How to Register for NTSE Board Exam 2024-25: Steps, Dates & Portal
The NTSE (National Talent Search Examination) Exam Pattern is a crucial document for students who aspire to receive the prestigious NTSE scholarship. The latest NTSE exam pattern has been released officially, and all exam aspirants are strongly advised to check the detailed structure and marking scheme directly on the official NCERT website: http://www.ncert.nic.in. Understanding the NTSE exam pattern helps you plan your revision, strategize subject-wise study, and maximize your chances of qualifying at both Stage 1 and Stage 2.
| NTSE Exam Pattern 2024 Highlights | Details |
|---|---|
| Conducting Body | National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) |
| Number of Stages | 2 (Stage I & Stage II) |
| Exam Mode | Offline (OMR based) |
| Medium | English & Hindi (candidates choose one) |
| Papers/Sections | MAT (Mental Ability Test) & SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) |
| Number of Questions | MAT: 100, SAT: 100 (Total 200 per stage) |
| Duration | 120 minutes per paper |
| Marking Scheme | +1 for each correct; No negative marking for wrong answers |
| Qualifying Marks | General: 40% in each paper; SC/ST/PH: 32% in each paper |
NTSE 2024 Exam Pattern Details
The NTSE is designed to be objective and covers two main sections in both stages—MAT & SAT. Both sections consist of multiple-choice questions (MCQs), and the exam is held only in the pen-and-paper mode.
- Mental Ability Test (MAT): 100 questions, 120 minutes
- Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT): 100 questions, 120 minutes
- No negative marking in either stage as per latest updates
- All questions carry one mark
- Medium of exam: English or Hindi (candidate's choice)
- Stage I is conducted by state boards; Stage II is conducted nationally by NCERT
- Only students who clear Stage I can appear for Stage II
SAT section includes questions from Science, Mathematics, Social Science, and sometimes English, based on the respective State/UT’s exam structure for Stage I. For Stage II, English is not a separate section, but language skills may be indirectly assessed.
NTSE Marking Scheme & Reservation
Every correct answer fetches 1 mark, and there is no penalty for incorrect or unattempted answers. To qualify, general category students must score at least 40% in each paper (MAT & SAT), while SC, ST, and physically challenged candidates must score at least 32% in each paper.
Reservation is also provided as per the following scheme:
- OBC: 27%
- SC: 15%
- ST: 7.5%
- Physically Disabled: 4%
- Economically Weaker Sections (EWS): 10% (latest addition)
How to Use the NTSE Exam Pattern for Preparation
Understanding the detailed NTSE exam pattern helps students map out their study strategy efficiently. You should:
- Prioritize subjects and sections with higher scoring potential based on your strengths.
- Practice class 10 Maths syllabus, Science, and Social Science topics thoroughly.
- Take timed mock tests simulating MAT and SAT paper structures to improve your time management skills.
- Focus on conceptual understanding, as NTSE questions test logical application rather than rote learning.
- Review state-wise syllabus, especially for Stage I as it might include certain regional content.
- Work on mental ability via regular practice with pattern-based questions and puzzles.
For comprehensive practice material, Vedantu offers expertly designed probability solutions and chapter-wise solutions for a variety of state boards to help you ace every section of NTSE.
NTSE Syllabus: What to Study
The NTSE syllabus is typically based on the curriculum of Class 9 and 10. It covers:
- Mental Ability (matrices, analogies, classification, series, coding-decoding)
- Mathematics (algebra, geometry, arithmetic, mensuration, statistics)
- Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology — as per state board Class 10)
- Social Science (History, Geography, Economics, Civics)
Explore the complete Class 10 Syllabus for deeper insights and organized study materials that align with NTSE requirements.
About the NTSE Conducting Board
The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) is responsible for designing, updating, and conducting the National Talent Search Examination (NTSE) in India. NCERT is known for its credible academic framework and fair assessment structures, ensuring students from all states get a uniform opportunity to compete for scholarships. To access NTSE updates directly, visit the official NCERT website.
