Medical & Healthcare · Updated October 2026
AIIMS NORCET ExamEligibility, Syllabus, Exam Pattern, Salary, Cut-Off, PYQs and Free Mock Test
Conducted biannually by AIIMS New Delhi, NORCET is the centralized national recruitment examination for appointing Nursing Officers (Staff Nurse Grade-II, Group B, Level 07 in the Pay Matrix) across all AIIMS institutions and participating central government hospitals. It follows a two-stage CBT pattern consisting of a qualifying Preliminary test and a clinical scenario-focused Mains.
- Type
- Recruitment
- Level
- National
- Conducting body
- Healthcare
Start for free with AIIMS NORCET syllabus study notes, solved previous year papers, real-pattern mock tests and AI Tutor support.
AIIMS NORCET exam overview and highlights
About AIIMS NORCET
NORCET (Nursing Officer Recruitment Common Eligibility Test) is the common examination for recruitment of Nursing Officers (Grade II) at AIIMS New Delhi, the other AIIMS and several central government hospitals and institutes. It is conducted by AIIMS New Delhi. Candidates who qualify are placed in a merit list from which participating institutes fill their vacancies.
The examination process for AIIMS NORCET comprises 3 stages: Stage I: Preliminary computer-based test, followed by Stage II: Mains computer-based test, followed by Document verification and allocation. The official syllabus tests candidates across 4 core areas — Fundamentals and medical-surgical nursing, Specialised nursing, Basic sciences, General aptitude — focusing on conceptual clarity, speed, and accuracy. Stage I shortlists candidates for Stage II. The final merit list is based on Stage II marks, and candidates are offered posts at AIIMS institutes in order of merit and preference.
Key subjects
- Fundamentals and medical-surgical nursing
- Specialised nursing
- Basic sciences
- General aptitude
What clearing AIIMS NORCET leads to
- Nursing Officer (Grade II) at AIIMS and other participating central institutes
- Compensation & Pay Scale: Nursing Officer, Pay Level 7, basic pay around ₹44,900
- Central / Institutional appointment through All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi merit recommendation
- Structured time-scale promotions, Departmental Promotion Committee (DPC) elevation, and central allowances (DA, HRA, TA, Medical & NPS)
- All-India or zonal ministry, department, PSU, or public sector field and headquarters postings
- Deputation opportunities to central autonomous bodies, ministries, regulatory authorities, and international assignments
Quick facts
- Conducting body
- All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi
- Frequency
- Usually twice a year
- Exam mode
- Online (computer-based test)
- Languages
- English and Hindi
- Stages & papers
- 3 stages (2 papers total)
- Negative marking
- One-third of a mark deducted per wrong answer
- Official website
- www.aiimsexams.ac.in
AIIMS NORCET — Key Highlights & Official Particulars
Complete snapshot of AIIMS NORCET conducting authority, frequency, mode, stages, negative marking and official portal.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | AIIMS NORCET |
| Conducting Body | All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi |
| Exam Category | Medical & Healthcare |
| Exam Level | National level |
| Exam Type & Purpose | Recruitment (Direct Recruitment & Cadre Selection) |
| Exam Frequency | Usually twice a year |
| Usual Notification & Exam Window | Notified as vacancies arise, usually twice a year; Stage I is held a few weeks after the notification and Stage II some weeks later; results follow each stage |
| Mode of Application | Online on aiimsexams.ac.in |
| Mode of Examination | Online (computer-based test) |
| Medium / Exam Languages | English and Hindi |
| Selection Stages | 3 Stages (2 Papers Total): Stage I: Preliminary computer-based test → Stage II: Mains computer-based test → Document verification and allocation |
| Negative Marking | One-third of a mark deducted per wrong answer |
| Selection / Merit Process | Stage I shortlists candidates for Stage II. The final merit list is based on Stage II marks, and candidates are offered posts at AIIMS institutes in order of merit and preference. |
| Educational Qualification | BSc (Hons) Nursing or BSc Nursing from an INC-recognised institute, or Post Basic BSc Nursing, or Diploma in General Nursing and Midwifery with around two years of experience in a hospital of at least 50 beds. Registration as a Nurse and Midwife with a State or Indian Nursing Council is required. |
| Age Limit | Usually 18 to 30 years, with relaxation for reserved categories as per Government of India rules. |
| Pay Scale / Salary Structure | Nursing Officer, Pay Level 7, basic pay around ₹44,900 |
| Merit Panel Validity | Valid for the notified recruitment cycle and reserve list period |
| Competition Scale | A few lakh candidates for a few thousand posts across AIIMS institutes |
| Official Website | www.aiimsexams.ac.in |
Summary for orientation only, last reviewed October 2026. Check eligibility, dates and pattern in the official notification.
