The NTA GAT-B & BET 2026 Notification has been officially released by the National Testing Agency, offering a major opportunity for candidates aiming for postgraduate biotechnology admissions and research fellowships. These national-level exams are conducted for admission into DBT-supported institutions and for awarding the prestigious DBT Junior Research Fellowship (DBT-JRF). Interested candidates must review all details carefully and apply online within the specified timeline.
NTA GAT-B & BET 2026 Highlights
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | GAT-B & BET 2026 |
| Conducting Authority | National Testing Agency (NTA) |
| Purpose | PG Admission & Fellowship |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Exam Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Application Start Date | March 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | April 2026 |
| Exam Date | May 2026 (Expected) |
| Official Website | dbt.nta.ac.in |
What is GAT-B and BET 2026
The Graduate Aptitude Test – Biotechnology (GAT-B) is conducted for admission into postgraduate biotechnology programs offered by institutions supported by the Department of Biotechnology. It evaluates candidates’ knowledge in life sciences and related subjects. The Biotechnology Eligibility Test (BET) is conducted to award the DBT-JRF fellowship, which supports candidates in pursuing advanced research in biotechnology and allied areas.
Important Dates for GAT-B & BET 2026
Candidates should stay updated with the official schedule to avoid missing deadlines. The application process is expected to begin in March 2026 and close in April 2026, while the exam will likely be conducted in May 2026 in online mode. Admit cards will be released before the exam, and results are expected within a few weeks after the test.
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
For GAT-B, candidates must have a Bachelor’s degree in Biotechnology or related fields such as Life Sciences, Agriculture, or Pharmacy. For BET, candidates must hold a Master’s degree in Biotechnology or allied disciplines with the required minimum marks.
Age Limit
There is generally no age limit for GAT-B, while BET has age criteria applicable for DBT-JRF with relaxation for reserved categories.
Minimum Marks
Candidates must secure at least 55% marks for General category and 50% for SC/ST/PwD in the qualifying examination.
Application Process
Candidates must apply online through the official NTA portal. The process includes registration using email and mobile number, filling the application form, uploading documents, and paying the application fee. It is important to review all details before submission to avoid errors or rejection.
Exam Pattern
The exam will be conducted in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode and will include multiple-choice questions. The paper generally consists of two sections, where Section A focuses on general aptitude, and Section B tests biotechnology and life science knowledge. Proper preparation according to the syllabus is essential for success.
Selection Process and Result
For GAT-B, admission is based on score and rank, followed by counseling conducted by participating institutions. For BET, qualified candidates receive the DBT-JRF fellowship, categorized based on performance. Results will be declared online, and candidates can download their scorecards using login credentials.
Important Links
| Description | Link |
|---|---|
| Official Website | Click Here |
| Apply Online | Apply Here |
| Notification PDF | Download Here |
| NTA Main Website | Click Here |
FAQs About NTA GAT-B & BET 2026
1. When will GAT-B & BET 2026 be conducted?
The exam is expected to be held in May 2026 in CBT mode.
2. Who can apply for BET 2026?
Candidates with a Master’s degree in Biotechnology or related fields with required marks are eligible.
3. How can I apply for GAT-B 2026?
You can apply online through the official NTA portal by completing registration, form filling, and fee payment.
4. What is the purpose of the BET exam?
BET is conducted to award the DBT Junior Research Fellowship for research in biotechnology.