Are you planning to pursue M.Sc. or a research career in science after graduation? If yes, then IIT JAM 2025 could be your gateway to India’s top institutes like IITs, NITs, and IISc. Every year, thousands of science graduates appear for this exam to secure seats in prestigious postgraduate programs.
IIT JAM tests your core understanding of subjects like Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Biotechnology, Economics, and more. It’s not just about theory but also about problem-solving and accuracy. Whether you are from a B.Sc. or B.Tech background, this exam gives you a chance to study at institutes that offer high-quality education, research opportunities, and better job prospects.
If you’re serious about your future in science, now is the time to start preparing. This article will guide you through everything you need to know about IIT JAM 2025 and 2026, including syllabus, eligibility, exam pattern, and preparation tips.
What Is IIT JAM?
IIT JAM stands for Indian Institute of Technology Joint Admission Test. It is a national-level entrance exam for students who want to study postgraduate science programs in top institutes across India. The exam is held every year, usually in February.
The main purpose of IIT JAM is to provide admission to the following programs:
- M.Sc. (Two-Year)
- Joint M.Sc.-Ph.D.
- M.Sc.-Ph.D. Dual Degree
- Integrated Ph.D.
- Post-Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Science and related fields
These programs are offered by the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore, National Institutes of Technology (NITs), Centrally Funded Technical Institutions (CFTIs), and several top science colleges in India.
Conducting Body
Every year, one IIT conducts the exam on a rotating basis. In 2025, IIT Delhi is the official conducting body. The institute manages all processes, including:
- Releasing the notification
- Accepting online applications
- Conducting the entrance exam
- Declaring results
- Coordinating the counselling and admission process
Who Can Apply for IIT JAM?
IIT JAM is open to Indian and foreign nationals. There is no age limit. Any student with a Bachelor’s degree in science or a related field can apply. The minimum marks required are:
- 55% or 5.5 CGPA for General/OBC category
- 50% or 5.0 CGPA for SC/ST/PwD category
Students who are in their final year of graduation can also apply. However, they must submit proof of passing their degree by the time of admission.
Subjects Offered
IIT JAM allows students to appear for one or two subjects, depending on eligibility. The following seven subjects are offered:
- Physics (PH)
- Chemistry (CY)
- Mathematics (MA)
- Biotechnology (BT)
- Geology (GG)
- Mathematical Statistics (MS)
- Economics (EN)
Students should choose the subject based on their graduation background and interest.
Importance of IIT JAM
IIT JAM is not just an entrance exam. It is a gateway to higher studies and research at India’s top science institutes, including the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore, National Institutes of Technology (NITs), Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISERs), and other centrally funded technical institutions (CFTIs). Admission through IIT JAM helps students:
- Study in well-equipped laboratories
- Learn from experienced professors
- Work on live research projects
- Receive fellowships and scholarships
- Improve job prospects in research, academics, and industry
In addition, some IITs and IISc offer direct Ph.D. admissions through JAM scores. Many students also use JAM as a stepping stone to appear for other exams like CSIR NET, GATE, or GRE in the future.
Who Should Take IIT JAM?
If you enjoy science and want to continue your studies after B.Sc. or B.Tech, then IIT JAM is the right choice for you. The exam helps you build a strong academic base and prepares you for a career in research, teaching, or applied science fields.
With focused preparation and the right resources, you can clear IIT JAM and take a big step toward your academic goals.
IIT JAM 2025 Key Highlights
IIT JAM 2025 is an important exam for students who want to study science at the postgraduate level in India’s top institutes. The exam gives you the chance to join M.Sc., Joint M.Sc.-Ph.D., and other integrated programs in IITs, IISc, NITs, and other top colleges. Here are the key details that every student must know before starting preparation.
Conducting Institute
IIT Delhi is the conducting body for IIT JAM 2025. It will manage the entire process including the application form, admit card, exam, and result.
Exam Date
IIT JAM 2025 will be held on February 2, 2025. The exam will take place on a Sunday. This gives students time to prepare during the holidays and weekends before the test.
Mode of Exam
The exam will be conducted in online mode as a Computer-Based Test (CBT). Students will take the test at an exam center using a computer.
