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 IISER 2026 syllabus aims to evaluate foundational concepts, in-depth subject understanding, and analytical skills required for admission to India’s premier science institutes.

IISER 2026 Syllabus and Structure

The IISER 2026 syllabus will strictly follow the rationalized NCERT curriculum for Class XI and XII (2024-2026 editions).

Questions are consistently distributed across the four subjects – Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology, with 15 multiple-choice questions from each section.

Physics

• Key topics include: Units & Measurements, Motion in Straight Line/Plane, Laws of Motion, Work Energy Power, Rotational Motion, Gravitation, Properties of Solids/Fluids, Thermodynamics, Oscillations, Waves, Electrostatics, Current Electricity, Magnetism, Electromagnetic Induction, Alternating Current, Electromagnetic Waves, Ray/Wave Optics, Modern Physics, Nuclei, Semiconductor Electronics.
• High-weight chapters: Mechanics, Modern Physics, Electricity & Magnetism.

Chemistry

• Major topics: Some Basic Concepts of Chemistry, Structure of Atom, Classification of Elements, Chemical Bonding, States of Matter, Thermodynamics, Equilibrium, Redox Reactions, Hydrogen, s/p/d/f-block elements, Coordination Compounds, Organic Chemistry Basics, Hydrocarbons, Haloalkanes/Haloarenes, Alcohols, Phenols/Ethers, Aldehydes/Ketones, Carboxylic Acids, Nitrogen Compounds, Biomolecules, Chemical Kinetics, Surface Chemistry.
• Important focus: Organic Chemistry, Kinetics, Thermodynamics.

Mathematics

• Topics covered: Sets, Relations & Functions, Matrices & Determinants, Straight Line/Conic Sections, Permutations & Combinations, Binomial Theorem, Sequences & Series, Complex Numbers, Quadratic Equations, Trigonometric Functions, 3D Geometry, Limits/Continuity, Differentiation & Applications, Integration & Applications, Differential Equations, Vectors, Statistics, Probability, Linear Programming.
• Frequently emphasized: Calculus, Probability, Trigonometry, Complex Numbers, Conics.

Biology

• Chapters include: Diversity in Living World, Plant & Animal Physiology, Genetics & Evolution, Cell Structure & Function, Reproduction, Ecology, Environment, Human Physiology, Biotechnology, Cell Biology, Microbes, Bio-molecules.
• Priority areas: Genetics, Cell Division, Ecology, Human Physiology, Reproduction.

Preparation Note

• Candidates are advised not to focus only on “important” chapters, as the test sometimes includes unpredictable topics.
• Rigorous practice of past papers and mock tests is recommended to assess readiness and comfort with the exam trend.

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FAQs

Q1: What subjects are covered in IISER Aptitude Test 2026?

Ans. The IISER 2026 covers Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology, with 15 MCQs from each subject based on the NCERT syllabus for Classes XI and XII.

Q2: Where can candidates find the official IISER Aptitude Test syllabus?

Ans. The official syllabus is published on the IISER admission website and aligns with NCERT textbooks (latest rationalized curriculum); chapter-wise details are also available on educational portals.

Q3: Are there any “most important” chapters to focus on?

Ans. While chapters such as Modern Physics, Organic Chemistry, Calculus, Genetics, and Ecology have traditionally featured heavily, candidates must prepare the entire syllabus—questions may be asked from any chapter.

Q4: Is the level of the IISER exam similar to JEE or NEET?

Ans. The IISER is generally conceptual and application-oriented, focusing less on rote memorization and more on analytical understanding—comparable to the depth of JEE Main/NEET for relevant subjects.

Q5: Can candidates skip Biology or Mathematics if not studied in Class XII?

Ans. No, all candidates must attempt all four subjects in the test. Even if a subject was not studied at school, skipping the section leads to a loss of potential marks and can affect selection chances.