DBT-JRF BET Exam Overview: Tips for your preparation

DBT-JRF BET Exam is a national-level exam organized by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India. It is known as the Biotechnology Eligibility Test (BET) and is a component of the DBT-Junior Research Fellowship (DBT-JRF) program. This examination aims to identify individuals who are deeply driven and possess the capability to engage in research within the Biotechnology and Life Sciences field.

Some of the important key point about the DBT-JRF BET exam:

• Goal: The main aim of the BET is to select suitable candidates for the DBT-JRF fellowship, allowing them to pursue Ph.D. research in biotechnology and life sciences at recognized institutions in India.
• Conducting Body: The National Testing Agency (NTA) has been authorized by the Regional Centre for Biotechnology (RCB) to organize the exam on behalf of the DBT, ensuring transparency and upholding international standards.
• Eligibility: Candidates must be Indian citizens holding a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Biotechnology or related fields, meeting specific academic and age criteria established by the DBT.
• Fellowship Categories: Based on their performance in the BET, candidates are categorized into two groups: Category-I for pursuing Ph.D. at recognized institutions in India, and Category-II for DBT-sponsored projects or Ph.D. programs with equivalent fellowship to NET/GATE.
• Exam Structure: The BET consists of multiple-choice questions divided into two parts – Part A covering general aptitude and basic biotechnology knowledge, and Part B focusing on specialized areas within the field.
• Syllabus: The BET syllabus covers various topics in biotechnology and life sciences to evaluate candidates’ fundamental understanding and application of these concepts.
• Application and Exam: Details regarding application process, exam dates, and other relevant information are announced annually, with the exam typically being conducted online.

DBT-JRF BET 2024 Overview

• Exam Name: Biotechnology Eligibility Test (BET)
• Conducting Body: Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India
• Exam Level: National
• Mode of Application: Online
• Application Fee: INR 1200 (General/ OBC/ EWS candidates) and 600/- (SC/ ST/ PWD candidates).
• Mode of Exam: Online (Computer-Based Test)
• Duration: 3 hours
• Question Types: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ)
• Total Questions: 200 out of which 100 has to attempt.
• Exam Dates: 20th April 2024 (Saturday) | 03:00 PM to 06:00 PM

DBT-JRF BET Exam Study Materials

Important Preparation Strategies for DBT-JRF BET Exam

To effectively prepare for the DBT JRF BET exam, it is important to have a strategic approach. Here are some helpful strategies to succeed:

• Understand the exam format: Familiarize yourself with the number of sections, types of questions, and marking criteria.
• Know the syllabus: Gain a clear understanding of the syllabus and identify the important topics. This will help you prioritize your study plan.
• Start early and prepare effectively: Begin your preparation at least 6 months before the exam date. This will give you enough time to cover all the topics thoroughly.
• Use smart study methods: Adopt study techniques such as starting with easier topics, focusing on important ones, and combining easy and hard units for preparation. Allocate specific times for different units and subunits.
• Refer to standard books: Consult standard reference books and resources to gain an in-depth understanding and clarity on various topics.
• Take notes and revise regularly: Make notes using methods like the Cornell Method and revise using spaced repetition to reinforce your memory.
• Practice with previous papers: Solve previous year question papers and take mock tests to get a feel of the actual exam and improve your time management skills.
• Focus on Part A: Prepare well for Part A of the exam, which contains compulsory questions from the last 2-3 years of your degree course.
• Regularly practice diagrams: Develop a good grasp of diagrams and practice labeling them regularly. Visual memory can aid in better retention.
• Stay updated and connected: Keep yourself updated with any changes in the syllabus or exam pattern. Connect with fellow aspirants for group study and doubt clearing sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the DBT-JRF BET Exam? 
   • It’s an eligibility test for the DBT-Junior Research Fellowship in Biotechnology.
2. Who conducts the exam? 
   • The Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India conducts the exam through the Regional Centre for Biotechnology (RCB).
3. What are the eligibility criteria? 
   • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Biotechnology or related fields, with specific marks and age criteria.
4. What are the fellowship categories? 
5. Category-I for fellowship eligibility and Category-II for appointment in DBT-sponsored projects or Ph.D. enrolment.
6. When is the exam conducted? 
   • The exam is conducted annually and the 2024 exam was scheduled for April 20.
7. What is the mode of the exam? 
   • The mode of DBT JRF BET exam is online as a Computer Based Test (CBT).
8. What is the duration of the DBT-JRF BET exam? 
   • The duration of the exam is 180 minutes.
9. What is the application period for 2024? 
   • February 8 to March 6, 2024.
10. What is the medium of the question paper? 
    • The mode of exam is English only.
11. Where can I find the syllabus and exam pattern? 
    • You can find the syllabus and exam pattern from our website, visit – or from the official DBT website – https://dbt.nta.ac.in/ www.nta.ac.in.