Important Dates 
Syllabus
Eligibility
Application Process
Other DetailsExam Highlights
| Exam Name | Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research Aptitude Test (IAT) |
| Conducting Body | Joint Admissions Committee (JAC) 2026 |
| Exam Frequency | Once a year |
| Exam Level | National |
| Official Website | iiseradmission.in |
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jO5MDeEDZP4&pp=ygUdSVNFUiBBcHRpdHVkZSBUZXN0IChJQVQpIDIwMjY%3D
Important Dates for IAT 2026 (Tentative)
Stay ahead of the schedule by noting these official and tentative dates for the 2026 admission cycle:
- Application Start: March 2026
- Application Deadline: May 2026
- Admit Card Release: June 2026
- Exam Date: Expected June 7, 2026
- Result Announcement: July 2026
Crucial Update: Defunct Admission Channels
We want to ensure you don’t prepare for the wrong pathway. The KVPY fellowship has been replaced by the IAT for IISER admissions, and the JEE Advanced channel has been significantly restricted. Most seats across all 7 IISERs, as well as the BS (Research) at IISc Bangalore and IIT Madras (Medical Sciences), are now filled through IAT scores.
IAT 2026 Exam Pattern & Marking Scheme
The exam format has been updated to reflect a more competitive structure. It is vital that you understand the +4/-1 marking scheme to manage your time and accuracy.
| Subject | Questions | Max Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physics | 15 | 60 | 3 Hours |
| Chemistry | 15 | 60 | |
| Biology | 15 | 60 | |
| Mathematics | 15 | 60 | |
| Total | 60 | 240 | – |
- Marking Scheme: +4 marks for correct answers; -1 mark for incorrect answers.
Do I have to solve all 4 sections?
Yes. To secure a top rank, you should attempt all 4 sections (PCMB). While your score is calculated out of 240, skipping an entire subject like Biology (for PCM students) makes it very difficult to compete for top IISERs like Pune or Kolkata.
Updated Exam Syllabus (Rationalized NCERT)
The IAT 2026 follows the rationalized NCERT syllabus. Note that topics like Communication Systems and Physical World have been removed. Focus on the streamlined 2025-26 NCERT textbooks.
Core Subject Focus:
- Physics: Thermodynamics, Waves, Optics, and Modern Physics.
- Chemistry: Chemical Bonding, Coordination Compounds, and Organic Principles.
- Biology: Genetics, Evolution, and Ecology.
- Maths: Calculus, Vectors, and Probability.
Eligibility Criteria for 2026
- Educational Qualification: You must have passed Class 12 in 2024, 2025, or be appearing in 2026.
- Important: Candidates who passed Class 12 in 2023 or earlier are NOT eligible.
- Minimum Marks: 60% aggregate for General/OBC; 55% for SC/ST/PwD.
How to Apply for IISER IAT 2026: Step-by-Step Guide
Filling out your application correctly is the first step toward your research career. The entire process is online via the official portal. Follow our guide below to ensure a smooth registration.
Step 1: Account Registration
Visit iiseradmission.in and click on “Register Here.” You will need to provide your name, date of birth, mobile number, and email ID. Click “Generate OTP” to verify your contact details. Once verified, you will receive a unique User ID and Password via email.
Step 2: Filling the Application Form
Log in using your new credentials. You must fill in:
- Personal Details: Parents’ names, category, and nationality.
- Academic Details: Marks for Class 10 and 12. If you are appearing for board exams in 2026, select the “Appearing” option.
- Exam City: Choose your top 5 preferred cities for the computer-based test.
Step 3: Document Uploads
You must upload scanned copies of your documents according to the following 2026 specifications:
| Document Type | Format | File Size |
|---|---|---|
| Passport Size Photo | JPEG/JPG | 20 KB to 200 KB |
| Candidate’s Signature | JPEG/JPG | 10 KB to 200 KB |
| Category/PwD Certificate | 200 KB to 1 MB |
Step 4: Application Fee Payment
The final step is the non-refundable fee. You can pay via Net Banking, UPI, or Debit/Credit Card.
- General/OBC/EWS: ₹2,000
- SC/ST/PwD/KM: ₹1,000
- Foreign Nationals: ₹12,000
⚠️ Correction Window (April 13–15, 2026)
If you make a mistake, you can edit most fields during this 3-day window. However, you cannot change your primary Email, Mobile Number, or Category. Double-check these before submitting!