IIT JAM 2025 Cut Off
| Subject | General Category | SC/ST Category | OBC Category |
| Biotechnology | 35 | 17.5 | 31.5 |
| Biological Sciences | 32 | 16 | 28.8 |
| Geology | 40 | 20 | 36 |
| Chemistry | 26 | 13 | 23.5 |
| Mathematics | 12.5 | 6.25 | 11.25 |
| Physics | 13 | 6.5 | 11.5 |
| Mathematical Statistics | 5 | 2.5 | 4.5 |
IIT JAM 2026 Important Dates (Tentative)
Here are the expected dates for IIT JAM 2026:
| Events | Tentative Dates |
| IIT JAM 2026 Notification | 2nd week of September 2025 |
| IIT JAM 2026 Online Application Date | 2nd week of September 2025 |
| IIT JAM 2026 Admit Card | Last Week of January 2026 |
| IIT JAM 2026 Exam Date | February 2026 (Expected) |
| IIT JAM 2026 Answer Key | Last Week of February 2026 |
| IIT JAM 2026 Result | Last week of March 2026 |
IIT JAM Exam Pattern 2025
Understanding the exam pattern is very important. It helps you plan your preparation better. Here is the exam pattern for IIT JAM 2025:
| Sections | Type of Questions | Number of Questions | Marks |
| Section A | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) | 30 | 10×1 + 20×2 = 50 |
| Section B | Multiple Select Questions (MSQs) | 10 | 10×2 = 20 |
| Section C | Numerical Answer Type | 20 | 10×1 + 10×2 = 30 |
Mode and Duration
The exam will be conducted online at designated test centers. Students will take the test on a computer. The total duration of the exam is 3 hours. You will need to manage your time properly to attempt all the questions within the given time.
Total Marks and Number of Questions
The exam will carry a total of 100 marks. There will be 60 questions in total. These questions are divided into three sections:
- Section A: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
- Section B: Multiple Select Questions (MSQs)
- Section C: Numerical Answer Type (NAT) Questions
Each section has different question formats and marking rules.
Section-Wise Pattern
Section A (MCQs)
Number of Questions: 30
Total Marks: 50
Each question has four options with only one correct answer
This section includes both 1-mark and 2-mark questions
Negative marking applies:
- For 1-mark questions: 0.33 marks will be deducted for a wrong answer
- For 2-mark questions: 0.66 marks will be deducted for a wrong answer
Section B (MSQs)
- Number of Questions: 10
- Total Marks: 20
- Each question has four or more options
- One or more options may be correct
- Students must select all correct options to get marks
- No partial marking is given
- No negative marking
Section C (NATs)
- Number of Questions: 20
- Total Marks: 30
- These are numerical answer type questions
- Students must enter a numeric value as the answer
- No options will be provided
- No negative marking
Important Notes
- All questions are compulsory
- There is no sectional time limit
- You can switch between sections during the exam
- Use the on-screen calculator for calculations
Knowing the pattern well allows you to plan your preparation better. It helps you focus on accuracy, speed, and time management for each type of question.
IIT JAM Eligibility Criteria 2026
To apply for IIT JAM 2026, you must meet certain eligibility conditions. These rules are set by the organizing institute and followed by all participating institutes. You should check the eligibility criteria carefully before filling out the application form.
Nationality
Both Indian and foreign nationals can apply for IIT JAM 2026. There is no restriction on nationality. However, foreign candidates must also satisfy the academic qualifications and admission requirements of the admitting institutes.
Academic Qualification
You must have a bachelor’s degree to apply for IIT JAM. The degree must be in Science, Engineering, or a related subject. You can apply if your degree is from a recognized university or institution in India or abroad.
Candidates who are studying in their final year of graduation can also apply. However, they must complete their degree before the admission deadline. At the time of admission, they need to submit the proof of passing and mark sheets.
Minimum Marks
There is a minimum percentage requirement for eligibility:
- General and OBC-NCL candidates must have at least 55% marks or 5.5 CGPA out of 10 in their qualifying degree.
- SC, ST, and PwD candidates must have at least 50% marks or 5.0 CGPA out of 10.
These marks must be based on the aggregate of all subjects in all semesters. If your university follows a different grading system, you must convert your grades to percentage using the official method provided by the university.
