Always confirm dates, fees and eligibility on the official notification before applying.
AIIMS NORCET syllabus 2026 — complete topic list
The AIIMS NORCET, or Nursing Officer Recruitment Common Eligibility Test, is a critical examination for BSc Nursing graduates aspiring to secure Staff Nurse Grade-II positions in AIIMS hospitals across India. Understanding the syllabus is key to effective preparation. The syllabus encompasses various subjects essential for nursing practice, divided into several sections. Below is the complete topic list:
- 1Nursing Foundation
- Nursing theories and models
- Nursing process
- Health assessment
- Communication skills
- Professional ethics
- 1Medical-Surgical Nursing
- Common medical-surgical conditions
- Nursing management of patients
- Pharmacology and medication administration
- Pre-operative and post-operative care
- 1Paediatric Nursing
- Growth and development
- Common paediatric illnesses
- Nursing care for children
- Immunisation schedules
- 1Mental Health Nursing
- Mental health disorders
- Therapeutic communication techniques
- Nursing interventions
- Crisis intervention
- 1Community Health Nursing
- Principles of community health
- Epidemiology
- Health education and promotion
- Family health nursing
- 1Midwifery and Gynaecological Nursing
- Antenatal, intranatal, and postnatal care
- Common gynaecological conditions
- Family planning methods
- 1Nursing Management and Leadership
- Principles of management
- Leadership styles
- Quality assurance in nursing
- 1Basic Anatomy and Physiology
- Human body systems
- Functions of organs
- Homeostasis
- 1Nutrition
- Nutritional requirements
- Dietary management in health and illness
- 1Research and Statistics
- Basic research concepts
- Importance of evidence-based practice
Section-wise breakdown with weightage
The AIIMS NORCET exam consists of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) from the topics listed above. Each section contributes to the overall score, and understanding the weightage can help you prioritise your study time effectively. Here’s a breakdown:
- Nursing Foundation: 20%
- Medical-Surgical Nursing: 25%
- Paediatric Nursing: 15%
- Mental Health Nursing: 10%
- Community Health Nursing: 10%
- Midwifery and Gynaecological Nursing: 10%
- Nursing Management and Leadership: 5%
- Basic Anatomy and Physiology: 5%
Subject-wise topics in detail
Each subject in the syllabus covers a range of topics that are crucial for nursing practice. Here’s a more detailed look at the topics:
Nursing Foundation
- Nursing theories and models: Understanding various nursing theories helps in applying the nursing process effectively.
- Communication skills: Essential for patient interaction, including verbal and non-verbal communication.
Medical-Surgical Nursing
- Common medical-surgical conditions: Focus on diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and their nursing management.
- Pharmacology: Knowledge of drugs, their classifications, and side effects is vital for medication administration.
Paediatric Nursing
- Growth and development: Understanding developmental milestones to provide appropriate care.
- Common illnesses: Focus on conditions such as asthma and infections in children.
Mental Health Nursing
- Mental health disorders: Awareness of conditions like depression and anxiety, along with therapeutic interventions.
Community Health Nursing
- Epidemiology: Understanding disease patterns in communities aids in effective health promotion.
Recent syllabus changes for 2026
While the core syllabus remains consistent, candidates should always check for any updates or modifications announced via the official notification. Changes may include additional topics or alterations in weightage. Always refer to the official AIIMS portal for the most accurate information.
Topics ranked by frequency in past papers
Understanding which topics frequently appear in past papers can significantly enhance your preparation strategy. Based on previous years' exams, here are the most frequently tested topics:
- 1Medical-Surgical Nursing
- 2Nursing Foundation
- 3Paediatric Nursing
- 4Community Health Nursing
- 5Mental Health Nursing
Focusing your studies on these areas may improve your chances of success in the exam.
Official syllabus PDF download
For a comprehensive view of the syllabus and additional details, candidates can download the official syllabus PDF from the AIIMS website. This resource will provide a complete overview and should be used as a primary reference during preparation.
In addition to the syllabus, consider practising mock tests on PractiseExam.com to gauge your understanding and readiness for the exam. Mock tests can help you familiarise yourself with the exam format and time management.
For further guidance on preparation strategies and best books to use, check our related pages on AIIMS NORCET preparation strategies and recommended books.
