NSTSE — National Science Talent Search Exam
Multi-subject talent exam for Classes 2–12. Practise Maths and Science topic-wise by class group.
Classes 2-4
Basic Maths
Place value, basic operations, shapes, patterns, and simple measurements for young learners
Practise →Basic Science
Plants, animals, weather, materials, and the environment for early primary students
Practise →Classes 5-7
Maths (Fractions & Geometry)
Fractions, decimals, ratios, percentages, and introductory geometry concepts
Practise →Science (Energy & Living Things)
Energy, force, simple machines, nutrition, living organisms, and basic chemistry
Practise →Classes 8-10
Maths (Algebra & Trigonometry)
Linear equations, quadratics, trigonometric ratios, coordinate geometry, and statistics
Practise →Physics (Motion, Light & Electricity)
Laws of motion, light refraction, electric circuits, sound waves, and basic thermodynamics
Practise →Chemistry (Periodic Table & Reactions)
Periodic table trends, chemical bonding, acids-bases-salts, and types of chemical reactions
Practise →Biology (Cell, Genetics & Ecosystems)
Cell structure, genetics and heredity, ecosystems, biodiversity, and life processes
Practise →Classes 11-12
Advanced Maths
Calculus (limits, derivatives, integration), vectors, 3D geometry, and probability
Practise →Advanced Science
Thermodynamics, electrochemistry, molecular biology, and modern physics concepts
Practise →The National Science Talent Search Examination (NSTSE) is a diagnostic assessment conducted by the Unified Council for students in Classes 2 to 12. Rather than only testing how much a student knows, it measures how well concepts are understood and pinpoints areas that need improvement.
The paper is objective and focuses on Mathematics and Science (with additional sections such as English or general questions depending on the class). Topic-wise practice helps build the conceptual clarity the exam rewards.
| Conducting body | Unified Council |
| Eligibility | Classes 2 to 12 |
| Question type | Objective multiple-choice |
| Core subjects | Mathematics and Science |
| Additional areas | English / general questions (varies by class) |
| Focus | Diagnostic — concept understanding, not rote learning |
- Mathematics — the class-level syllabus with an emphasis on application
- Science — Physics, Chemistry and Biology concepts as per class level
- General questions / English — as applicable to the class
- Conceptual and reasoning-based questions throughout
- Focus on understanding why an answer is correct, not just memorising facts.
- Practise application-based questions rather than only routine textbook sums.
- Use the diagnostic feedback to revisit weak topics.
- Attempt timed topic-wise practice to build speed.
Who conducts the NSTSE?
The NSTSE is conducted by the Unified Council.
Which classes can take NSTSE?
Students from Class 2 to Class 12 can take the exam.
What subjects does NSTSE cover?
Mainly Mathematics and Science, with additional sections such as English or general questions depending on the class.
How is NSTSE different from a normal test?
It is diagnostic — it measures depth of understanding and highlights weak areas, rather than only testing recall.
Are these NSTSE practice questions free?
Yes. All class-wise NSTSE practice on Safe Learning for Kids is free, with explanations.