JNU - CBEE

Eligibility Criteria

• Educational Qualification: Candidates must have a Bachelor's degree in Science with a focus on Biology/Biotechnology/Biochemistry/Microbiology or related fields from a recognized university with a minimum percentage as prescribed by JNU (usually around 55-60%).
• Age Limit: Generally, the upper age limit is around 28 years for general category candidates. Age relaxations are provided for reserved categories as per government norms.
• Nationality: Indian nationals are eligible. Foreign nationals can also apply under certain conditions as per the university's guidelines.

Exam Pattern

• Mode of Exam: The exam is typically conducted in offline mode (pen and paper-based).
• Number of Questions: Usually consists of around 100-150 multiple-choice questions.
• Marking Scheme: Each question carries one mark; negative marking policies vary by year but generally no negative marking.
• Subjects Covered:
  • Biology
  • Biotechnology
  • Biochemistry
  • Microbiology
  • Chemistry
  • General Science and Logical Reasoning
• Exam Schedule: The exam is usually held in the month of June. Notification for the exam is generally released in April or May every year.

Syllabus

• Biology: Cell Biology, Genetics, Molecular Biology, Plant and Animal Physiology, Ecology, Evolution.
• Biotechnology: Recombinant DNA technology, Genetic Engineering, Tissue Culture, Bioinformatics, Immunotechnology.
• Biochemistry: Biomolecules, Enzymes, Metabolism, Vitamins and Hormones.
• Microbiology: Microbial Physiology, Pathogenic Microorganisms, Environmental Microbiology.
• Chemistry: Organic Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, Physical Chemistry related to biological systems.
• General Science and Logical Reasoning: Basic physics and chemistry, reasoning, and analytical abilities.

Application Process

1. Visit the official JNU website: http://www.jnu.ac.in.
2. Navigate to the Admissions section and select Combined Biotechnology Entrance Exam.
3. Register an account by providing valid email ID and phone number.
4. Fill in the application form with personal, academic, and contact details.
5. Upload scanned copies of required documents (photograph, signature, educational certificates).
6. Pay the application fee through online modes (credit/debit card, net banking).
7. Submit the form and take a printout of the confirmation page for reference.

Courses Offered

• Integrated M.Sc. in Biotechnology
• M.Sc. in Biotechnology
• Ph.D. in Biotechnology and related interdisciplinary fields

Facts About the Entrance Exam

• The exam is highly competitive and considered one of the premier biotechnology entrance exams in India.
• Focuses heavily on both theoretical knowledge and application skills in biotechnology and allied sciences.
• Successful candidates gain admission to top-ranked research and academic programs at JNU.

Admit Card

• Admit cards are usually available for download from the official JNU website 1-2 weeks before the exam.
• Download by logging into the candidate portal using registration credentials.
• Key Instructions: Carry a printed copy of the admit card and a valid photo ID to the exam center. Keep the admit card safe until the admission process is complete.

Results & Cut-Offs

• Results are announced on the official JNU website within 4-6 weeks after the exam.
• Check results by logging into the candidate portal.
• Cut-off marks vary each year depending on the difficulty level and number of candidates but generally require strong performance in core biotechnology subjects.

Preparation Tips

• Understand and thoroughly study the basic concepts in biology and biotechnology from NCERT and reference books.
• Practice solving multiple-choice questions from previous years’ papers and sample tests.
• Use standard textbooks such as "Molecular Biology of the Cell" by Alberts, "Biotechnology" by U Satyanarayana, and "Microbiology" by Prescott.
• Stay updated with latest developments in biotechnology and research methodologies.
• Join online forums and educational platforms offering mock tests and study material.

FAQs

• Q: Is the exam offline or online?
  A: The exam is usually conducted offline (pen and paper based).
• Q: Can foreign nationals apply?
  A: Yes, foreign nationals can apply under certain university provisions.
• Q: Is there negative marking?
  A: Generally, no negative marking is applied, but candidates should check the latest notification.
• Q: When is the exam conducted?
  A: Normally in June, with notifications released in April or May.
• Q: What documents are needed for application?
  A: Scanned photograph, signature, and academic certificates.