A recent scholarship winner walked us through the three rounds it takes to earn a NEXIS scholarship — and it’s not about board marks. Here’s exactly how it works, and how admissions follow.
At NEXIS School of Business, a scholarship isn’t handed out for the highest board percentage — it’s earned by showing potential. Organised with the Lions Club, the NES Awards put students through a genuine selection process. “This is the first time I’m participating in this kind of event,” one winner told us, still processing the moment.
“My teacher nominated me from my school. It really means a lot — I’m out of words.” So what does it take? Three rounds.
The three scholarship rounds
The path to a NEXIS scholarship runs through three distinct rounds — each testing something different:
- Aptitude test. “The first round was an aptitude test — I studied from NCERT.” A straightforward test of fundamentals and reasoning.
- Pitching. “In round two we were brought for pitching. My pitching was good — that’s why I got here.” Students present and defend their ideas, closer to a real business scenario than an exam.
- Personal interview. “Round three was a personal interview, which I aced.” A conversation to understand the person behind the marks.
“This is truly a remarkable moment. I did not expect to reach this far. I’m very grateful for this opportunity.”
— NEXIS scholarship winner, NES Awards
Why NEXIS rewards potential over marks
The rounds reflect a core NEXIS belief: numbers and marks don’t define your skills or talent. That’s why there’s no minimum board cut-off. A student who can reason well, pitch an idea and hold a thoughtful conversation is exactly who NEXIS wants — regardless of their Class 12 percentage. It’s the same philosophy that shapes the whole new-generation business school model: judge potential, then build it.
Good to knowScholarships ease the cost of studying at NEXIS — winners often put the amount toward their college funds. The real value, though, is the head start: you enter a programme designed to make you industry-ready from year one.
▶ Watch the full story on the NEXIS YouTube channel.
How admissions work: the NEXGen Test
Scholarship or not, admission to NEXIS follows a similar, potential-first path. Once you’ve passed Class XII, you’re eligible to appear for the NEXGen Test, which has a minimum qualifying criteria. Clear it, and you move to an interview with the founders and leadership team. There’s no board-marks cut-off at any stage.
- NEXIS scholarships (NES Awards, with the Lions Club) are earned through three rounds: aptitude test, pitching and a personal interview.
- There is no minimum board-marks cut-off — NEXIS judges potential, not percentages.
- Admission runs via the NEXGen Test plus a founders’ interview after Class XII.
- Students also earn a UGC-recognised BBA/B.Com degree through a university partner.
How to apply
Getting started is simple:
- Finish Class XII (any board, any stream).
- Register and appear for the NEXGen Test.
- Attend your interview with the NEXIS founders and leadership team.
- Ask about scholarship opportunities and fee details during the process.
Still comparing options? Read our honest guide to the best private colleges in Siliguri.
Think you have the potential?
Start your NEXIS application, or visit the campus in Siliguri to see the programme first-hand.
Frequently asked questions
Q. How do I win a scholarship at NEXIS?
NEXIS scholarships (through the NES Awards, organised with the Lions Club) are earned through three rounds: an aptitude test, a pitching round, and a personal interview.
Q. Is there a marks cut-off for a NEXIS scholarship or admission?
No. NEXIS has no minimum board-marks cut-off. It selects on potential — reasoning, pitching and interview performance — rather than Class 12 percentage.
Q. What is the NEXGen Test?
The NEXGen Test is the NEXIS admissions test. After passing Class XII you appear for it, and on clearing the minimum criteria you’re invited to an interview with the founders and leadership team.
Q. Who is eligible to apply?
Any student who has completed Class XII is eligible, regardless of board or stream. Recent Class 12 pass-outs are the primary focus, but earlier pass-outs also join.
Based on a NEXIS scholarship winner’s interview at the NES Awards, organised with the Lions Club, and NEXIS admissions information.
