Do you want to study at top institutes like IITs or IISc after your graduation in science? If yes, then IIT JAM can be your gateway. Every year, thousands of students appear for this national-level exam to get admission into M.Sc., Joint M.Sc.-Ph.D., and other postgraduate science programs. It is your chance to continue your studies in India’s best research and academic environments.
The Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) conduct this exam on a rotating basis. In 2025, IIT Delhi will organize the exam. The IIT JAM score is accepted by all IITs, IISc Bangalore, and many NITs, IISERs, and other top colleges. The competition is high, but with the right plan and dedication, you can succeed. This guide will help you understand everything about IIT JAM 2025. From syllabus to eligibility and exam pattern to tips, we have covered it all in simple language to help you prepare better.
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.
Is IIT JAM Tough?
Yes, the IIT JAM exam is tough, but it is not impossible to crack. The exam tests your understanding of the subject deeply. You need to be clear with your basics and practice regularly. Many students clear it every year by planning their study time and following a routine. If you are ready to put in effort, you can crack the exam.
Here are some reasons why students find it tough:
- High competition: Thousands of students apply every year.
- Concept-based questions: You need to understand the topics, not just memorize them.
- Limited seats: Top IITs have fewer seats in each program.
However, with good preparation, solving previous year papers, and mock tests, you can increase your chances.
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 was held on February 2, 2025. The exam took place on a Sunday.
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 |
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 Exam Pattern
Understanding the exam pattern is very important. It helps you plan your preparation better. Here is the exam pattern for IIT JAM:
| 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
To apply for IIT JAM, 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. 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.
Conclusion
IIT JAM is a great opportunity for science graduates who want to study in top institutions like IITs and IISc. The exam is tough but manageable with the right preparation and mindset. It tests your subject knowledge and problem-solving skills. The eligibility is simple and there is no age limit, which makes it open to all science students.
To do well, start early, follow the syllabus, and solve previous year question papers. Focus on understanding concepts and managing your time during the exam. Many students crack IIT JAM every year, and with the right plan, you can be one of them.
FAQs
1) Who can apply for IIT JAM 2025?
Any student with a bachelor’s degree in Science or a related field can apply. You must have at least 55% marks (or 5.5 CGPA) if you belong to the General or OBC category. SC/ST/PwD students need 50% marks (or 5.0 CGPA). Final-year students can also apply.
2) Is there an age limit for IIT JAM?
No, there is no age limit. Anyone who meets the academic eligibility requirements can apply, regardless of age.
3) How many times can I appear for IIT JAM?
There is no restriction on the number of attempts. You can appear for the exam as many times as you wish, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria.
4) Can I apply for more than one subject in IIT JAM?
Yes, you can apply for up to two subjects, as long as the exam schedules do not clash.
5) Is IIT JAM only for admission to IITs?
No. Apart from IITs, many NITs, IISc Bangalore, IISERs, and other top science colleges also accept JAM scores for postgraduate admissions.
