NERIST operates under the Ministry of Education, Government of India. It is an autonomous institute, recognized for its distinctive approach to education. The institute is located in Nirjuli, a quaint town in Arunachal Pradesh, surrounded by lush greenery and a tranquil environment, which is conducive to learning and innovation. The academic structure of NERIST is designed to provide a strong foundation in science and technology while allowing for flexibility in higher education. The modular system ensures that students can progressively build their expertise, starting from the base module, moving to the diploma, and finally to the degree level. This structure has proven effective in creating a workforce that is both skilled and adaptable. NERIST is also known for its vibrant campus life and a strong sense of community among students and faculty. The institute organizes various cultural, technical, and sports events throughout the year, promoting a holistic development environment. The faculty at NERIST are highly qualified and bring a wealth of knowledge and experience, enhancing the learning experience for students.

NERIST offers a variety of courses designed to meet the evolving demands of the industry and academia. The institute's flagship program is its modular engineering course, which includes the Base (Certificate), Diploma, and Degree modules. This program covers several engineering disciplines such as Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, and Computer Science Engineering. In addition to engineering, NERIST also offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in science, humanities, and management. The Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) and Master of Science (M.Sc) programs cover subjects like Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. The institute also offers a Master of Business Administration (MBA) program, designed to develop future business leaders. The curriculum at NERIST is regularly updated to incorporate the latest advancements in technology and industry practices. The institute places a strong emphasis on practical learning, ensuring that students gain hands-on experience through labs, workshops, and industrial training programs. This approach helps students to seamlessly transition from academic learning to professional practice.

Admission to NERIST is highly competitive and is based on the NERIST Entrance Examination (NEE). The NEE is conducted in three levels - NEE-I, NEE-II, and NEE-III - corresponding to the Base, Diploma, and Degree modules respectively. Each level tests the aptitude and knowledge of the candidates in subjects relevant to the module they are applying for. Candidates who have completed their secondary education are eligible to apply for the Base module (NEE-I), while those with a higher secondary or equivalent qualification can apply for the Diploma module (NEE-II). For the Degree module (NEE-III), candidates must have completed a diploma in the relevant field. The selection process is rigorous, ensuring that only the most deserving candidates are admitted. Apart from the NEE, NERIST also accepts scores from national level entrance exams such as JEE Main for certain programs. The institute follows the reservation policy of the Government of India, providing opportunities for students from various backgrounds to pursue higher education. Detailed information about the admission process, eligibility criteria, and important dates is available on the NERIST official website.

NERIST has a robust placement cell that works tirelessly to ensure that students secure employment in reputed organizations. The placement cell maintains strong ties with industry leaders and regularly invites companies to campus for recruitment drives. The institute boasts a high placement rate, with many students securing lucrative job offers even before completing their courses. The placement process at NERIST involves multiple stages, including pre-placement talks, written tests, group discussions, and personal interviews. The placement cell also organizes training sessions, workshops, and mock interviews to prepare students for the recruitment process. Companies from various sectors such as IT, manufacturing, finance, and consulting participate in the campus placements. Notable recruiters at NERIST include Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Wipro, Infosys, Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), and Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL). The institute's alumni network also plays a crucial role in facilitating placements, providing mentorship and networking opportunities for current students.

The cutoffs for admission to NERIST vary each year based on the number of applicants, difficulty level of the entrance exams, and the availability of seats. The cutoffs are announced after the declaration of the entrance exam results and are based on the candidate's performance in the respective exams. For the NEE, the cutoffs are determined separately for each module (Base, Diploma, Degree) and are further categorized based on reservation criteria. Candidates who score above the cutoff marks are eligible for counseling and seat allotment. The cutoff marks for JEE Main scores are also considered for certain programs, and these vary depending on the program and category of the applicant. Prospective students are advised to check the NERIST official website for detailed information on the cutoffs for the current academic year. The website provides comprehensive information on the cutoff trends from previous years, helping candidates gauge their chances of admission.  

The NERIST campus is spread over a sprawling area in Nirjuli, offering a serene and picturesque environment conducive to academic pursuits. The campus is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, well-equipped laboratories, and a comprehensive library with a vast collection of books, journals, and digital resources. Student life at NERIST is vibrant and engaging, with numerous clubs and societies catering to a wide range of interests. The campus has excellent sports facilities, including a gymnasium, sports fields, and courts for various sports such as basketball, volleyball, and badminton. Regular sports events and tournaments are organized, promoting physical fitness and teamwork among students. The campus also features comfortable hostel accommodations, a student activity center, and various dining options. The institute ensures a safe and secure living environment for students, with round-the-clock security and medical facilities. The NERIST campus is a hub of academic and extracurricular activities, providing students with ample opportunities for personal and professional growth.