Table of Content:

Which IIT Sets The Toughest Paper For JEE Advanced

By:
Dhruva Angle
Date:
17 Feb 2025
Which IIT Sets The Toughest Paper JEE Advanced
Table of Content:

Every year, a different Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) is tasked with managing the Joint Entrance Examination Advanced (JEE Advanced). This prestigious exam determines who will gain entry into some of India’s top engineering schools. The designated IIT handles all aspects of the exam: from the initial announcement to the final result declaration. This includes managing registrations, distributing hall tickets, releasing the provisional answer keys and response sheets, and ensuring the exam proceeds smoothly. 

Understanding which IIT is organizing the exam each year and how they manage this enormous task can be very helpful. This article will provide you with a clear understanding of the whole process, helping you to better prepare for one of the most challenging academic tests you might face.

Who Conducts JEE Advanced?

The Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Advanced is a critical gateway for students aspiring to enter the prestigious Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). Each year, the responsibility of organizing JEE Advanced is rotated among the IITs. This not only distributes the administrative burden but also brings diverse perspectives to the examination’s format and execution.

The Process of Setting the Paper

Setting the JEE Advanced paper is a meticulous process involving subject matter experts from different IITs. These experts, who are professors specializing in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, collaborate to create a balanced and fair set of questions.

Role of the Conducting IIT

The conducting IIT has numerous responsibilities that are pivotal to the smooth running of the examination. These tasks range from the initial announcement of the exam date to the final declaration of results. The process starts with the issuing of official notifications that outline the details of the exam, including eligibility criteria, registration dates, exam schedule, and syllabus. This early stage is crucial as it sets the tone and provides essential information to the aspiring candidates.

Following the notifications, the conducting IIT oversees the registration process. This involves setting up a digital infrastructure that can handle the vast number of applications without any technical glitches. The registration portal must be robust, user-friendly, and capable of providing timely assistance to candidates who might face issues while registering.

Once registrations are complete, the next critical task is the release of hall tickets. These admit cards are vital for candidates as they contain important information like the exam center, roll number, and exam schedule. The conducting IIT ensures that all registered candidates receive their hall tickets well in advance of the examination date, allowing ample time to plan their travel and accommodation, especially for those who might need to travel to different cities.

Another significant responsibility is the formulation of the exam paper. This task is undertaken with the highest degree of integrity and academic rigor. Subject matter experts from various IITs come together to create a balanced and challenging set of questions designed to test the depth of understanding and analytical skills of the candidates. These experts ensure that the questions cover all aspects of the syllabus equally and maintain the standard of difficulty expected at this level.

On the day of the exam, the conducting IIT ensures that everything runs smoothly. This involves coordinating with numerous exam centers across the country to manage the logistics of conducting such a large-scale exam. This includes ensuring that there are no malpractices and that all exam protocols are followed meticulously.

After the exam, the conducting IIT handles the response sheets and releases provisional answer keys, allowing candidates to raise objections if any. This process is crucial for maintaining transparency and fairness in the evaluation process. Once all objections have been considered, the final answer keys are published, and the results are compiled and declared.

List of IITs That Have Conducted the Exam in Recent Years

The responsibility of conducting the JEE Advanced rotates among various IITs. Here is a recent history:

YearConducting IIT
2014IIT Kharagpur
2015IIT Bombay
2016IIT Guwahati
2017IIT Madras
2018IIT Kanpur
2019IIT Roorkee
2020IIT Delhi
2021IIT Kharagpur
2022IIT Bombay
2023IIT Guwahati
2024IIT Madras
2025IIT Kanpur

Which IIT Sets the Toughest Paper for JEE Advanced?

Identifying which IIT sets the toughest paper for the JEE Advanced is complex because the exam is a collective effort involving subject matter experts from various IITs. Each year, a panel consisting of professors from these institutes collaborates to design a challenging and balanced examination paper. 

Analysis of the last five years of JEE Advanced statistics reveals a trend of low qualifying percentages, with 2019 marked as the toughest year. This year, the Physics section was notably difficult, featuring application-based questions that required a deep understanding of concepts to solve. This joint effort ensures that the paper maintains a consistent standard, rigorously testing the aspirants’ understanding and application of concepts across Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.

Despite the collaborative nature of the paper-setting process, the perceived difficulty of the exam can vary from year to year, influenced by the mix of questions and the areas emphasized. These questions were designed to challenge the candidates’ ability to integrate and apply complex information in novel situations, going beyond mere rote memorization.

In contrast, the Chemistry section in 2019 was considered relatively easier, covering most of the prescribed syllabus. The questions in this section were straightforward, allowing well-prepared students to score higher. This disparity in difficulty levels across subjects often affects the overall perception of the paper’s toughness.

