Last Verified: 2026-03-01 from official conducting body notifications.
Official Overview & Examination Scope
Purpose, Scope & Academic Impact
IIT JAM is the premier national benchmark examination for undergraduate science students aspiring to join Master of Science (M.Sc.) and integrated Ph.D. degrees at the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc Bangalore). It tests 7 test papers: Biotechnology, Chemistry, Economics, Geology, Mathematics, Mathematical Statistics, and Physics.
Eligibility Criteria & Academic Qualifications
Exam Pattern & Test Structure
Total: 100 Marks| Section / Paper | Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Section A: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ) | 30 Questions (10 of 1-mark + 20 of 2-mark) | 50 Marks | Part of 3 Hours |
| Section B: Multiple Select Questions (MSQ) | 10 Questions (2 marks each) | 20 Marks | Part of 3 Hours |
| Section C: Numerical Answer Type (NAT) | 20 Questions (10 of 1-mark + 10 of 2-mark) | 30 Marks | Part of 3 Hours |
Section A MCQs have negative marking (-1/3 on 1-mark, -2/3 on 2-mark). Section B (MSQ) and Section C (NAT) have NO negative marking. Total 100 Marks.
Negative Marking Rule: Negative marks apply on Section A only. Zero negative marking on Sections B and C.
Recommended Preparation Roadmap & Strategy
Cutoff Trends & Score Benchmark
All India Rank within top 100-150 required for M.Sc. in Physics, Chemistry, or Mathematics at IIT Bombay and IIT Delhi.
Participating Institutes / Career Pathways
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I appear in two test papers in IIT JAM?
Yes, a candidate can appear in either one or two test papers, subject to the examination schedule allowing compatible morning and afternoon sessions.
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