Age Limit
There is no age limit to appear for IIT JAM 2026. You can apply at any age as long as you meet the academic and other eligibility criteria.
Documents Required for Eligibility
To prove your eligibility, you need to submit the following during admission:
- Mark sheets of all semesters
- Degree certificate or provisional certificate
- Category certificate (if applicable)
- Disability certificate (if applicable)
Make sure all documents are correct and valid. Wrong or fake documents will lead to disqualification.
In summary, you must have a valid bachelor’s degree with the required marks and correct subjects. There is no age bar, and final-year students can also apply.
IIT JAM Syllabus 2025 (Subject-Wise)
The IIT JAM 2025 syllabus is different for each subject. You must know the complete syllabus to prepare well. Each subject includes topics that are usually covered during your graduation. Below is the subject-wise syllabus for IIT JAM 2025.
IIT JAM Biotechnology Syllabus
The Biotechnology paper covers Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics. It combines concepts from multiple subjects, so you must prepare each section carefully.
Biology:
- Cell structure and function
- Genetics and evolution
- Plant and animal physiology
- Ecology and environment
- Biotechnology and its applications
Chemistry:
- General organic chemistry
- Functional groups and reaction mechanisms
- Biochemistry (proteins, nucleic acids, enzymes)
- Basics of physical chemistry
Mathematics:
- Functions and graphs
- Limits, continuity, and differentiability
- Integration and differential equations
- Matrices and determinants
- Probability and statistics
Physics:
- Units and measurements
- Mechanics (laws of motion, work, energy)
- Modern physics (photoelectric effect, atomic models)
- Thermodynamics
- Electricity and magnetism
Students must build strong basics across all topics to do well in the Biotechnology paper.
IIT JAM Chemistry Syllabus
The Chemistry paper is divided into three parts: Physical Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Inorganic Chemistry.
Physical Chemistry:
- Basic mathematical concepts in chemistry
- States of matter
- Thermodynamics and chemical equilibrium
- Electrochemistry
- Chemical kinetics
- Quantum chemistry and atomic structure
- Surface chemistry
Organic Chemistry:
- Structure and bonding in organic molecules
- Reaction mechanisms and intermediates
- Stereochemistry
- Functional group chemistry (alcohols, amines, aldehydes, etc.)
- Aromatic compounds
- Biomolecules (carbohydrates, amino acids, proteins)
Inorganic Chemistry:
- Periodic table and periodic properties
- Chemical bonding and coordination compounds
- Main group and transition elements
- Organometallic chemistry
- Bioinorganic chemistry
- Qualitative analysis
This syllabus requires both theoretical understanding and problem-solving skills.
IIT JAM Mathematics Syllabus
The Mathematics paper focuses on major topics taught in undergraduate mathematics.
Linear Algebra:
- Vector spaces
- Linear independence
- Basis and dimension
- Matrices and determinants
- Eigenvalues and eigenvectors
Calculus:
- Limits and continuity
- Differentiation and its applications
- Maxima and minima
- Integration (definite and indefinite)
- Improper integrals
- Applications of integrals
Differential Equations:
- First-order differential equations
- Second-order linear differential equations
- Homogeneous and non-homogeneous equations
- Solutions using standard methods
Real Analysis:
- Sequences and series
- Convergence and divergence
- Properties of real numbers
- Continuity and differentiability
- Riemann integration
Students must practice solving mathematical problems quickly and accurately.
IIT JAM Physics Syllabus
The Physics paper covers classical and modern physics. It includes problem-based topics from undergraduate-level physics.
Mechanics and General Properties of Matter:
- Newton’s laws of motion
- Work, energy, and power
- Rotation and moment of inertia
- Elasticity and surface tension
Oscillations, Waves, and Optics:
- Simple harmonic motion
- Damped and forced oscillations
- Wave motion and speed of sound
- Interference and diffraction
- Polarization and wave optics
Electricity and Magnetism:
- Coulomb’s law and electric fields
- Gauss’s law and electric potential
- Capacitors and dielectrics
- Magnetic fields and Ampere’s law
- Faraday’s law and Lenz’s law
Modern Physics:
- Photoelectric effect
- Atomic models
- X-rays and nuclear physics
- Quantum mechanics basics
Solid State and Thermal Physics:
- Thermal expansion and heat transfer
- Kinetic theory of gases
- Laws of thermodynamics
- Crystal structure and properties of solids
Understanding concepts and solving numerical problems is key in physics preparation.