Mathematics, on the other hand, was very lengthy and time-consuming in the same year. The complexity and the extended nature of the math problems demanded significant time investment, which added to the stress levels of the examinees. The combination of tough, concept-heavy Physics questions and lengthy Mathematics problems created a scenario where even well-prepared students found it challenging to manage their time effectively during the exam.

This distribution of difficulty is not just a reflection of the subjects themselves but also of the educational philosophy and focus of the IITs involved in the paper-setting process for that particular year. Each IIT may bring its unique style to the examination, depending on the academic focus and expertise of the faculty involved. For instance, if a group of experts from an IIT known for its rigorous Physics program leads the creation of the Physics section, the questions might naturally lean towards higher complexity and novel application.

Furthermore, the fluctuation in the perceived difficulty of the paper also depends on the annual changes in the examination pattern, which are sometimes made to keep the testing process dynamic and to better evaluate the students’ abilities in adapting to new challenges. These changes can include variations in the types of questions asked, the format of the paper, and the marking scheme, all of which can influence how tough the paper feels to the candidates.

JEE Advanced Year Wise Qualifying Statistics 

Candidates must first clear the JEE Mains, which is comparatively easier, to appear for the JEE Advanced. The qualification rate historically hovers around 17%, reflecting the exam’s difficulty.

YearAppeared CandidatesQualified CandidatesQualifying PercentageAllotted Seats
20241,80,20048,24835% for the general category, 31.5% for OBC-NCL/EWS, and 17.5% for SC/ST/PwD59,917
20231803724376924.26%17340
20221555384071226.17%16635
20211416994186229.54%16296
20201508384320428.64%16061
20191613193870523.99%13604

How many Students Appeared for JEE Advanced 2024?

Students appearing in JEE Advanced have to clear JEE Mains first which is a relatively easier exam. The number of shortlisted candidates last year was 2,50,255. This number excludes the foreign and OCI/PIO candidates.

CategoryPwD StatusJEE Advanced Registered CandidatesCandidates appeared in both papersQualifiedAllotted Seats
GeneralNo4099439176138296517
Yes686632177100
GEN-EWSNo313693034853631999
Yes2532407444
OBC-NCLNo699136661290284652
Yes77273218195
SCNo3089829058109932604
Yes1461302812
STNo144031339640821307
Yes53481410
Total1894871803724376917340

Factors Influencing Perceived Difficulty

The perceived difficulty of the JEE Advanced is influenced by several key factors. Firstly, the complexity of the questions is a major contributor. These questions are designed not only to test candidates’ understanding of basic concepts but also their ability to apply these concepts to solve intricate problems across Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry.

Additionally, the extensive mix of topics covered adds to the difficulty. The JEE Advanced syllabus is broad, requiring students to be proficient across a wide range of subjects. This diversity demands significant time and effort in preparation, making the exam seem daunting.

Performance pressure among candidates also plays a crucial role. The intense competition for a limited number of seats in prestigious institutions heightens stress and anxiety, which can negatively impact performance. This psychological burden, combined with the high stakes of securing a future in top engineering colleges, significantly contributes to the perceived difficulty of the exam.

Together, these factors—the complexity and breadth of the syllabus, coupled with the competitive and high-pressure environment—define the challenging nature of the JEE Advanced, making it one of the toughest entrance examinations in India.

JEE Advanced Preparation Tips

Clearing the subject-wise cutoff in JEE Advanced is essential for qualifying for admission to an IIT. While aiming for a high total score is important, it’s equally crucial to ensure you meet the minimum required marks in each subject: Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Many students struggle with one or more of these subjects, but with the right strategies, you can improve your performance and clear the subject-wise cutoff with confidence. Here are some proven strategies to help you clear the subject-wise cutoff in JEE Advanced:

JEE Advanced Preparation Tips

1) Strengthen Weak Subjects

It’s common for students to have one subject they find more challenging than others. Whether it’s Physics, Chemistry, or Mathematics, identifying your weakest subject early on and dedicating extra time to it can make a significant difference.

  • Analyze Mistakes: Review your past performance in mock tests and previous year papers. Identify which subject or topic you constantly struggle with.
  • Break Down Difficult Topics: Don’t be overwhelmed by tough topics. Break them down into smaller, more manageable sections and tackle them one at a time. For instance, if you’re struggling with mechanics in Physics, break it down into concepts like force, motion, work, and energy, and focus on mastering each concept before moving on.
  • Focused Revision: Spend more time revising the basic concepts in the weak subject. Often, students miss out on building a strong foundation, which makes it harder to understand advanced topics.
  • Use Multiple Resources: Sometimes, textbooks are not enough. Explore alternative study materials, online resources, or videos to gain a clearer understanding of the subject. Platforms like Khan Academy or Vedantu can offer valuable insights.

