How to Ace
FACT & FACT Plus
2026
Your definitive, exam-ready guide to the Forensic Aptitude and Calibre Test — from eligibility and exam structure to subject-wise strategy, new criminal laws (BNS/BNSS/BSA), and recommended resources.
- What is FACT and FACT Plus?
- Exam Structure & Pattern
- Eligibility Criteria
- Scoring & Qualifying Marks
- The New Criminal Laws — BNS, BNSS & BSA Explained
- Section A — Forensic Aptitude Preparation
- Elective-Wise Preparation Strategy
- Month-by-Month Study Plan
- Recommended Books & Resources
- Registration & Exam Day Tips
- Frequently Asked Questions
What is FACT and FACT Plus?
FACT — the Forensic Aptitude and Calibre Test — is India's only national-level standardised examination for forensic science graduates, designed to benchmark talent for the country's rapidly growing forensic ecosystem.
Launched in 2018 by the Ministry of Home Affairs and administered by the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU), Delhi Campus (LNJN NICFS), FACT is the gateway for forensic science professionals seeking to work with central and state Forensic Science Laboratories (FSLs) across India.
With the landmark Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023 — India's new Criminal Procedure Law effective 1 July 2024 — now mandating forensic investigations for serious offences punishable by 7 or more years (Section 176, BNSS), the demand for certified forensic professionals has never been higher. FACT is India's answer to this urgent need.
(FACT & FACT Plus)
to Choose From
per Exam
per Paper
FACT vs. FACT Plus — What's the Difference?
FACT (Basic Level) is a post-graduate level exam testing fundamental forensic aptitude and command over pure sciences. It qualifies candidates for general forensic examination roles in FSLs — bench-level work on crime exhibits with basic training support.
FACT Plus (Advanced Level) is for candidates who have already cleared UGC-NET, CSIR-GATE, or GPAT. It tests specialised forensic aptitude — precision instrument handling, expert interpretation, and advanced forensic skills for complex casework.
Exam Structure & Pattern
Both FACT and FACT Plus follow the same paper structure — only the difficulty level differs. Here's a detailed breakdown:
Forensic Aptitude — General principles, evidence science, crime scene procedures, new criminal law framework (BNS/BNSS/BSA), and basic analytical techniques.
Specialised Forensic Science subject of your choice from 5 elective options covering all major forensic disciplines.
Exam Sessions on 24 May 2026
| Exam | Session | Timing | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| FACT | Forenoon | 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM | 2 Hours |
| FACT Plus | Afternoon | 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM | 2 Hours |
The Five Elective Subjects
Eligibility Criteria — Know Before You Apply
For FACT (Basic Level)
- Must be an Indian national
- Must hold the qualifying postgraduate degree per official Table 1, or be in the final semester awaiting results
- Final semester candidates receive a provisional certificate, valid only upon completing the degree within the current academic year
- No upper age limit — you can appear any number of times
- For certain electives, specific subjects at UG level are mandatory (e.g., Physics/Chemistry for Document Examination)
For FACT Plus (Advanced Level)
In addition to FACT eligibility, you must have qualified in at least one of the following:
| Elective | GATE | UGC-NET / CSIR | GPAT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forensic Ballistics & Physical Sc. | Physics/Math/ECE/EE/Chem | Electronic Sc. / Forensic Sc. / Physical Sc. | — |
| Forensic Document Examination | Physics/Math/ECE/EE/Chem | Electronic Sc. / Forensic Sc. / Physical Sc. | — |
| Digital Forensics | ECE/EE/CS&IT/Physics/Math | CS&Apps / E.Sc / Forensic / Criminology | — |
| Forensic Chemical Sciences | Chemistry / Chem. Engg. | Forensic Science / Chemical Sciences | ✓ GPAT |
| Forensic Psychology | — | Psychology / Criminology | — |
Scoring & Qualifying Marks
| Criterion | General / OBC (Creamy) | SC / ST / OBC-NCL / PwD |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum in Each Section | 50% (25/50 in A; 35/70 in B) | 45% (5% relaxation) |
| Overall Qualifying Score | 60% and above (72+/120) | 55% and above (66+/120) |
The New Criminal Laws — BNS, BNSS & BSA 2023
Effective 1 July 2024, India replaced its three foundational criminal statutes. Every forensic science candidate must know these new laws — both for the FACT exam and for professional practice in any FSL.