Top IISERs & Seat Matrix (NIRF 2025 Data)
Choosing the right campus is a critical step in your research journey. Below is the updated 2026 seat distribution alongside the NIRF 2025 Research Rankings. We have highlighted the premiere institutes where you can pursue BS-MS, BS, and B.Tech programs.
1. BS-MS (5-Year Dual Degree) Seat Matrix
| IISER Campus | NIRF 2025 Rank (Research) | Seats (Tentative 2026) |
|---|---|---|
| IISER Pune | 35 | 288 |
| IISER Kolkata | 46 | 310* |
| IISER Mohali | Top 100 | 270 |
| IISER Bhopal | 78 | 300 |
| IISER Thiruvananthapuram | Top 100 | 320 |
| IISER Tirupati | Newer Category | 350** |
| IISER Berhampur | Newer Category | 300 |
*Includes 30 seats for Computational and Data Sciences.
**Increased from 250 seats in previous cycles.
2. BS & B.Tech (4-Year Programs) Seat Matrix
| Specialized Program | Institute | Seats |
|---|---|---|
| B.Tech in Engineering Sciences | IISER Bhopal | 115 |
| B.Tech in Data Science & Engineering | IISER Bhopal | 80 |
| BS in Economic Sciences | IISER Bhopal | 55 |
| BS in Economic & Statistical Sciences | IISER Tirupati | 50 |
Note: While IISc Bangalore (Rank 1) and IIT Madras (Rank 2) also accept IAT scores, their seats are managed under separate registration processes once your IAT rank is declared.
Fees & Center Selection
Application Fee: ₹2,000 for General; ₹1,000 for Reserved categories.
Seat Acceptance Fee: ₹35,000 (Adjustable against first-semester fees).
Common Doubts: Real Talk for IAT Aspirants
Navigating the IAT isn’t just about formulas; it’s about strategy. We have gathered the most burning questions from student communities to give you the honest answers you need.
Q: “I’m a PCM student. Do I really have to study Biology for IAT? It feels like a trap!”
The Real Answer: It’s not a trap, it’s your secret weapon! While you aren’t forced to solve it, remember that 15 questions come from Biology. Many PCM students skip it entirely, but if you just cover high-yield NCERT chapters like Ecology or Cell Biology, you can easily grab 20–30 “bonus” marks. In a competitive race, those marks can jump your rank by thousands!
Q: “Is IAT actually harder than JEE Mains or NEET?”
The Real Answer: It’s different. JEE focuses on complex calculations, and NEET on speed. IAT tests your conceptual depth. You have 3 full minutes per question, which is a luxury! The examiners want to see if you understand the “why” behind the science. If your basics are solid, you might find it more satisfying than a rote-learning marathon.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the “Safe Score” for a top IISER in 2026?
To be safe for IISER Pune or Kolkata, aim for 180+ out of 240. For newer campuses like Berhampur or Tirupati, a score of 110–130 often secures a seat for General category students.
2. I passed 12th in 2023. Can I appear for IAT 2026?
No. The IAT allows for a maximum of two drops. For the 2026 cycle, you must have passed 12th in 2024, 2025, or be appearing in 2026. Double droppers from 2023 are unfortunately ineligible.
3. Is there a sectional cutoff for each subject?
No! There are no sectional cutoffs. If you are brilliant at Physics and Chemistry but struggle with Maths, your total aggregate score is what matters for your final rank.
4. How do I choose my IISER preference order?
Focus on your research interest. While all IISERs are world-class, IISER Bhopal is unique for its B.Tech and Economic Sciences programs. IISER Pune and Kolkata have the most established infrastructure. Don’t forget to check the distance from your hometown too!
5. Is NCERT enough to crack the 240 marks?
NCERT is the foundation, but you need more for Physics and Maths. Our suggestion? Use NCERT religiously for Biology and Chemistry, but practice conceptual problems from HC Verma (Physics) and PYQs to understand the IAT’s unique question style.
Author By
Neha Gupta
Meet Neha, a highly qualified and experienced educator with a passion for empowering women through education. Neha holds a Master's degree in education and has over 10 years of teaching experience at both the secondary and higher education levels. She has a deep understanding of the Indian education system and is dedicated to helping women achieve their academic and career goals. With her extensive knowledge and insights into the different career options available to all students. Neha is committed to providing detailed and personalized guidance to help young students make informed choices and succeed in their chosen fields.