Always confirm dates, fees and eligibility on the official notification before applying.
# ICMR Nursing JRF Exam Pattern 2026: Complete Guide
The ICMR Junior Research Fellowship — Nursing Stream (ICMR Nursing JRF) is a national-level eligibility-cum-entrance exam conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), New Delhi. This fellowship enables M.Sc. Nursing graduates to pursue Ph.D. research in nursing with financial support from ICMR. Understanding the exam pattern is the first step toward a targeted preparation strategy. This page provides a detailed breakdown of the exam structure, marking scheme, sectional details, and other critical aspects.
ICMR Nursing JRF exam pattern 2026 at a glance
The ICMR Nursing JRF exam is designed to assess the candidate's knowledge in nursing research, advanced nursing concepts, and related biomedical sciences. Below is a quick overview of the exam structure:
- Exam Mode: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
- Duration: 120 minutes (2 hours)
- Total Questions: 100
- Maximum Marks: 100
- Marking Scheme: +1 mark for each correct answer
- Negative Marking: -0.25 marks for each incorrect answer
- Unattempted Questions: 0 marks
- Medium of Exam: English (only)
- Type of Questions: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
This pattern is consistent with previous years, though candidates should verify the official notification for any changes expected in early 2026.
Sections and duration
The ICMR Nursing JRF question paper is divided into two sections, each focusing on distinct knowledge domains. The total duration of the exam is 120 minutes, which is shared across both sections. Candidates must manage their time effectively to attempt all questions.
Section A: Research Methodology (Approximately 50 questions)
This section tests the candidate's understanding of research methods, biostatistics, epidemiology, and evidence-based practice. Topics include:
- Research designs (qualitative and quantitative)
- Sampling techniques
- Data collection methods
- Statistical tests and interpretation
- Ethical considerations in research
- Nursing research paradigms
Section B: Nursing Subject (Approximately 50 questions)
This section covers advanced nursing concepts, clinical nursing, community health nursing, nursing education, and administration. Topics include:
- Medical-surgical nursing
- Obstetric and gynecological nursing
- Pediatric nursing
- Psychiatric nursing
- Community health nursing
- Nursing management and education
- Recent trends in nursing practice
Both sections carry equal weightage in terms of question count, but the overall score is a composite of both. There is no sectional time limit; candidates can allocate time as they wish within the 2-hour window.
Question types and marking scheme
All questions in the ICMR Nursing JRF exam are Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) with four options, out of which only one is correct. The marking scheme is straightforward:
- Correct answer: +1 mark
- Incorrect answer: -0.25 marks (negative marking)
- Unattempted: 0 marks (no penalty)
The maximum achievable raw score is 100 marks. Since the exam is used for fellowship selection, the final merit list is often based on the normalized score if multiple sessions are held. However, ICMR typically conducts the exam in a single session.
Negative marking explained
Negative marking is a critical aspect of the ICMR Nursing JRF exam. For every wrong answer, 0.25 marks are deducted from the total score. This means that if a candidate guesses randomly on 4 questions, they risk losing 1 mark even if they get one correct. The strategy should be:
- Avoid blind guessing: Only attempt questions where you can eliminate at least one or two options.
- Educated guessing: If you can narrow down to two probable answers, the expected value of guessing becomes positive.
- Leave doubtful questions: It is better to leave a question unanswered than to answer incorrectly and lose marks.
For example, if you attempt 80 questions, get 60 correct and 20 wrong, your score would be: (60 × 1) - (20 × 0.25) = 60 - 5 = 55 marks. If you had left those 20 doubtful questions, your score would have been 60. Thus, careful selection is key.
Sectional vs overall cut-offs
ICMR does not usually release sectional cut-offs for the Nursing JRF exam. The selection is based on the overall merit score obtained by the candidate. However, there is a minimum qualifying percentage that candidates must secure to be considered for the fellowship. Based on previous years:
- General/OBC/EWS: Typically 50% marks (50 out of 100)
- SC/ST/PwD: Typically 45% marks (45 out of 100)
These thresholds are indicative and may vary. The final cut-off for fellowship award depends on the number of available slots, category-wise reservation, and the performance of all candidates. In recent years, the qualifying score for general category has been around 55-65 marks, while for reserved categories it has been lower. Always check the official notification for the exact cut-off criteria.
Language and medium options
The ICMR Nursing JRF exam is conducted only in English. There is no option to take the exam in Hindi or any other regional language. All question papers, instructions, and answer choices are presented in English. Candidates must be comfortable reading and comprehending complex nursing terminology in English. This is particularly important for those whose primary language of instruction during M.Sc. Nursing was not English. To prepare, candidates should practice reading research articles, textbooks, and mock tests in English.
Computer-based vs pen-paper details
The exam is conducted in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode at designated test centres across India. Key points about the CBT format:
- Interface: The test interface is user-friendly with options to mark questions for review, navigate between questions, and change answers before submission.
- Navigation: Candidates can move freely between sections and questions within the allotted time.
- Calculator: A basic on-screen calculator is provided for calculations.
- Marking: Candidates can mark questions they are unsure about and return to them later.
- Result: The result is usually declared within 4-6 weeks after the exam date.
There is no pen-paper option. Candidates must be comfortable using a computer and mouse. Practicing on mock tests available on platforms like PractiseExam.com can help simulate the actual CBT environment and improve speed and accuracy.
Preparation strategy using the exam pattern
Knowing the exam pattern allows you to design a focused study plan. Here are actionable tips:
- 1Divide your time: Spend 50% of your preparation on Research Methodology (Section A) and 50% on Nursing Subject (Section B).
- 2Practice MCQs: Solve at least 100-150 MCQs per week from standard textbooks like "Nursing Research" by Denise Polit and "Textbook of Advanced Nursing Practice" by S. K. Gupta.
- 3Take mock tests: Attempt full-length mock tests on PractiseExam.com to build exam temperament and time management.
- 4Analyze mistakes: After each mock test, review incorrect answers to identify weak areas.
- 5Focus on negative marking: Practice with penalty to develop the habit of selective answering.
For more detailed preparation guidance, check our ICMR Nursing JRF preparation strategy and best books for ICMR Nursing JRF pages.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the mode of the ICMR Nursing JRF exam?
The exam is conducted in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode. Candidates appear at designated test centres and answer questions on a computer. No pen-paper option is available.
How many questions are there in the ICMR Nursing JRF exam?
The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions, each carrying 1 mark. The total duration is 120 minutes.
Is there negative marking in ICMR Nursing JRF?
Yes, 0.25 marks are deducted for each incorrect answer. Unattempted questions receive 0 marks. It is advisable to avoid random guessing.
What is the minimum qualifying marks for ICMR Nursing JRF?
Based on previous years, general category candidates need around 50% marks (50 out of 100), while SC/ST/PwD candidates need around 45%. Exact cut-offs are announced with the results.
Can I take the ICMR Nursing JRF exam in Hindi?
No, the exam is conducted only in English. All questions and instructions are in English.
How can I practice for the CBT format?
You can practice using mock tests on PractiseExam.com which simulate the actual exam interface. Regular practice helps improve speed and accuracy.