manovigyan | 4 | Via INI CET centralized counselling |
| PhD (various) | 1-8 per department (25+ departments) | Category-wise + Institute Support + Sponsored |
| Post Doctoral Fellowship | 1-4 per specialization (23 programs) | Merit-based within each program |
Starting preparation at least 6 months before the confirmed May 29-31, 2026 exam date is strongly recommended. Early starters consistently outperform last-minute candidates because the NIMHANS exam tests deep domain-specific knowledge requiring genuine understanding rather than surface-level memorization. Moreover, starting early allows completion of multiple revision cycles, identification of weak areas requiring additional attention, and adequate time for mock test practice under realistic timed conditions. A structured week-by-week study plan distributed across the full syllabus of your target course provides the most organized approach.
Unlike NEET PG preparation which covers broad general medicine, NIMHANS preparation must be highly targeted to the specific domain of your program. Therefore, studying the exact syllabus published in the official NIMHANS 2026 prospectus proves far more effective than relying on generic medical textbooks. Additionally, NIMHANS provides official mock tests at nimhans.ac.in approximately 15 days before the exam – using these mock tests familiarizes candidates with the online CBT interface, question format, and time management requirements specific to the NIMHANS examination system.
Given the 0.25 negative marking for wrong answers, strategic question selection is critical for maximizing net examination scores. As a general rule, attempt only questions where your confidence level exceeds 70%, and avoid random guessing which statistically reduces overall scores due to the penalty structure. Practicing this discipline during mock tests and timed practice sessions builds the decision-making habit before the actual examination. Furthermore, for the PhD interview component (30% weightage), preparing clear research interests, being ready to discuss previous thesis work and publications, and demonstrating awareness of current developments in your specialization area significantly strengthens the overall selection outcome.
Previous year NIMHANS entrance exam question papers rank among the most valuable preparation resources available. Analyzing these papers helps identify high-priority topics, understand the depth of knowledge tested, recognize question patterns specific to NIMHANS, and build effective timed study strategies. The official NIMHANS website provides sample questions and mock tests. Medical student forums and professional networks additionally share previous year questions – however, always cross-verifying such questions against the official syllabus before using them for preparation is essential to avoid studying irrelevant content.
Career After NIMHANS Courses – Salary Range:
DM Neurology/MCh Neurosurgery: ₹15-30+ LPA.
MD Psychiatry: ₹10-25+ LPA (government) to ₹20-40+ LPA (private).
MClin Psychology: ₹4-12 LPA (employed) – higher in private practice.
MPH: ₹6-15 LPA (WHO, UNICEF, government health departments).
MSc Neuroscience/PhD: ₹6-15 LPA (research and academic).
MSc Nursing (Psychiatric): ₹4-8 LPA (government) | ₹3-6 LPA (private).
BSc Nursing: ₹3-6 LPA.
MPhil Psychiatric Social Work: ₹4-8 LPA.
Top employers: AIIMS, NIMHANS itself, government hospitals, Apollo, Fortis, WHO, UNICEF, NCBS, TIFR, international universities, pharmaceutical companies.
| NIMHANS Course | Primary Career Roles | Salary Range | Top Employers |
|---|---|---|---|
| DM Neurology | Neurologist (Consultant/Academic) | ₹15-30+ LPA | AIIMS, Government Hospitals, Apollo, Fortis |
| MCh Neurosurgery | Neurosurgeon (Consultant/Academic) | ₹15-30+ LPA | Government Medical Colleges, Corporate Hospitals |
| MD Psychiatry | Psychiatrist (Government/Private/Academic) | ₹10-40+ LPA | Government Hospitals, Private Clinics, Mental Health NGOs |
| MClin Psychology (M.Clin.Psy) | Clinical Psychologist, Rehabilitation Psychologist | ₹4-12 LPA | Hospitals, Private Practice, Corporate Wellness, NGOs |
| MPH | Public Health Specialist, Health Policy Analyst | ₹6-15 LPA | WHO, UNICEF, Government Health Departments |
| MSc Neuroscience or PhD | Research Scientist, Academic Faculty | ₹6-15 LPA | NIMHANS, NCBS, TIFR, International Universities |
| MSc Nursing (Psychiatric) | Psychiatric Nurse Specialist, Nursing Educator | ₹4-8 LPA | Psychiatric Hospitals, Nursing Colleges |
| BSc Nursing | Staff Nurse, Mental Health Nurse, Nursing Officer | ₹3-6 LPA | NIMHANS, Government Hospitals, Private Hospitals |
| MPhil Psychiatric Social Work | Psychiatric Social Worker, Community MH Coordinator | ₹4-8 LPA | NGOs, Government Health Programs, Hospitals |
NIMHANS Recruitment 2026 – Key Details:
Group B and C Recruitment: 52 vacancies announced (JSA, Stenographer, Technical Staff, and more).
Application period: February 3 – March 4, 2026.
NIMHANS Recruitment Exam Date 2026: April-May 2026 (Bengaluru only).
Pay Level: 1-6 (7th Pay Commission).
Selection: MCQ-based test + Skill test (if applicable) + Document verification + Medical examination.