AIIMS NORCET exam schedule, vacancy, fee and online application process
Standard annual cycle and application workflow for AIIMS NORCET. Confirm exact notification and closing dates on the official Healthcare website.
| Examination Event | Typical Calendar Window | Cycle / Mode |
|---|---|---|
| AIIMS NORCET Official Notification & Information Bulletin | Notified as vacancies arise, usually twice a year; Stage I is held a few weeks after the notification and Stage II some weeks later; results follow each stage | Usually twice a year |
| Online Registration & Application Fee Window | Typically remains open for 21 to 30 days from the date of notification release | Online Portal |
| Application Form Correction / Edit Window | 2 to 5 days immediately following the close of the online registration window | As Notified |
| Exam City Intimation & Admit Card Release | City slip 10–15 days prior; Hall Ticket / E-Admit Card 4 to 10 days before the exam date | Via All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi |
| AIIMS NORCET — Stage I: Preliminary computer-based test | Notified as vacancies arise, usually twice a year; Stage I is held a few weeks after the notification and Stage II some weeks later; results follow each stage | Online (computer-based test) |
| AIIMS NORCET — Stage II: Mains computer-based test | Typically 6 to 12 weeks after declaration of Stage 1 results | Shortlisted Candidates |
| Provisional Answer Key & Objection Representation Window | Within 3 to 10 days after completion of the objective examination shifts | Online Challenge |
| Final Answer Key, Normalized Result & Merit List / Scorecard | Typically 3 to 6 weeks after conclusion of the examination stage | Merit List PDF / Login |
- Vacancies & Competition
- A few lakh candidates for a few thousand posts across AIIMS institutes. Exact post-wise, department-wise, and category-wise (UR, EWS, OBC, SC, ST, ESM, PwBD) vacancies are notified in the official AIIMS NORCET recruitment advertisement published by All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi.
- Application Fee & Payment Norms
- Payable online via Debit/Credit Card, UPI, or Net Banking on the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi portal. Statutory fee concessions or exemptions apply for SC, ST, PwBD, Ex-Servicemen, and eligible female/state-reserved categories as notified in the official AIIMS NORCET advertisement.
How to apply online for AIIMS NORCET
One-Time Registration (OTR) & Portal Login
Visit www.aiimsexams.ac.in and complete your candidate registration using a valid email ID, active mobile number, and Aadhaar / government photo ID details. Online on aiimsexams.ac.in.
Fill Academic, Personal & Exam Centre Preferences
Log in to open the AIIMS NORCET application form. Enter your qualifying degree/board details, category/reservation status, medium of examination (English and Hindi), and choose 3 to 4 preferred test cities.
Upload Photograph, Signature & Category Certificates
Upload a recent passport-size photograph (in prescribed KB dimensions and light background), scanned running-hand signature, and valid SC/ST/OBC-NCL/EWS/PwBD/Domicile certificates where applicable.
Online Application Fee Payment & Confirmation Page
Pay the category-wise examination fee via UPI, Net Banking, Debit/Credit Card, or e-Challan before the closing deadline, then download and preserve the final AIIMS NORCET Confirmation Page / Application PDF for admit card and verification stages.
AIIMS NORCET eligibility criteria and age relaxation
Candidates applying for AIIMS NORCET must fulfil the academic qualification, age limit, nationality and category reservation rules notified by Healthcare.
