Introduction
If you are a nursing graduate dreaming of a central government job in one of India’s most prestigious healthcare institutions, the AIIMS NORCET 2026 is your golden opportunity. The 10th edition of the Nursing Officer Recruitment Common Entrance Test (NORCET) is expected to open applications in early 2026 — and early preparation can make all the difference.
In this comprehensive guide, you will learn everything you need to know about the AIIMS NORCET 10th 2026 — from eligibility and application steps to the exam pattern, syllabus, and proven preparation strategies. Whether you are applying for the first time or making another attempt, this guide has you covered.
Table of Contents
| 1. What is AIIMS NORCET 2026? | 2. Key Highlights |
| 3. Eligibility Criteria | 4. Application Fee |
| 5. Important Dates | 6. How to Apply (Step-by-Step) |
| 7. Exam Pattern & Syllabus | 8. Preparation Tips |
| 9. Common Mistakes to Avoid | 10. FAQs, Key Takeaways & More |
1. What is AIIMS NORCET 2026?
The AIIMS NORCET (Nursing Officer Recruitment Common Entrance Test) is a national-level exam conducted by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, on behalf of multiple AIIMS institutes and other central government hospitals across India.
The 10th edition — NORCET 10 — will recruit candidates for the post of Nursing Officer (Staff Nurse Grade II) at participating institutions. This is a Group B Non-Gazetted post, which comes with excellent pay, job security, career growth, and the prestige of working at a premier government health institution.
The exam is conducted online (Computer Based Test) and tests nursing knowledge, clinical skills, and general aptitude.
2. Key Highlights of AIIMS NORCET 10th 2026
| Particulars | Details |
| Exam Name | AIIMS NORCET 10th 2026 |
| Full Form | Nursing Officer Recruitment Common Entrance Test |
| Conducted By | AIIMS, New Delhi |
| Post | Nursing Officer (Staff Nurse Grade II) |
| Job Type | Central Government (Group B) |
| Pay Scale | Level 7 (Rs. 44,900 – Rs. 1,42,400) |
| Mode of Exam | Online (CBT) |
| Application Mode | Online via Official Website |
| Official Website | aiimsexams.ac.in |
3. Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
To apply for AIIMS NORCET 10th 2026, candidates must meet the following minimum educational requirements:
- B.Sc. (Hons.) Nursing — 4-year degree from a recognized university/institution; OR
- B.Sc. Nursing (Post Basic) — 2-year degree from a recognized university; OR
- Diploma in General Nursing & Midwifery (GNM) — 3-year diploma plus 2 years of work experience
- Registered with the State Nursing Council (mandatory for all applicants)
Age Limit
- Minimum Age: 18 years
- Maximum Age: 30 years (as on the closing date of application)
- Age relaxation: SC/ST — 5 years | OBC — 3 years | PwD — 10 years (as per government norms)
Nationality
Only Indian citizens are eligible to apply for AIIMS NORCET 10th 2026
4. Application Fee
| Category | Fee (Expected) |
| General / OBC / EWS | Rs. 3,000/- |
| SC / ST / PwD | Rs. 2,400/- |
| Female Candidates (All Categories) | Rs. 2,400/- |
Payment can be made via Net Banking, Credit/Debit Card, or UPI through the official AIIMS Exam portal.
5. Important Dates (Expected Schedule)
Note: These are expected dates based on previous NORCET cycles. Always verify from the official AIIMS website — aiimsexams.ac.in — for confirmed dates.
| Event | Expected Date (2026) |
| Official Notification Release | March 2026 |
| Online Application Start Date | March – April 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | April 2026 |
| Application Fee Payment Deadline | April 2026 |
| Admit Card Download | May 2026 |
| NORCET 10th Exam Date | June 2026 |
| Answer Key Release | June – July 2026 |
| Result Declaration | July – August 2026 |
6. How to Apply for AIIMS NORCET 10th 2026 (Step-by-Step)
Applying for NORCET 10 is entirely online. Follow these steps carefully to avoid errors:
Step 1: Visit the Official Website
Go to aiimsexams.ac.in and navigate to the Recruitment section. Look for the NORCET 10th 2026 notification link.
Step 2: Read the Official Notification
Download and carefully read the full PDF notification. Note the eligibility conditions, age limits, and document requirements. This step is critical — do not skip it.
Step 3: Register / Create Account
Click on the ‘New Registration’ link. Enter your basic details like name, mobile number, email ID, and date of birth. A login ID and password will be sent to your registered mobile and email.
Step 4: Fill in the Application Form
Log in and complete the application form. Provide accurate details including educational qualifications, nursing council registration number, address, and category.
Step 5: Upload Documents
Upload scanned copies of the following documents in the specified format and size:
- Recent passport-size photograph (JPEG, 20–50 KB)
- Scanned signature (JPEG, 10–20 KB)
- Nursing council registration certificate
- Mark sheets and degree certificates
- Category certificate (if applicable)
Step 6: Pay the Application Fee
Complete the payment using net banking, UPI, or debit/credit card. Save the payment receipt for future reference.
Step 7: Submit and Download Confirmation
Review the form, click Submit, and download the application confirmation page. Take a printout and keep it safe.
