IISER (Indian Institute Of Science Education And Research Admissions)

IISER 2026

The IISER 2026 exam schedule is yet to be officially released by the Joint Admissions Committee for IISER. Based on previous trends, the admission process is expected to start in the coming months with the opening of the IISER 2026 online application portal. The IISER Aptitude Test (IAT) is conducted annually for students aspiring to join the Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISERs) across India through the IAT, KVPY, or JEE Advanced channels. For 2026, the IISER application process is likely to begin around April 2026, with the entrance exam scheduled tentatively in June 2026.

Candidates applying for IISER 2026 must carefully check their eligibility before proceeding with the application. The IISER 2026 exam is open to students from the science stream who have passed or are appearing for Class 12 or equivalent in 2026. The IISER 2026 will mainly test candidates on four subjects – Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology. Aspirants are advised to begin preparation early and plan their strategy thoroughly to ensure a competitive score.

IISER admission is known for its rigorous selection process, and only candidates who qualify through one of the accepted channels (IAT/KVPY/JEE Advanced) can secure a seat in the BS-MS Dual Degree Program or other undergraduate courses offered. All updates regarding IISER 2026 exam dates, IISER 2026 admit cards, and IISER 2026 results will be communicated to candidates through their registered email IDs and the official IISER admissions portal.

IISER 2026 – Key Highlights

Basic Information on IISER

The IISERs (Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research) are a group of premier autonomous institutions established by the Government of India dedicated to teaching and research in basic sciences. Founded under the Ministry of Education, IISERs aim to integrate undergraduate education with cutting-edge scientific research, offering students a unique curriculum that blends classroom learning with hands-on research experience. Currently, there are seven IISERs located across India. The flagship program offered by these institutes is a 5-year integrated BS-MS dual degree in diverse scientific disciplines such as Biological, Chemical, Mathematical, Physical, and Earth Sciences, alongside specialized programs in Computational Sciences and Humanities. Admissions to these institutes are based exclusively on the IISER Aptitude Test (IAT), which ensures selection of meritorious students passionate about pursuing careers in science and research.

IISER 2026 Exam Dates (Tentative)

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

IISER 2026 Exam Highlights

IISER 2026 Preparation Tips

A strong preparation strategy for IISER 2026 involves a clear understanding of the NCERT-based syllabus and the exam pattern, focusing on the four subjects – Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology. Aspirants are advised to rely primarily on NCERT textbooks for conceptual clarity and practice regularly with previous years’ questions and mock tests to build speed and accuracy. Prioritizing stronger subjects and managing time effectively during preparation and the exam will enhance performance. Maintaining consistent revision and staying physically and mentally fit are also key factors for success in this highly competitive test.

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IISER 2026 Cut Offs

The IISER 2026 cut offs represent the minimum marks or rank candidates must achieve to qualify for admission counselling across various IISER campuses. Cut offs vary by institute and category, with top campuses like IISc Bangalore demanding scores close to 190-200 out of 240, while newer IISERs may have lower cut offs around 95-120 marks. Reserved category candidates typically have relaxed cut offs. Aspirants should aim to clear the highest expected cut offs to improve admission chances in preferred IISERs, while also tracking official cut off announcements during counselling rounds for up-to-date guidance.

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IISER 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.

IISER 2026 – FAQs

Q1. What is the IISER 2026?

Ans. The IISER Aptitude Test 2026 is a national-level entrance exam for admission to the integrated BS-MS dual degree program and other undergraduate science courses offered by the Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISERs). It tests candidates in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology.

Q2. How many questions are there in the IISER 2026 exam, and what is the marking scheme?

Ans. The exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions, with 15 questions from each subject—Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology. Each correct answer awards 4 marks, and 1 mark is deducted for every wrong answer. Unanswered questions do not attract any marks.

Q3. Is coaching necessary to crack the IISER Aptitude Test?

Ans. No, coaching is not mandatory. Candidates can effectively prepare for the IISER 2026 by thoroughly studying NCERT textbooks for Classes XI and XII, practicing previous year papers, and taking regular mock tests.

Q4. What are the eligibility criteria for appearing in IISER 2026?

Ans. Candidates must have passed or be appearing for Class XII or its equivalent with a science stream, having studied at least three subjects among Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology. They must meet minimum aggregate marks criteria, which vary by category.

Q5. What is the language medium of the IISER Aptitude Test 2026?

Ans. The IISER 2026 is conducted in both English and Hindi languages to accommodate candidates across India.