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 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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