LPU National Entrance and Scholarship Test Overview 2026
LPU National Entrance and Scholarship Test Overview
LPUNEST 2026 Application Process
The application process for LPUNEST 2026 has started and will continue till 25th January 2026. Candidates can apply online on the official website, lpu.in/nest.
The application fee is Rs. 1000 for both boys and girls. Submitting this fee completes the application process.
LPUNEST 2026 Exam Dates
The LPUNEST Exam will be held in remotely proctored mode from January 10 to February 5, 2026. The centre-based test will be conducted from January 20 to February 5, 2026.
- LPUNEST Slot booking 2026 will start from 10th December 2025.
- The LPUNEST Result will be released on 8th February 2026.
LPUNEST 2026 Exam Pattern
The LPUNEST Exam will be held in an online CBT Mode, in both remote and test centre ways. The exam will include 125 MCQs, which should be completed in 150 minutes.
The total marks will differ as per the course. The marking scheme is +4 for correct answer, with no negative marking.
LPUNEST 2026 Syllabus
The LPUNEST Syllabus will include NCERT Class 11 and 12 topics from Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics/Biology, English, and Logical Reasoning. Candidates should practice mock tests and previous year papers for better time management and accuracy.
What is LPUNEST 2026?
The LPUNEST 2026 Exam will be conducted by LPU for admission in various UG and PG Programs such as B.Tech, MBA, LAW, Agriculture, Design and others. The LPUNEST will act as a scholarship test, which will provide candidates financial assistance according to their performance.
LPUNEST 2026 Highlights
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Lovely Professional University National Entrance and Scholarship Test (LPUNEST) |
| Conducting Authority | Lovely Professional University (LPU), Phagwara |
| Exam Level | University Level |
| Purpose | Admission and Scholarship Test for UG & PG Programs |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Registration Dates | Ongoing – till January 25, 2026 |
| Slot Booking | Starts from December 10, 2025 |
| Exam Mode | Online (Remotely Proctored & Centre-based) |
| Exam Dates (Remote) | January 10 – February 5, 2026 |
| Exam Dates (Centre) | January 20 – February 5, 2026 |
| Total Questions | 125 (MCQs) |
| Total Marks | 500 |
| Duration | 150 minutes |
| Marking Scheme | +4 for correct answer, no negative marking |
| Result Declaration | February 8, 2026 |
| Admission Deadline | February 25, 2026 |
| Application Fee | ₹1,000 for both boys and girls |
| Official Website | www.lpu.in/nest |
Use of LPUNEST Exam
The LPUNEST Exam is used as an entrance exam, admission and scholarship test for different UG and PG Programs offered by LPU.
| Purpose | Description |
|---|---|
| Admission Test | Determines eligibility for programs like B.Tech, MBA, Law, and more. |
| Scholarship Test | Offers scholarships up to 100% based on performance. |
| Stream Selection | Helps in selecting eligible courses based on aptitude. |
LPUNEST Eligibility Criteria
The LPUNEST Eligibility will differ according to the program. For B.Tech candidates, candidates should have passed class 12 with physics, mathematics and English.
| Program | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|
| B.Tech | 10+2 with 60% aggregate in PCM/PCB |
| MBA | Graduation with a minimum of 55% aggregate |
| Law (LLB) | 10+2 with 60% aggregate in any stream |
| M.Tech | B.Tech or equivalent with 60% marks |
LPUNEST 2026 Important Dates
The official schedule for LPUNEST 2026 has been announced. The registration process is currently open, and applications will be accepted until 25th January 2026.
The exam will be conducted in two modes. The remotely proctored exam will be held from 10th January to 5th February 2026, and the centre-based exam will be held from 20th January to 5th February 2026.
| Dates | Event |
|---|---|
| Ongoing | Application Form Release |
| January 25, 2026 | Last Date to Apply |
| December 10, 2025 | Slot Booking Begins |
| January 10 – February 5, 2026 | Remotely Proctored Exam |
| January 20 – February 5, 2026 | Centre-Based Exam |
| February 8, 2026 | Result Declaration |
| February 25, 2026 | Last Date for Admission |
LPUNEST 2026 Registration Process
The LPUNEST registration process is conducted online on the official website. Candidates must register, fill in personal and academic details, upload documents, pay the application fee, and book their exam slot.
