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

Responding to media coverage following the announcement of Tier-1 results, NESTS clarified that no final selection has been made so far because Tier-1 functions solely as a screening test to shortlist candidates for the next stage of recruitment.

According to the Society, the ESSE-2025 recruitment drive—being conducted to fill 7,267 teaching and non-teaching posts—follows a two-stage examination system. The Tier-1 examination, held by CBSE in December 2025, is intended only to identify candidates eligible to appear for Tier-2 and does not determine final merit.

NESTS explained that candidates are shortlisted in a 1:10 ratio for each post, meaning the Tier-1 cut-off is based on the number of candidates required for the next stage rather than on minimum suitability for appointment. The marking scheme, including provisions for negative marking, had been clearly specified in the official ESSE-2025 notification. Therefore, the appearance of low or negative cut-off marks in Tier-1 reflects relative performance in a competitive examination and does not indicate dilution of recruitment standards.

The Society emphasised that final selection will depend entirely on Tier-2 results, which are subject-specific and evaluative, along with interviews wherever applicable. For the post of Principal, candidates must qualify in both Tier-2 and the interview stage. Additionally, candidates must secure minimum qualifying marks in Tier-2—30 percent for General category candidates and 25 percent for SC, ST and Divyang categories—to be considered for appointment. Those who fail to meet these thresholds will be disqualified regardless of their Tier-1 performance.

NESTS also addressed references to salary figures appearing in some reports, clarifying that the mentioned pay levels are standard government pay scales that apply only after candidates successfully complete all recruitment stages and receive final appointment.

The Society reiterated that the ESSE-2025 recruitment process is being conducted strictly in accordance with the notified rules and urged stakeholders to rely on official information to avoid confusion or misinformation.