ISI Admission Test Exam Pattern 2026 

The ISI Admission Test 2026 follows a rigorous and analytical exam pattern designed to evaluate candidates for undergraduate and postgraduate courses in Statistics, Mathematics, and related fields at the Indian Statistical Institute. The ISI Admission Test 2026 exam pattern, marking scheme, and some of the frequently asked queries are detailed below for clarity and effective preparation for participating candidates.

ISI Admission Test 2026 Exam Pattern Overview

The ISI Admission Test is divided into two main sections—Section A and Section B—with each part focusing on distinctive types of assessment. The overall goal of ISI Admission Test 2026 is to test mathematical aptitude, logical reasoning skills, and specialized knowledge based on the chosen academic stream.

Section A: Multiple Choice Questions

• Mode: Pen-and-paper (offline/OMR based)
• Duration: 2 hours
• Type of Questions: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
• Subjects: Predominantly undergraduate-level Mathematics and Logical Reasoning
• Total Questions: Generally, 30 MCQs are there
• Marks: Section A carries 120 marks
• Marking Scheme: 4 marks for each correct answer, -1 mark for each incorrect answer, and 1 mark for each unattempted question

Section B: Descriptive/Subjective Questions

• Duration: 2 hours
• Type of Questions: Descriptive/short answer questions
• Subjects: Mathematics (up to undergraduate level); for some courses, questions may include Statistics, Computer Science, Physics, or Engineering & Technology
• Total Questions: Usually 9 descriptive problems
• Marks: Section B also carries 120 marks
• Marking Scheme: Each descriptive answer is typically allotted 30 marks (split proportionately across sub-questions)

For courses like M.Tech or MSQE, Section B may be split into subject-specific sub-sections. Candidates can choose relevant streams as per their background.

General Features in ISI Admission Test

• Medium: English only
• Total Duration: 3 hours for both Part 1 and Part 2 combined
• Courses Covered:Stat, B.Math, M.Stat, M.Math, MSQE, M.Tech (CS and QROR)
• Special Note: Bachelor of Statistical Data Sciences (BSDS) admissions are now conducted through JEE Main and CUET UG; ISI Admission Test remains for core statistics/mathematics streams.

Marking Scheme Summarized

FAQs

Q1. What is the mode of the ISI Admission Test 2026?

Ans. The ISI Admission Test 2026 will be conducted offline in pen-and-paper (OMR) mode.

Q2. What subjects are tested in the ISI Admission Test?

Ans. The UG test evaluates mathematics (Class 12 level) and logical reasoning, while PG tests may also include statistics, computer science, physics, and engineering topics depending on the program applied for.

Q3. How is the marking scheme structured in Section A and Section B?

Ans. In Section A, each correct MCQ receives 4 marks with a penalty of -1 for wrong answers. Descriptive answers in Section B are allotted up to 30 marks each, with no negative marking.

Q4. Can candidates choose the subject stream for Section B?

Ans. Yes, for postgraduate programs, Section B consists of subject-specific subsections. Candidates are permitted to attempt only the section relevant to their academic background or chosen course.

Q5. Is the ISI Admission Test mandatory for all ISI courses?

Ans. No, while most core statistics, mathematics, and related programs require the ISI Admission Test, admissions to the new Bachelor of Statistical Data Sciences program are through JEE Main/CUET UG.