IISER (Indian Institute Of Science Education And Research Admissions)

Content Writer Papri Dutta
Updated On Date: Sep 30, 2025

IISER 2026 Exam Pattern

IISER Exam Pattern 2026 

The IISER 2026 will continue as the single gateway for admission to the prestigious Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research. The IISER 2026 exam comprehensively assesses candidates' proficiency in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology, with a rigorous pattern designed to select highly capable students for advanced science programs. The following article is an extended overview of the IISER 2026 exam pattern, for clarity of all the participating candidates.

IISER 2026 Exam Pattern Overview

The IISER 2026 is a computer-based examination conducted in online mode across numerous designated centers throughout India.

  • Exam Sections:The paper is divided into four equal sections: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology.
  • Questions:Each section consists of 15 multiple-choice questions, totaling 60 questions for the exam.
  • Marks Distribution:Each correct answer earns four marks and each incorrect answer incurs a penalty of one negative mark. Unanswered questions carry no marks.
  • Total Marks:The maximum mark is 240, with each subject carrying 60 marks.
  • Duration:Candidates have 3 hours to complete the test.
  • Medium of Exam:The exam is offered in both English and Hindi.
  • Eligibility:Candidates must have completed (or be appearing for) Class XII (or equivalent) with at least three science subjects out of Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Mathematics.
  • Subject Choice:While all four sections are presented, qualifying the cut-off in any three subjects is typically mandatory for merit ranking.
  • Admission Channels:From 2024 onwards, admissions are solely on the IISER score, with no consideration for JEE Advanced or KVPY scores.

Exam Structure for IISER 2026

Section

No. of Questions

Maximum Marks

Marking Scheme

Physics

15

60

+4/-1/0 per answer

Chemistry

15

60

+4/-1/0 per answer

Mathematics

15

60

+4/-1/0 per answer

Biology

15

60

+4/-1/0 per answer

All questions are objective and based on the Class XI and XII syllabus as per the rationalized NCERT curriculum.

Click Here For IISER 2026 Eligibility Criteria

FAQs

Q1. How many questions are there in the IISER 2026 and how are they distributed?

Ans. The IISER includes a total of 60 questions, with 15 questions each from Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology.

Q2. What is the marking scheme in IISER 2026?

Ans. Each correct answer is awarded four marks, each incorrect answer results in a deduction of one mark, and there is no penalty for unanswered questions.

Q3. Is it compulsory to attempt all four subjects in IISER 2026?

Ans. The test contains all four subjects but qualifying cut-off in any three subjects is mandatory for merit consideration, though preparing all subjects is strongly advised for the best chances at top IISERs.

Q4. What qualification is required to appear for IISER 2026?

Ans. Candidates must have passed Class XII (or equivalent) in 2024/2025 or be appearing in 2026, with three of Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology as primary subjects.

Q5. In which languages will IISER be conducted?

Ans. The IISER 2026 is available in both Hindi and English, offering candidates the flexibility to choose their preferred language for the test.
Related Articles
IISER 2026 Cut Offs
IISER Cut Offs 2026           The IISER 2026 cut offs are going to be critical benchmarks that determine the minimum marks or rank required for admission into the Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research...
Posted On: 30/09/2025
Read more
IISER 2026 Preparation Tips
IISER Preparation Tips 2026  The IISER 2026 preparation will require a strategic approach focused on solid conceptual clarity, effective time management, and practice to excel in the competitive exam. With four subjects—Physics, Chem...
Posted On: 30/09/2025
Read more
IISER 2026 Counselling
IISER Counselling 2026  The IISER 2026 counselling process is a centrally coordinated and fully online procedure that determines the seat allotment for admission to India's premier Institutes of Science Education and Research based on meri...
Posted On: 30/09/2025
Read more
IISER 2026 Syllabus
IISER Syllabus 2026 The syllabus for IISER 2026 is designed to reflect the breadth and depth of the science curriculum followed in Classes XI and XII across major Indian school boards. Covering Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology, the ...
Posted On: 30/09/2025
Read more
IISER 2026 Application Form
IISER Application Form 2026  The IISER 2026 application process is a streamlined, online procedure designed to make admission accessible to science aspirants across India and abroad. The following is a comprehensive article detailing the I...
Posted On: 30/09/2025
Read more
View all

Top Universities/Colleges