IIT JAM 2026 – Counselling

The IIT JAM 2026 counselling process is a crucial step for candidates aiming to secure admission into M.Sc., Joint M.Sc.-Ph.D., Integrated Ph.D., and related postgraduate programs offered by the IITs and IISc. Counselling and seat allocation are managed centrally through the JAM Online Application Processing System (JOAPS), ensuring a transparent and merit-driven process.

Overview and Timeline

• Mode:Entirely online (centralized system via JOAPS)
• Counselling Registration Start:April 2026
• Rounds of Counselling:Generally, four rounds with the possibility of additional rounds if seats remain vacant
• Participating Institutes:21+ IITs, IISc, and result-sharing institutes such as select NITs, IIEST Shibpur, SLIET, and DIAT
• Total Seats: 3,000 across IITs; 2,000+ via result-sharing institutes

Step-by-Step Counselling Procedure

1. Online Registration: After results are declared (March 20, 2026), qualified candidates register online at the JOAPS portal, providing personal and academic details along with JAM scores.
2. Admission Form & Choice Filling: Candidates fill out the admission form and indicate their preferences for courses and institutes. Multiple preferences can be provided, keeping in mind location, academic interests, and career goals.
3. Seat Allotment: Seats are allocated based on merit (rank and score), the choices filled by each candidate, and the availability of seats. Candidates are notified of allotment in rounds, usually up to four rounds.
4. Acceptance & Upgradation:

• Freeze:Accept and confirm the allotted seat by paying the seat acceptance fee.
• Float/Upgrade:Accept the seat but opt for an upgrade in subsequent rounds if a better option becomes available.
• Reject:Decline and withdraw from the process; no further counselling participation allowed.

5. Document Verification: After seat confirmation, candidates must upload scanned copies of:

• JAM scorecard
• 10th and 12th certificates
• Category certificate (if applicable)
• Passport-sized photographs

The verification ensures all eligibility criteria and information are accurate.

6. Final Admission: Post document checks and fee payment, candidates receive final admission letters and can commence their journey at the allotted institute.

Key Points and Guidelines

• No additional interviews or written tests are required for candidates who qualify JAM and satisfy admission requirements.
• Withdrawal Option:Candidates can withdraw admission within the stipulated period between rounds if required.
• Keep documents ready:Early preparation helps avoid last-minute delays.
• Regularly check official JAM portal:Stay updated for schedule changes or additional rounds.

Programmes Offered via JAM Counselling

• MSc, MSc (Tech), MS (Research), MSc-M. Tech Dual, Joint MSc-PhD, MSc-PhD Dual Degree programmes
• Across diverse disciplines: Biotechnology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Mathematical Statistics, Economics, Geology.

Click Here For IIT JAM 2026 APPLICATION FORM 

FAQs

Q1. How does IIT JAM 2026 counselling take place?

Ans. Counselling is conducted online through the JAM Online Application Processing System (JOAPS), involving registration, choice filling, seat allotment, acceptance/upgradation, and document verification.

Q2. What options does a candidate have after seat allotment?

Ans. Candidates can either freeze and accept their seat, opt for an upgrade in the next round, or reject and withdraw from the process.

Q3. Are interviews or further written tests conducted during counselling?

Ans. No. Admission through IIT JAM is based strictly on rank, preferences, and verification of documents—no additional interview or examination is required.

Q4. What documents are required for admission verification?

Ans. Key documents include JAM scorecard, academic certificates, category certificate (if applicable), and recent passport-size photographs.

Q5. Is it possible to withdraw from counselling after accepting a seat?

Ans. Yes, candidates can withdraw their admission within designated windows between rounds, forfeiting their claim to further counselling rounds.