Educational qualification
BSc (Hons) Nursing or BSc Nursing from an INC-recognised institute, or Post Basic BSc Nursing, or Diploma in General Nursing and Midwifery with around two years of experience in a hospital of at least 50 beds. Registration as a Nurse and Midwife with a State or Indian Nursing Council is required.
Age limit & relaxations
Usually 18 to 30 years, with relaxation for reserved categories as per Government of India rules.
Number of attempts
Unlimited attempts permitted as long as the candidate remains within the eligible category-wise upper age limit as on the crucial cut-off date.
Nationality & domicile
Indian citizens (and other categories as per the notification).
Other conditions & standards
Candidates must satisfy the prescribed medical fitness, character verification, and document authenticity norms (including valid EWS/OBC-NCL/SC/ST/PwBD certificates in the prescribed format) at the time of verification.
AIIMS NORCET — Category-Wise Upper Age Relaxation & Reservation Norms
| Category | Age Relaxation / Rule | Key Conditions & Documentation |
|---|---|---|
| Scheduled Caste (SC) / Scheduled Tribe (ST) (Central Government Norms) | +5 Years above prescribed upper age limit | Requires valid SC/ST certificate in the prescribed Government of India format. |
| Other Backward Classes — Non-Creamy Layer (OBC-NCL) (Central Government Norms) | +3 Years above prescribed upper age limit | Candidate must fall outside the Creamy Layer as on the crucial closing date of the online application. |
| Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD — UR / OBC / SC-ST) | +10 Years (UR) / +13 Years (OBC) / +15 Years (SC/ST) | Subject to post suitability and 40%+ benchmark disability certificate under the RPwD Act, 2016. |
| Ex-Servicemen (ESM) & Commissioned Officers (ECO / SSCO) | +3 to 5 Years after deducting military service rendered from actual age | Must produce discharge book / NOC from the competent defence authority at document verification. |
AIIMS NORCET selection process and exam pattern
Negative Marking & Evaluation Rule: One-third of a mark deducted per wrong answer. Selection & Merit Weightage: Stage I shortlists candidates for Stage II. The final merit list is based on Stage II marks, and candidates are offered posts at AIIMS institutes in order of merit and preference.
Stage 1: Stage I: Preliminary computer-based test
Online (computer-based test) • 1 Paper (Prelims paper) • 100 Questions • Duration: 90 minutes • A screening test of multiple-choice questions mostly on nursing subjects with a smaller share of general aptitude and knowledge.
A screening test of multiple-choice questions mostly on nursing subjects with a smaller share of general aptitude and knowledge. Candidates above the cut-off qualify for Stage II.
Paper / Section Questions Marks Duration Prelims paperAround 80% nursing subjects, 20% general knowledge and aptitude 100 Varies 90 minutes Stage 2: Stage II: Mains computer-based test
Online (computer-based test) • 1 Paper (Mains paper) • Questions: Multiple-choice questions; number given in the notification • Duration: Around 90 minutes • Shortlisted candidates appear in a second online test, often with scenario-based nursing questions.
Shortlisted candidates appear in a second online test, often with scenario-based nursing questions. The Stage II score decides the final merit and institute allocation.
Paper / Section Questions Marks Duration Mains paper Multiple-choice questions; number given in the notification Varies Around 90 minutes Stage 3: Document verification and allocation
Online (computer-based test) • Candidates in the merit list are allocated to participating institutes based on rank and preferences, followed by document verification and medical examination.
Candidates in the merit list are allocated to participating institutes based on rank and preferences, followed by document verification and medical examination.
AIIMS NORCET subject-wise syllabus and study material
SmartRank organizes chapter-wise study notes for every subject below in 12 languages, with an AI Tutor on hand for doubts. Start exploring for free, and unlock the complete syllabus with Learn or SmartRank Pass.
