IIT JAM is one of the most prestigious entrance exams for students aspiring to pursue a Master’s program at the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). Each year, approximately 70,000 to 80,000 candidates apply, making the competition intense. With a selection rate of just around 9.45%, only 1 in every 10 students secures a spot—highlighting the exam’s high standards and the level of dedication required to succeed. Today we will discuss IIT JAM 2026.
IIT JAM 2026 Important Dates (Tentative)
IIT JAM 2026 important dates will be announced officially. These dates will include the release of the notification, online application dates, admit card availability, exam date, result announcement, and release of the answer key. Candidates are advised to stay tuned for the latest updates.
What is IIT JAM?
• What is this exam?
• How does it work?
• Are you eligible or not?
• Why should you take this exam?
Today, we’ll discuss all these aspects in detail. The entire video will be based on this topic. Quickly join in and share it with your friends!
Choosing Your Path After 10th Grade
When we are in 10th grade and about to move to 11th, we face choices:
• Science
• Commerce
• Arts
Generally, the trend is that some students are very clear about their future and have already decided what they want to do. They select their stream accordingly.
However, many students think, "Since I’m scoring well, let’s take Science." They follow the crowd without much thought. Later, in 11th and 12th, they realize whether Science is truly for them or not.
Dreaming of Top Institutions
Everyone dreams of studying at top institutions in India, like the IITs. For Science students, the path to IITs is through exams like JEE. Some students prepare for NEET to get into reputed medical colleges.
But what if you don’t crack JEE or NEET? Some students always knew they wanted to pursue core subjects (like Chemistry, Physics, or Mathematics) for their Bachelor’s or Master’s. They can opt for B.Sc.
Life After B.Sc.
In B.Sc., you get a second chance to fulfill your dream of joining IITs. How? Through IIT JAM!
What is IIT JAM?
• Full Form: Joint Admission Test for M.Sc.
• Conducted by IITs for admission to their M.Sc. courses.
• It’s like a key that opens doors to top institutions like IITs, NITs, IISER, and more.
Exam Details
• Mode: Computer-Based Test (CBT) – Online only.
• Medium: English (No Hindi medium).
• Frequency: Once a year (usually in February).
• Conducted by: Different IITs rotate responsibility each year.
Subjects in IIT JAM
The exam is conducted in 7 subjects - Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Biotechnology, Economics, Geology, and Mathematical Statistics
Exam Pattern
The paper is divided into three sections:
1. Section A (MCQs) – 30 Questions (10 × 1 mark + 20 × 2 marks)
2. Section B (MSQs – Multiple Select Questions) – 10 Questions (2 marks each, no negative marking).
3. Section C (Numerical Answer Type – NAT) – 20 Questions (10 × 1 mark + 10 × 2 marks).
• Total Marks: 100
• Duration: 180 minutes (3 hours).
• Negative Marking: Only in Section A (1/3 deduction for wrong answers).
How Much to Score?
• 60-70+ Marks: Good chance of getting into IITs/NITs.
• 90+ Marks: Top ranks (IIT Bombay/Delhi/Kanpur).
Eligibility Criteria
• Bachelor’s Degree (B.Sc.) from a recognized university.
• No minimum percentage requirement (earlier, it was 55% for General/OBC, 50% for SC/ST).
• Final Year Students can also apply (must pass before admission).
• Nationality: Open to Indian and Foreign students.
• Age Limit: No upper age limit.
Is Math Compulsory?
• No! Even if you didn’t have Math in 12th or B.Sc., you can still appear.
• Some IITs (like Bombay/Madras) may require Math for 2 semesters in B.Sc., but most don’t.
Why Prepare for IIT JAM?
1. Gateway to IITs – Pursue M.Sc. from top institutes.
2. Less Competition compared to JEE.
3. Integrated M.Sc.-Ph.D. options available.
4. Career Opportunities – Research, Teaching, PSUs, UPSC (Geo-Scientist), etc.
Preparation Strategy
1. Phase 1 (5-6 months): Complete syllabus + make short notes.
2. Phase 2 (1.5-2 months): Revision + Topic-wise tests.
3. Phase 3 (Last month): Full-length mock tests + final revision.
Best Time to Start Preparing?
• Ideal: From 2nd year of B.Sc.
• Final Year Students: Can still prepare but must manage time well.
Can You Prepare Alongside B.Sc.?
• Fix a daily study slot (2-3 hours).
• Utilize weekends effectively.
• Stay consistent & motivated.
Job After IIT JAM?
• No direct job after clearing JAM.
• After M.Sc., you can:
• Pursue Ph.D. (India/Abroad)
• Crack CSIR-NET/GATE for research/PSU jobs.
• Appear for UPSC (Geologist).
• Enter teaching/industry roles.
Conclusion
We’ve covered everything you need to know about IIT JAM 2026. If you still have any questions, feel free to drop them in the comments—we’re here to help!
Don’t wait—start your preparation today and take the first step toward turning your dream of studying at an IIT into reality. Join DIPS Academy, India’s oldest and most trusted institute for IIT JAM Coaching, and give yourself the edge you deserve.
