The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay has officially released the detailed schedule for the Joint Admission Test for Masters (IIT JAM) 2026 on its dedicated portal — jam2026.iitb.ac.in. This much‑anticipated announcement provides aspirants with the exact registration, exam, and result dates, allowing them to plan their preparation in a structured way.
IIT JAM is a national‑level entrance exam that opens the doors to postgraduate and integrated PhD programs at IITs, IISc, NITs, and other top institutes across India. With the release of the 2026 schedule, candidates can now align their academic and application strategies to meet these critical deadlines.
IIT JAM 2026 – Complete Schedule
The official dates as published on the IIT JAM 2026 portal are as follows:
Event | Date |
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Registration Start | September 5, 2025 |
Last Date to Apply | October 12, 2025 |
Admit Card Release | January 5, 2026 |
IIT JAM 2026 Exam Date | February 15, 2026 |
Result Declaration | March 20, 2026 |
These dates are currently tentative and may be updated by IIT Bombay if needed. Candidates are advised to monitor the official website regularly.
How to Apply for IIT JAM 2026
The application process is entirely online through the JAM Online Application Processing System (JOAPS). Here’s a quick guide:
- Visit jam2026.iitb.ac.in and open the JOAPS link.
- Register with your name, mobile number, and email address.
- Log in with the credentials received on your registered email.
- Fill in your personal, academic, and communication details.
- Select your exam paper(s) and preferred exam cities (up to three).
- Upload documents – recent photograph, signature, and category certificate (if applicable).
- Pay the application fee online using net banking, UPI, or debit/credit card.
- Submit the form and save a copy for reference.
Exam Pattern and Papers
IIT JAM 2026 will be conducted as a Computer-Based Test (CBT) in two sessions on February 15, 2026:
- Morning Session (9:30 am – 12:30 pm): Mathematics, Chemistry, Geology
- Afternoon Session (2:30 pm – 5:30 pm): Physics, Biotechnology, Economics, Mathematical Statistics
The test will comprise 60 questions in MCQ, MSQ, and NAT formats, with a total of 100 marks. Negative marking applies only to MCQ-type questions.
Admit Card and Result Dates
- Admit Card: Available from January 5, 202,6, on the JOAPS portal. Candidates must carry a printed copy along with a valid photo ID to the exam centre.
- Result: To be announced on March 20, 2026, showing the candidate’s score, qualifying status, and All India Rank (AIR).
Following the results, qualified candidates will participate in Centralised Counselling for M.Sc. Admissions (CCMN), expected to begin in May–June 2026.
Why This Schedule Matters
Every year, thousands of science graduates compete in IIT JAM to secure admission into M.Sc., M.Sc.–Ph.D. dual degrees, and M.Tech (via MSc route) in elite institutes. The 2026 schedule gives candidates a clear preparation window, allowing them to:
- Complete the syllabus and mock tests before registration.
- Arrange documents early to avoid a last-minute rush.
- Plan revision cycles in alignment with the exam date.
Preparation Tips for IIT JAM 2026 Aspirants
- Start Early: Begin your preparation at least 8–10 months before the exam date.
- Know the Syllabus: Understand the official syllabus for the Paperosen paper thoroughly.
- Practice Previous Papers: Solving past year questions helps improve speed and accuracy.
- Time Management: Balance preparation between theory, problem-solving, and mock tests.
- Regular Updates: Please regularly check jam2026.iitb.ac.in for any notices or changes.
Final Thoughts
With the IIT JAM 2026 schedule officially out, the countdown to one of India’s most competitive science entrance exams has begun. Whether you are targeting IITs, IISc, or other premier institutes, the key is disciplined preparation and timely application. Mark the dates, follow the official portal for updates, and gear up for success.
F.A.Qs
1. When will the IIT JAM 2026 registration start?
The registration process for IIT JAM 2026 will start on September 5, 2025, through the official website jam2026.iitb.ac.in. Candidates must complete the application form online via the JOAPS portal before the last date.
2. What is the last date to apply for IIT JAM 2026?
The last date to submit the IIT JAM 2026 application form is October 12, 2025. No applications will be accepted after the deadline, so students should apply early to avoid technical issues.
3. Who is eligible to appear for IIT JAM 2026?
Any candidate who has completed a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline or is appearing in the final year of graduation is eligible. There is no age limit, but candidates must meet program-specific eligibility requirements during admissions.
4. How much is the application fee for IIT JAM 2026?
The fee varies based on category and the number of papers chPaper
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One Paper: ₹900 (Female/SC/ST/PwD), ₹1,800 (Others)
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Two Papers: ₹1,250 (Female/SC/ST/PwD), ₹2,500 (Others)
Payment can be made online via credit/debit card, net banking, or UPI.
5. How can I download the IIT JAM 2026 admit card?
The admit card will be available from January 5, 2026. To download it:
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Visit jam2026.iitb.ac.in.
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Log in to the JOAPS portal with your credentials.
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Click on “Download Admit Card” and save the PDF.
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Take a printout to carry on exam day along with a valid ID.
6. What is the exam date for IIT JAM 2026?
The IIT JAM 2026 exam will be conducted on February 15, 2026, in two sessions — morning and afternoon — depending on the paper selected.
7. When will IIT JAM 2026 results be declared?
The results will be announced on March 20, 2026. Candidates can check their scorecards and All India Rank (AIR) by logging into the JOAPS portal.
8. How does IIT JAM counselling work?
After the results, qualified candidates must participate in the Centralised Counselling for M.Sc. Admissions (CCMN). They will fill in the institute and course preferences, and seats will be allotted based on merit and availability.
9. Can I apply for two papers in IIT JAM 2026?
Yes, candidates can choose up to two papers, provided they are from the allowed combination list and fall in the same exam session or different sessions as per the official guidelines.
10. What programs can I get admission to through the IIT JAM?
IIT JAM scores are used for admission to:
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M.Sc.
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Joint M.Sc.–Ph.D.
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M.Sc–M.Tech.
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M.Sc. (Research)
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Ph.D. dual degree programs in IITs, IISc, IISERs, and other institutes.