IIT JAM Mathematical Statistics Syllabus
This paper includes topics from both Mathematics and Statistics.
Mathematics Section:
- Sequences and series
- Limits and continuity
- Differentiation and integration
- Linear algebra basics
- Matrices, eigenvalues, and eigenvectors
Statistics Section:
- Probability theory and distributions
- Combinatorics and expectation
- Descriptive statistics
- Statistical inference
- Estimation and hypothesis testing
- Correlation and regression
- Sampling distributions
- Multivariate data analysis
The paper tests both theory and data analysis skills. You must focus on formulas, theorems, and practical application of statistical tools.
IIT JAM 2025 Application Process
The application process for IIT JAM 2025 is completely online. You need to follow the correct steps and submit your form before the deadline. This process includes registration, filling out the form, uploading documents, and paying the fee. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you apply without any confusion.
Step 1: Visit the Official Website
Go to the official IIT JAM 2025 website. For 2025, IIT Delhi is the conducting body. The website link is https://jam.iitd.ac.in. Use a laptop or desktop to fill out the form. Avoid using mobile phones, as some features may not work properly.
Step 2: Register Yourself
Click on the “New User? Register Here” option. You will need to enter your full name, email ID, mobile number, and a strong password. After entering these details, you will receive a verification email or OTP on your phone. Complete the verification to create your login ID.
Step 3: Fill in the Application Form
After successful registration, log in using your email and password. The application form will ask for:
- Personal details (name, date of birth, gender, category, nationality)
- Communication address
- Academic qualifications (marks, subjects, college name)
- Exam details (subjects selected, preferred exam cities)
Choose your exam city carefully. You can choose up to three cities in order of preference. These cannot be changed once the application is submitted.
Step 4: Upload Required Documents
You must upload scanned copies of important documents. These include:
- Passport-sized photograph (recent, colored, white background)
- Signature (on white paper with black ink)
- Category certificate (for SC/ST/OBC-NCL/PwD, if applicable)
- PwD certificate (if applicable)
- Valid ID proof (Aadhaar card, PAN card, voter ID, etc.)
Ensure the files are in the correct format (JPEG or PDF) and within the allowed size. If the uploaded files are not clear or valid, your application may be rejected.
Step 5: Pay the Application Fee
The application fee depends on your category and the number of papers. Payment must be made online using credit card, debit card, net banking, or UPI. The fee structure is:
| Category | One Paper | Two Papers |
| Female/SC/ST/PwD | ₹900 | ₹1250 |
| General/OBC | ₹1800 | ₹2500 |
After successful payment, a confirmation page will appear. Save or print the receipt for future use.
Step 6: Submit and Download Confirmation Page
Once you have completed all the steps, review your form carefully. Make sure all details are correct. Click on the “Final Submit” button. After submission, download the filled application form and keep it safe. You will need it during admit card download and later admission rounds.
Conclusion
IIT JAM opens the door to some of the best postgraduate science programs in India. With proper planning and preparation, you can score well and secure admission in top institutes like IITs, IISc, and NITs. Focus on understanding the syllabus, solving previous year papers, and managing your time effectively. Use the best books and take regular mock tests to track your progress.
Keep checking the official website for the latest updates. Apply on time and make sure all your documents are ready. Whether you aim for higher studies or a good job in research and development, IIT JAM can be a strong step forward.
Stay consistent, study smart, and believe in yourself. With dedication and the right strategy, success in IIT JAM is possible. Start your preparation today and make the most of this opportunity.
FAQs on IIT JAM 2025
1) Can engineering students apply for IIT JAM?
Yes. Engineering students can apply if they meet the eligibility conditions.
2) Is there negative marking in IIT JAM?
Yes. Negative marking is present only in Section A (MCQs). For 1-mark questions, 0.33 marks will be deducted for a wrong answer. For 2-mark questions, 0.66 marks will be deducted for a wrong answer
3) Can I apply for two subjects in IIT JAM?
Yes. You can apply for two subjects. You must pay a higher application fee.
