DBT BET Exam Date 2025: The DBT BET Exam Date 2025 has officially been announced by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India. As one of the most awaited national-level entrance exams in biotechnology and life sciences, BET (Biotechnology Eligibility Test) serves as the gateway for aspiring researchers to secure the prestigious DBT-Junior Research Fellowship (DBT-JRF) and embark on a thriving academic and research career.
Whether you’re a student dreaming of a future in cutting-edge biological research or a professional looking to pivot into academia, this exam is a golden opportunity that could define your career trajectory. In this comprehensive and user-friendly guide, we’ll walk you through all the important information—from exam dates and test centers to eligibility criteria, syllabus details, and expert tips for preparation.
DBT BET 2025 Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Biotechnology Eligibility Test (BET) |
| Conducting Body | Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Govt. of India |
| Exam Date | May 13, 2025 |
| Mode of Exam | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Duration | 3 Hours |
| Sections | Section A (General), Section B (Biotechnology & Life Sciences) |
| Eligibility | Postgraduate degree in Biotechnology/Life Sciences |
| Fellowship Amount | INR 37,000/month (Category I) + HRA; INR 30,000/year contingency grant |
| Official Website | rcb.res.in/BET |
The DBT BET 2025 is more than just a competitive exam; it’s a gateway to a rewarding career in life sciences and biotechnology. By securing this fellowship, you not only gain financial assistance but also recognition and credibility as an emerging researcher. Prepare diligently, stay consistent, and make use of all available resources.
For more information, updates, and application-related announcements, regularly visit the DBT BET official portal.
What is DBT BET and Why Is It Important?
The DBT-BET exam is a competitive national-level eligibility test held annually to select candidates for the DBT-Junior Research Fellowship (JRF). The initiative is funded and supervised by the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, and is aimed at promoting high-quality research in the fields of biotechnology and life sciences.
By qualifying for the BET, candidates are given the financial, academic, and professional support necessary to undertake a Ph.D. program at top-tier universities and national research labs such as CSIR, ICAR, ICMR, IISc, IITs, and other recognized institutions. This support plays a crucial role in fostering a skilled biotech workforce to power India’s scientific growth.
The fellowship helps in not only funding your education but also providing a framework to pursue pioneering research that can lead to breakthroughs in health care, agriculture, environmental sciences, and industrial biotechnology.
DBT BET 2025 Exam Schedule
Here is the complete, officially announced schedule for the DBT BET 2025:
- Application Window: Closed on March 29, 2025
- Correction Window: March 30 – March 31, 2025
- Admit Card Release Date: Tentatively by the first week of May 2025
- Exam Date: Tuesday, May 13, 2025
- Provisional Answer Key Release: Expected within a week after the exam
- Result Declaration: Tentatively by mid-June 2025
It is advisable for candidates to keep checking the official DBT BET website regularly for timely updates and notifications.
BET 2025 Exam Centres
To make the exam accessible to a wide range of candidates across the country, the Department of Biotechnology has set up examination centers in more than 50 cities.
Most Popular Cities:
- Northern India: Delhi, Chandigarh, Lucknow, Varanasi, Noida
- Southern India: Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Coimbatore
- Western India: Mumbai, Pune, Ahmedabad, Nagpur
- Eastern India: Kolkata, Bhubaneswar, Patna, Guwahati
Important: The detailed address of the test center will be clearly mentioned on the candidate’s admit card.
DBT BET 2025 Exam Pattern
The exam pattern for BET 2025 is structured to test both your general aptitude and your subject-matter expertise. The exam consists of two distinct sections, and the total duration is 3 hours.
Section A: General Science and Aptitude
- Number of Questions: 50 (All compulsory)
- Subjects Covered: General Science, Quantitative Ability, Analytical Reasoning, Mathematics, Logical Reasoning
- Marking Scheme: +3 marks for each correct answer, -1 for each incorrect answer
Section B: Specialized Biotechnology and Life Sciences
- Number of Questions: 150 (Attempt any 50)
- Subjects Covered: Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Genetics, Immunology, Cell Biology, Biophysics, and more
- Marking Scheme: +3 marks for each correct answer, -1 for each incorrect answer
The exam will be conducted entirely in English and in an online, computer-based format.