LPUNEST 2026 Registration Fees
The registration fee varies according to the gender of the candidate and the mode of application. The fee can be paid online using a credit card, debit card, or net banking.
| Category | Application Mode | Boys | Girls |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online Application | (Using Digital Payment) | ₹1,000 | ₹1,000 |
| Offline Application | (Using LPUNEST Kit) | ₹1,500 | ₹1,500 |
LPUNEST 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Candidates should check the LPUNEST 2026 eligibility criteria before applying for the entrance exam. Only Indian nationals are eligible to apply.
Applicants must have completed, or must be appearing in 2026 for, the final examination of 10+2 from CBSE, ICSE, State Board, or any other Council, Institution, or college.
LPUNEST for BTech: Sessions and Placement
The LPUNEST for B.Tech is conducted multiple times every year in 3 sessions. The exam is held in three phases with different timelines.
| Phase | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Phase 1 | January – February |
| Phase 2 | April – May |
| Phase 3 | June – July |
LPU has high placement opportunities in top companies.
- More than 90% of candidates get placed every year.
- The highest package is more than Rs. 2.5 crore.
- The average B.Tech package is Rs. 6 to 7 LPA.
- The top recruiters are Microsoft, Amazon, Infosys, and Wipro.
LPUNEST 2026 Eligibility Criteria
LPUNEST eligibility depends on the program. Each course has its own qualification, marks, and subject requirements.
| LPUNEST Exam | Qualification Examination | Marks Required | Mandatory Subjects Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| B.Tech | 10+2 or equivalent completed or appearing in 2026 | 60% | English, Physics, Chemistry, Maths or Biology or Biotechnology |
| Agriculture | 10+2 or equivalent completed or appearing in 2026 | 60% | English, Physics, Chemistry, Maths or Biology or Agriculture |
| Design* | 10+2 or equivalent completed or appearing in 2026 | 50% | English |
| Hotel Management* | 10+2 or equivalent completed or appearing in 2026 | 50% | English |
| Law | Graduation from UGC-recognised university or college | 60% | - |
| MBA | Completed or appearing in the final semester of a bachelor’s degree | 55% | - |
| LLM | LLB | 60% | - |
LPUNEST 2026 Courses Offered
LPUNEST is an entrance exam and scholarship test for UG and PG programs at LPU. It covers Engineering, Management, Law, Agriculture, Design, and Hotel Management.
Below is the list of major courses offered through LPUNEST 2026:
| Stream / Discipline | Courses Offered |
|---|---|
| Engineering | B.Tech, B.Tech (Hons), Integrated B.Tech + MBA, M.Tech |
| Management | BBA, Integrated BBA + MBA, MBA (Various Specialisations) |
| Law | BA LLB (Hons), BBA LLB (Hons), LLB, LLM |
| Agriculture | B.Sc (Hons) Agriculture, M.Sc Agriculture |
| Design | B.Des, M.Des (Fashion, Interior, Product, Multimedia Design) |
| Hotel Management & Tourism | BHMCT, B.Sc Hotel Management, MBA Tourism & Hospitality |
| Sciences | B.Sc (Biotech, Microbiology, Chemistry, Physics, Maths), M.Sc (various disciplines) |
| Pharmacy | B.Pharm, M.Pharm |
| Architecture & Planning | B.Arch, B.Plan, M.Plan |
| Computer Applications | BCA, MCA |
| Arts & Humanities | BA, MA (English, Psychology, Sociology, Political Science, etc.) |
| Commerce | B.Com (Hons), M.Com |
Can I join LPU without LPUNEST?
Some programs allow direct admission without LPUNEST. Admission is based on Class 12 marks or national-level exam scores.
| Admission Mode | Accepted Criteria |
|---|---|
| Direct Admission | Class 12 marks |
| Alternate Exams | JEE Main, CAT, MAT, CUET, etc. |
How to qualify for LPUNEST?
Candidates must meet the minimum qualifying marks or cutoff percentile. The cutoff is released after the exam.
- Securing above 30% marks in LPUNEST.
- Check course-wise cutoffs, which will be released post-exam.
- With high scores, candidates can get better scholarships.
LPUNEST 2026 Exam Pattern
The exam pattern for LPUNEST 2026 differs for each program. The table below shows the pattern for the B.Tech course.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Mode | Online |
| Duration of Examination | 2 Hours 30 Minutes |
| Medium of Language | English |
| Sections |
|
| Nature of Question | Objective, i.e., Multiple Choice Questions |
| Total Number of Questions | 120 Questions |
| Marking Scheme |
|
Note: Candidates must not carry any paper or pens to the exam centre. Rough sheets will be provided at the centre.
