Identification of talent comprises a three-stage selection process. While the individual state or union territory conducts the first stage selection, the second stage selection at the national level is carried out by the NCERT, followed by the interview of the selected students.

Eligibility

Before 2006, all students studying in Class X in any type of recognized school are eligible to appear at the state level examination from the state in which the school is located. The state can impose any other eligibility condition for appearing in the screening examination like any qualifying percentage of marks in the previous annual examination, etc. But from 2006 onwards, a separate examination for Class VIII has started. From 2008-2009 National Talent Search examination is being held only for class VIII.

State level examination

The state level examination has two parts for nominating the required number of candidates for the second level test to be conducted by the NCERT.

* Part-I:Mental Ability Test (MAT)
* Part-II: Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT)

National level examination

Candidates acquiring more than the required percentage in the state level examination are eligible to appear for the national level examination. The national level examination has two parts for nominating the required number of candidates for the interviews to be conducted by the NCERT:

* Part-I: Mental Ability Test (MAT)
* Part-II:  Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT)

(with questions on history, civics, geography, maths, physics, chemistry and biology.)

Interview

Candidates acquiring more than the required percentage in the national level examination are eligible to appear for the interview. The interview pattern is based on the regular courses, that is the general subjects taught in the schools like science, history, geography , civics etc. It must be noted that the questions asked may be related to theoretical parts of the subjects and may not be just general questions. It is advised to study the school curriculum carefully. Normally you must concentrate on SAT rather than MAT.