IIT JAM
Science
Updated on 2025
The Joint Admission Test for Master of Science (IIT JAM) is a national-level entrance examination conducted by one of the premier Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) on a rotational basis. For the 2025 academic year, IIT Bombay is the organizing body. This significant examination serves as a gateway for admission into various Post-Bachelor’s Degree programs, including M.Sc., M.Sc. (Tech.), MS (Research), Joint M.Sc.-Ph.D., M.Sc.-Ph.D. Dual Degree, and other integrated Ph.D. programs offered by the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore. Held annually, the IIT JAM exam typically takes place in February, testing candidates in core science and economics disciplines. Appearing for IIT JAM is often the first major step for students aspiring to pursue higher education in science at India’s most reputed institutions. With a single exam score, aspirants can apply to multiple IITs and IISc across the country, making it a centralized, merit-based selection tool. IIT JAM is conducted entirely online as a Computer Based Test (CBT), ensuring a standardized and efficient examination experience. The exam spans three hours and assesses candidates across seven distinct test papers: Biotechnology, Chemistry, Economics, Geology, Mathematical Statistics, Mathematics, and Physics. Each paper comprises 60 questions, totaling 100 marks, designed to evaluate comprehensive understanding and analytical skills. The question types include Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ), Multiple Select Questions (MSQ) where one or more options can be correct, and Numerical Answer Type (NAT) questions requiring a numerical response. This diverse question format ensures a thorough evaluation of a candidate's grasp of the subject matter. The syllabus for IIT JAM is primarily based on the Graduation Level curriculum, encompassing core concepts and advanced topics relevant to the respective science and economics disciplines. Prospective candidates are encouraged to delve deep into their undergraduate coursework for effective preparation, covering the breadth and depth required by the examination. Exam trends for IIT JAM reveal a growing interest among science graduates. In recent years, the number of applicants has steadily increased, reflecting the examination's rising prominence. For instance, approximately 70,000 candidates appeared for IIT JAM in 2024, with around 16,000 successfully qualifying. This follows a similar trend from 2023, where approximately 68,000 candidates appeared and 13,000 qualified, and 2022 with around 54,000 appearing and 11,000 qualifying. The cut-off marks vary each year and across different subjects and institutes, depending on factors such as the difficulty level of the paper and the number of available seats. Aspiring candidates should focus on rigorous preparation, understanding the exam pattern, and practicing previous year papers to achieve a competitive score and secure admission to their desired programs at IITs and IISc. This examination represents a significant opportunity for science graduates to advance their academic and research careers at India's leading institutions.
Full Name | Joint Admission Test for Master of Science |
Short Name | IIT JAM |
Conducting Authority | Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (for JAM 2025) |
Domain | Science |
Academic Level | PG |
Acceptance Level | National |
Exam Type | National Level Entrance Exam |
Exam Mode | Online |
Exam Frequency | Annual |
Application Period | September - October |
General Category Fee | INR 1800 |
Reserved Category Fee | INR 900 |
Typical Exam Months | February |
Result Declaration | March |
Score Validity | 1 Year |
Component | Details |
---|---|
Total Papers | 7 |
Duration per Session | 3 hours |
Total Questions | 60 questions per paper |
Total Marks | 100 marks per paper |
Question Types |
|
Syllabus Based On | Graduation Level |
Class Level Syllabus | Graduation |
Single examination for admission to M.Sc. and other post-bachelor degree programs at 21 IITs and IISc Bangalore, offers seven different test papers
Candidates apply to specific programs at admitting institutes through the JAM 2025 Application Portal (JOAPS) after results are declared. Offers are made based on JAM scores, eligibility criteria, and seat availability.
Counselling Body | The Admitting Institutes (IITs and IISc) based on a common application portal |
Domain of Acceptance | Sciences |
Official Website | https://jam.iitb.ac.in/ |
Official Email | jam@iitb.ac.in |
Helpline Numbers | 022-2576-9008022-2576-9009 |
Information Brochure | https://jam.iitb.ac.in/sites/default/files/JAM2025_IB_V1.1_20240722_0.pdf |
Year | Applicants (in lacs) |
---|---|
2022 | 1.6 |
2024 | 1.87 |
2021 | 1.4 |
2023 | 1.88 |
The Joint Admission Test for Master of Science (IIT JAM) offers a pivotal opportunity for science and economics graduates to secure admission into prestigious postgraduate programs at the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore. For the upcoming 2025 academic year, the application window for IIT JAM is set to open on September 5, 2024, and will close on October 25, 2024. The examination itself is scheduled for Sunday, February 9, 2025, with results expected to be declared on March 22, 2025. Prospective candidates must carefully review the eligibility criteria outlined in the official information brochure, which details specific educational qualifications required for each of the seven test papers. General candidates applying for one test paper are required to pay an application fee of INR 1800, while those applying for two test papers will pay INR 2500. Female candidates across all categories, as well as SC, ST, and Persons with Disability candidates, benefit from a reduced fee of INR 900 for one test paper and INR 1250 for two test papers. Payments are typically made online through various digital payment methods. Each IIT JAM test paper consists of 60 questions distributed across three sections: 30 Multiple Choice Questions, 10 Multiple Select Questions, and 20 Numerical Answer Type questions, amounting to a total of 100 marks. The exam is conducted in English and has a duration of three hours. Candidates are advised to prepare thoroughly based on the graduation-level syllabus pertinent to their chosen test paper. The score obtained in IIT JAM is valid for one year, specifically for admissions in the academic year 2025-26. Following the declaration of results, qualified candidates will need to apply separately to their preferred Admitting Institutes through a common online application portal. This admission process is entirely merit-based, considering the JAM score, fulfillment of minimum educational qualifications, and availability of seats. To ensure a smooth application experience, applicants should gather all required documents, such as academic transcripts and category certificates, well in advance. Common mistakes to avoid include submitting incomplete applications, missing deadlines, or providing incorrect information. Timely submission of the application form and adherence to all guidelines are crucial steps towards securing a coveted spot in these top-tier institutions.
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