DBT BET

The Biotechnology Eligibility Test (BET), conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on behalf of the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India, is a national-level competitive examination aimed at selecting candidates for the DBT-Junior Research Fellowship (DBT-JRF) Program. The DBT-JRF supports postgraduate students in pursuing research in Biotechnology and related fields. The BET evaluates candidates’ understanding of core biotechnology concepts such as molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, microbiology, bioinformatics, and more. BET is conducted in two categories:

• Category I: Qualifies candidates for DBT-JRF funding under the Biotechnology Research Fellowships Program.
• Category II: Places candidates on a merit list for research positions in other DBT-funded projects.

Key Details of BET (DBT-JRF) 2025 Exam:

• Conducted By: National Testing Agency (NTA) on behalf of DBT
• Mode of Examination: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
• Medium of Examination: English
• Validity Period: Two years from the issuance of the award letter
• Fellowship Duration: Five years from the activation of the fellowship
• Fellowship Amount:
  • Rs. 37,000 per month + HRA (for JRF)
  • Rs. 42,000 per month for SRF (3rd year and subsequent years)
  • Annual contingency grant of Rs. 30,000 per year
• Number of Tests Per Year: Once a year
• Number of Seats: 275
• Time Duration: 3 hours
• Maximum Marks: 300
• Total Number of Questions: 200
• Nature of Questions: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

Exam Pattern:

• Part-A:
  • 50 questions (Answer all 50 questions)
• Part-B:
  • 150 questions (Answer any 50 questions)
• Negative Marking:
  • 1/3 mark will be deducted for each incorrect answer.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Educational Qualification:
  • B.E./B.Tech., M.Sc., M.Tech., M.VSc., Integrated M.Sc., M.Tech. in Biotechnology, Life Sciences, or allied biological fields.
  • M.Sc./M.Tech./M.VSc./M.Sc.(Agri) programs supported under the DBT Post Graduate Teaching Program.
• Marks Requirement:
  • General, EWS, and OBC candidates must have at least 60% marks.
  • SC/ST/Differently Abled candidates must have at least 55% marks.

Age Limit:

• JRF:
  • 28 years for General and EWS category.
  • Relaxation of up to 5 years (i.e., 33 years) for SC/ST, PH, and women candidates.
  • Relaxation of up to 3 years (i.e., 31 years) for OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) candidates.

Fellowship Details:

• DBT-JRF Category-I: Candidates qualifying in Category-I are eligible for fellowship under the DBT-JRF Program.
• DBT-JRF Category-II: Candidates qualifying in Category-II are not eligible for DBT-JRF fellowship but can be appointed in any DBT-sponsored project and can enroll for a Ph.D. as per institutional norms.

The BET is an excellent opportunity for students seeking to pursue a research career in Biotechnology and allied disciplines with financial support. Preparation for this exam requires a deep understanding of fundamental biological concepts, so thorough study and regular practice are essential.