2) Manage Time Across Subjects

Effective time management is key to clearing the subject-wise cutoff in JEE Advanced. Students often make the mistake of spending too much time on one subject, neglecting others. Balancing your time across all three subjects will help ensure that you clear the cutoff in each.

  • Create a Balanced Study Plan: Your daily study schedule should allocate time for all three subjects. Divide your study hours equally between Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Spend additional time on weaker subjects, but ensure that you don’t neglect your stronger ones.
  • Set Clear Priorities: Prioritize your study material based on exam weightage and difficulty level. For instance, if you’re preparing for JEE Advanced and the Physics section feels particularly tough, allocate more time to it, but don’t forget to revise the topics you are already comfortable with.
  • Take Regular Breaks: Don’t overburden yourself with long, non-stop study sessions. Take breaks in between to avoid burnout. The Pomodoro technique (study for 25 minutes, followed by a 5-minute break) can be useful to maintain focus and energy levels.
  • Practice Under Timed Conditions: During your revision, make sure to practice mock tests and past year papers under timed conditions. This will help you improve your speed and accuracy, ensuring that you can complete the exam on time.

3) Take Regular Mock Tests

Mock tests simulate the actual exam environment and are one of the most effective ways to track your progress. Taking regular mock tests can help you identify weak areas, improve time management, and get familiar with the exam pattern.

  • Analyze Your Performance: After each mock test, carefully review your answers. Identify areas where you lost marks and focus on improving them.
  • Practice Under Pressure: JEE Advanced is a time-sensitive exam, so practicing under real exam conditions is essential. Regular mock tests will help you manage your time effectively and increase your confidence.
  • Adapt to the Exam Pattern: The format of JEE Advanced can be unpredictable, and there can be a variety of question types. Taking mock tests will help you become familiar with different question formats and reduce exam-day anxiety.

To aid in your preparation, Phodu Club’s JEE Advanced Test Series provides high-quality mock tests specifically designed to match the real exam’s difficulty level and format. Their series offers a comprehensive collection of practice tests for each subject, enabling you to gauge your performance, identify areas for improvement, and track your progress over time.

With Phodu Club’s JEE Advanced Test Series, you’ll have access to:

  • Realistic Mock Tests: Practice with questions modeled after actual JEE Advanced papers, so you’re always prepared for the unexpected.
  • Detailed Analysis: After each test, receive an in-depth analysis of your performance, helping you identify strengths and weaknesses.
  • Time Management Strategies: Practice managing your time effectively under exam conditions, ensuring you never run out of time during the actual exam.

4) Stay Consistent and Focused

Finally, the most important strategy is consistency. Regular, focused practice will gradually improve your understanding of the subjects and increase your chances of clearing the cutoff.

  • Stay Organized: Use a planner or a study app to track your progress and ensure that you’re on the right track.
  • Don’t Panic: It’s natural to feel stressed as the exam approaches, but maintaining a calm and focused mindset is essential. Trust your preparation and stay confident.

Conclusion

As students prepare to face the challenges of the JEE Advanced, understanding the role and process behind its organization can be significantly beneficial. Each year, a different IIT takes on the responsibility of conducting the exam, ensuring fairness and maintaining high standards. Knowing which IIT is organizing the exam can offer insights into the potential nuances of the paper. However, the core preparation should remain robust, focusing on mastering the fundamentals of Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Regular practice, thorough understanding of the syllabus, and effective time management are crucial for success. Remember, this exam tests not only your academic knowledge but also your ability to perform under pressure. Stay focused, stay prepared, and approach the exam with confidence and a positive mindset.

FAQs

1) How is the organizing IIT chosen each year? 

The organizing IIT for the JEE Advanced is selected on a rotational basis among the various IITs. This system ensures that each IIT gets an opportunity to oversee the exam every few years. The rotation policy is predetermined, allowing each institute ample time to prepare for their turn as organizers.

2) Are IIT Kanpur or IIT Bombay’s papers objectively tougher? 

It is difficult to declare objectively that the papers from IIT Kanpur or IIT Bombay are tougher. The difficulty of the JEE Advanced paper generally varies from year to year and is dependent on the collective input of the subject matter experts from various IITs who design the paper. 

3) Do coaching institutes predict the difficulty based on the organizing IIT? 

Coaching institutes often attempt to predict the difficulty of the JEE Advanced based on historical trends and the known strengths of the organizing IIT in particular subjects. However, these predictions are speculative and should be taken with caution.

4) Which IITs have organized the paper the most? 

Traditionally, older IITs such as IIT Kharagpur, IIT Bombay, and IIT Kanpur have had more opportunities to organize the JEE Advanced due to their longer histories and larger infrastructural capacities. However, as the newer IITs mature and expand their facilities, they too are increasingly taking on the responsibility of organizing the exam, contributing to a balanced rotation among all the institutes.

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