What is the IIT JAM syllabus for 2026?
The IIT JAM syllabus covers 4 subjects: Section A — 30 MCQs (50 marks): negative marking applies (1/3 for 1-mark questions, 2/3 for 2-mark questions), Section B — 10 MSQs, Multiple Select Questions (20 marks): no negative marking, no partial marking, Section C — 20 NAT, Numerical Answer Type (30 marks): no negative marking, Subjects offered: Biotechnology, Chemistry, Economics, Geology, Mathematics, Mathematical Statistics, Physics. The exam has 60 questions across 1 section in 180 minutes, with negative marking.
IIT JAM Exam Pattern 2026
| Section | Questions | Duration | Negative Marking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Section A + B + C (single paper, subject of choice) | 60 | 180 min | −0.33 per wrong answer |
| Total | 60 | 180 min |
Marking scheme: +1.67 correct · 0.33 wrong · 0 unanswered. Last updated: 2026-06-01.
Subjects in the IIT JAM Syllabus
- Section A — 30 MCQs (50 marks): negative marking applies (1/3 for 1-mark questions, 2/3 for 2-mark questions)
- Section B — 10 MSQs, Multiple Select Questions (20 marks): no negative marking, no partial marking
- Section C — 20 NAT, Numerical Answer Type (30 marks): no negative marking
- Subjects offered: Biotechnology, Chemistry, Economics, Geology, Mathematics, Mathematical Statistics, Physics
Drill individual topics with free topic-wise practice tests before attempting full-length papers.
Is there negative marking in IIT JAM?
Yes. IIT JAM deducts marks for wrong answers in every section (0.33 mark per wrong answer). Unanswered questions carry no penalty, so skip questions you cannot eliminate options for.
How should I cover the IIT JAM syllabus?
Work section by section: master one subject at a time with topic-wise practice, then combine sections in full-length mock tests under the real 180-minute timer. Analytics from each mock show which syllabus areas leak marks, so your revision targets weak topics instead of re-reading everything.
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