The Indian Institute of technology (IIT) Bombay has announced that the registration process for the Joint Admission Test for Master’s (JAM) 2026 will begin on September 5, 2025. This competitive exam is a golden opportunity for science graduates aspiring to secure admission to MSc, Joint MSc-PhD, MSc-PhD dual degree, and other postgraduate programs at prestigious IITs and IISc.

Here’s a complete breakdown of the eligibility, exam pattern, admission details, and important dates in a crisp listicle format.


1 Registration Window Opens september 5

  • The application process begins on September 5, 2025.
  • Candidates must apply online through the JAM Online application Processing System (JOAPS) at jam2026.iitb.ac.in.
  • The last date for submission is October 12, 2025.


2 Who Can Apply? – Eligibility Criteria

  • Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree in any relevant discipline or be in their final year of undergraduate study.
  • There is no age limit for applying.
  • Candidates need to provide proof of graduation within the deadline set by the admitting institution.


3️⃣ Exam Date and Mode

  • Date of Examination: February 15, 2026.
  • The test will be conducted in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode across more than 100 cities in India.
  • Candidates will be allotted exam centres based on preferences given at registration.


4 Subjects Offered in JAM 2026

The exam will cover seven subjects, allowing students to choose one or two papers:

Geology (GG)

Mathematics (MA)

Biotechnology (BT)

Chemistry (CY)

Economics (EN)

Mathematical Statistics (MS)

Physics (PH)


5 Exam Pattern & Question Types

The JAM 2026 paper will test analytical and conceptual skills through three types of questions:

  • Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
  • Multiple Select Questions (MSQs)
  • Numerical Answer Type (NATs)

Each test will be of three hours duration. Negative marking will apply for MCQs, but not for MSQs and NATs.


6 Admission Scope – 3,000 Seats Across IITs & IISc

JAM 2026 opens the doors to around 3,000 seats in MSc and Integrated MSc-PhD programs.

  • 22 IITs and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore will admit candidates through JAM scores.
  • Programs include MSc, Joint MSc-PhD, MSc-PhD dual degree, and Integrated PhD across science disciplines.


7 application Fee Structure

  • For One Test Paper:
    • ₹1,000 → Female, SC, ST, PwD
    • ₹2,000 → All others
  • For Two Test Papers:
    • ₹1,350 → Female, SC, ST, PwD
    • ₹2,700 → All others

 Note: An additional ₹300 will be charged for corrections such as changing exam city, subject, or category.


8 Correction Window Facility

Candidates can make changes to their application form through the JOAPS portal until November 10, 2025.
Corrections will only be accepted after payment of the additional charges online via UPI, debit/credit card, or net banking.


9 Admit Card and Result Timeline

  • Admit Card Download: From January 5, 2026.
  • Exam Date: february 15, 2026.
  • Result Declaration: march 20, 2026.

This timeline gives students ample time to prepare and plan their exam strategy.


 Why JAM 2026 Matters for Aspirants

  • Provides a direct pathway to India’s premier institutes (IITs & IISc).
  • Offers highly sought-after postgraduate programs with cutting-edge research opportunities.
  • Enhances career prospects in academia, research, industry, and public sector organizations.


 Final Word: Start Preparing Early!

With registration opening on september 5, aspirants must begin preparations immediately. The JAM exam is highly competitive, but with the right strategy, cracking it can unlock limitless academic and career opportunities.

If you dream of pursuing advanced studies in science, mathematics, and technology at IITs or IISc, JAM 2026 is your golden ticket.


Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.

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Kokila Chokkanathan

04/09/2025 08:06 AM