Is the LPUNEST exam tough?
LPUNEST has a moderate difficulty level. It is comparable to board exams and slightly easier than JEE Main.
| Section | Difficulty Level |
|---|---|
| Physics | Moderate |
| Chemistry | Easy to Moderate |
| Mathematics/Biology | Moderate |
| English | Easy |
How many marks is LPUNEST?
The LPUNEST exam is of 120 marks. It includes 120 MCQs from PCM/PCB subjects.
LPUNEST 2026 Exam Pattern
The LPUNEST 2026 exam has a total of 120 marks. The exam contains 120 multiple-choice questions (MCQs).
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Marks | 120 |
| Total Questions | 120 |
| Mark per Question | 1 |
| Negative Marking | None |
For the B.Tech exam, the paper is divided into four sections. Each section has 30 questions and carries 30 marks.
| Section | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Physics | 30 | 30 |
| Chemistry | 30 | 30 |
| Mathematics/Biology | 30 | 30 |
| English | 30 | 30 |
LPUNEST 2026 Syllabus
The complete LPUNEST 2026 syllabus for different courses is mentioned on the official website. Students can find a detailed syllabus on the official website.
- The question for the LPUNEST 2026 MBA exam will be asked from English, General Awareness, and General Aptitude.
- For B.Tech LPUNEST 2026, the syllabus from Class 12th will be asked. Candidates need to prepare for subjects like physics, chemistry, English, mathematics/biology.
- In the Law exam, the topics will be picked from the Quantitative and Logical Aptitude, Legal Reasoning, Legal Reasoning and English.
Some of the important topics for the B.Tech LPUNEST 2026 exam are mentioned below:
| Sections | Important Topics |
|---|---|
| Physics | Motion; Kinematics, Gravitation & Oscillation; Thermal Physics; Electricity & Magnetism; Atomic Structure & Optics; Electrical & Electronics |
| Chemistry | Atomic Structure; States of Matter; Thermodynamics; Solutions; Chemical Kinetics; Surface Chemistry |
| Mathematics | Algebra; Matrices & Determinants; Vectors; Reasoning; Permutation & Combination; Binomial Theorem |
| Biology | Diversity & Structural Organisation; Plant Physiology; Human Physiology; Reproduction; Genetics & Evolution |
LPUNEST Qualifying Marks
The Candidates have to score 30% of total marks to qualify for the same. The qualifying marks vary by category.
| Category | Qualifying Marks (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| General | 36 out of 120 |
| SC/ST | 30 out of 120 |
LPUNEST 2026 Preparation Strategy
To perform well in LPUNEST 2026, the candidates should follow a proper preparation strategy. The LPUNEST Exam will test the candidates' conceptual clarity, speed and accuracy in different subjects like Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics/Biology, English and Aptitude.
The LPUNEST Difficulty level is moderate, for which topic-wise weightage and time management is important for scoring high. Below is a data-oriented preparation strategy for LPUNEST 2026:
| Section / Area | Key Topics to Focus On | Recommended Study Time (Daily) | Weightage / Marks Distribution | Preparation Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Physics | Mechanics, Thermodynamics, Electricity, Modern Physics | 2 hrs | 25% (20 Questions) | Focus on NCERT concepts; practice numerical problems daily. |
| Chemistry | Physical Chemistry formulas, Organic Reactions, Inorganic trends | 1.5 hrs | 25% (20 Questions) | Revise reaction mechanisms; use flashcards for inorganic chemistry. |
| Mathematics / Biology | Calculus, Algebra, Coordinate Geometry / Genetics, Ecology, Human Physiology | 2 hrs | 25% (20 Questions) | Solve previous years’ LPUNEST papers and topic-wise MCQs. |
| English | Grammar, Vocabulary, Comprehension | 1 hr | 15% (12 Questions) | Read English newspapers and practice reading comprehension daily. |
| Aptitude (For MBA / BBA) | Logical Reasoning, Quantitative Ability, Data Interpretation | 1.5 hrs | 10% (8 Questions) | Practice sectional tests and analyse the accuracy rate regularly. |
LPUNEST 2026 Scholarships
The LPUNEST offers comprehensive scholarship programs in India by LPUNEST 2026. The Scholarships are given based on LPUNEST Scores, national-level exam and academic performance in class 12 and graduation.
LPU will accept class 12 marks for admissions and scholarships in some programs.
