AIIMS NORCET Exam Details 2026, Eligibility, Pattern, Salary and Preparation Tips

AIIMS NORCET (Nursing Officer Recruitment Common Eligibility Test) is a highly important examination conducted by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) to recruit qualified nursing officers across its institutions in India. Held twice a year, this competitive exam ensures that only skilled and eligible candidates are selected for nursing roles in AIIMS hospitals. NORCET consists of two stages – Preliminary and Mains, assessing candidates on subjects like nursing, general knowledge, and aptitude. 

To apply, candidates must meet specific educational qualifications, such as a B.Sc. in Nursing or a GNM diploma, along with age eligibility criteria. Staying updated with application dates, exam schedules, and eligibility requirements is essential for aspirants to successfully navigate the recruitment process.

What is AIIMS NORCET?

AIIMS NORCET is a common eligibility test for the recruitment of nursing officers in AIIMS hospitals. The exam is divided into two stages:

1. Preliminary (Prelims) Exam – Screening stage

2. Mains Exam – Final selection stage

The exam is computer-based and evaluates candidates on nursing knowledge, general knowledge, and aptitude. Only candidates who meet the eligibility criteria can apply.

AIIMS NORCET Eligibility Criteria 2026

Educational Qualifications

Candidates must meet one of the following AIIMS NORCET Eligibility criteria:

• B.Sc. Nursing / B.Sc. (Hons.) Nursing / Post-Basic B.Sc. Nursing: Recognised by the Indian Nursing Council (INC) and State Nursing Council (SNC).

• General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM) Diploma: Must be recognised and registered with INC and SNC.

• Must have 2 years of work experience in a hospital with at least 50 beds (for GNM candidates).

• Citizenship: Only Indian citizens are eligible.

Age Limit for NORCET

Candidates aspiring to appear for the AIIMS NORCET must adhere to specific age criteria. The minimum age to apply is 18 years, while the maximum age limit is 30 years for general candidates. However, candidates applying for NITRD, New Delhi, can have an upper age limit of 35 years. 

Age relaxation is provided as per government norms and varies according to categories. For SC/ST candidates, an extension of 5 years is allowed, while OBC candidates get a relaxation of 3 years. Persons with benchmark disabilities (PwBD) enjoy additional relaxations depending on their category, such as 10–15 years. Ex-servicemen, central government employees, and other special categories are also eligible for age relaxations as per AIIMS recruitment rules. These age criteria ensure fair opportunities while maintaining eligibility standards for the competitive Nursing Officer positions.

AIIMS NORCET Application Process 2026

The application process is online and requires careful attention to detail. Steps to apply:

1. Visit the official AIIMS NORCET portal: aiimsexams.ac.in

2. Register as a new candidate.

3. Fill the seven-step application form with accurate details.

4. Upload the required documents (photo, signature, educational certificates, ID proof, caste certificate if applicable).

5. Pay the application fee.

6. Download the filled application form for future reference.

Required Documents for AIIMS NORCET

• Identity Proof (Aadhar Card, PAN Card, Driving License)

• Passport-size Photograph

• Signature

• Caste Certificate (if applicable)

• Educational Certificates (B.Sc. / GNM)

• Date of Birth Proof

• Experience Certificate (if applicable)

• No Objection Certificate (if currently employed)

AIIMS NORCET Exam Pattern 2026

AIIMS NORCET exam is conducted in two stages: Preliminary and Mains, each with a specific structure, number of questions, and time duration. Understanding the NORCET exam pattern is crucial for effective preparation and time management during the test.

AIIMS NORCET Exam Dates and Result

AIIMS NORCET is conducted twice a year to recruit Nursing Officers for various AIIMS institutions. Each NORCET exam has specific dates for the Preliminary exam, Prelims result, Mains exam, and Mains result. Candidates must stay updated with these dates to ensure timely application, preparation, and participation in the recruitment process. Below is a detailed table of exam schedules and result announcements for recent and upcoming NORCET exams:

AIIMS NORCET Salary Structure 2026

AIIMS NORCET Nursing Officer position offers an attractive salary under the Pay Band 2 of the Indian government pay scale, reflecting the responsibilities and expertise required in the healthcare sector. The AIIMS Nursing Officer salary includes basic pay and grade pay, providing a strong foundation for career growth and financial stability.

The salary reflects the responsibilities and expertise required for nursing officers in AIIMS hospitals.

AIIMS NORCET Vacancies

AIIMS NORCET exam opens up a large number of job opportunities for nursing professionals across India. Each NORCET recruitment drive announces a specific number of vacancies for the post of Nursing Officer, and the total number of seats can vary significantly with each cycle, depending on institutional needs and healthcare expansion plans. 

Tip: Always check the official notice for updated vacancy details and state-wise allocations.

AIIMS NORCET Preparation Tips 2026

Preparing for the AIIMS NORCET requires a strategic approach, as the exam is competitive and tests both theoretical knowledge and practical nursing skills. Here are some tips to help candidates prepare effectively:

1. Understand the Exam Pattern & Syllabus

• NORCET consists of Preliminary and Mains stages, both MCQ-based.

• Prelims: 100 questions (80 Nursing + 20 General Knowledge & Aptitude).

• Mains: 160 Nursing questions.

• Focus on B.Sc Nursing syllabus, including subjects like Medical-Surgical Nursing, Community Health Nursing, Child Health Nursing, Mental Health Nursing, and more.

2. Make a Study Plan

• Allocate 4–5 months for focused preparation.

• Divide topics by subject and prioritize important topics that appear frequently in past papers.

• Include time for revision and mock tests.

3. Practice Previous Year Questions

• Solve NORCET previous year question papers to understand the exam style and recurring patterns.

• Identify high-weightage topics and focus on those.

4. Use Standard Reference Books & Notes

• Refer to NCERT textbooks for core concepts.

• Use concise coaching notes or self-prepared notes for faster revision.

• Highlight key nursing procedures, steps, and protocols for quick recall.

5. Strengthen General Knowledge & Aptitude

• Prelims include 20 questions on general knowledge and aptitude, so practice current affairs, reasoning, and basic math skills.

6. Take Regular Mock Tests

• Mock tests help improve time management and accuracy.

• Analyse mistakes to avoid repetition in the actual exam.

7. Focus on Clinical Scenarios & Practical Knowledge

• The Mains exam includes scenario-based questions, so practice decision-making in clinical cases.

• Revise steps for common nursing procedures and emergency care.
  
  

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