Nursing Officer recruitment: Separate notifications published throughout the year at nimhans.ac.in Careers section.
All NIMHANS positions: Central Government benefits – 7th Pay Commission salary, DA, TA, HRA, Medical Allowance, pension, and complete job security.
NIMHANS Bangalore Staff Nurse Recruitment 2026: Check nimhans.ac.in Careers section for latest vacancy notifications.
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Vacancies | 52 (Group B and C posts) |
| Application Period | February 3 – March 4, 2026 |
| NIMHANS Recruitment Exam Date 2026 | April-May 2026 (Tentative – Bengaluru only) |
| Exam Center | Bengaluru only |
| Selection Process | MCQ Written Test → Skill Test (if applicable) → Document Verification → Medical Examination |
| Pay Level | Level 1 to Level 6 (7th Pay Commission) |
| Career Benefits | Central Government job security, pension, DA, HRA, TA, medical allowance |
| Official Website | nimhans.ac.in → Careers section |
For NIMHANS Nursing Officer and Staff Nurse positions, candidates must hold a BSc Nursing degree from a recognized university with valid State or Indian Nursing Council registration. The selection process involves a written examination covering nursing subjects, General Knowledge, Reasoning, and Current Affairs, followed by document verification and medical examination. NIMHANS pays salary per Central Government Pay Scale (7th Pay Commission) with all applicable allowances. Since NIMHANS publishes all recruitment notifications exclusively on nimhans.ac.in in the Careers section, candidates should regularly monitor this section rather than third-party websites – applications submitted through any other portal or agency do not qualify as valid.
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| NIMHANS Hospital Address | Hosur Road, Bengaluru, Karnataka – 560029 |
| Hospital Type | Government – Central Government Institution, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare |
| NIMHANS Online Appointment Booking | Available at nimhans.ac.in → Appointments section |
| General OPD Timings | Monday to Saturday, 9 AM to 1 PM |
| Emergency Services | 24×7 emergency and casualty services available |
| Special Clinics | Memory Clinic, De-addiction, Child Psychiatry, Epilepsy, Movement Disorders, Neurorehabilitation |
| Heritage Brain Museum | NIMHANS Heritage Brain Museum – open to students and researchers |
| NIMHANS Hyderabad | Note: NIMHANS has its main campus only in Bengaluru. There is no separate NIMHANS Hyderabad campus. The Hyderabad location reference in NIMHANS context relates only to the BSc Nursing entrance exam center. |
To book a NIMHANS online appointment, visit nimhans.ac.in and navigate to the “Appointments” or “Patient Services” section. Register as a new patient with your name, mobile number, and Aadhaar details, or log in with existing credentials. Select the required department from Neurology, Psychiatry, Neurosurgery, Clinical Psychology, or other specialized clinics. Choose your preferred appointment date from the available slots, confirm the appointment, and download the appointment slip. Carry the appointment slip along with a valid photo ID when visiting NIMHANS for the consultation.
NIMHANS (National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences) – Bangalore
Location: Hosur Road, Bengaluru, Karnataka – 560029.
Type: Central Government Institution – Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.
Status: Institute of National Importance + Deemed University.
Is NIMHANS Government or Private? Government – fully Central Government funded and operated.
Departments: 26 specialized departments covering all aspects of mental health and neuroscience.
Functions: Premier hospital + Deemed university + Research center (combined unique mandate).
Research: Hundreds of peer-reviewed research papers published annually in international journals.
Heritage Brain Museum: One of Asia’s few dedicated Brain Museums – open to students and researchers.
Official Website: nimhans.ac.in.
Apply for the NIMHANS entrance exam 2026-27 at your preferred program category by registering at nimhans.ac.in or nimhans-admission.lntedutech.com before the April 8, 2026 extended deadline. Given the extremely competitive nature of NIMHANS admission, early registration, focused domain-specific preparation, and thorough interview readiness all matter equally for success. Need free guidance on NIMHANS entrance exam preparation or program selection? Contact Wing Educations today for free medical entrance counselling.
Also explore our related guides:
AIIMS/INI CET Entrance Exam 2026 | NEET PG 2026 | BSc Nursing Admission 2026 | MSc Neuroscience Admission 2026 | MClin/MPhil Clinical Psychology Admission 2026.
The NIMHANS full form is National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences. Located in Bengaluru (Bangalore), Karnataka, it operates as a premier Central Government institution under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. NIMHANS functions simultaneously as a deemed university, a hospital of national importance, and Asia’s premier research center for mental health and neurosciences. The institution conducts entrance exams for admission to highly specialized UG, PG, and Doctoral courses in mental health, neuroscience, and allied fields.
The NIMHANS entrance exam 2026 is confirmed for May 29-31, 2026 at Bengaluru. Specifically, the PhD entrance exam is scheduled for May 30, 2026, and the MClin Psychology (M.Clin.Psy) entrance exam is on May 31, 2026. The registration last date has been extended to April 8, 2026. For DM/MCh/MD super-specialty programs at NIMHANS, admission occurs through INI CET on May 16, 2026 (separate AIIMS registration required). Always verify the latest dates at nimhans.ac.in.