Fundamentals and medical-surgical nursing — Part I (Nursing foundations and procedures)
- Nursing foundations and procedures
- Medical-surgical nursing of all systems
- Pharmacology and drug administration
Fundamentals and medical-surgical nursing — Part II (Infection control and biomedical waste)
- Infection control and biomedical waste
- Critical care and emergency nursing
Specialised nursing — Part I (Obstetric and gynaecological nursing)
- Obstetric and gynaecological nursing
- Paediatric nursing
- Mental health nursing
Specialised nursing — Part II (Community health nursing)
- Community health nursing
- Nursing research and statistics
- Nursing management and education
Basic sciences — Part I (Anatomy and physiology)
- Anatomy and physiology
- Biochemistry
- Microbiology
Basic sciences — Part II (Nutrition)
- Nutrition
- Pathology basics
General aptitude: General knowledge and current affairs & Basic arithmetic
- General knowledge and current affairs
- Basic arithmetic
- Logical reasoning
- Basic computer awareness
Previous Year Trend Analysis & High-Weightage Topics (AIIMS NORCET)
- Recurring multi-concept questions from past AIIMS NORCET cycles
- High-yield chapters and section-wise mark distribution patterns
- Statement-based, assertion-reason and matching question formats
- Elimination techniques and negative-marking risk management
- Time allocation strategy across sections and papers
AIIMS NORCET salary, pay scale, job profile & career growth
Nursing Officer, Pay Level 7, basic pay around ₹44,900. Appointments under All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi carry structured pay progression, statutory allowances, and time-bound departmental promotions.
Pay Scale & Grade Structure
Nursing Officer, Pay Level 7, basic pay around ₹44,900.
Appointing / Cadre Authority
All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi (Central Government / Public Sector Service)
Allowances & Perks
Dearness Allowance (DA), HRA (X/Y/Z cities: 30%/20%/10%), Transport Allowance, CGHS/Medical cover, LTC, and NPS contribution.
Probation & Training
Initial probation period (typically 1 to 2 years) with induction/foundation training before cadre confirmation.
Allowances, Perks & Service Benefits
- Dearness Allowance (DA) revised bi-annually in line with Consumer Price Index (AICPI)
- House Rent Allowance (HRA) or official government quarters / leased accommodation
- Transport Allowance (TA), Leave Travel Concession (LTC), and Children Education Allowance
- Comprehensive medical care (CGHS / ECHS / State Health Scheme) for employee and dependents
- National Pension System (NPS) employer contribution, gratuity, and paid maternity/paternity/study leave
Promotion Hierarchy & Career Progression
- Entry-Level Cadre Appointment (Post allotment & induction training under All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi)
- Senior / Higher Grade Scale via Time-Bound Financial Upgradation (MACP / Dynamic ACP)
- Sectional / Supervisory / Inspector / Assistant Executive Cadre via Departmental Promotion Committee (DPC) or LDCE
- Middle Management / Gazetted / Divisional Officer Scale
- Senior Administrative / Directorate / Executive Leadership Cadre
AIIMS NORCET cut-off trends, score normalization and safe target score
All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi releases stage-wise and category-wise AIIMS NORCET cut-off marks at each stage (Prelims/Tier-I shortlisting, Mains/Tier-II evaluation, and Final Merit List). Candidates must clear both minimum qualifying standards and overall/sectional merit cut-offs to advance.
AIIMS NORCET — Qualifying Standards & Safe Target Benchmarks
| Category | Qualifying Floor / Standard | Recommended Safe Target |
|---|---|---|
| General / Unreserved (UR) | 30% to 40% Minimum Qualifying Floor | 72% to 82% of Total Marks (95+ Percentile in Mock Tests) |
| General — Economically Weaker Section (GEN-EWS) | 25% to 35% Minimum Qualifying Floor | 68% to 78% of Total Marks |
| Other Backward Classes (OBC-NCL) | 25% to 35% Minimum Qualifying Floor | 68% to 78% of Total Marks |
| Scheduled Caste (SC) / Scheduled Tribe (ST) / PwBD | 20% to 30% Minimum Qualifying Floor | 58% to 70% of Total Marks |
Score Normalization & Marking Impact
When AIIMS NORCET is conducted across multiple shifts or sessions, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi applies standard score normalization (Equi-Percentile or Mean-Standard Deviation method) to account for any variation in paper difficulty across shifts. Because raw marks are governed by one-third of a mark deducted per wrong answer, maintaining high accuracy (85%+) significantly boosts your normalized score.