Recommended Resources for NTSE Preparation
For students seeking an edge in their preparation, Vedantu has curated a wide collection of board-specific resources and solutions designed as per the latest NTSE exam pattern:
- Practise Class 10 English solutions and subject-wise exercises for a smoother NTSE journey.
- For Science, access curated notes and solutions from Science syllabus resources.
- Optimize Social Science prep with updated syllabus notes aligning with NTSE SAT pattern.
Staying updated on the exact NTSE exam pattern is essential for every aspirant. Always check the official NCERT portal and utilize Vedantu’s subject-wise preparation tools and solutions to maximize your success in the National Talent Search Examination.
FAQs on NTSE Board: Full Exam Details, Registration & Syllabus
1. What is the full form of NTSE board?
NTSE stands for National Talent Search Examination board.
The NTSE is a national-level scholarship program and one of the most prestigious exams conducted in India for students of class 10th to identify and nurture talented students.
2. What is the NTSE scholarship exam?
The NTSE scholarship exam is a national-level competitive examination in India.
It aims to identify talented students of class 10th and provide them with financial support throughout their academic journey. The exam is conducted in two stages and tests subjects like Mental Ability, Mathematics, Science, and Social Science.
3. What is SSC board school?
An SSC board school is a school affiliated to the Secondary School Certificate (SSC) education board.
The SSC is a public examination system in several Indian states, covering classes 10 (Secondary level), with its curriculum and exams conducted by the respective state boards.
4. What is a good score in NTSE?
A good score in the NTSE usually means securing marks above the cut-off for your respective category and state.
- Typical cut-off marks for NTSE Stage 1 range between 85-145 out of 200, varying by state and category.
- Selecting for Stage 2 or a national reward may require higher marks, often above 150, for general category.
Note: The actual cut-off changes yearly based on paper difficulty and number of candidates.
5. When is the NTSE exam date 2024?
As of now, the NTSE exam date for 2024 has not been officially announced.
Candidates should regularly check the official website or notifications from their State/UT education boards for updates regarding the application and exam schedule.
6. How do I fill the NTSE registration form for 2024-25?
To fill out the NTSE registration form for 2024-25, follow these steps:
- Visit the official NTSE portal of your respective state/UT or the NCERT NTSE website.
- Download or fill the online application form as per instructions.
- Attach necessary documents and pay the required fee.
- Submit the form before the deadline, keeping a copy for reference.
7. What is the NTSE scholarship amount?
The NTSE scholarship provides financial assistance at various stages of higher education.
- Rs. 1,250 per month for class XI and XII
- Rs. 2,000 per month for UG and PG courses
- PhD students receive scholarships as per UGC norms
8. What is the official website for NTSE registration?
The official NTSE registration website is the NCERT website (ncert.nic.in). Some state/UT boards also have specific NTSE portals for registration and updates.
Check both NCERT and your state education department site for application forms and notifications.
9. What is the NTSE syllabus?
The NTSE syllabus generally covers topics from class IX and X in Science, Mathematics, Social Science, and Mental Ability.
- Mental Ability Test (MAT): Reasoning, series, patterns, coding-decoding, etc.
- Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT): Maths, Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology), Social Science (History, Geography, Civics, Economics)
Refer to the detailed syllabus provided by NCERT for updates and topic-wise breakdown.
10. How do I log in to the NTSE board portal?
To log in to the NTSE board portal, visit your state/UT's NTSE registration website or the NCERT portal.
- Click on the 'Applicant Login' or 'Student Login' section.
- Enter your registration/application number and password.
- Access your profile to view application status, admit card, and results.
11. What is NTSB board and who are its members?
The NTSB stands for National Transportation Safety Board, a US federal agency unrelated to NTSE. Its board includes five members appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate, including positions like Chairman and Vice Chairman.
12. What is the process for NTSE board meeting and decisions?
NTSE-related decisions in India are usually made by NCERT committees and State Boards, not formal 'board meetings.' Major procedures include announcement of guidelines, exam timelines, and results publication as per the academic schedule set by authorities.
