IIT JAM 2026 – Exam Pattern

The IIT JAM (Indian Institutes of Technology Joint Admission Test for Masters) is one of India's premier entrance exams. Success in this exam opens doors to postgraduate programs such as M.Sc., Joint M.Sc.-Ph.D., Integrated Ph.D., and M.Sc.-Ph.D. Dual Degrees at IITs and IISc Bangalore. To excel, candidates must grasp every detail of the IIT JAM 2026 exam pattern, marking scheme, and question formats for IIT JAM 2026.

IIT JAM 2026 is a gateway for candidates aiming to pursue science post-graduation at India’s most prestigious institutes. Thorough understanding of the exam pattern allows candidates to plan their strategy, maximize their scores, and achieve admission into their preferred programs.

Quick Glance on IIT JAM 2026

• Exam Type: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
• Duration: 3 hours
• Medium: English
• Total Questions: 60
• Maximum Marks: 100
• Sections: Three (A, B, and C)—all compulsory
• Subjects Offered: Biotechnology, Chemistry, Geology, Mathematics, Mathematical Statistics, Economics, Physics

Section-wise Breakup

Section A: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

Total Questions: 30

• 10 questions of 1 mark each
• 20 questions of 2 marks each

Total Marks: 50

• Format: Each question offers four options, only one of which is correct.

Negative Marking

• For 1-mark questions: -? mark for incorrect answers.
• For 2-mark questions: -? mark for incorrect answers.
• Unanswered Questions: No marks deducted.

Section B: Multiple Select Questions (MSQs)

Total Questions: 10

• Each question carries 2 marks

Total Marks: 20

• Format: Similar to MCQs but may have one or more correct choices among four options.
• Marking Scheme: Full marks only if all correct options are selected and no incorrect options are marked; no negative marking for wrong answers or for leaving the question unattempted.

Section C: Numerical Answer Type (NAT)

Total Questions: 20

• 10 questions of 1 mark each
• 10 questions of 2 marks each

Total Marks: 30

• Format: Answers are real numbers (no options provided); candidates must use the virtual numerical keypad to enter their response.
• Marking Scheme:No negative marking for wrong answers.
• Unanswered Questions: No deduction.

Subject Offerings

Candidates may choose one or two subjects, provided their exam schedules do not clash. The seven subjects offered are:

• Biotechnology
• Chemistry
• Geology
• Mathematics
• Mathematical Statistics
• Economics
• Physics

The syllabus spans undergraduate-level core topics in these subjects, including specialized areas like microbiology, organic chemistry, real analysis, probability, and more.

Detailed Marking Scheme

Special Guidelines

• Only a virtual calculator provided on the computer screen is allowed.
• Use of unfair means results in disqualification and possible ban for future JAM exams.
• The JAM score’s validity lasts for one academic year.
• No age limit and no minimum percentage required in undergraduate studies for eligibility.

Click Here For IIT JAM 2026 PREPARATION TIPS 

FAQs

Q1. Is there any negative marking in IIT JAM 2026?

Ans. Yes, negative marking applies only in Section A (MCQs): -? mark for each incorrect 1-mark question, and -? mark for each incorrect 2-mark question. There is no negative marking in Sections B (MSQs) and C (NATs).

Q2. How many questions and marks are in the IIT JAM 2026 exam?

Ans. The paper consists of 60 questions carrying a total of 100 marks. Section A has 30 MCQs, Section B has 10 MSQs, and Section C has 20 NATs.

Q3. Can a candidate apply for more than one subject paper in IIT JAM?

Ans. Yes, candidates can apply for one or two subjects provided the exam schedules do not clash. Both papers can be chosen during registration.

Q4. Are calculators or log tables allowed in the IIT JAM examination hall?

Ans. Only the virtual calculator provided on the computer screen during the test may be used; physical calculators and log tables are prohibited.

Q5. What is the medium and duration of IIT JAM 2026?

Ans. The exam will be conducted exclusively in English and the total duration is three hours.