Understanding the exam fee structure and deadlines is a crucial step for any student preparing to appear for the NIOS public exams. The National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) conducts its public examinations twice a year, in the April-May and October-November cycles. While the fee amounts are generally consistent, the deadlines for payment are strict and require careful attention.
NIOS Exam Fees for Secondary and Senior Secondary Levels
The exam fees for both secondary (Class 10) and senior secondary (Class 12) levels are structured similarly, with separate charges for theory and practical subjects.
- Theory Papers: The fee for each theory subject is approximately ₹250.
- Practical Papers: For subjects that include a practical component, an additional fee of approximately ₹120 per subject is charged.
- Online Processing Fee: A small transaction fee of around ₹50 is also added to the total amount.
It’s important to remember that these fees are subject to change. Always check the official NIOS website for the most accurate and up-to-date fee schedule before making a payment.
Fee Submission Schedule: April-May Exams
The fee submission window for the April-May public exams typically opens several months in advance. The schedule is usually divided into three phases:
- Without Late Fee: This is the initial and longest period. Students who pay within this time frame only pay the standard exam fee.
- With Consolidated Late Fee: After the initial deadline, a late fee is imposed. This period usually lasts for a few weeks, and the late fee is a fixed amount added to the total.
- Final Deadline with Heavy Late Fee: This is the last chance for students to pay their exam fees. A significantly higher late fee is charged during this final window.
To avoid extra costs, it is highly recommended to pay your exam fees during the first period, without the late fee.
Fee Submission Schedule: October-November Exams
The fee submission for the October-November public exams follows a similar three-phase structure, but with a different timeline. The fee payment window usually opens in the middle of the year, typically around June-July.
- Without Late Fee: The initial period where you can pay the standard fee.
- With Consolidated Late Fee: A late fee is added to your total payment if you miss the first deadline.
- Final Deadline with Heavy Late Fee: The final opportunity to submit the fees, but with the highest late fee.
How to Pay Your Exam Fees
All NIOS exam fees must be paid online through the official NIOS portal. Payment can be made using various online methods such as credit cards, debit cards, or net banking. NIOS does not accept fees in cash or through any other offline mode.
For the most accurate and current information on exam fees, dates, and payment links, always refer to the official NIOS website. You can find these details in the “Examination/Result” section of the portal.
