IISER 2026: Application Form, Dates, Eligibility, Pattern, Syllabus, Preparation tips

The IISER Aptitude Test (IAT), a national-level entrance exam, is held annually by the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), an autonomous institution established under the Ministry of Education, Government of India. Scheduled for the first week of June 2025, the exam serves as the gateway for admission into BS and BS-MS Dual Degree programs offered by IISER.

Candidates who qualify for the IISER Aptitude Test (IAT) will have the opportunity to secure admission to one of the seven IISER institutions across the country. These institutions are located in Bhopal, Kolkata, Mohali, Pune, Thiruvananthapuram, Tirupati, and Berhampur. Shortlisted candidates will be allocated seats in various IISER campuses based on their performance in the entrance exam.

This article furnishes comprehensive details regarding the IISER 2025 Exam, encompassing the application process, examination dates, eligibility criteria, exam pattern, syllabus, and more.

IISER 2026 Highlights

The IISER 2026 highlights key details of the national-level IISER Aptitude Test (IAT), which offers admission into integrated BS-MS courses across several prestigious institutions.

Courses Offered:

IISER offers BS-MS dual degree programs, providing a comprehensive blend of undergraduate and master’s level studies in various scientific disciplines.

IISER 2026 Important Dates

Here are the important dates for IISER 2026, including application deadlines, exam dates, and result announcements. Keep track of these dates to stay updated on the admission process.

IISER 2026 Application Form

The application process for IISER 2026 is scheduled to commence in the first week of April 2026, offering candidates the opportunity to apply online. Applicants must ensure they meet the eligibility criteria before proceeding with the application. During the application process, candidates will need to provide accurate personal, academic, and category-related details, along with uploading necessary documents like photographs and signatures in the prescribed format. 

• The IISER 2026 application form will be released in the first week of April 2026.
• Applicants will be able to fill out the registration form through online mode.
• Candidates must make sure to fulfil the eligibility criteria before applying for the exam.
• Fill in the details in the application form by providing correct details such as personal, academic, and category details etc.
• Applicants will need to upload required documents i.e. photograph and signature within a prescribed size and format.
• The last date to fill out the application form will be in the third week of May 2026.
• Candidates will be required to take a printout of the application form for further use.
• Before proceeding with the application, candidates must ensure that they meet the specified eligibility criteria.
• Required documents such as a photograph and signature must be uploaded as per the prescribed size and format.
• After submission, candidates should prepare for subsequent stages of the admission process as per the provided schedule.

IISER 2026 Application Fee

Candidates applying for the IISER Aptitude Test (IAT) 2026 can conveniently pay the application fee through online mode. The payment gateways available for fee submission include debit cards, credit cards, and net banking. It’s essential to note that the application fee once paid is non-refundable under any circumstances.

How to Fill IISER 2026 Application Form?

• Step 1: Visit the IISER Website- Navigate to the official website of IISER using the provided link.
• Step 2: Registration- Complete the registration process by filling in details such as name, address, email, etc.
• Step 3: Receive Application Number- Upon successful registration, candidates will receive a unique application number.
• Step 4: Login- Use the provided application number and password to log in to your account.
• Step 5: Fill Application Form- Enter all required details in the application form, including personal and academic information.
• Step 6: Preview Application- Carefully review the completed application form to ensure accuracy and completeness.
• Step 7: Submit Application Fee- Proceed to submit the application fee using the available payment gateways.
• Step 8: Download Application Form- After successful submission, download the filled application form from the website.
• Step 9: Print and Keep Safe- Print a copy of the application form for your records and future reference.

IISER 2026 Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for IISER 2026 candidates must meet specific criteria outlined by the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research. These criteria include nationality, educational qualifications, subject requirements, and minimum marks.

• Nationality: Candidates must be Indian nationals, PIO, or OCI to be eligible.
• Qualification: Applicants should have passed the 12th standard from any recognized board.
• Subject Requirements: Candidates must have taken at least three subjects Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics.
• Minimum Marks: A minimum of 60% aggregate marks (55% for SC/ST/PwD) in class 12th is required.
• Appearing Candidates: Those appearing in class 12th are also eligible to apply.

IISER 2026 Exam Pattern

The IISER 2026 Exam Pattern outlines the structure for the IISER Aptitude Test (IAT), providing crucial information for aspirants. This pattern helps candidates understand the format, marking scheme, and question types to expect on the test.

