IISER 2025 – Counselling, Cutoff, Result, Scorecard,Trend & Top colleges

The Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research Aptitude Test (IISER Aptitude Test) is a national-level entrance examination conducted by the Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISERs) for admission into their prestigious 5-year Bachelor of Science - Master of Science (BS-MS) Dual Degree programs. Held annually, typically in the month of June, the exam rigorously tests candidates in core science areas such as Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology, serving as a gateway to top-ranked research-oriented institutions in India. Appearing for the IISER Aptitude Test is often the first major step for students aspiring to pursue integrated science education at India’s most reputed IISERs. With a single exam score, aspirants can apply to multiple campuses across the country — making it a centralised, merit-based selection tool. The IISER Aptitude Test is conducted in an online, computer-based test (CBT) mode, spanning a duration of three hours. The examination comprises a total of 60 multiple-choice questions, with 15 questions allocated to each of the four compulsory subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology. Each correct answer fetches four marks, while an incorrect answer incurs a penalty of one mark, bringing the total maximum score to 240. The syllabus for the IISER Aptitude Test is primarily based on the NCERT curriculum for Class 11th and 12th, encompassing fundamental concepts from all four science disciplines. This comprehensive coverage ensures that candidates are assessed on their foundational knowledge and analytical skills crucial for a career in science and research. Over the past years, the IISER Aptitude Test has consistently attracted a significant number of aspirants, with approximately 40,000 to 50,000 students appearing for the examination annually. While exact figures for students clearing the exam vary, the limited number of seats, typically around 1800-2000 across all IISERs, makes the admission process highly competitive. Cut-off scores depend on various factors including the specific IISER, the chosen program, and the candidate's category. The IISER Aptitude Test stands out for its unique focus on integrated science education, fostering an environment of interdisciplinary learning and early research exposure. It represents a distinctive pathway for bright young minds passionate about scientific inquiry to join a community dedicated to cutting-edge research and innovation in India.

Offers admission to premier Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research, emphasizing integrated science learning and research from undergraduate level. Admission can also be through JEE Advanced or KVPY channels, but IAT is the primary direct entry mode for many.

Centralized online counselling process based on IAT rank. Candidates submit preferences for IISERs and disciplines, and seats are allocated based on merit and choices.

Qualifying IISER IAT opens up admission opportunities at India’s most prestigious institutions — known for their academic excellence, robust industry connections, and stellar research output. These premier institutions, including IISER Pune, IISER Kolkata, IISER Bhopal, IISER Mohali, IISER Thiruvananthapuram, IISER Tirupati, and IISER Berhampur, offer a transformative educational experience. IISER Pune, for instance, is highly regarded for its cutting-edge research facilities and strong academic programs. IISER Kolkata is known for its interdisciplinary approach and vibrant campus life. IISER Bhopal offers a wide array of programs including unique engineering sciences and economics alongside the traditional BS-MS degrees. All IISERs emphasize integrated five-year BS-MS programs, providing a comprehensive foundation in basic sciences and fostering early engagement in research. While specific average salary packages can vary greatly depending on the field a graduate chooses, IISER alumni who opt for industry roles typically see packages ranging from ₹6 LPA to ₹15 LPA. Many graduates also pursue higher studies and research careers at leading institutions globally, which is a primary outcome for these research-focused institutes. The admission process to these highly sought-after institutions is competitive, relying on strong performance in the IISER IAT. Graduates from these colleges often land roles in leading firms across sectors like biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, data analytics, IT, and research and development, showcasing the powerful return on investment of qualifying IISER IAT.

Qualifying the Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research Entrance Exam (IISER IAT) opens doors to some of the most prestigious institutions in India and unlocks access to high-growth career opportunities across sectors. The exam grants admission into seven premier Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research located in Bhopal, Berhampur, Kolkata, Mohali, Pune, Thiruvananthapuram, and Tirupati. These institutions are renowned for their integrated five-year BS-MS programs, exceptional faculty, and state-of-the-art research infrastructure. Studying at an IISER provides an unparalleled academic environment, fostering critical thinking and scientific temper from an early stage. While specific average placement packages vary and are not the primary focus for all graduates, those opting for industry roles can expect competitive offers. Graduates from IISERs often secure positions in research and development, data science, IT, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and educational technology firms, with salary packages typically ranging from ₹6 LPA to ₹15 LPA depending on the field and individual profile. The curriculum’s strong emphasis on research and interdisciplinary studies aligns with in-demand career domains and emerging sectors, offering numerous opportunities for internships, projects, and cutting-edge research. An IISER degree holds significant global recognition, enhancing prospects for scholarships, international programs, and advanced higher studies, including PhDs, at leading universities worldwide. The IISER IAT serves as a crucial launchpad for aspiring scientists and researchers, laying a robust foundation for lifelong academic and professional success and opening up diverse pathways in both academia and industry.

IISER IAT continues to evolve each year to stay aligned with modern academic frameworks and career readiness expectations. While the fundamental structure and academic rigor remain consistent, the 2024 edition of the exam, and subsequently the anticipated 2025 cycle, introduces refinements primarily concerning the application timeline and specific admission processes rather than drastic overhauls to the exam pattern or syllabus. The core examination pattern, encompassing sections on Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology with multiple-choice questions, is expected to remain consistent, reflecting the standard Class 11th and 12th NCERT syllabus. There have been no announcements of new participating IISERs beyond the existing seven premier institutes. Eligibility criteria, including the required minimum percentages in Class 12th and the specified passing years for the qualifying examination, are largely maintained year-on-year to ensure a consistent standard of candidate intake. These annual updates primarily focus on adapting the application and counseling schedules to best serve the evolving academic calendar and student needs. Such continuous yet subtle evolutions ensure that the IISER IAT remains a fair, comprehensive, and relevant gateway to premier science education, consistently attracting a high caliber of students dedicated to scientific research and interdisciplinary learning.

The IISER Aptitude Test (IISER IAT) is a crucial national-level entrance exam for admission to the 5-year BS-MS Dual Degree programs offered by the Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISERs). Conducted annually, the examination evaluates candidates on their proficiency in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology based on the NCERT Class 11th and 12th syllabus. The exam is a three-hour computer-based test consisting of 60 multiple-choice questions, 15 from each subject, with a total score of 240 marks. Four marks are awarded for correct answers, and one mark is deducted for incorrect ones. For the upcoming academic session, the application timeline for IISER IAT typically spans from April to May, with the examination usually held in June. Prospective candidates must ensure they meet the eligibility criteria, which primarily requires successful completion of Class 12th with a science stream. The application process is entirely online through the official IISER Admission portal, requiring candidates to register, fill in personal and academic details, upload necessary documents such as photographs and signatures, and pay the application fee. For general category candidates, the application fee is INR 2000, while for SC, ST, and PwD categories, it is INR 1000. These fees are payable through various online payment methods. It is imperative for applicants to verify all entered information before final submission to avoid common mistakes that could lead to rejection. The score obtained in the IISER Aptitude Test is valid only for the specific admission cycle in which the examination is conducted. Following the exam, results are typically declared in July. The admission process involves a centralized online counselling conducted by the IISER Joint Admission Committee, where candidates rank their preferred IISERs, and seat allocation occurs based on merit and choices. Early application and meticulous adherence to guidelines are crucial for aspiring candidates to secure their place in these esteemed institutions.