IIT JAM (Indian Institute of Technology Joint Admission Test M.Sc.)

IIT JAM 2026

Notification | Exam Dates | Application Form | Eligibility | Exam Pattern | Admit Cards | Syllabus | Results | Counseling

IIT JAM 2026 notification will be available in 2nd week of September 2025 following with the online application submissions starting in the 2nd week of September 2025. The last date for the submission of online applications is 3rd week October 2025. However, the IIT JAM 2026 will allow candidates to upload certain certificates till 3rd week of November 2025.  IIT JAM exam will be conducted between 1st week of February 2026 although the official dates are yet to be released by the authorities.

The IIT JAM (Joint Admission Test) is a national-level entrance examination conducted for admission to postgraduate Science programs at the Indian Institutes of Technology and other leading institutes. The IIT JAM exam is known for its comprehensive assessment of candidates’ understanding in subjects such as Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Biotechnology, Economics, Geology, and Mathematical Statistics. Conducted in an online computer-based format, IIT JAM 2026 consists of 60 questions divided into three sections namely – Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ), Multiple Select Questions (MSQ), and Numerical Answer Type (NAT).

The IIT JAM 2026 is structured to test a candidate’s grasp of undergraduate-level in the field of Science concepts and their analytical and quantitative skills. With a total duration of three hours and a maximum score of 100 marks, the IIT JAM exam requires thorough preparation and a strategic approach. The IIT JAM is conducted exclusively in English language, and candidates are provided with a virtual calculator to solve complex numerical problems, ensuring a level playing field for all aspirants.  

IIT JAM 2026 – Key Highlights

Basic Information on IIT JAM

The IIT JAM (Indian Institutes of Technology Joint Admission Test for Masters) is a national-level entrance exam conducted by IIT Bombay. The IIT JAM is for admission into postgraduate Science programs such as M.Sc., Joint M.Sc.-Ph.D., and Integrated Ph.D. courses at IITs, IISc Bangalore, and other participating institutes. Candidates can choose from seven subjects including Biotechnology, Chemistry, Geology, Mathematics, Mathematical Statistics, Economics, and Physics. The IIT JAM exam is conducted exclusively in English, with no age limit for applicants, and eligibility requires a bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university. The IIT JAM 2026 test will evaluate candidates’ understanding of core undergraduate science topics and serves as a gateway to prestigious postgraduate programs in top Indian institutes.

IIT JAM 2026 Exam Dates

IIT JAM 2026 Exam Highlights

IIT JAM 2026 Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for IIT JAM 2026 require candidates to hold a bachelor’s degree of at least three years’ duration from a recognized university in any discipline. Candidates currently in the final year of their bachelor’s program are also eligible to apply, provided they submit proof of passing the degree by September 2026. There is no age limit for applicants, and both Indian nationals and foreign nationals can apply. While certain programs may have subject-specific eligibility criteria regarding the duration of study in core subjects, no minimum percentage is mandated by the IIT JAM organizing body. Although some institutes may specify minimum marks for admission. Candidates should verify specific IIT JAM 2026 eligibility criteria according to the intended subject and institute.

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IIT JAM 2026 Application Process

The IIT JAM 2026 application form must be submitted online through the official JAM Online Application Processing System (JOAPS). Candidates need to register by providing a valid email and mobile number, fill in personal and academic details, select the paper(s) they intend to appear for, and upload scanned documents including a recent photograph, signature, category certificate (if applicable), and educational certificates. The application fee must be paid online via net banking, credit/debit card, or UPI. After submission, candidates can make corrections during the specified correction window, if needed. Only online applications are accepted for IIT JAM 2026 and there is no offline mode for submission.

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IIT JAM 2026 Exam Pattern

The IIT JAM 2026 exam pattern consists of a 3-hour computer-based test (CBT) conducted entirely in English, featuring a total of 60 questions worth 100 marks. The IIT JAM 2026 exam paper is divided into three compulsory sections: Section A includes 30 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) with negative marking (10 questions carry 1 mark each and 20 carry 2 marks each). Section B has 10 Multiple Select Questions (MSQs), each worth 2 marks, where one or more options may be correct and there is no negative marking. Section C contains 20 Numerical Answer Type (NAT) questions, 10 of 1 mark and 10 of 2 marks, requiring numeric answers with no negative marking. Candidates must attempt all sections using the virtual keypad and calculator provided.

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IIT JAM 2026 Syllabus

The IIT JAM 2026 syllabus encompasses seven core scientific subjects: Biotechnology, Chemistry, Geology, Mathematics, Mathematical Statistics, Economics, and Physics. Each syllabus covers undergraduate-level topics relevant to the chosen subject, for example, Biotechnology includes biology, chemistry, mathematics, and physics at the 10+2+3 level. The IIT JAM 2026 syllabus is designed to comprehensively test foundational concepts and application skills essential for postgraduate programs at IITs and IISc.

