TISSNET ( Tata Institute of Social Sciences National Entrance Test)

Content Writer Papri Dutta
Updated On Date: Oct 25, 2025

TISSNET 2026 EXAM PATTERN

TISSNET 2026 – Exam Pattern

The TISSNET (Tata Institute of Social Sciences National Entrance Test) is a university-level examination conducted for admission to postgraduate programs like MA, MSc, and MHA offered by various TISS campuses. The TISSNET 2026 exam pattern determines the structure, marking scheme, and time allotment of the test, which helps aspirants plan their preparation effectively.

Overview of TISSNET 2026 Exam Pattern:

TISSNET 2026 will be conducted in a computer-based test (CBT) mode across multiple centers in India. The test duration will be 100 minutes (1 hour and 40 minutes) and will consist of 100 multiple-choice questions (MCQs). There will be three sections in the question paper – General Awareness, English Proficiency, and Mathematical & Logical Reasoning.

Parameter

Details

Exam Name

Tata Institute of Social Sciences National Entrance Test (TISSNET)

Mode of Exam

Computer-Based Test (CBT)

Duration

100 Minutes

Type of Questions

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

Total Questions

100

Total Marks

100

Sections

General Awareness, English Proficiency, Mathematical & Logical Reasoning

Medium

English

Negative Marking

No Negative Marking

Sectional Cutoff

Only in General Awareness (Minimum 14 Marks

Section-wise Distribution of Questions:

Section Name

Number of Questions

Difficulty Level

Key Topics

General Awareness

40

Moderate to Difficult

Current Affairs, History, Geography, Politics, Economy, Culture, Science 

English Proficiency

30

Moderate

Grammar, Vocabulary, Reading Comprehension, Synonyms, Antonyms, Sentence Correction 

Mathematical & Logical Reasoning

30

Easy to Moderate

Arithmetic, Algebra, Data Interpretation, Geometry, Mensuration, Reasoning Puzzles 

Key Features of TISSNET 2026:

  • Every correct answer carries 1 mark, and no marks are deducted for wrong answers.
  • The General Awareness section carries the most weightage and has a sectional cutoff of 14 marks, meaning candidates must meet this minimum score to qualify.
  • The exam is expected to remain moderate in difficulty, focusing more on conceptual understanding rather than complex calculations.
  • After clearing TISSNET, candidates applying for specific programs such as HRM & LR or ODCL must appear for an additional test called TISSMAT (TISS Management Aptitude Test) which assesses business awareness and analytical abilities.

Preparation Strategy for TISSNET 2026:

  • Focus on General Awareness:Candidates should read daily newspapers and current affairs magazines regularly to score high in this high-weightage section.
  • Practice Reading Comprehension:Improving reading speed and comprehension can help maximize marks in English proficiency.
  • Strengthen Basics in Quantitative Aptitude:A clear understanding of concepts from arithmetic and algebra will ensure efficiency in calculation-oriented questions.
  • Attempt Mocks Regularly:Solving previous-year papers and taking mock tests can help improve time management and accuracy.
Click Here For TISSNET Syllabus

FAQs:

Q1. What is the total duration of the TISSNET 2026 exam?

Ans. The total duration of the TISSNET 2026 exam will be 100 minutes (1 hour and 40 minutes).

Q2. How many questions are there in the TISSNET 2026 exam?

Ans. There will be 100 multiple-choice questions, distributed across three sections — General Awareness, English Proficiency, and Mathematical & Logical Reasoning.

Q3. Is there negative marking in TISSNET 2026?

Ans. No, there is no negative marking for wrong answers in TISSNET 2026, which encourages candidates to attempt all questions.

Q4. Is there any sectional cutoff in the TISSNET 2026 exam?

Ans. Yes, the General Awareness section has a sectional cutoff of 14 marks applicable to all categories except SC/ST and OBC (NC) candidates.

Q5. What follows after the TISSNET exam?

Ans. Candidates shortlisted from TISSNET will need to appear for TISSMAT or online personal assessments, depending on their program choice and the academic stream they apply for.

 
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