The question paper of DNB-CET comprises of 300 multiple choice questions each with four options and only one correct response. Multiple question papers are used for DNB-CET for different sessions and days.

While all papers (forms) are carefully assembled to ensure that the content is comparable, the difficulty of each form may be perceived by different subjects undertaking the test to slightly vary. Such minor differences in the overall difficulty level are accurately measured after all the different question papers (forms) have been administered and the results analyzed. A post-equating process is necessary to ensure validity and fairness.

Equating is a psychometric process to adjust differences in difficulty so that scores from different test papers (forms) are comparable on a common metric and therefore fair to candidates testing across multiple papers (forms). To facilitate this comparison, each form contains a pre-defined number of questions (items) selected from a large item bank, called an equating block, which is used as an anchor to adjust candidates scores to the metric of the item bank. Taking into account of candidates’ differential performance on these equating blocks, each individual’s raw marks are adjusted for difference in paper (form) difficulties.

During post-equating, test items are concurrently analyzed and the estimated item parameters (item difficulty and discrimination) are put onto a common metric. Item Response Theory (IRT), a psychometrically supported statistical model, is utilized in this process. The result is a statistically equated raw score that takes into account the performance of the candidate along with the difficulty of the form administered.

Post equating takes into account any statistical differences in examination difficulty and ensures all candidates are evaluated on a common scale. The aforesaid steps ensure that all examination scores are valid, equitable and fair. Merit List shall be prepared on the basis of scaled score obtained by the candidates.