In the last few decades, there have been a couple of careers that have been in constant demand, and biotechnology is one of them. By combining biology and technology, biotechnology helps develop solutions and products, particularly in the fields of healthcare, agriculture, and the environment.
As per reports, the Indian biotechnology sector is projected to achieve a market size of approximately US$ 150 billion by 2025, with expectations of reaching between US$ 270-300 billion by 2030.
So, if you are someone who has studied biology in classes 11th and 12th, know that medicine is not your only option. Biotechnology offers an exciting alternative, opening doors to exciting career opportunities in research, academia, and industry.
But before stepping into this field, the first big challenge is clearing a biotech entrance exam. To help you, here are some of the top biotechnology entrance tests in India:
List of Top Biotechnology Entrance Examinations
| S.No. | Exam Name | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | CUET | Admission to undergraduate and postgraduate biotechnology courses in central universities. |
| 2 | ICAR AIEEA | Admission to UG and PG programs in agricultural universities, including biotechnology. |
| 3 | JEE | Admission to B.Tech courses, such as biotechnology. |
| 4 | KCET | Admission to UG courses like B.Tech. |
| 5 | IIT JAM | Admission to M.Sc. Biotechnology programs in IITs and IISc. |
| 6 | AIIMS Delhi | Admission to M.Sc. Biotechnology at AIIMS Delhi. |
| 7 | GAT-B | Admission to DBT-supported postgraduate programs in biotechnology and allied fields. |
| 8 | GATE | Admission to postgraduate courses, such as M.Tech |
Must Read: Best Entrance Exams for Engineering Aspirants After 12th
1. CUET (Common University Entrance Test)
CUET is a national-level entrance exam for biotechnology after 12th, conducted for admission in central universities across India. CUET UG is held for undergraduate biotechnology courses, while CUET PG is conducted for admission to postgraduate programs.
For undergraduate admissions through CUET, candidates must have completed Class 12 from a recognised board with a minimum of 50%. For postgraduate admissions through CUET PG, applicants typically need a bachelor’s degree in Biotechnology or a related discipline, with a minimum aggregate percentage of 55%.
2. ICAR AIEEA
The ICAR AIEEA is a national-level entrance exam conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for admission to undergraduate and postgraduate programs in agricultural and allied sciences, including biotechnology. It is an ideal B.Tech biotechnology entrance exam for PCB students, offering admissions to various reputed ICAR-affiliated universities across India.
3. JEE
The Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) is primarily for admission to undergraduate engineering programs, such as B.Tech/B.E., at IITs, NITs, and other top engineering institutes in India. While not exclusively for biotechnology, several institutes offer B tech in Biotechnology or related disciplines through JEE scores, making it an important route for students interested in engineering aspects of biotechnology.
Must Read: How to Prepare for JEE Exam: Complete Guide for JEE Aspirants
4. KCET
KCET (Karnataka Common Entrance Test) is a popular state-level entrance exam for B.Tech. and B.Sc. Biotechnology aspirants, especially for students in Karnataka. While biology is part of the KCET syllabus, the exam focuses on assessing a candidate’s understanding of Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) for Biotechnology programs.
5. IIT JAM
IIT JAM or the Joint Admission Test for Master’s is another major competitive exam for biotechnology students. Conducted by the Indian Institutes of Technology, the exam allows students to get admission to Master of Science (MSc) and Integrated PhD programs at IITs and other esteemed institutions in India. To appear for the IIT JAM, a student must have completed a Bachelor’s in Biotechnology, Biological Sciences, or other related fields.
6. AIIMS Delhi
All India Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS) Delhi conducts a national-level entrance test designed for admission into various MSc programs. It is a popular entrance exam for biotechnology courses, allowing students to get admission to AIIMS Delhi, as well as other AIIMS locations, including Jodhpur, Gorakhpur, and Nagpur.
Must Read: Top 6 Programs at Graphic Era with Highest Placement Rates
7. GAT-B
The Graduate Aptitude Test-Biotechnology (GAT-B) is the ultimate competitive exam for biotechnology admission. Conducted National Testing Agency (NTA) on behalf of the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), the exam provides a gateway for admission to postgraduate biotechnology and allied programs at top biotechnology colleges in India.
8. GATE
GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering) is a national-level examination in India used for admission to postgraduate programs, such as Biotechnology. The entrance exam allows students to get admission to premier institutes such as IITs, IISc, and NITs. It is also widely recognised by public and private sector companies for recruitment, offering opportunities for careers in research, development, and industrial applications.
As we conclude, it is clear that appearing in the entrance for biotechnology is crucial for admission to some of the prestigious universities. So, start preparing, stay focused, and choose the exam that aligns best with your academic goals and interests.
At Graphic Era (Deemed to be University), we also offer excellent Biotechnology programs, equipping students with the necessary skills and knowledge to have a fulfilling career in Biotechnology.