The Three New Laws at a Glance
358 sections (vs 511 in IPC). Defines all criminal offences and punishments. Introduces new offences for organised crime, terrorism, and cyber fraud. Recognises forensic and digital evidence explicitly. Received Presidential assent: 25 Dec 2023. In force: 1 July 2024.
531 sections (vs 484 in CrPC). Governs criminal procedure — investigation, arrest, bail, trial, and sentencing. Mandates forensic investigation for offences punishable with 7+ years (Section 176). Introduces Zero FIR, electronic proceedings, and strict investigation timelines.
170 sections (vs 167 in IEA). Governs admissibility and proof of evidence in courts. Key reform: electronic and digital records are now PRIMARY evidence (Section 57). Expert testimony scope expanded under Section 39 to include "any other field" beyond traditional science/art.
Key Section Mapping: Old Laws → New Laws
The FACT syllabus references old IPC/CrPC/IEA sections — you must now know these by their new BNS/BNSS/BSA equivalents. Study both for the transition period.
IPC → BNS: Relevant to All Forensic Electives
| IPC Section | Subject & Relevance | BNS Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| IPC § 29 | Definition of "Document" | BNS § 2(7) |
| IPC § 29A | Definition of "Electronic Record" | BNS § 2 (read with IT Act) |
| IPC § 34 | Acts done in common intention | BNS § 3(5) |
| IPC § 120B | Criminal conspiracy punishment | BNS § 61 |
| IPC § 409 | Criminal breach of trust by public servant / banker | BNS § 316(2) |
| IPC § 415 | Cheating (definition) | BNS § 318(1) |
| IPC § 416 | Cheating by personation | BNS § 319(1) |
| IPC § 418 | Cheating with knowledge of harm to another | BNS § 318(3) |
| IPC § 420 | Cheating — dishonest inducement (property delivery) | BNS § 318(4) |
| IPC § 463 | Forgery (definition) | BNS § 336(1) |
| IPC § 464 | Making a false document | BNS § 335 |
| IPC § 465 | Punishment for forgery | BNS § 336(2) |
| IPC § 467 | Forgery of valuable security / will | BNS § 338 |
| IPC § 468 | Forgery for purpose of cheating | BNS § 336(3) / 336(4) |
| IPC § 469 | Forgery to harm reputation | BNS § 337 |
| IPC § 470 | Forged document or electronic record | BNS § 340(1) |
| IPC § 471 | Using as genuine a forged document | BNS § 340(2) |
| IPC § 477A | Falsification of accounts | BNS § 344 |
| IPC § 489A | Counterfeiting currency notes | BNS § 178 |
| IPC § 489B | Using as genuine forged currency | BNS § 179 |
| IPC § 489C | Possession of forged currency | BNS § 180 |
| IPC § 489D | Making/possessing instrument for currency forgery | BNS § 181 |
| IPC § 489E | Making/using documents resembling currency | BNS § 182 |
CrPC → BNSS: Relevant to Forensic Investigation & Expert Testimony
| CrPC Section | Subject & Relevance | BNSS Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| CrPC § 53 | Examination of accused by medical officer | BNSS § 51 |
| CrPC § 53A | Examination of accused of rape (by doctor) | BNSS § 52 |
| CrPC § 54 | Examination of arrested person (now mandatory) | BNSS § 53 |
| CrPC § 157 | Procedure for investigation — crime scene | BNSS § 176 (+ forensic mandate) |
| CrPC § 164A | Medical examination of rape victims | BNSS § 184 (7-day report limit) |
| CrPC § 293 | Government scientific expert reports admissible | BNSS § 329 |
| CrPC § 294 | No formal proof of documents required if undisputed | BNSS § 330 |
| CrPC § 311A | Magistrate's order — specimen signatures / handwriting | BNSS § 349 (+ voice & fingerprints) |
| CrPC § 357C | Free first aid to victims | BNSS § 397 |
| — | Zero FIR (new provision) | BNSS § 173(1) |