The NIMHANS registration last date 2026 is April 8, 2026 (Extended from March 31) for the July 2026 session. Online application opened on March 2, 2026 at nimhans.ac.in and nimhans-admission.lntedutech.com. NIMHANS categorically does not grant extensions beyond this deadline under any circumstances, so completing the application process at least 5-7 days before April 8 is strongly advisable to address any technical issues that may arise.
Yes. NIMHANS has officially replaced MPhil Clinical Psychology with the new MClin Psychology (M.Clin.Psy) program from the July 2026 session, aligning with NEP 2020 and RCI directives. The new program has 32 seats with entrance exam on May 31, 2026 in Bengaluru. It is fully RCI-recognized, qualifying graduates as licensed Clinical Psychologists eligible for independent professional practice. Eligibility includes 4-year BA/BSc Psychology, 3-year BA/BSc Psychology with bridge course, or Master’s in Psychology with 55%+ marks.
NIMHANS Hospital Bangalore is a Government institution – specifically a Central Government Institution of National Importance funded and operated by the Government of India through the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. NIMHANS provides world-class psychiatric, neurological, and neurosurgical treatment at significantly subsidized government rates due to this government funding. There is no private ownership or private funding involvement in NIMHANS operations.
The NIMHANS BSc Nursing application date 2026 was March 2, 2026 (opening date) with an extended deadline of April 8, 2026. The NIMHANS BSc Nursing entrance exam is part of the May 29-31, 2026 exam window. BSc Nursing (85 seats) requires Class 12 with PCB, minimum 45% marks, and age 17-25 years. Exam centers for BSc Nursing include Bangalore, Chennai, Cochin, and Hyderabad – unlike most other NIMHANS programs that are Bengaluru-only.
The NIMHANS hall ticket / admit card 2026 is expected to be released in May 2026 (approximately 10-15 days before the May 29-31 exam). To download: Visit nimhans.ac.in or nimhans-admission.lntedutech.com → Click the Admit Card link when active → Log in with registered application credentials → Download and print multiple copies. Without a valid NIMHANS hall ticket, entry to the examination center is not permitted. Carry the admit card along with valid photo ID (Aadhaar/PAN/Passport/Voter ID) to the exam.
NIMHANS PhD scholars under Institute Support receive a monthly stipend of ₹37,000 (Year I-II) and ₹42,000 (Year III-V) – representing an increase from previous years. Additionally, total PhD fees are approximately ₹79,000 for the complete program. The PhD entrance exam is on May 30, 2026, with selection based on 70% written test combined with 30% interview. PhD programs are available across 25+ departments. Candidates can apply for a maximum of 3 courses per application cycle.
To apply for the NIMHANS entrance exam 2026: (1) Visit nimhans.ac.in or nimhans-admission.lntedutech.com. (2) Read the official 2026 prospectus and verify eligibility for your target program. (3) Register with email and mobile number. (4) Complete the application form accurately. (5) Upload all required documents in specified format. (6) Pay application fee – ₹1,500/course (General/OBC/EWS) or ₹1,000/course (SC/ST). Maximum 3 courses per candidate. (7) Submit and download confirmation. Registration last date: April 8, 2026.
NIMHANS recruitment 2026 includes Group B and C positions (52 vacancies – JSA, Stenographer, Technical Staff), Nursing Officer posts, Staff Nurse vacancies, Research Associates, and Faculty positions. Group B and C application period: February 3 – March 4, 2026. Recruitment exam date: April-May 2026 (Bengaluru only). Pay Level 1-6 (7th Pay Commission). All NIMHANS recruitment notifications are published exclusively at nimhans.ac.in in the Careers section – candidates should monitor this section regularly rather than relying on third-party websites.
NIMHANS courses 2026-27 include: UG – BSc Nursing (85 seats), BSc Neuroscience (7-15 seats), Diploma programs. PG – MSc Neuroscience, MSc Nursing (Psychiatric and Neuroscience), MSc Biostatistics, MSc Yoga Therapy, MSc Medical Imaging, MPH (10 seats), MClin Psychology M.Clin.Psy (32 seats – new), MPhil Psychiatric Social Work, MPhil Psychiatric Nursing. Medical PG via INI CET – MD Psychiatry (41 seats), MD Ayurveda, DM Neurology (8 specializations), MCh Neurosurgery. Doctoral – PhD (25+ departments, ₹37,000-42,000/month stipend), Post Doctoral Fellowship (23 programs).
The NIMHANS MPH entrance exam 2026 is for admission to the 2-year Master of Public Health program (10 seats) at NIMHANS – India’s most specialized MPH focusing on mental health epidemiology and health systems. Eligibility: MBBS, BDS, BAMS, BSc Nursing, or PG degree in relevant fields with 55%+ marks. Exam date: Within May 29-31, 2026 window (Bengaluru only). Exam: 100 MCQs, 90 minutes, 0.25 negative marking. Syllabus: Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Health Policy, Community Mental Health, Global Health frameworks. Career: WHO, UNICEF, government health departments, mental health research institutions. Fees: ₹96,500 first year.
