The initial step to appearing for the National Entrance Screening Test (NEST) is completing the registration process. This involves several key actions:

1. Online Registration: Visit the official NEST website and register by providing basic details such as name, date of birth, and contact information.
2. Email Verification: Verify your email address through the link sent to your registered email ID.
3. Login and Form Filling: Log in using the credentials received and fill out the detailed application form. This includes personal information, educational qualifications, and choice of exam centers.
4. Document Upload: Upload scanned copies of required documents such as photograph, signature, and category certificate (if applicable) as per the specifications mentioned in the information brochure.
5. Application Fee Payment: Pay the application fee online through Net Banking, credit card, or debit card. Ensure to keep the transaction details safe for future reference.
6. Confirmation Page: After successful payment, a confirmation page will be generated. Download and save this page for future correspondence. Ensure all details are accurate before final submission.

Carefully review all entered information before submitting the application form, as corrections might not be possible later. Keep track of important dates related to registration, as mentioned on the official website.

After the registration process concludes, the next crucial step is downloading the NEST admit card. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

1. Notification: Keep an eye on the official NEST website for notifications regarding the release of admit cards. Usually, an email is also sent to registered candidates.
2. Login: Visit the admit card download portal on the NEST website and log in using your registration ID and password.
3. Download Admit Card: Once logged in, you will find the link to download your admit card. Verify all the details mentioned on the admit card, such as your name, photograph, exam center, and exam timings.
4. Printing: Print the admit card on a clean, white A4 size paper. Ensure that all the details are clearly visible.
5. Important Instructions: Read all the instructions mentioned on the admit card carefully and adhere to them on the exam day.

It is mandatory to carry the admit card along with a valid photo ID proof (such as Aadhaar card, PAN card, or passport) to the examination center. Failure to do so may result in denial of entry. In case of any discrepancies on the admit card, immediately contact the NEST authorities for rectification.

On the day of the National Entrance Screening Test (NEST), candidates must adhere to specific guidelines to ensure a smooth examination process:

1. Reach the Center: Arrive at the designated exam center well before the reporting time mentioned on the admit card. This allows time for verification and settling in.
2. Documents Required: Carry your admit card and a valid photo ID proof (Aadhaar card, PAN card, passport, etc.) without fail. These are mandatory for verification.
3. Follow Instructions: Listen carefully to the instructions given by the invigilators and follow them diligently throughout the exam.
4. Exam Format: The NEST exam typically consists of multiple-choice questions from subjects like Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology. Understand the marking scheme and plan your time accordingly.
5. Answering Questions: Use the provided pen or pencil to mark your answers on the OMR sheet or as instructed. Ensure that you fill the circles completely and correctly.
6. Time Management: Keep track of the time and allocate it wisely to each section. Avoid spending too much time on a single question.
7. Prohibited Items: Do not carry any prohibited items such as mobile phones, electronic gadgets, or unauthorized study material into the examination hall.
8. Submission: After completing the exam, hand over the OMR sheet or answer booklet to the invigilator before leaving the hall.

Maintaining discipline and following the instructions is crucial for a fair and successful examination experience.

Following the examination, the subsequent stages involve checking the results and participating in the counseling process:

1. Result Declaration: The NEST results are usually declared online on the official website. Keep checking the website for updates on the result declaration date.
2. Checking Results: Visit the result portal, log in using your credentials (registration ID and password), and view your score card.
3. Score Card Details: The score card typically includes your marks in each section, overall score, and rank obtained in the examination.
4. Cutoff Marks: Check the cutoff marks for different categories to assess your eligibility for admission to NISER and CEBS.
5. Counseling Process: If you meet the cutoff criteria, you will be called for the counseling process. The counseling schedule and venue details will be announced on the website.
6. Document Verification: During counseling, you need to produce original documents for verification. These may include your admit card, mark sheets, certificates, and category certificate (if applicable).
7. Seat Allotment: Based on your rank and the availability of seats, you will be allotted a seat in either NISER or CEBS.
8. Admission Confirmation: After seat allotment, you need to pay the admission fee and complete the necessary formalities to confirm your admission.

Stay updated with the official NEST website for all announcements and instructions related to results and counseling. Ensure you have all the required documents ready for the counseling process.