IIT JAM Exam Pattern 2026 consists of the marks distribution in the exam, total marks, duration of the exam, and negative marking. As per the IIT JAM exam pattern, there will be a total of 60 questions, divided into 3 sections → Section (A) consists of 30 MCQ questions for 50 marks, Section (B) has 10 MSQ questions for 20 marks, and Section (C) has 20 NAT questions for 30 marks.
The total marks of the JAM 2026 exam are 100, and there is negative marking in Section A. Therefore, candidates must be careful while attempting this section. However, section B and section C have no negative marks and hence, the candidates are advised to attempt all the questions.
The IIT JAM exam is conducted for 7 subjects → Biotechnology, Economics, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Mathematical Statistics, and Geology. Read all about the IIT JAM 2026 exam pattern and some preparation tips for the upcoming IIT JAM exam here.
Also check the complete 2026 IIT JAM syllabus here
IIT JAM Exam Pattern 2026 Highlights
There will be a total of 60 questions carrying a total of 100 marks. The entire paper will be divided into three sections: A, B and C. IIT JAM 2026 exam will be conducted to test the student's subject knowledge. Below are some important details regarding the IIT JAM Exam Pattern 2026.
Particulars | Exam Details |
Exam Name | IIT JAM |
Exam Types | Post-Graduate Degree Level |
Exam Level | National |
Courses Offered | Post-Bachelor’s Degree Courses |
Exam Mode | Online |
IIT JAM Exam Date 2026 | 15 February 2026 |
Exam Duration | 3 Hours |
Total Questions | 60 |
Total Marks | 100 |
Question Type |
|
Paper Pattern |
|
Negative Marks | Yes, but no negative marking in Section B (MSQs), and Section-C (NAT) |
IIT JAM Exam Pattern 2026
Candidates in this section can check the detailed exam pattern for IIT JAM for all three sections given below. The IIT JAM exam pattern has remained the same for many years, and is unchanged for IIT JAM 2026 as well.
- Section A: It consists of 30 questions having 10 questions of 1 mark each and 20 questions of two marks each. Each question will have four choices out of which only one choice will be a correct one. The Questions are of Objective type (MCQs).
- Section B: It contains 10 questions only. The Questions are of Multiple Select Questions (MSQs). Each MCQ type question is similar to MCQ but with a difference that there may be one or more than one choices that are correct out of the four given choices.
- Section C: It contains 20 questions involving 10 questions of one mark each and 10 questions of two marks each. The Questions are of Numerical Answer Type (NAT). For NAT type questions, the answer is a signed real number, which needs to be entered using the virtual numeric keypad on the monitor.
IIT JAM 2026 Section-wise Pattern & Distribution of Questions
There will be a total of 60 questions carrying a total of 100 marks. These 60 questions are divided into three sections – A, B, and C. All the sections are compulsory and candidates need to attempt questions from all the sections.
The information regarding the IIT JAM exam pattern 2026 is given in the table below.
Section | Type of Questions | No of Question |
A | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) | 30 |
B | Multiple Select Questions (MSQs) | 10 |
C | Numerical Answer Type (NAT) | 20 |
Total | 60 | |
IIT JAM 2026 Marking Scheme
Each paper in IIT JAM will contain a total of 60 questions divided into three sections which will carry 100 marks. Candidates preparing for the IIT JAM 2026 exam should familiarize themselves with the marking scheme to enhance their exam strategies.
Section | No of Questions | Question Number | Marks | Negative Marking |
A | 10 MCQs | Q1 – Q10 | 1 mark each | 1/3 |
20 MCQs | Q11 – Q30 | 2 marks each | 2/3 | |
B | 10 MSQs | Q31 – Q40 | 2 marks each | No negative marking |
C | 10 NAT Questions | Q41 – Q50 | 1 mark each | No negative marking |
10 NAT Questions | Q51 – Q60 | 2 marks each | No negative marking |
IIT JAM Exam Pattern 2026 Instructions
The IIT JAM is all computer-based, and the candidates must be very careful when marking their answers. Candidates are advised to follow the below instructions to avoid mistakes and maximize your scores.
Prepare for the IIT JAM exam here - read IIT JAM preparation tips
- For NAT questions, use the mouse on the virtual numeric keypad as the computer keyboard will be disabled.
- You can use an online virtual calculator during the exam but not your own calculator.
- A scribble pad will be provided for rough work. Write your name and registration number on it before using it and return it at the end of the exam.
- Exams will automatically end at the scheduled time so follow the code of conduct mentioned in Annexure III (Code of Conduct).
- Use the ‘Mock Test’ link available on IIT JAM website to practice before the actual exam. IIT JAM Previous years question papers are available on IIT JAM 2026 website.
