IAT Exam Pattern 2026 

The IISER Aptitude Test (IAT) 2026 follows a structured, competitive format tailored for students seeking admission to the Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISER) and IISc Bangalore's BS programs. The IAT examination pattern is designed to rigorously assess factual knowledge, conceptual understanding, and analytical skills across four major science domains.

Overview of IAT 2026 Exam Pattern

The IAT 2026 is conducted as an online Computer Based Test (CBT) where all questions are presented in the form of Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs). The subjects covered include Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology, with each subject carrying an equal weightage in the evaluation process.

• Total Number of Questions:60
• 15 questions in each subject (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Biology)
• Total Marks:240 marks
• Each subject consists of 60 marks (15 questions × 4 marks per correct answer)
• Exam Duration:3 hours
• Mode of Exam:Computer Based Test (CBT), Online
• Medium:English

Section-wise Structure

Each question carries 4 marks for a correct answer. For incorrect answers, 1 mark is deducted, indicating a clear negative marking scheme. Unanswered questions neither earn nor lose any marks.

Marking Scheme and Cut-Off Details

• Marking Scheme:+4 for every correct response, -1 for each incorrect response, 0 for questions left un attempted.
• Cut-Off Insights:To secure a seat at top IISERs, students should aim for scores around the qualifying cut-off, which, in recent sessions, hovered between 115-140 marks for general category candidates out of 240.
• Compulsory Subjects:While all four subjects are presented, meeting the cut-off in at least three of them is mandatory for eligibility.

Other Important Features

• Question Format:All questions are objective type (MCQ).
• Calculator Policy:No calculators or electronic devices are allowed inside the exam hall. Candidates must rely on manual calculation, with rough sheets provided.
• Difficulty Level:The questions largely align with the rationalized NCERT curriculum for Classes 11 and 12, ensuring relevance for the target age group.

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FAQs

Q1. How many questions will be there in IAT 2026 and how are they distributed?

Ans. The IAT 2026 paper consists of a total of 60 questions, divided equally among four subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology, with 15 MCQs from each subject.

Q2. What is the marking scheme for IAT 2026?

Ans. Each correct answer earns the candidate 4 marks, while every incorrect response leads to a deduction of 1 mark. There is no penalty for questions that are not attempted.

Q3. Is it mandatory to attempt all four subjects in IAT 2026?

Ans. Candidates are required to qualify in at least three out of the four subjects to be eligible for admission, although preparing for all four subjects enhances prospects for top institute admissions.

Q4. What is the duration and mode of IISER Aptitude Test 2026?

Ans. The IAT 2026 is held in an online Computer Based Test format over a span of 3 hours. The exam is conducted in English across approved test centers nationwide.

Q5. Is the use of calculators or electronic devices permitted during IAT 2026?

Ans. No, candidates are strictly prohibited from using calculators or electronic devices. All calculations must be performed manually, with rough sheets supplied by the exam authority for working out answers.