IAT 2026: Entrance for IISERs & IISc Bangalore
The IISER Aptitude Test (IAT) is the gateway to India’s premier research institutes, including the seven IISERs (Pune, Kolkata, Mohali, Bhopal, Thiruvananthapuram, Tirupati, Berhampur) and IISc Bangalore.
IAT 2026 At a Glance :
| Feature |
Details for IAT 2026 |
| Exam Date |
June 7, 2026 |
| Mode of Exam |
Computer-Based Test (Online) |
| Duration |
3 Hours (180 Minutes) |
| Total Marks |
240 Marks |
| Subjects Tested |
PCMB (Physics, Chemistry, Maths, Biology) |
Eligibility Criteria 2026 :
- Educational Qualification : Candidates must have passed Class 12 (or equivalent) in 2024, 2025, or 2026.
- Subject Requirement : You must have studied at least three of the four subjects (P, C, M, B) in Class 12. However, the IAT paper contains questions from all four.
- Minimum Percentage : At least 60% aggregate marks (55% for SC/ST/PwD) in Class 12.
IAT 2026 Exam Pattern :
The IAT is known for its conceptual and multi-step problems rather than just rote memorization.
- Total Questions : 60 Questions (15 per subject).
- Question Type : Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs).
- Marking Scheme :
- +4 for every correct answer.
- -1 for every incorrect answer.
- 0 for unattempted questions.
Biology & Mathematics (The "Swing" Subjects) :
- Biology : Human Physiology, Genetics & Evolution, and Ecology are consistently high-yield.
- Mathematics : Calculus (Limits, Continuity, Derivatives), Vectors & 3D Geometry, and Probability.
Physics & Chemistry :
- Physics : Modern Physics, Electrostatics, Magnetism, and Rotational Motion.
- Chemistry : Chemical Bonding, Organic Chemistry (Functional Groups), and Chemical Kinetics.
IAT 2026 FAQs :
Yes, but it is challenging. Since there are 15 questions from Mathematics, skipping the entire section puts you at a disadvantage. It is recommended to at least cover "easy-kill" topics like Sets and Statistics.
In terms of conceptual depth, IAT is often considered more challenging than JEE Mains but slightly easier than JEE Advanced. It tests your scientific temperament and ability to link concepts across different topics.
Apart from the seven IISERs, IAT scores are also accepted by IISc Bangalore (for BS programs) and IIT Madras (for specific BS Medical Sciences and Engineering programs).