Factors Determining AIIMS NORCET Cut-Off
- Total number of notified vacancies / available seats across participating cadres and institutions
- Total number of registered vs actual appearing candidates in the AIIMS NORCET cycle
- Relative difficulty level of the question paper (and shift-wise variation in multi-shift CBT exams)
- Category-wise vertical (UR, EWS, OBC-NCL, SC, ST) and horizontal (PwBD, ESM, Women) reservation ratios
- Previous year cut-off trajectory and candidate score distribution at the top percentiles
AIIMS NORCET admit card, answer key and result guide
City slip 10–15 days prior • Admit Card 4–10 days before exam
AIIMS NORCET Exam City Intimation & Admit Card
All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi releases the advance Exam City Intimation Slip followed by the official AIIMS NORCET Hall Ticket / e-Admit Card on www.aiimsexams.ac.in. No hard copy is sent by post; candidates must log in with their Registration Number and Date of Birth / Password to download it.
- Clear A4 printout of the AIIMS NORCET e-Admit Card with visible barcode and photograph
- Original valid Government Photo ID (Aadhaar Card, Passport, Voter ID, Driving Licence, or PAN Card)
- 2 recent passport-size photographs matching the image uploaded in the online application
- PwBD / Scribe certificate and undertaking (if availing compensatory time or scribe facility)
Within 3–10 days after the examination
AIIMS NORCET Provisional Answer Key & Objection Window
After conclusion of the objective test, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi uploads the candidate response sheet and Provisional Answer Key on www.aiimsexams.ac.in. Candidates can calculate their raw score and submit online representations against any ambiguous question or key discrepancy within the stipulated 48–72 hour window.
- Download your recorded Response Sheet PDF and match Question IDs with the Master Answer Key
- Calculate raw score using the official positive and negative marking formula
- Attach standard textbook / NCERT / official gazette proof if challenging any provisional key
- Review the Final Answer Key published after subject-expert scrutiny of all representations
3–6 weeks after stage completion
AIIMS NORCET Result, Scorecard & Merit List / Counselling
All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi declares the AIIMS NORCET result as a stage-wise Merit List PDF (with roll numbers and category cut-offs) and individual Normalized Scorecards on www.aiimsexams.ac.in. Shortlisted candidates proceed to the next stage, Document Verification, or Centralised Counselling.
- Download and save your official AIIMS NORCET Scorecard / Rank Letter PDF immediately upon release
- Verify category-wise and sectional cut-off marks in the official result write-up notice
- Keep original matriculation, degree, caste/EWS, and domicile certificates ready for verification
- Track reserve list / multi-round seat allotment updates on the official website
AIIMS NORCET mock tests
Practice in the official AIIMS NORCET pattern on the Free plan, and unlock 10 full or sectional mocks every month, unlimited chapter and topic tests, and the CBT Exam Simulator with SmartRank Pass.
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AIIMS NORCET Full Mock Test 1
Stage I: Preliminary computer-based test · 100 questions · 90 minutes
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AIIMS NORCET Full Mock Test 2
Stage I: Preliminary computer-based test · 100 questions · 90 minutes
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AIIMS NORCET Full Mock Test 3
Stage I: Preliminary computer-based test · 100 questions · 90 minutes
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AIIMS NORCET Full Mock Test 4
Stage I: Preliminary computer-based test · 100 questions · 90 minutes
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AIIMS NORCET Full Mock Test 5
Stage I: Preliminary computer-based test · 100 questions · 90 minutes
AIIMS NORCET previous year papers
Papers come with a solution for every question. Read them, or attempt them as timed tests. See all AIIMS NORCET previous year papers by year
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Recent AIIMS NORCET question papers
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Complete 10-year AIIMS NORCET paper archive
Up to 10 years of solved papers with SmartRank Pass (4 years with Learn)
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Predicted questions for AIIMS NORCET
High-probability questions and topics for your next exam
How to prepare for AIIMS NORCET
- Since around 80% of questions are from nursing subjects, revise your BSc Nursing textbooks system by system before touching general knowledge.