7. AIIMS NORCET Exam Pattern & Syllabus
Exam Pattern
| Component | Details |
| Total Questions | 100 MCQs |
| Total Marks | 100 Marks |
| Exam Duration | 90 Minutes |
| Negative Marking | 0.25 marks deducted per wrong answer |
| Language | English only |
| Mode | Online (Computer Based Test) |
Syllabus Overview
The NORCET exam primarily tests nursing knowledge. Key subject areas include:
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Fundamentals of Nursing
- Medical-Surgical Nursing
- Community Health Nursing
- Obstetrics & Gynecological Nursing
- Pediatric Nursing
- Psychiatric / Mental Health Nursing
- Nutrition, Biochemistry & Pharmacology
- Nursing Research & Statistics
General knowledge questions related to nursing ethics, hospital management, and current health policies may also be included.
8. Preparation Tips for AIIMS NORCET 2026
Start Early, Study Smart
Given the competition (lakhs of candidates appear each year), starting your preparation 4–6 months before the exam is ideal. Divide the syllabus into weekly targets and stick to a daily study schedule.
Best Study Resources
- NCLEX-RN Saunders Comprehensive Review — for clinical concepts
- Jaypee’s Textbook of Nursing Procedures — for procedural knowledge
- Previous NORCET papers — available on coaching websites and YouTube
- NursingXP.com, AIIMS exam-specific YouTube channels — free online resources
Practice Mock Tests Regularly
Mock tests are non-negotiable. Aim to solve at least 2–3 full-length mock tests per week in the final 2 months. This builds speed, accuracy, and exam-day confidence.
Focus on High-Yield Topics
Medical-Surgical Nursing, Pharmacology, and Fundamental Nursing consistently have the highest question weightage in NORCET. Prioritize these in your schedule.
Manage Negative Marking
With -0.25 per wrong answer, avoid random guessing. Only attempt questions you are reasonably confident about. Leaving a question blank is better than a wrong answer when unsure.
9. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting wrong details in the application form — double-check everything before hitting Submit
- Uploading incorrectly sized or formatted documents — follow exact specifications
- Missing the last date for application or fee payment
- Ignoring the official notification PDF — it contains exam-specific rules and cutoffs
- Not saving payment receipt or confirmation page
- Relying only on notes without solving practice questions
- Over-focusing on one subject while neglecting others
Key Takeaways
- AIIMS NORCET 10th 2026 is a prestigious central government nursing exam for Nursing Officer posts at AIIMS and partner hospitals.
- Candidates must hold a B.Sc. Nursing (Regular/Post-Basic) or GNM with experience, and must be registered with a State Nursing Council.
- The online application process involves registration, form filling, document upload, and fee payment at aiimsexams.ac.in.
- The CBT exam consists of 100 MCQs to be attempted in 90 minutes, with negative marking.
- Start preparation early, focus on high-yield nursing subjects, and take regular mock tests.
- Always verify dates and requirements from the official AIIMS website.
Conclusion
The AIIMS NORCET 10th 2026 is more than just an exam — it is a career-defining opportunity for nursing professionals across India. A Nursing Officer position at AIIMS or a partner hospital offers not only a competitive salary and job security, but also the chance to make a real difference in patients’ lives at some of India’s best healthcare facilities.
With the right preparation strategy, awareness of the application process, and attention to key details, you can significantly increase your chances of success. Bookmark the official website aiimsexams.ac.in, stay updated on notifications, and begin your preparation today.
Best of luck — you have got this!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. When will the AIIMS NORCET 10th 2026 notification be released?
The official notification for AIIMS NORCET 10th 2026 is expected to be released in March 2026. Keep checking aiimsexams.ac.in for the latest updates.
Q2. Is GNM eligible for AIIMS NORCET 2026?
Yes, candidates with a 3-year GNM diploma plus 2 years of clinical work experience are eligible to apply for AIIMS NORCET 2026, provided they are registered with a State Nursing Council.
Q3. What is the salary of a Nursing Officer at AIIMS?
A Nursing Officer (Staff Nurse Grade II) at AIIMS is placed in Pay Matrix Level 7, with a basic pay starting at Rs. 44,900 per month, plus applicable allowances such as HRA, TA, and NPA.
Q4. How many attempts are allowed for AIIMS NORCET?
There is no official restriction on the number of attempts for AIIMS NORCET, as long as you meet the age and eligibility criteria at the time of each application.
Q5. Can male candidates apply for AIIMS NORCET 2026?
Yes, AIIMS NORCET is open to both male and female candidates who meet the eligibility criteria. There is no gender restriction for applying.
Q6. What is the difficulty level of AIIMS NORCET?
AIIMS NORCET is considered a moderately difficult exam. Questions test in-depth clinical nursing knowledge. Candidates with strong fundamentals and consistent practice generally find it manageable.
Q7. How is the AIIMS NORCET merit list prepared?
The merit list is prepared based on marks obtained in the CBT. In case of ties, AIIMS uses date of birth (older candidate preferred) and alphabetical order of names as tiebreakers. Category-wise merit lists are also prepared separately