AIIMS Nursing Officer Syllabus and Exam Pattern 2026
The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, has unveiled the AIIMS Nursing Officer Syllabus for 2026 in conjunction with the exam pattern for the Nursing Officer Recruitment Common Eligibility Test (NORCET-11), detailed in Notice No. 103/2026 dated 24.07.2026. This exam is essential for recruiting Nursing Officers across AIIMS New Delhi and its associated institutions. Understanding the syllabus and exam pattern is critical for candidates aiming to prepare effectively, as NORCET comprises two stages, each with distinct marking, durations, and qualifying criteria. This article outlines the official exam structure, selection process, marking details, and preparation strategies for NORCET-11 based on the official announcement.
AIIMS Nursing Officer Syllabus 2026 - Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Conducting Body | All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi |
| Exam Name | Nursing Officer Recruitment Common Eligibility Test (NORCET) - 11 |
| Notice Number | 103/2026 dated 24.07.2026 |
| Post | Nursing Officer |
| Number of Stages | Two - Stage I: NORCET Preliminary, Stage II: NORCET Main |
| Total Questions | Stage I: 100; Stage II: 160 |
| Total Marks | Stage I: 100; Stage II: 160 |
| Duration | Stage I: 90 minutes; Stage II: 180 minutes |
| Negative Marking | 1/3 mark for each incorrect answer in both stages |
| Mode of Exam | Online, Computer Based Test (CBT) |
| Official Website | aiimsexams.ac.in |
Exam Pattern for AIIMS Nursing Officer 2026
The exam pattern for NORCET-11 varies between the Preliminary and Main stages. Both stages employ a sectional format with timed segments, meaning candidates cannot revisit sections once the time expires.
Stage I: NORCET Preliminary Exam Pattern
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 90 minutes |
| Total Questions | 100 MCQs (four options each) |
| Total Marks | 100 |
| Subject-wise Split | 20 questions - General Knowledge and Aptitude; 80 questions - Nursing curriculum at the necessary qualification level |
| Sectional Pattern | 5 sections of 18 minutes each, with 20 questions per section, accessible one at a time |
| Negative Marking | 1/3 mark deducted for each wrong answer |
| Nature of Exam | Qualifying only; scores do not contribute to final merit |
Qualifying Criteria (Stage I, Category-wise Percentile)
- UR / EWS: 50 percentile
- OBC: 45 percentile
- SC / ST: 40 percentile
- PWBD (UR/EWS): 45 percentile
- PWBD (OBC): 40 percentile
- PWBD (SC/ST): 35 percentile
Stage II: NORCET Main Exam Pattern
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 180 minutes |
| Total Questions | 160 MCQs (four options each) |
| Total Marks | 160 |
| Subject Coverage | Complete syllabus of Nursing courses at the required qualification level, emphasizing case-scenario-based questions that assess nursing skills and competencies |
| Sectional Pattern | 4 sections of 45 minutes each, with 40 questions per section, accessible one at a time |
| Negative Marking | 1/3 mark for each wrong answer |
| Nature of Exam | Scores determine the final merit list |
Qualifying Criteria (Stage II, Category-wise Percentage)
- UR / EWS: 50%
- OBC: 45%
- SC / ST: 40%
- PWBD (UR/EWS): 45%
- PWBD (OBC): 40%
- PWBD (SC/ST): 35%
In case the Stage II CBT is held in multiple sessions, the AIIMS normalization process will be applied to the scores.
AIIMS Nursing Officer Syllabus 2026
The syllabus for NORCET-11 is aligned with the educational qualifications and experience stipulated in the eligibility criteria. Specifically, it encompasses Nursing courses as per essential qualifications (B.Sc Nursing/ GNM) and includes General Knowledge and Aptitude for Stage I. However, a comprehensive topic-wise syllabus PDF has not been released by AIIMS. Candidates are advised to prepare using the Nursing curriculum recommended by the Indian Nursing Council or their respective State Nursing Council, as the exam content is expected to derive directly from these sources. Revisions or additional details may be provided by AIIMS as the exam date approaches, so candidates should stay informed.