| — | Forensic expert mandatory at crime scene (new) | BNSS § 176(3) |
Indian Evidence Act → BSA: Expert Opinion & Document Examination
| IEA Section | Subject & Relevance | BSA Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| IEA § 3 | Definition of Evidence (now includes electronic mode) | BSA § 2(1)(e) |
| IEA § 45 | Opinions of experts (science, art, handwriting) | BSA § 39(1) — expanded to "any field" |
| IEA § 45A | Opinion of Examiner of Electronic Evidence | BSA § 39(2) |
| IEA § 46 | Facts bearing upon opinions of experts | BSA § 40 |
| IEA § 47 | Opinion as to handwriting, when relevant | BSA § 41(1) |
| IEA § 47A | Opinion as to digital signature | BSA § 41(2) |
| IEA § 65B | Admissibility of electronic records (certification) | BSA § 63 (expanded, multi-device) |
| IEA § 73 | Comparison of signature / handwriting by Court | BSA § 73A |
| IEA § 73A | Proof of digital signatures | BSA § 73 |
| IEA § 114 | Court may presume existence of certain facts | BSA § 117 |
| — | Electronic/digital records as PRIMARY evidence (new) | BSA § 57 |
Why These Laws Matter So Much for Forensic Professionals
- BNSS § 176(3) — Forensic experts must now physically visit and document crime scenes for all offences carrying 7+ years' imprisonment. This is a landmark mandate that directly creates demand for FACT-qualified professionals.
- BNSS § 349 — Magistrates can now order collection of fingerprints, voice samples, and other forensic measurements even from persons not yet arrested — expanded forensic powers.
- BSA § 39(1) — Expert opinion is now admissible in "any field," removing the old IEA restriction of just science, art, or foreign law. Forensic experts have broader admissibility for their testimony.
- BSA § 57 — Electronic and digital records from proper custody are automatically primary evidence. This elevates the role of Digital Forensics examiners in court proceedings.
- BSA § 63 — Multi-device and network-based electronic evidence is now explicitly governed. Critical for Digital Forensics and Cybercrime investigation.
- BNS § 335–340 — Consolidated and modernised forgery provisions now explicitly include electronic records and digital documents. Essential knowledge for Forensic Document Examination professionals.
Mastering Section A — Forensic Aptitude
Section A is the great equaliser. Every candidate, regardless of elective, faces the same 50 questions. Master this section to guarantee your entry into the qualified list.
How to Prepare for Section A
- Start with Saferstein's Criminalistics — the gold standard textbook for forensic science fundamentals. Chapters 1–5 cover most of Section A.
- Learn the new criminal law framework: BNS (replaces IPC), BNSS (replaces CrPC), BSA (replaces Indian Evidence Act) — all in force since 1 July 2024. Know the key forensic provisions in each.
- Master basic statistics: Probability theory, Baye's theorem, t-test, chi-square test, likelihood ratios, and evidence significance — all specifically in the Section A syllabus.
- Study legendary forensic scientists: Edmond Locard (Exchange Principle), Francis Galton (fingerprints), Alphonse Bertillon, Karl Landsteiner, and Indian forensic pioneers are frequently referenced.
- Understand analytical instruments conceptually: Know what SEM-EDX, AAS, FTIR, GC-MS are used for in forensic analysis — application over theory for Section A.
- Learn the BNSS forensic mandate (Section 176): The provision mandating forensic investigation for 7+ year offences is a high-probability question area given its policy significance.