BET 2025 Syllabus: A Closer Look
The syllabus is vast but well-organized. Here’s a breakdown of what you should focus on:
General Section (Section A)
- Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning
- Numerical Ability and Basic Math
- General Science (Physics, Chemistry, Environmental Science)
- Data Interpretation and Graphical Analysis
- English Language Skills (Grammar, Comprehension)
Subject-Specific Section (Section B)
- Molecular Biology: DNA replication, transcription, translation
- Genetics: Mendelian genetics, population genetics, gene mapping
- Biochemistry: Enzyme kinetics, metabolism, biomolecules
- Cell Biology: Cell structure, organelles, signaling pathways
- Immunology: Immune cells, vaccines, antigen-antibody interactions
- Bioinformatics: Sequence alignment, databases, phylogenetics
- Plant and Animal Biotechnology: Tissue culture, GMOs, bioprospecting
Refer to the official information bulletin for a topic-wise syllabus in PDF format.
Who is Eligible for DBT BET 2025?
To be eligible for the DBT BET 2025, you must fulfill the following criteria:
Educational Qualifications:
- A postgraduate degree (M.Sc./M.Tech/M.V.Sc./Integrated M.Sc.) in Biotechnology or related fields such as Genetics, Biochemistry, Life Sciences, Molecular Biology, and Microbiology from a recognized university.
Age Limit:
- General and EWS Candidates: Not more than 28 years as of the exam date
- OBC (Non-Creamy Layer): Up to 31 years (3-year relaxation)
- SC/ST/Female/PwD Candidates: Up to 33 years (5-year relaxation)
DBT JRF Fellowship Details
Upon qualifying the BET 2025, candidates will be ranked and placed into one of the two categories:
Category I
- Entitled to receive the full DBT-JRF Fellowship
- Monthly stipend: INR 37,000 + House Rent Allowance (HRA)
- Annual contingency grant of INR 30,000 for books, travel, and miscellaneous expenses
- Can register for a Ph.D. in any recognized institution across India
- Validity: 2 years (extendable to SRF upon performance review)
Category II
- Eligible for appointment in DBT-funded research projects
- No fellowship granted by DBT
- May still pursue Ph.D. if independently admitted to an institution
How to Prepare for DBT BET Exam 2025
Success in DBT BET comes from a mix of smart planning, disciplined study, and continuous practice. Here’s a preparation strategy you can adopt:
Step 1: Know the Syllabus
Download the full syllabus and highlight all major topics. Categorize them by familiarity—high, medium, and low comfort levels.
Step 2: Time Management
Develop a study plan that allocates at least 3–4 hours daily. Dedicate mornings to theory and evenings to practice.
Step 3: Use Reliable Study Materials
- Standard Books: Alberts (Molecular Biology), Lehninger (Biochemistry), Lodish, Snustad
- Online Platforms: NPTEL, DBT’s Learning Portal, Coursera, Khan Academy for basic concepts
Step 4: Solve Previous Year Papers
Solving papers from the last 5 years will familiarize you with the question format and difficulty level. Make a habit of solving at least one mock test every weekend.
Step 5: Peer Groups and Mentorship
Join online forums and Telegram groups, or form a study group. Discussing topics with peers helps reinforce learning and discover new perspectives.
Step 6: Revise and Reflect
Keep the last 2–3 weeks exclusively for revision. Focus on notes, flowcharts, and quick summaries. Avoid picking up new topics during this time.
FAQs about DBT BET 2025 Overview
1. What is the last date to apply for DBT BET 2025?
The application process closed on March 29, 2025.
2. Can I apply for BET without a postgraduate degree?
No, you must have a PG degree in Biotechnology or a related field to be eligible.
3. How many attempts are allowed for the BET exam?
There is no restriction on the number of attempts, but you must fall within the prescribed age limits.
4. Is negative marking applicable in BET 2025?
Yes, each wrong answer deducts 1 mark from your total.
5. Are foreign nationals allowed to appear for the BET exam?
No, only Indian nationals are eligible to apply for the DBT-JRF.
6. What happens after qualifying the BET?
You will receive a rank certificate, and based on your score, be placed in Category I or II for fellowship or research project eligibility.