LPUNEST 2026 Cutoff
The LPUNEST Cutoff is the minimum qualifying marks a candidate needs to get admission and a scholarship at LPU. The cutoff is not fixed and depends on the exam's difficulty, the number of applicants, and seat availability.
The top 35 to 40% of candidates qualify for a scholarship. Candidates scoring above 70% marks fall under the bracket 1 scholarship.
Here is a data-oriented overview of the expected LPUNEST 2026 cutoff trends:
- More than 80,000 candidates are expected to appear for LPUNEST 2026 across all sessions.
- In B.Tech programs, a score of around 85+ marks will place a candidate in the top 10th percentile, guaranteeing admission on a scholarship.
- MBA candidates need to score above 75 marks in LPUNEST or have a CAT percentile above 85 to ensure a top-bracket scholarship.
| Category / Bracket | Expected LPUNEST Score Range | Percentile Range | Scholarship Eligibility | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bracket I (Top Category) | 90–100 marks | 85–100 percentile | Up to 70% fee waiver | For top-performing candidates, applicable to most B.Tech & MBA aspirants |
| Bracket II | 75–89 marks | 70–84 percentile | Up to 50% fee waiver | Moderate competition; eligible for mid-level scholarships |
| Bracket III | 60–74 marks | 55–69 percentile | Up to 30% fee waiver | Minimum score required for basic scholarship |
| General Admission Cutoff | 50–59 marks | 40–54 percentile | Admission Eligible (No Scholarship) | Qualifying score for most programs |
| Low-tier Programs (e.g., Arts, Commerce) | 40–50 marks | 30–39 percentile | Admission Eligible | Only a few seats available; lower competition |
LPU Cutoff for MBA
LPU accepts LPUNEST scores along with CAT, MAT, XAT, or NMAT scores for admission to MBA courses. The expected cutoff percentiles for these exams are listed below.
| Exam | Expected Cutoff Percentile |
|---|---|
| LPUNEST | 70–75 percentile |
| CAT | 60–65 percentile |
| MAT | 70+ percentile |
Fee for CSE at LPU
For B.Tech CSE, the average tuition fees at LPU range from Rs. 1.6 to 2.5 lakh per semester, depending on the scholarship. The fee structure based on scholarship category is as follows.
| Category | Per Semester Fee (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Without a Scholarship | ₹2,50,000 |
| With a 50% Scholarship | ₹1,25,000 |
| With a 100% Scholarship | ₹0 |
Direct Admission and Scholarship Eligibility
Direct admission is possible for some courses based on merit and national exam scores. A candidate with 70% marks in Class 12 is eligible for direct admission, and scholarships are available for high board exam scores.
| Basis of Admission | Accepted Criteria |
|---|---|
| Merit-Based | 12th Board marks |
| Exam-Based | JEE Main, CUET, CAT, MAT |
LPUNEST 2026 Results and Counselling
The LPUNEST Results are expected to be released on 8th February 2026 for all candidates who appeared in the remotely proctored or centre-based exam. The result can be obtained from the official LPU Admission portal using the candidate's login credentials.
The LPUNEST Scorecard will show the overall score, rank, and scholarship category. The counselling process and important tentative dates are outlined below.
| Event | Details | Important Dates (Tentative) |
|---|---|---|
| LPUNEST 2026 Result Declaration | Results for both remote and centre-based exams have been released online | February 8, 2026 |
| Scorecard Details | Candidate’s score, percentile, rank, and scholarship bracket | Available via LPU login portal |
| Counselling Registration | Eligible candidates register for counselling and program selection | 8 February onwards |
| Seat Allotment Rounds | Allotment based on rank, preferences, and availability | February 8 to 10 (Round 1) & February 12 to 20, 2026 (Round 2) |
| Document Verification | Online or in-person verification of academic and identity proofs | Along with seat allotment |
| Admission Confirmation | Payment of the initial fee to confirm the allotted seat | Till February 25, 2026 |
How Many Attempts Are Allowed for LPUNEST?
Candidates can attempt the LPUNEST exam 3 times in a year in different phases.
- The best score will be considered among all the attempts.
- Each session will have a different registration.
Which Courses Is LPU Known For?
The LPU exam is known for B.Tech (CSE), MBA, and Design programs.
| Popular Courses | Specializations |
|---|---|
| B.Tech | CSE, AI, Data Science |
| MBA | Marketing, HR, Finance |
| Design | Fashion, Interior, Product |
Is LPU a Private or Government University?