Elective-Wise Preparation Strategy
Elective I — Forensic Ballistics & Physical Sciences
The broadest elective — covers Forensic Physics (spectroscopy, microscopy, audio-video forensics, pattern evidence, collision reconstruction) and Forensic Ballistics (firearms, wounds, trajectory, GSR). Expect questions across all sub-disciplines.
Elective II — Forensic Document Examination
A precision-oriented elective — handwriting probability theory, ink analysis, forgery detection, and a strong legal component. This elective has the most direct legal section references, all now updated to BNS/BSA.
Elective III — Digital Forensics
The fastest-evolving forensic discipline. Four modules: computer, network, mobile, and social media forensics + cryptography. The BSA reforms on electronic evidence are especially relevant here.
Elective IV — Forensic Chemical Sciences
The most instrument-heavy elective — six sub-sections: Forensic Chemistry I & II, Forensic Toxicology I & II, Instrumental Techniques I & II. The NDPS Act is examinable alongside the new BNS provisions for drug offences.
Elective V — Forensic Psychology
A unique elective blending psychology, criminology, forensic science, and reasoning. The criminal justice system module is directly impacted by BNS/BNSS/BSA reforms.
Month-by-Month Study Plan
Applications close 10 May and the exam is 24 May 2026. Here's an intensive four-week plan:
- Download the official syllabus from www.nfsu.ac.in and annotate it
- Complete your application form — portal closes 10 May, apply early
- Read Saferstein's Criminalistics Chapters 1–5 for Section A
- Study crime scene procedures, chain of custody, evidence packaging
- Learn the new criminal laws framework: BNS, BNSS, BSA — their purpose, structure, and key forensic provisions
- Revise basic statistics: mean, median, mode, standard deviation, probability, likelihood ratio
- Pivot fully to your chosen elective — cover at least 60% of syllabus topics
- Memorise the old-to-new law section mapping for your elective (use the table in Section 05 above)
- For Chemistry/Ballistics: focus on instrumental techniques (UV-Vis, IR, AAS)
- For Digital Forensics: revise OS artifacts, file system structures, network attacks, BSA electronic evidence provisions
- For Document Examination: handwriting principles, BNS § 335–340 forgery framework
- Make concise 1-page topic summaries for every major syllabus heading
- Cover remaining 40% of elective syllabus — especially technical and instrumental areas
- Study all relevant Acts for your elective: Arms Act 2016, NDPS Act 1985, Explosive Substances Act 1908
- Deep dive on BNSS § 176 (forensic investigation mandate), BNSS § 329 (government expert reports), BSA § 39 & 57
- Consolidate Section A — attempt a full mock: 50 questions in 40 minutes
- Revise landmark forensic science case studies and legendary scientists
- Attempt 2–3 full-length mock papers (120 questions in 2 hours each)
- Identify weak areas from mocks — dedicate final days to those only
- Revise all 1-page topic summaries — two rounds minimum
- Download and print your e-Admit Card from www.nfsu.ac.in when available
- Prepare exam-day materials: valid photo ID, admit card printout, pens
- Plan your travel to the exam centre — know exact address, route, parking
- Arrive at centre at least 45 minutes early — no late entry permitted
- Carry: e-Admit Card printout + original photo identity card only
- Absolutely NO: mobile phones, calculators, smart watches, electronic devices, books, paper chits
- Section A: target completion in 40 minutes; 80 minutes for Section B
- Attempt ALL 120 questions — no negative marking, no excuse to skip
- Review Section A answers first if time permits (minimum marks hurdle)
Recommended Books & Resources
Section A — Forensic Aptitude
Criminalistics: An Introduction to Forensic Science
Richard Saferstein — the definitive foundational text. Chapters 1–7 cover almost all of Section A.
Crime Scene Forensics: A Scientific Method Approach
Robert C. Shaler — excellent for crime scene procedures, evidence packaging, and chain of custody.
Forensic Science in Criminal Investigation & Trials
B.R. Sharma — essential for Indian legal provisions and forensic science in the Indian judiciary. Read alongside new BNS/BNSS/BSA provisions.
