The application link for the national-level entrance test has been activated for aspirants seeking admission to LPU’s 2026 programs.

Lovely Professional University (LPU) has activated the application portal for LPU NEST 2026, the essential entrance and scholarship test for B.Tech aspirants. The application deadline is January 15, 2026. Candidates can choose flexible exam modes: remotely proctored (Jan 10-Feb 5) or centre-based (Jan 20-Feb 5). LPU NEST is your primary route for admission and a major factor in scholarship awards. Learn about the multi-mode application process, key dates for slot booking, and exam pattern details to ensure a successful application.

The race for B.Tech admissions in 2026 is officially underway! Lovely Professional University (LPU), a leading private university known for its large campus, diverse programs, and high placements, has announced the opening of registrations for its prestigious entrance and scholarship exam, the LPU National Entrance and Scholarship Test (LPU NEST) 2026. Aspiring engineers can now apply for the crucial Phase 1 schedule through the official admissions portal: admissions.lpu.in.

​LPU NEST 2026 is not just an entrance test; it is the primary mechanism for determining eligibility for various B.Tech programs and the gateway to availing substantial scholarships, which can significantly reduce the overall cost of the degree. The university is offering unprecedented flexibility for the test this year, with options for both a Remotely Proctored Exam (RPE)—taken from the safety and comfort of home—and a traditional Test Centre-Based Exam. With a strict application deadline of January 15, 2026, for Phase 1, candidates are urged to complete their application and secure their preferred exam slot without delay.

​ LPU NEST 2026: Application Modes, Deadlines, and Fee Structure

​LPU has streamlined the application process by providing multiple modes to accommodate students from all regions, ensuring convenience and accessibility.

• ​Crucial Dates for Phase 1 (January Schedule):
  • ​Last Date to Apply and Book Slot:January 15, 2026 (This is a hard deadline to remember for Phase 1).
  • ​Online Slot Booking Start Date: Slot booking, where candidates choose their preferred date and time for the exam, begins on December 10, 2025, and is done on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • ​Exam Dates (Remotely Proctored Exam):January 10 to February 5, 2026. This is a flexible option allowing candidates to test from home under strict digital supervision.
  • ​Exam Dates (Test Centre-Based Exam):January 20 to February 5, 2026. This option caters to those who prefer a traditional testing environment.
  • ​Result Declaration: Expected on February 8, 2026, generally within 72 working hours of the exam.
• ​Three Flexible Application Modes:
  • ​Online Mode (Recommended): Candidates sign up on the LPU NEST portal, fill the application form, pay the requisite fee online, and then proceed to slot booking. This is the fastest and most convenient method.
  • ​Offline Mode: Candidates purchase the LPU NEST kit—a printed application form and information brochure—from the university campus or designated centres. The application is filled in manually (OMR sheet) and sent to the university address.
  • ​Semi-Offline Mode: For candidates who purchased the hard-copy LPU NEST kit but prefer to submit their details digitally. They can use the Unique OMR Code provided in the kit to complete the application form and payment online.
• ​Application Fee Details (Mandatory LPU NEST Kit Cost): 
  • ​Soft Copy of LPU NEST Kit (Online Application): ₹1000 (For both Boys and Girls).
  • ​Printed Copy (Hard Copy) of LPU NEST Kit: ₹1500 (For both Boys and Girls).
  • ​Note: The fee is paid once to obtain the mandatory LPU NEST kit, which is essential for registration.

​B.Tech Eligibility, Exam Pattern, and Scholarship Opportunities

​The LPU NEST is specifically designed to assess a candidate's aptitude in key Class 11 and 12 subjects. Qualifying in the exam is the gateway to both admission and merit-based scholarship.

• ​Mandatory Eligibility Criteria for B.Tech:
  • ​Academic Qualification: The candidate must have passed or be appearing in the Class 12 (10+2 scheme) examination from a recognised board (CBSE, ICSE, or State Boards).
  • ​Minimum Marks: A minimum aggregate of 60% in Class 12 or equivalent is required. The subjects considered are Physics, Mathematics, and English.
  • ​Subject Relaxation: For certain B.Tech specialisations like Biotechnology or Biomedical Engineering, candidates with Physics, Chemistry, English, and Mathematics or Biology/Biotechnology in Class 12 are also eligible.
  • ​Mark Relaxation: A relaxation of 5% in aggregate marks is available for candidates from North-East states, Sikkim, Defence personnel, and Wards of Kashmiri Migrants.
• ​LPU NEST 2026 Exam Pattern (B.Tech):
  • ​Mode: Computer-Based Test (CBT), offered as either Remotely Proctored or Centre-Based.
  • ​Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes (150 minutes).
  • ​Subjects & Question Split: The test consists of four main sections, with a total of 100 questions.  
    • ​Physics: 25 Questions
    • ​Chemistry: 25 Questions
    • ​Mathematics or Biology: 25 Questions (Candidates choose one based on their B.Tech preference)
    • ​English: 25 Questions
  • ​Marking Scheme: +4 marks for every correct answer. Crucially, there is NO NEGATIVE MARKING, allowing candidates to attempt all questions without fear of penalty.
• ​The Power of Scholarship:
  • ​LPU NEST is highly significant as its scores determine the level of scholarship a student is eligible for. Scholarships are typically awarded in categories based on the rank secured in the test.
  • ​Securing a high rank not only guarantees admission but also ensures access to the highest scholarship slabs, which can significantly reduce the tuition fees. This dual benefit makes a focused preparation strategy for LPU NEST essential.

​ Remote Proctored vs. Centre-Based Exam: Choosing Your Test Mode

​LPU offers flexibility with two distinct examination modes. Aspirants must weigh the pros and cons to make an informed choice that suits their resources and comfort level.

• ​Remotely Proctored Exam (RPE) Details:
  • ​Convenience: Take the exam from any isolated location (preferably home) with a stable internet connection.
  • ​Technology Requirement: Two devices are mandatory: A desktop/laptop (primary device with webcam and microphone) and a smartphone (secondary device acting as a "third eye").
  • ​Invigilation: The exam is strictly monitored live through Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools and human invigilators to maintain academic integrity.
  • ​Schedule: Runs from January 10 to February 5, 2026.
• ​Test Centre-Based Exam Details:
  • ​Environment: Exam is taken at a designated LPU Test Centre, eliminating concerns about personal internet speed or mandatory dual-device requirements.
  • ​Support: Technical support is readily available at the centre.
  • ​Schedule: Runs from January 20 to February 5, 2026.
• ​Key Decision Point: Candidates with reliable high-speed internet and the mandatory dual-device setup may choose the RPE for convenience. Those concerned about technical hiccups or seeking a traditional environment should opt for the Test Centre-Based exam. The choice must be made during the slot booking process starting December 10, 2025.

​Conclusion

​The activation of the LPU NEST 2026 application link signals the start of a crucial admission cycle for B.Tech aspirants. The dual benefit of securing admission and qualifying for significant scholarships makes the LPU NEST a high-stakes examination. With a generous application window until January 15, 2026, for Phase 1, and the flexibility of both remotely proctored and centre-based examination options, aspirants have every reason to apply promptly at admissions.lpu.in. Start your application now, book your preferred slot from December 10, 2025, and begin a focused study plan that targets the 100-question, no-negative-marking exam pattern to maximize your scholarship potential.

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