AIIMS Nursing Officer Selection Process 2026
The selection for the Nursing Officer position under NORCET-11 proceeds through a structured process:
- Stage I – NORCET Preliminary: This stage is for qualifying purposes only, and scores are not factored into the final rankings.
- Shortlisting for Stage II: Candidates who meet the Stage I qualifying percentiles will be shortlisted, with a ratio of five times the total number of seats in each category (UR, OBC, SC, ST, EWS). Additionally, qualifying PWBD candidates and tie cases are also invited to Stage II.
- Stage II – NORCET Main: The results of this stage determine the final merit list. Candidates are ranked based solely on their performance in Stage II, adhering to category-wise qualifying marks.
- Choice-filling and Allocation: Qualified candidates will submit preferences for AIIMS institutions. Seats are allocated based on merit and choices filled, with no waiting list maintained since NORCET is held biannually.
- Document Verification: Provisionally selected candidates must present original certificates for verification per the instructions from the respective AIIMS/Institute.
In instances of ties during Stage II, resolution follows this order: fewer incorrect answers in Stage II, higher marks in Stage I, fewer incorrect answers in Stage I, older birth date, and finally, alphabetical order of names.
Preparation Strategies for AIIMS Nursing Officer Exam 2026
- Focus on your qualification syllabus: As the questions in NORCET are derived from the essential nursing curriculum, systematically revise your B.Sc Nursing/GNM materials instead of seeking a separate syllabus PDF.
- Practice timed sectional sets: Familiarize yourself with the sectional nature of both stages, utilizing timed practice sets to enhance speed within each section.
- Prioritize accuracy: Given the negative marking scheme (1/3 deduction for wrong answers), avoid guessing answers you are unsure of.
- Emphasize case-scenario questions for Stage II: Since this stage focuses on evaluating clinical competencies through case-based questions, practice applying nursing concepts to practical scenarios instead of merely memorizing theoretical content.
- Track qualifying marks: Be aware of the required qualifying percentiles for Stage I and percentages for Stage II based on your category to set achievable score targets.
- Allocate time for General Knowledge & Aptitude: This section is exclusive to Stage I, so ensure to dedicate appropriate preparation time without over-investing in it.
Important Links
AIIMS Nursing Officer Syllabus 2026 - FAQs
What is the AIIMS Nursing Officer syllabus 2026?
The AIIMS Nursing Officer syllabus for 2026 is based on the educational qualifications required, primarily covering the nursing courses taught at the required qualification level (B.Sc Nursing/GNM) and incorporating General Knowledge and Aptitude for Stage I. No separate topic-wise syllabus PDF has been issued.
What is the exam pattern for AIIMS Nursing Officer NORCET-11?
The NORCET-11 consists of two stages: Stage I (Preliminary) with 100 MCQs for 100 marks over 90 minutes (20 from General Knowledge and Aptitude and 80 from Nursing) and is only a qualifying exam. Stage II (Main) has 160 MCQs worth 160 marks in 180 minutes, which covers the full nursing syllabus and determines the final merit list.
How many questions are asked in the AIIMS Nursing Officer exam?
Stage I comprises 100 questions, while Stage II includes 160 questions, as outlined in the official notification.
What are the qualifying marks for NORCET-11?
Qualifying marks for Stage I are set at 50 percentile for UR/EWS, 45 percentile for OBC, and 40 percentile for SC/ST, with a 5 percentile relaxation for PWBD candidates within each category. In Stage II, the qualifying marks are 50 percent for UR/EWS, 45 percent for OBC, and 40 percent for SC/ST, also with similar 5% relaxation for PWBD candidates.
Where can I download the AIIMS Nursing Officer syllabus PDF?
According to the official NORCET-11 notification (Notice No. 103/2026 dated 24.07.2026), no specific downloadable syllabus PDF with detailed topics is available. Candidates are encouraged to refer to the "Important Links" section mentioned earlier and the official AIIMS Examination website (www.aiimsexams.ac.in) for any