NTSE 2025 Preparation Guide

NTSE preparation is unique — it tests both aptitude (MAT) and academic knowledge (SAT). Most toppers prepare for 3-4 months alongside their Class 10 studies.

Strategy That Works

  1. Master NCERT first: 85% of SAT questions come from NCERT Class 9-10
  2. Practice MAT daily: 30 minutes of reasoning practice improves speed dramatically
  3. Stage 1 is state-level: Different states have different cutoffs. Practice your state's previous papers.
  4. Stage 2 is national: Much harder. Focus on depth, not breadth.

Best Books

  • MAT: RS Aggarwal Reasoning, Pearson NTSE Guide
  • Science: NCERT (9-10) + Pradeep's Science
  • Social Science: NCERT (9-10) + Arihant NTSE Guide
  • Math: NCERT (9-10) + RD Sharma
  • Complete: TMH NTSE Guide, Disha NTSE Practice Sets