🧪 IIT-JAM 2026: Complete Guide to Eligibility, Syllabus, Dates & Preparation
The IIT-JAM 2026 (Joint Admission Test for Masters) is a national-level entrance exam for postgraduate science programs such as M.Sc., Joint M.Sc.-Ph.D., M.Sc.-Ph.D. Dual Degree, and other integrated courses offered by the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and IISc Bangalore. If you’re aiming to pursue advanced studies in science, this exam is your gateway to India’s top institutes.
📌 Quick Overview of IIT-JAM 2026
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | IIT-JAM 2026 |
| Conducting Body | IIT Bombay |
| Exam Level | National |
| Mode of Exam | Online (Computer-Based Test) |
| Application Mode | Online via JOAPS Portal |
| Exam Date | 15 February 2026 |
| Registration Start Date | 5 September 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | 12 October 2025 |
| Admit Card Release | 5 January 2026 |
| Result Declaration | 20 March 2026 |
| Total Seats Available | Approx. 3,000 across 22 IITs |
| Official Website | jam2026.iitb.ac.in |
🎯 Why Choose IIT-JAM?
- Admission to prestigious IITs and IISc
- Access to cutting-edge research facilities
- Opens doors to Ph.D. programs and fellowships
- Strong foundation for careers in academia, R&D, and industry
- Opportunity to study in interdisciplinary programs
📚 IIT-JAM 2026 Subjects Offered
The exam is conducted for the following seven subjects:
| Subject Code | Subject Name |
|---|---|
| BT | Biotechnology |
| CY | Chemistry |
| EN | Economics |
| GG | Geology |
| MA | Mathematics |
| MS | Mathematical Statistics |
| PH | Physics |
✅ IIT-JAM 2026 Eligibility Criteria
To appear for IIT-JAM 2026, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Educational Qualification: Bachelor’s degree in any discipline with required subjects.
- Minimum Marks: No minimum percentage required.
- Nationality: Indian nationals and foreign candidates are eligible.
- Age Limit: No age restriction.
- Final Year Students: Eligible, provided they submit proof of qualification by the deadline.
📝 IIT-JAM 2026 Application Process
Follow these steps to apply:
- Visit the JOAPS portal: joaps.iitb.ac.in
- Register with email ID and mobile number.
- Fill in personal, academic, and exam center details.
- Upload scanned documents (photo, signature, certificates).
- Pay the application fee online.
💳 Application Fee Structure
| Category | Fee for One Test Paper | Fee for Two Test Papers |
|---|---|---|
| General/OBC/EWS | ₹1800 | ₹2500 |
| SC/ST/PwD/Female | ₹900 | ₹1300 |
📖 IIT-JAM 2026 Syllabus Snapshot
Each subject has a unique syllabus. Here’s a brief overview:
🔬 Chemistry (CY)
- Physical Chemistry: Thermodynamics, Quantum Chemistry
- Organic Chemistry: Reaction Mechanisms, Biomolecules
- Inorganic Chemistry: Coordination Compounds, Periodic Table
📐 Mathematics (MA)
- Real Analysis, Linear Algebra
- Differential Equations
- Group Theory, Vector Calculus
📊 Mathematical Statistics (MS)
- Probability Theory
- Statistical Inference
- Regression and Correlation
⚛️ Physics (PH)
- Mechanics, Electromagnetism
- Quantum Mechanics
- Thermodynamics and Statistical Physics
For full syllabus, refer to the official brochure.
🧠 IIT-JAM 2026 Exam Pattern
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Mode | Online (CBT) |
| Duration | 3 Hours |
| Total Questions | 60 |
| Total Marks | 100 |
| Sections | A (MCQ), B (MSQ), C (NAT) |
| Negative Marking | Only in Section A |
🏆 IIT-JAM 2026 Selection Process
- Qualify the exam with a valid score.
- Check the merit list and All India Rank (AIR).
- Participate in counseling via the JAM admission portal.
- Fill choices for programs and institutes.
- Seat allocation based on rank, preferences, and availability.
🏫 Participating Institutes
IIT-JAM 2026 offers admission to 22 IITs and IISc Bangalore. Some top institutes include:
- IIT Bombay
- IIT Delhi
- IIT Madras
- IIT Kanpur
- IIT Kharagpur
- IIT Roorkee
- IISc Bangalore
📅 Important Dates at a Glance
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | September 2025 |
| Registration Starts | 5 September 2025 |
| Registration Ends | 12 October 2025 |
| Admit Card Release | 5 January 2026 |
| Exam Date | 15 February 2026 |
| Result Declaration | 20 March 2026 |
| Counseling Begins | April 2026 |
📈 IIT-JAM 2026 Preparation Tips
1. Understand the Syllabus
- Download the official syllabus PDF.
- Focus on core topics and weightage.
2. Create a Study Plan
- Allocate time for each subject.
- Include revision and mock tests.
3. Use Standard Books
- HC Verma for Physics
- Morrison & Boyd for Organic Chemistry
- SC Gupta for Statistics
4. Practice Previous Year Papers
- Analyze trends and difficulty level.
- Improve speed and accuracy.
5. Take Mock Tests
- Simulate exam conditions.
- Identify weak areas.
6. Join Online Coaching or Forums
- Platforms like PW, Unacademy, and Gradeup offer JAM-specific courses.
🔍 FAQs on IIT-JAM 2026
❓ What is the IIT-JAM 2026 exam date?
Answer: The exam will be held on 15 February 2026.
❓ Who is eligible for IIT-JAM 2026?
Answer: Any graduate with the required subject background is eligible. Final-year students can also apply.
❓ How many seats are available through JAM 2026?
Answer: Around 3,000 seats across 22 IITs.
❓ What is the syllabus for IIT-JAM Chemistry?
Answer: It includes Physical, Organic, and Inorganic Chemistry topics. Refer to the official syllabus for details.
❓ Is there negative marking in IIT-JAM?
Answer: Yes, only in Section A (MCQs).
🧭 Final Thoughts
IIT-JAM 2026 is more than just an entrance exam—it’s a stepping stone to a future in scientific research, innovation, and academic excellence. With proper planning, the right resources, and consistent effort, you can crack JAM and secure a seat in India’s most prestigious institutions.
Whether you’re targeting IIT Bombay’s M.Sc. Physics, IIT Delhi’s Joint M.Sc.-Ph.D. in Chemistry, or IISc’s interdisciplinary programs, this guide equips you with everything you need to succeed.