LPU is a private university under the LPU Act 2005 by the Punjab state government.
It is recognised by UGC and AICTE, under the NAAC A++ Accredited.
What Is the Highest Placement Package at LPU?
LPU has one of the highest placement packages among private universities.
| Year | Highest Package | Company |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | ₹2.5 crore | International (Tech Firm) |
| 2023 | ₹62 LPA | Amazon |
| 2022 | ₹46 LPA | Microsoft |
Is LPUNEST Tough?
The difficulty level of LPU is moderate, focusing on conceptual understanding rather than major learning.
- It is the same as the Class 12 syllabus.
- Time management and NCERT will help to score better.
Is LPUNEST Necessary for B.Tech Admission?
LPUNEST is required for scholarship-based admission, but it is not compulsory if applying through JEE Main.
| Admission Pathway | Requirement |
|---|---|
| LPUNEST | Needed for scholarship and admission |
| JEE Main | Direct admission accepted |
How Much Scholarship Can Be Earned Through LPUNEST?
LPUNEST scholarships range from 10% to 100% according to the LPUNEST score.
| Scholarship Bracket | LPUNEST Score Range | Scholarship % |
|---|---|---|
| Bracket I | Top 10% | 100% |
| Bracket II | Next 20% | 50% |
| Bracket III | Next 30% | 30% |
Does LPU Offer Scholarships?
Yes, LPU offers scholarships according to LPUNEST, board marks, national exams, and sports quota.
- More than 100 crore scholarships are awarded on an annual basis.
- It is based on merit, LPUNEST score, or performance basis.
How to Get a Free Seat at LPU?
Candidates can get a free seat at LPU through a 100% scholarship, if the LPUNEST score is among the top 10 percentile of candidates.
- Apply early and score high in LPUNEST to be eligible for the scholarship.
- 100% scholarships are awarded under Bracket I.
LPU National Entrance and Scholarship Test (LPUNEST) Overview
LPUNEST is the entrance and scholarship test for Lovely Professional University (LPU). It is used for admission and for determining scholarship amounts.
Number of Attempts for LPUNEST
Candidates can attempt the LPUNEST exam 3 times in a year in different phases. The best score among all attempts is considered.
Each attempt requires a separate registration.
Courses Offered by LPU
LPU is known for its B.Tech (CSE), MBA, and Design programs. These are the popular courses and their specializations:
- B.Tech: CSE, AI, Data Science
- MBA: Marketing, HR, Finance
- Design: Fashion, Interior, Product
University Status and Accreditation
LPU is a private university established under the LPU Act 2005 by the Punjab state government. It is recognised by UGC and AICTE.
The university holds NAAC A++ accreditation.
Placement Records
LPU has recorded some of the highest placement packages among private universities. The highest packages in recent years are listed below.
| Year | Highest Package | Company |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 2.5 crore | International (Tech Firm) |
| 2023 | 62 LPA | Amazon |
| 2022 | 46 LPA | Microsoft |
Exam Difficulty Level
The difficulty level of LPUNEST is moderate. The exam focuses on conceptual understanding rather than rote learning.
The syllabus is the same as the Class 12 syllabus. Time management and NCERT preparation can help in scoring better.
LPUNEST Requirement for B.Tech Admission
LPUNEST is required for scholarship-based admission, but it is not compulsory if applying through JEE Main. The admission pathways are listed below.
| Admission Pathway | Requirement |
|---|---|
| LPUNEST | Needed for scholarship and admission |
| JEE Main | Direct admission accepted |
Scholarship Structure Based on LPUNEST Score
LPUNEST scholarships range from 10% to 100% based on the score. The scholarship brackets are as follows:
| Scholarship Bracket | LPUNEST Score Range | Scholarship % |
|---|---|---|
| Bracket I | Top 10% | 100% |
| Bracket II | Next 20% | 50% |
| Bracket III | Next 30% | 30% |
Other Scholarship Opportunities
LPU offers scholarships based on LPUNEST scores, board marks, national exams, and sports quota. More than 100 crore in scholarships is awarded annually.
Scholarships are awarded on merit, LPUNEST score, or performance basis.
How to Get a Free Seat at LPU
A free seat at LPU can be obtained through a 100% scholarship. This requires scoring in the top 10 percentile of LPUNEST candidates.
Candidates should apply early and score high in LPUNEST to be eligible. The 100% scholarships are awarded under Bracket I.