Lovely Professional University has opened the online registration for its Phase 1 entrance exam

Aspiring engineers, attention Lovely Professional University (LPU) has opened the online registration for the LPU NEST 2026 Phase 1 entrance exam. The application window is open from October 14, 2025, until January 15, 2026. This exam is crucial for B.Tech admission and securing significant scholarships. Candidates can book slots starting December 10, 2025. This comprehensive guide provides all the necessary details, including key dates, the exam pattern, and preparation tips for the remotely proctored and center-based tests. Apply now to secure your seat and maximize your scholarship potential.

The journey for aspiring engineers seeking admission into one of India’s largest and most sought-after private universities has officially begun. Lovely Professional University (LPU) has launched the Phase 1 application window for its national-level entrance and scholarship test, the LPU National Entrance and Scholarship Test (LPU NEST) 2026. For students aiming for a B.Tech degree in the 2026 academic session, this is the most opportune time to secure admission and simultaneously qualify for substantial scholarships.

​The online registration process commenced on October 14, 2025, giving candidates a significant preparation and application window. This early phase is particularly beneficial, as it allows applicants to appear for the test at a lower competition level compared to later phases, thus increasing their chances of securing higher scholarship brackets. The LPU NEST is the gateway not just for admission into various B.Tech programmes like Computer Science Engineering (CSE), Electronics, Mechanical, and others, but also a compulsory criterion for availing the university’s merit-based scholarship scheme, which can significantly reduce the overall tuition fees.

​ Crucial Dates for LPU NEST 2026 Phase 1 Applicants

​Phase 1 offers the earliest opportunity to appear for the exam, which is strategically important for securing both a confirmed seat and the best possible scholarship. Aspirants must strictly adhere to the following dates to avoid missing out.

• ​Online Registration Starts: October 14, 2025
• ​Last Date to Apply and Book Slot:January 15, 2026 
  • ​Note: It is highly recommended to apply and book your slot much earlier than this deadline, as slots are allotted on a first-come, first-served basis, especially for the remotely proctored option.
• ​Slot Booking Begins: December 10, 2025 onwards 
  • ​Action: Once the booking opens, candidates must log in to their application portal to choose their preferred date and time for the test.
• ​Entrance Examination Dates (Two Modes):
  • ​Remotely Proctored Exam (From Home): January 10 to February 5, 2026
  • ​Test Centre-Based Exam: January 20 to February 5, 2026
• ​Result Declaration (Tentative): February 8, 2026

​ Understanding the LPU NEST B.Tech Exam Pattern

​The LPU NEST for B.Tech admission is designed to assess the candidate’s knowledge across core science subjects, English, and a quantitative section, closely aligning with the Class 11 and 12 curriculum. Notably, the exam maintains a student-friendly approach with no negative marking, encouraging candidates to attempt all questions.

• ​Exam Structure & Duration (Total 100 Questions / 400 Marks): 
  • ​The exam duration is 2 hours 30 minutes (150 minutes).
  • ​It is a Computer-Based Test (CBT) available in two modes (Remotely Proctored and Centre-Based).
  • ​Question Distribution: 
    • ​Physics: 25 Questions (20 MCQs + 5 Fill-in-the-Blanks)
    • ​Chemistry: 25 Questions (20 MCQs + 5 Fill-in-the-Blanks)
    • ​Mathematics/Biology: 25 Questions (Candidates choose one based on their stream preference).
    • ​English: 25 Questions
• ​Marking Scheme: 
  • ​Correct Answer: +4 Marks
  • ​Incorrect Answer/Unattempted: 0 Marks (No Negative Marking)
• ​Syllabus Focus: The syllabus is primarily based on the NCERT curriculum for Classes 11 and 12. Key areas include Electrostatics and Mechanics in Physics, Chemical Bonding and Organic Chemistry in Chemistry, and Calculus and Algebra in Mathematics.

​Maximizing Scholarship and Admission Potential

​The LPU NEST score is not just an entry ticket; it's the primary determinant for the scholarship amount, which is tiered based on the candidate's performance (usually ranks/scores). Applying in Phase 1 provides the best opportunity to qualify for the highest scholarship slab.

• ​Scholarship Brackets: 
  • ​The scholarship is typically offered in three categories: Bracket 1, Bracket 2, and Bracket 3, with Bracket 1 offering the maximum percentage waiver on the program fee.
  • ​Higher Rank = Higher Scholarship: Since Phase 1 occurs early, a focused preparation can result in a higher rank, thereby securing a superior scholarship.
• ​Dual Examination Mode Advantage:
  • ​Remotely Proctored Test: LPU offers the convenience of taking the exam from home, monitored by AI tools and a live invigilator. This saves travel time and cost. Students must ensure they meet all the technical requirements (stable internet, webcam, etc.) beforehand.
  • ​Centre-Based Test: For those who prefer a traditional exam environment, a test-centre option is available from January 20, 2026.
• ​Admission & Counselling:
  • ​Results are usually declared a few days after the exam phase concludes. Online counselling and seat allocation begin shortly after, tentatively from February 8, 2026. Early applicants have the advantage of choosing from a wider array of B.Tech specializations before seats are filled up in later phases.

​Conclusion

​The opening of the LPU NEST 2026 Phase 1 application marks a pivotal moment for Class 12 students and droppers aiming for a distinguished engineering career. With the application window closing on January 15, 2026, and slot booking starting on December 10, 2025, a timely and strategic approach is essential. The non-existence of negative marking should encourage aspirants to be thorough with the syllabus and attempt the maximum number of questions to secure a top rank, ensuring both admission into their desired B.Tech program and access to the highest possible scholarship. Don't delay—your engineering success starts with securing your LPU NEST slot today.

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