IIT JAM 2026: Exam Date, Pattern, Eligibility & Previous Papers
The Joint Admission Test for Masters (IIT JAM) 2026 is a golden opportunity for science graduates across India to pursue postgraduate studies in esteemed institutions like IITs, IISc Bangalore, and other top-tier institutes. Whether you're targeting an M.Sc., Joint M.Sc.-Ph.D., or Dual Degree program, JAM offers a gateway to academic excellence and a promising career in science and technology.
Let’s dive deep into the key details, dates, eligibility, application process, exam pattern, and much more for IIT JAM 2026.
IIT JAM 2026 Overview
Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
Exam Name | IIT JAM 2026 |
Full Form | Indian Institute of Technology Joint Admission Test for Masters |
Conducting Body | IIT Bombay |
Exam Type | Postgraduate Entrance Exam |
Exam Level | National |
Frequency | Once a Year |
Application Mode | Online (via JOAPS Portal) |
Exam Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
Duration | 3 Hours |
Number of Test Papers | 7 Subjects |
Medium of Exam | English |
Official Website | |
Helpdesk Email | |
Helpline Numbers | +91-22-2576 7068 / +91-22-2576 7022 |
IIT JAM 2026 Important Dates
Event | Date |
|---|---|
Start of Online Registration | 5 September 2025 |
Last Date to Apply | 20 October 2025 |
JAM 2026 Exam Date | 15 February 2026 |
Result Announcement | 18 March 2026 |
Note: Dates are tentative. Visit the official website for updates.
IIT JAM 2026 Notification Released!
The official JAM 2026 notification is out! The JOAPS portal will open for applications on 5th September 2025. Candidates aspiring to join postgraduate science programs at IITs must apply online and stay updated on admit cards, results, and counselling.
IIT JAM 2026 Correction Window Dates
The IIT JAM 2026 correction window opens shortly after the application form submission deadline. It typically remains active for a limited period, so candidates must act quickly to avoid missing the last date.
Timeline:
Correction Window Opens: November 2025
Correction Window Closes: Around November 10, 2025
Make sure to regularly visit the official JAM 2026 website for updates and confirm your details before the correction window for IIT JAM 2026 closes.
How to Apply for IIT JAM 2026
Follow these steps for a smooth application process:
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 2: Register on JOAPS: Use a valid email ID and mobile number.
Step 3: Fill Application Form: Personal, academic details, exam paper selection, and preferred cities.
Step 4: Upload Documents: Passport-size photo, Signature, Caste certificate (if applicable), PwD certificate (if applicable)
Step 5: Pay Application Fee:
Category / Gender | One Paper | Two Papers |
|---|---|---|
Female / SC / ST / PwD | ₹1,000 | ₹1,350 |
Others (General/OBC/EWS) | ₹2,000 | ₹2,700 |
IIT JAM 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Who Can Apply?
Education: Bachelor’s degree or appearing in the final year.
Nationality: Open to all, including foreign nationals with Indian degrees.
Age Limit: No upper age limit.
Eligibility for Admission
Must qualify JAM 2026.
Must meet Minimum Educational Qualifications (MEQs) and Eligibility Requirements (ERs) for the specific program.
All degree requirements must be completed before admission deadlines.
Reservation: As per Government of India norms.
IIT JAM 2026 Exam Pattern
Section | Type of Questions | No. of Qs | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
Section A | MCQs (1 or 2 marks) | 30 | 50 |
Section B | MSQs (2 marks each) | 10 | 20 |
Section C | NAT (1 or 2 marks) | 20 | 30 |
Total | — | 60 | 100 |
Mode: Online CBT
Duration: 3 hours
Medium: English
Negative Marking: Only in Section A (MCQs)
IIT JAM Study Material & Test Series
Preparing with the right resources is key to success:
Use standard books that explain concepts clearly.
Practice with IIT JAM previous year papers and mock tests.
Take part in a structured test series to improve speed, accuracy, and time management.
IIT JAM Previous Year Papers
Solving previous year papers:
Familiarizes you with the exam pattern.
Improves problem-solving & time management.
Boosts confidence before the real exam.
You can access previous papers with solutions on the official JAM website and other educational platforms.
IIT JAM 2026 Result, Merit List & Cut Off
Results will be declared on 18th March 2026.
Merit List will include names of qualified candidates based on scores.
Cut-Off marks will vary for each subject and category (General, OBC-NCL, SC, ST, PwD).
IIT JAM 2026 Counselling Process
After results:
Qualified candidates will participate in online counselling via JOAPS.
Seat allocation is based on All India Rank (AIR), preferences, and seat availability.
Keep original documents ready for verification.
The IIT JAM 2026 exam is not just a test—it’s a stepping stone toward advanced education and career opportunities in science. Early preparation, understanding the pattern, using quality study material, and regularly practicing with mocks will give you a strong edge.
Stay updated on jam2026.iitb.ac.in and give yourself enough time to prepare with confidence!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The application fee for IIT JAM 2026 depends on the candidate's category and the number of test papers chosen. The fee must be paid online through net banking, credit card, or debit card at the time of form submission.
For Female candidates, SC, ST, and PwD categories:
₹1,000 for one test paper
₹1,350 for two test papersFor All other candidates (General, OBC, EWS):
₹2,000 for one test paper
₹2,700 for two test papers
Candidates must ensure the successful payment of the fee to complete the application process. Incomplete applications without fee payment will not be accepted.