NESTS clarifies ESSE-2025 shortlisting process, rejects claims of selection with negative scores

The National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS) has dismissed reports suggesting that candidates with low or negative marks were selected in the ESSE-2025 recruitment process, stating that such claims misrepresent the notified examination framework.

Responding to media coverage following the declaration of Tier-1 results, NESTS clarified that no final selection has been made at this stage, as Tier-1 serves only as a qualifying filter to identify candidates for the next round.

Tier-1 Is Only a Screening Test

According to NESTS, the ESSE-2025 recruitment drive, conducted for 7,267 teaching and non-teaching posts, follows a two-stage examination process. The Tier-1 examination, held by CBSE in December 2025, is designed purely to shortlist candidates for Tier-2, not to determine final merit.

As per the recruitment notification, candidates are shortlisted in a 1:10 ratio for each post, meaning the Tier-1 cut-off depends on the number of candidates required for the next stage rather than on suitability for appointment.

Negative Marking and Cut-Offs Were Pre-Notified

NESTS pointed out that the marking scheme, including negative marking, was clearly specified in the ESSE-2025 notification. The occurrence of low or negative cut-off marks in Tier-1, the Society explained, is a reflection of relative performance in a competitive examination and does not indicate dilution of standards or eligibility for appointment.

Final Merit Based on Tier-2 and Interviews

The Society stressed that final selection is based entirely on Tier-2 performance, which is subject-specific and evaluative, and includes an interview wherever applicable. For the post of Principal, candidates must clear the Tier-2 examination and subsequently qualify in an interview.

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To be considered for appointment, candidates must secure minimum qualifying marks in Tier-2—30 percent for General category candidates and 25 percent for SC/ST/Divyang candidates. Those failing to meet these thresholds are disqualified regardless of their Tier-1 scores.

Pay Scales Apply Only After Final Selection

NESTS also addressed references to salaries in media reports, clarifying that the pay levels cited are standard government pay scales and become applicable only after candidates successfully clear all stages of recruitment.