Introduction to Statistics for Forensic Scientists
David Lucy — covers all probability and statistical methods in the Section A syllabus.
BNS, BNSS & BSA Official Text
Free on MHA website (mha.gov.in). Download and read key forensic provisions: BNS § 335–344, BNSS § 176/329/349, BSA § 39/41/57/63.
A Forensic Guide for Crime Investigators
LNJN NICFS (2015) — India-specific reference that directly aligns with FACT syllabus. Check NFSU Delhi Campus website.
By Elective — Essential Reading
Firearms in Criminal Investigation & Trials
B.R. Sharma — covers all aspects of firearms examination in the Indian FSL context.
Gunshot Wounds (3rd Ed.)
Vincent J.M. DiMaio — comprehensive terminal ballistics, wound patterns, and GSR analysis.
Questioned Documents (2nd Ed.)
Albert S. Osborn — the foundational text for document examination. Read with BNS § 335–340 provisions.
Scientific Examination of Questioned Documents
Ordway Hilton — laboratory methods, handwriting probability, and forgery detection.
Guide to Digital Forensics
Joakim Kävrestad — concise and practical, covering all four digital forensics modules. Supplement with BSA § 57 & 63.
Mobile Forensic Investigations
Lee Reiber — the go-to text for mobile phone evidence collection, extraction, and analysis.
Principles of Forensic Toxicology (4th Ed.)
Barry Levine — comprehensive and exam-focused. Covers all toxicology modules in the syllabus.
Forensic Investigation of Explosives (2nd Ed.)
Alexander Beveridge — post-blast analysis, IED forensics, and explosive residue methods.
Principles of Instrumental Analysis (7th Ed.)
Skoog, Holler & Crouch — reference for all spectroscopic and chromatographic techniques across electives.
Introduction to Forensic Psychology
Bruce Arrigo — covers criminal behaviour, psychology in the legal system, and forensic applications.
Registration & Exam Day Tips
Application Process — Step by Step
- Apply online at www.nfsu.ac.in between 7 April – 10 May 2026. No offline applications accepted under any circumstances.
- Enter your name exactly as on your Class X (Matriculation) certificate. Married women may submit an undertaking for name changes.
- Select your exam carefully: FACT, FACT Plus, or both require separate forms and separate fees.
- Pay fees by Debit/Credit Card, Net Banking, or UPI only. No DDs or money orders. Fee is non-refundable.
- Save your Registration Number — required for admit card download. Check email after successful submission.
- Choose exam centre: Agartala, Bhopal, Chennai, Delhi, Gandhinagar, Guwahati, Mumbai, or Nagpur. No centre changes after submission.
Registration Fee
| Category | Gender | FACT Fee | FACT Plus Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| General (GEN) | Male | ₹1,500 | ₹1,500 |
| General (GEN) | Female | ₹750 | ₹750 |
| OBC-NCL / SC / ST / PwD | Any | ₹750 | ₹750 |
Fees exclude applicable GST. OBC concession applies only to Central Govt. list (NCBC website: ncbc.nic.in). State-level OBC lists are not applicable.
Exam Day Checklist
- Carry a printout of your e-Admit Card — no duplicate cards issued at the exam centre
- Carry a valid original photo ID (Aadhaar, Passport, Driving Licence, PAN Card)
- Arrive at least 45 minutes before exam start
- Leave behind all: mobile phones, calculators, log tables, smart watches, earphones, books, paper chits, electronic devices
- Possession of prohibited items = immediate disqualification — result will not be declared
Frequently Asked Questions
"India's new criminal laws have made forensic science the backbone of justice. FACT is your passport to that mission."
— Budding Forensic Expert
📌 FACT 2026 Website: www.nfsu.ac.in
📧 Helpdesk: facthelpdesk@nfsu.ac.in
⚖️ BNS/BNSS/BSA Full Text: mha.gov.in
🏛️ Organiser: NFSU Delhi Campus (LNJN NICFS), MHA, GoI