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IIT JAM 2026 – Preparation Tips

Successful preparation for IIT JAM 2026 requires a thorough understanding of the IIT JAM 2026 syllabus and exam pattern, coupled with disciplined time management and consistent practice. Aspirants should focus on conceptual clarity over rote learning, make a realistic study plan covering all topics, and utilize standard textbooks and IIT JAM-specific guides. Practicing previous years’ question papers and mock tests is crucial to improve speed, accuracy, and confidence. Regular revision, strategic exam-taking techniques, and maintaining physical and mental wellbeing also significantly enhance performance chances in this competitive exam.

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IIT JAM 2026 Admit Card

The IIT JAM 2026 admit card will be issued online through the official JOAPS portal in January 2026. Candidates who have successfully completed their application and paid the fee can download the admit card by logging in with their enrollment ID and password. The IIT JAM 2026 admit card contains essential details such as the candidate's name, exam center, exam session, registration number, and important instructions. It is mandatory to carry the printed IIT JAM 2026 admit card along with a valid photo ID to the examination center for verification. No physical IIT JAM 2026 admit cards will be sent by post.

IIT JAM 2026 – Cut Offs

The IIT JAM 2026 cut offs represent the minimum marks candidates must secure in their respective subject papers and categories to qualify for admission into postgraduate programs at IITs, IISc, and other participating institutes. The IIT JAM cut offs vary based on factors like exam difficulty, number of candidates, seat availability, and reservation categories. General category cut offs typically range higher, while reserved categories get relaxation. Expected IIT JAM 2026 cut offs for popular subjects generally hover between 25 to 35 marks out of 100, but candidates should await the official announcement post-results for exact figures. Meeting or exceeding the cut off is mandatory to participate in counselling and admission.

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IIT JAM 2026 Results

The IIT JAM 2026 results are expected to be declared in March 2026 on the official JOAPS portal. Candidates can check their IIT JAM 2026 scores by logging in with their enrolment credentials. The IIT JAM result includes the marks obtained in each section, total score, rank, and qualifying status. Along with the IIT JAM results, the official cut-offs for each subject and category will be released, determining candidates' eligibility for counselling and admission.

IIT JAM 2026 Counselling Process

The counselling process for IIT JAM 2026 will be conducted online through the JOAPS portal following the declaration of IIT JAM results 2026. Qualified candidates must register and fill in their admission form, indicating preferences for programs and institutes. Seat allotment is done based on merit, choices, and seat availability in multiple rounds. Candidates can either accept and freeze their seat, opt for upgradation in subsequent rounds, or reject and withdraw from counselling. Document verification and payment of admission fees are essential steps to confirm admission.

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IIT JAM 2026 Instructions

1. Candidates should upload their photograph and signature with the preferred size in the portal which should be clearly visible.
2. Candidates need to carry their admit card/hall ticket to the exam centre. Candidates will be prohibited from entering the exam hall without this document.
3. Candidates will also be required to carry a valid ID proof such as – Voter ID Card/ Aadhaar Card/ PAN Card/ Driving License, etc.
4. It is advisable for all candidates to enter the designated exam hall before time for a smooth security process before the beginning of exam.
5. Any candidate violating the rules will be strictly dealt as per the norms of the exam centre.
6. Any candidate pursuing any unfair means in the exam hall will be dealt with as per the rules and regulations of the test centre.

IIT JAM 2026 – FAQs

Q1. What is the format of the IIT JAM 2026 exam?

Ans. The IIT JAM 2026 exam is a computer-based test lasting 3 hours and comprises 60 questions totaling 100 marks. It includes three sections: Section A with 30 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), Section B with 10 Multiple Select Questions (MSQs), and Section C with 20 Numerical Answer Type (NAT) questions. Negative marking applies only to the MCQs in Section A.

Q2. Who is eligible to appear for the IIT JAM 2026 exam?

Ans. Candidates who have completed or are in the final year of a bachelor’s degree of at least three years’ duration from a recognized university in any discipline are eligible. There is no age limit, and both Indian and foreign nationals can apply.

Q3. How can candidates apply for IIT JAM 2026?

Ans. Applications must be submitted online via the JAM Online Application Processing System (JOAPS). Candidates need to register, fill in personal and academic details, upload necessary documents, and pay the application fee online.

Q4. When and how are the IIT JAM 2026 results declared?

Ans. IIT JAM Results are typically declared online about a month after the exam, accessible through the JOAPS portal by logging in with enrollment credentials. The scorecard displays section-wise marks, total score, rank, and qualifying status.

Q5. What is the counselling process for IIT JAM 2026 admissions?

Ans. IIT JAM Counselling is conducted online through JOAPS after results. Qualified candidates register for counselling, fill in choices of programs and institutes, and seats are allotted based on merit and preferences. Candidates can accept, upgrade, or reject allotted seats and must complete document verification to finalize admission.