IAT (IISER Aptitude Test)

IAT 2026

The IISER Aptitude Test, commonly known as IAT, is a national-level entrance examination conducted for admission to various undergraduate science programs offered by the Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISERs), IISc Bangalore, and IIT Madras. The IAT 2026 exam is expected to follow the established pattern from previous years and will be conducted as a computer-based test (CBT) designed to assess candidates' knowledge and analytical skills in four core science subjects – Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology.

The application process for IAT 2026 is anticipated to begin by March 2026, with candidates required to submit their IAT 2026 application online through the official IISER admission portal within the prescribed deadlines. The IAT 2026 examination itself is typically scheduled for May 2026, after which the answer keys and IAT 2026 results will be released approximately 3-4 weeks later.

IAT 2026 serves as the primary gateway for students aspiring to pursue Integrated BS-MS, BS, and B. Tech programs across IISER campuses and affiliated institutes. The IAT 2026 exam pattern is designed to evaluate conceptual understanding aligned with the NCERT Class 11 and 12 curricula and focuses on multiple-choice questions with negative marking. Candidates are advised to thoroughly go through the official IAT 2026 syllabus and IAT 2026 exam pattern and prepare strategically to enhance their chances of securing admissions in premier scientific institutions across India.

Candidates appearing for IAT 2026 will receive their IAT 2026 admit cards via email, containing essential details like exam dates, venue, and reporting time. It is crucial to carefully follow instructions and appear for the IAT 2026 exam on the specified dates. For detailed information regarding eligibility, application procedures, syllabus, exam pattern, results, and counselling, aspirants should regularly check the official IISER admission portal. For further details regarding IAT 2026 entrance exam candidates may continue reading the article below.

IAT 2026 – Key Highlights

Basic Information on IAT

The IISER Aptitude Test (IAT) is a premier entrance examination conducted annually for admission to the prestigious Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISERs) and allied institutes such as IISc Bangalore and IIT Madras for their undergraduate science programs. IAT is a computer-based test lasting three hours that assesses candidates’ knowledge and analytical skills across four core science subjects – Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology. The IAT exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions, with 15 questions from each subject, each carrying four marks and a negative marking of one mark for incorrect answers. The IAT test is designed for students who have completed or are appearing for Class XII in the science stream, and it serves as the sole admission channel for IISERs from 2024 onward, replacing JEE and KVPY admissions. The IAT emphasizes conceptual understanding aligned with the NCERT Class 11 and 12 curriculum, and it aims to select the most promising candidates for rigorous scientific education and research opportunities at IISERs across India.

IAT 2026 Exam Dates (Tentative)

Following is the list of the IAT 2026 exam dates. Please note that these dates are only tentative as the authorities are yet to release the dates in their official website.

IAT 2026 Exam Highlights

IAT 2026 Preparation Tips

Effective preparation for IAT 2026 involves a clear understanding of the syllabus and exam pattern, focusing on conceptual clarity in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology. Aspirants should thoroughly study the NCERT Class 11 and 12 textbooks, practice multiple-choice questions regularly, and take mock tests to improve speed and accuracy. Prioritizing the three strongest subjects while maintaining competence in the fourth can enhance scoring potential. Consistent revision, making concise notes, and utilizing quality coaching resources or online platforms can further strengthen preparation. Managing time well and maintaining physical and mental health are also vital for success.

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IAT 2026 Cut Offs

The IAT cut-offs vary by IISER campus and candidate category. Generally, top IISERs like IISc Bangalore and IIT Madras have higher cut-off marks ranging between 175 to 200 out of 240, while newer IISERs have relatively lower cut-offs. Reserved categories enjoy relaxed cut-off criteria to promote equitable admissions. Candidates should aim to score above the expected cut-off range for their desired campus and category. IAT cut-offs are released after each counselling round as marks and ranks, providing benchmarks to guide preparation and admission expectations.

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IAT 2026 Results

IAT results are typically announced about 3-4 weeks after the IAT exam and are made available on the official IISER admission portal. Candidates can download their IAT 2026 scorecards by logging in with registration credentials. The IAT 2026 results will display subject-wise scores, total marks, overall rank, category rank, and qualifying status. The IAT 2026 results will then determine eligibility for the subsequent counselling process. Timely checking of IAT 2026 results and downloading IAT 2026 scorecards is crucial for participating in counselling and securing admissions to IISER programs.

IAT 2026 Counselling Process

The IAT 2026 counselling is an online process where qualified candidates are allotted seats in IISER campuses based on merit, preference, and category reservations. Multiple counselling rounds are conducted, and candidates can choose to freeze their allotted seat or float it to try for a better preference in subsequent rounds. Seat acceptance requires fee payment within deadlines, and final admission involves document verification at the allotted institute. The IAT counselling process emphasizes transparency and convenience, ensuring fair access to education at IISERs.

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IAT 2026 Instructions

1. Candidates should upload their photograph and signature with the preferred size in the portal which should be clearly visible.
2. Candidates need to carry their admit card/hall ticket to the exam centre. Candidates will be prohibited from entering the exam hall without this document.
3. Candidates will also be required to carry a valid ID proof such as – Voter ID Card/ Aadhaar Card/ PAN Card/ Driving License, etc.
4. It is advisable for all candidates to enter the designated exam hall before time for a smooth security process before the beginning of exam.
5. Any candidate violating the rules will be strictly dealt as per the norms of the exam centre.
6. Any candidate pursuing any unfair means in the exam hall will be dealt with as per the rules and regulations of the test centre.

IAT 2026 – FAQs

Q1. What is the IISER Aptitude Test (IAT) 2026?

Ans. The IISER Aptitude Test (IAT) 2026 is a national-level computer-based entrance exam conducted for admission to the undergraduate BS and integrated BS-MS programs at Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISERs), IISc Bangalore, and IIT Madras. The IAT exam tests candidates’ knowledge in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology with multiple-choice questions.

Q2. What is the exam pattern and marking scheme of IAT 2026?

Ans. The IAT 2026 exam consists of 60 MCQs, 15 questions from each subject—Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology. Each correct answer earns 4 marks, and 1 mark is deducted for every incorrect response. The duration of the IAT 2026 exam is of three hours.

Q3. Who is eligible to appear for IAT 2026?

Ans. Candidates who have passed or are appearing for Class XII (or equivalent) in the science stream from a recognized board in 2023, 2024, or 2025 are eligible. Candidates must have studied at least three subjects among Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology.

Q4. In which language is the IAT 2026 conducted?

Ans. The IAT 2026 is conducted in English. Candidates can expect all questions and instructions to be provided in English only.

Q5. How can candidates prepare effectively for IAT 2026?

Ans. Effective preparation involves mastering NCERT Class 11 and 12 textbooks, practicing MCQs regularly, taking mock tests to improve speed and accuracy, focusing on strong subjects, and maintaining consistency and good physical and mental health throughout the preparation phase.