NTSE status (checked 15 October 2026): NCERT has not conducted the National Talent Search Examination since the 2021 cycle. Its notice states that the National Talent Search Scheme was approved till 31 March 2021, and that further implementation of the scheme in its present form has not been approved and has been stalled till further orders. No NTSE 2026 notification has been issued. The details on this page come from NCERT's last official NTSE information brochure and are given for reference only.

Key Takeaways

• NCERT published final scoring keys for MAT and SAT.

• Scanned OMR sheets were placed online so candidates could calculate their scores.

• NCERT did not accept requests for re-evaluation or rechecking.

NTSE Answer Key

For Stage 2, NCERT placed the final scoring key and scanned OMR sheets on its website, so candidates could check their own scores. Stage 1 answer keys, where released, were published by the respective State/UT.

No NTSE 2026 answer key exists, because no NTSE 2026 exam has been held.

Official NTSE Scoring Keys (2021)

NCERT's NTSE page still lists the scoring keys from the last exam cycle:

• MAT scoring key (2021)

• SAT scoring key (2021)

• Final scoring key, Stage 2

How to Use the Scoring Key

1. Match your question booklet code with the key.

2. Compare your OMR responses with the key.

3. Give 1 mark for each correct answer; there was no negative marking.

4. Add MAT and SAT separately and check them against the qualifying marks.

Rechecking and Re-evaluation

NCERT's brochure stated that no request for re-evaluation or rechecking of answer scripts would be entertained.

Pro Tip: Old NCERT scoring keys and papers are excellent practice. Solve a paper under timed conditions, then score yourself with the official key.

Source: NCERT NTSE Information Brochure (latest published edition).

Official Website

For authentic NTSE information, refer only to official NCERT resources:

• NCERT NTSE page: ncert.nic.in/national-talent-examination.php

• NTSE information brochure (last published): Download PDF

• NTS scholarship portal: ntse.ncert.gov.in

• Exam helpline (as listed by NCERT): 011-26560464, ntsexam.ncert@gov.in

Students should not pay any fee or share personal details on unofficial websites claiming to conduct NTSE.

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