ICMR Nursing JRF Exam Centres 2026
If you are preparing for the ICMR Junior Research Fellowship — Nursing Stream, knowing the exam centre details is crucial for a smooth test-day experience. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) conducts the exam in multiple cities across India. This page provides the official list of exam cities, how centres are allocated, what to bring, and the rules you must follow.
Always confirm dates, fees and eligibility on the official notification before applying.
Complete List of Cities
ICMR Nursing JRF exam centres are typically located in major Indian metros and tier-2 cities. Based on previous years, the likely cities include:
- North Zone: Delhi, Chandigarh, Lucknow, Dehradun, Jammu
- South Zone: Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi
- East Zone: Kolkata, Bhubaneswar, Guwahati, Patna
- West Zone: Mumbai, Pune, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Bhopal
- Central Zone: Raipur, Nagpur, Indore
Note: The final list of cities is announced in the official notification. Candidates must check the ICMR website for the current year’s centres. If your preferred city is not listed, choose the nearest available option.
How Centre Allocation Works
Centre allocation is based on the candidate’s first preference during the application process. However, ICMR may assign a different centre due to logistical constraints. The allocation logic is as follows:
- First-come, first-served basis: Seats in each city are limited. Early applicants are more likely to get their preferred centre.
- Geographical proximity: If your first choice is full, the system assigns the next nearest available centre.
- No manual intervention: Once allocated, the centre cannot be changed except in rare cases (e.g., exam cancellation).
To maximise your chances of getting a convenient centre, apply as soon as the application window opens.
How to Change Exam Centre
Once the application is submitted, the exam centre cannot be changed. ICMR does not allow centre modification after the deadline. Therefore, choose your centre carefully during registration.
If you face a genuine emergency (e.g., relocation due to job transfer), contact ICMR’s helpdesk via the official website. However, such requests are rarely approved. Plan ahead to avoid last-minute issues.
Reporting Time and Rules
On the exam day, candidates must adhere to strict reporting times and rules. The typical schedule is:
- Reporting time: 1 hour before the exam start time (e.g., if the exam is at 10:00 AM, report by 9:00 AM).
- Gate closure: 30 minutes before the exam. Latecomers are not allowed.
- Exam duration: 120 minutes (2 hours) for 100 questions.
- Marking scheme: +1 for each correct answer, -0.25 for each incorrect answer, 0 for unattempted.
Centre rules:
- No electronic devices (mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators) are allowed inside the exam hall.
- Candidates must follow the instructions of the invigilator at all times.
- Any malpractice (copying, impersonation) will lead to disqualification.
- The exam is computer-based; candidates will be provided with a workstation.
Documents to Carry on Exam Day
Carry the following documents to the exam centre. Missing any one may result in denial of entry.
- 1Admit Card: Printed copy of the ICMR Nursing JRF admit card (downloaded from the official website).
- 2Photo ID Proof: Original and valid government-issued ID (Aadhaar, Passport, Voter ID, Driving License, or PAN Card).
- 3Passport-size Photographs: 2-3 recent photographs (same as uploaded in the application form).
- 4Category Certificate (if applicable): SC/ST/OBC/PwD certificate for age relaxation or fee concession.
Tip: Keep all documents in a transparent folder. Do not carry any stationery (pen, paper) unless specified in the admit card.
Prepare with Mock Tests on PractiseExam.com
To ace the ICMR Nursing JRF exam, practice with realistic mock tests. PractiseExam.com offers a dedicated mock test series that simulates the actual CBT environment. You can attempt full-length tests, review detailed solutions, and track your progress. This helps you manage time effectively and reduce exam-day anxiety.
Visit our ICMR Nursing JRF mock tests page to start practising today.
Additional Resources
For a comprehensive preparation plan, explore these related pages:
- ICMR Nursing JRF Syllabus – Detailed syllabus breakdown.
- ICMR Nursing JRF Preparation Strategy – Step-by-step study plan.
- ICMR Nursing JRF Best Books – Recommended textbooks and resources.
- ICMR Nursing JRF Exam Pattern – Marking scheme and question distribution.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I choose any exam centre during application?
Yes, you can select your preferred city from the list provided in the application form. However, allocation is subject to availability.
2. What if my allocated centre is far from my city?
ICMR tries to assign the nearest centre based on your preference. If your first choice is full, you may get a centre in a nearby city. Plan travel accordingly.
3. Is there any provision for centre change after submission?
No, centre change is not allowed after the application deadline. Choose carefully at the time of submission.
4. What documents are mandatory for entry?
Admit card, original photo ID, and passport-size photographs are mandatory. Category certificate if applicable.
5. Can I carry a water bottle or snacks?
No, food and beverages are not allowed inside the exam hall. You may be provided with drinking water at the centre.
6. What happens if I arrive late?
If you report after the gate closure time (usually 30 minutes before the exam), you will not be allowed to enter. Arrive at least 1 hour early.