- Practice scenario-based questions on patient management, since Stage II leans towards applied nursing situations.
- Memorise normal values, drug doses and standard protocols such as CPR and infection-control steps, which are frequently asked.
- Attempt previous NORCET papers under time to get used to roughly 54 seconds per question.
- Keep the one-third negative marking in mind and skip questions where you cannot eliminate options.
- Read the official AIIMS NORCET notification carefully for the exact pattern, eligibility and selection stages.
AIIMS NORCET FAQs
What is the eligibility for AIIMS NORCET?
BSc Nursing or Post Basic BSc Nursing graduates, or GNM diploma holders with around two years of experience in a hospital of 50 or more beds, with nursing council registration, are eligible. The usual age limit is 18 to 30 years with category relaxations.
What is the NORCET exam pattern?
NORCET has a preliminary computer-based test of 100 questions in 90 minutes followed by a mains test for shortlisted candidates. One-third of a mark is deducted for each wrong answer.
Which institutes recruit through NORCET?
AIIMS New Delhi and the other AIIMS, along with several central government hospitals and institutes that join the exam, fill Nursing Officer posts from the NORCET merit list.
Is there negative marking in NORCET?
Yes, one-third of a mark is deducted for every wrong answer.
Can GNM diploma holders apply for NORCET?
Yes, provided they have the required post-qualification experience in a hospital of at least 50 beds, as specified in the notification.
What is the selection process and exam pattern for AIIMS NORCET?
AIIMS NORCET is conducted by All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi across 3 stages: Stage I: Preliminary computer-based test → Stage II: Mains computer-based test → Document verification and allocation. Stage I shortlists candidates for Stage II. The final merit list is based on Stage II marks, and candidates are offered posts at AIIMS institutes in order of merit and preference.
What is the age limit and educational qualification for AIIMS NORCET?
Educational Qualification: BSc (Hons) Nursing or BSc Nursing from an INC-recognised institute, or Post Basic BSc Nursing, or Diploma in General Nursing and Midwifery with around two years of experience in a hospital of at least 50 beds. Registration as a Nurse and Midwife with a State or Indian Nursing Council is required. Age Limit: Usually 18 to 30 years, with relaxation for reserved categories as per Government of India rules.
What is the salary and job profile after clearing AIIMS NORCET?
Nursing Officer, Pay Level 7, basic pay around ₹44,900.
When is the AIIMS NORCET notification released and how can I apply online?
AIIMS NORCET is held usually twice a year (Notified as vacancies arise, usually twice a year; Stage I is held a few weeks after the notification and Stage II some weeks later; results follow each stage). Online on aiimsexams.ac.in.
Where can I practice free AIIMS NORCET mock tests and solved previous year papers?
Select AIIMS NORCET as your target exam on SmartRank to get chapter-by-chapter study material built around its syllabus covering Fundamentals and medical-surgical nursing, Specialised nursing, Basic sciences, General aptitude, solved previous year question papers, topic and full-length mock tests in the exact AIIMS NORCET pattern, a timed exam simulator, subject-wise analytics, an adaptive daily study plan and an AI Tutor.
How can I prepare for AIIMS NORCET on SmartRank?
Select AIIMS NORCET as your target exam on SmartRank to get chapter-by-chapter study material built around its syllabus covering Fundamentals and medical-surgical nursing, Specialised nursing, Basic sciences, General aptitude, solved previous year question papers, topic and full-length mock tests in the exact AIIMS NORCET pattern, a timed exam simulator, subject-wise analytics, an adaptive daily study plan and an AI Tutor.