• Mode of Exam: The IAT 2026 will be conducted in a computer-based mode.
• Duration: Candidates will have 180 minutes (3 hours) to complete the exam.
• Type of Question: The exam will consist of Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs).
• Total Questions: There will be 60 questions on the IAT 2026 exam.
• Medium: The exam will be available in both English and Hindi languages.
• Marking Scheme: Candidates will earn four marks for each correct answer.
• Negative Marking: One mark will be deducted for each incorrect answer.

Marking Scheme:

IISER 2026 Syllabus

The IISER 2026 syllabus is crucial for candidates preparing for the IISER Aptitude Test, offering a comprehensive overview of subjects needed to secure admission into BS and BS-MS Dual Degree programs. It covers key areas in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics, aligned with higher secondary education standards.

IISER 2026 Preparation Tips

Preparing for the IISER 2026 aptitude test requires a focused approach and effective study strategies. The IISER aptitude test is a competitive examination aimed at assessing the understanding and application of basic science subjects.

1. Understand the Exam Pattern: Familiarize yourself with the exam format, types of questions, and marking scheme. Knowing the structure of the paper will help you manage your time effectively during the exam.
2. Review the Syllabus Thoroughly: Get a clear understanding of the syllabus for Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology. Focus on topics that carry more weight and are frequently tested.
3. Create a Study Schedule: Develop a realistic study plan that includes dedicated time slots for each subject. Stick to this schedule diligently to cover all topics comprehensively.
4. Use Quality Study Materials: Select textbooks and study materials that are recommended by experts and previous-year toppers. Online resources like video lectures can also be beneficial.
5. Practice Regularly: Solve previous years’ question papers and take mock tests to familiarize yourself with the exam environment. This practice will also help you identify your weak areas.
6. Focus on Conceptual Understanding: Ensure that you understand the concepts rather than rote learning. This will help you tackle application-based questions more effectively.
7. Revise Regularly: Revise an integral part of your study plan. Regular revision helps in reinforcing the learned concepts and reduces the chances of forgetting.
8. Manage Time Efficiently: During your practice sessions, focus on improving your speed and accuracy. Learn time management techniques to ensure that you can attempt all questions within the given time.

IISER 2026 Books

Here are some recommended books for the IISER 2026 exam, covering essential topics in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics to help candidates prepare effectively.

IISER 2026 Exam Centres

The IISER 2026 exam will be conducted across various cities to accommodate candidates from different regions. Here’s a list of exam centres where the IISER exam will be held.

IISER 2026 Admit Card

The IISER 2026 admit card will be available for download in the first week of June 2026, accessible through the official website. Candidates must log in using their application number and date of birth to obtain the hall ticket.

Containing essential details like the candidate’s name, exam venue, and roll number, the admit card is a mandatory document for exam day. Failure to present a valid hall ticket will result in candidates being denied entry to the examination hall.

IISER 2026 Answer Key

The IISER answer key 2026 will be available shortly after the entrance exam, typically in the second week of June 2026. It will include the correct answers to all the questions asked in the IAT 2026 exam. 

Candidates can use the answer key to estimate their scores before the official results are declared. If candidates have any doubts or objections regarding the answer key, they can challenge it through the provided mechanism. Following the resolution of any challenges, the final answer key will be released by the authority.

IISER 2026 Result

The IISER 2026 result is expected to be announced in the first week of July 2026, accessible online through the official website. Candidates can retrieve their results using their application number and password.

All candidates who appeared for the IAT will have access to their results online; individual notifications will not be sent. It is recommended that candidates print and retain a copy of their results for future reference.

IISER 2026 Cut-Off

The IISER cut-off 2026 will represent the minimum marks required for admission to any of the seven IISER institutions. Separate IISER 2026 cut-offs will be published for students applying through different admission channels. 

Meeting the cut-off marks makes applicants eligible for participation in the counselling and seat allotment process. Candidates can access the cut-off marks online through the official website.

IISER 2026 Seat Reservation Criteria

The seat reservation criteria for IISER 2026 ensure equitable opportunities for candidates from various backgrounds. This allocation is based on specified percentages for different categories, promoting inclusivity and diversity in admissions.

IISER 2026 Counselling

IISER Counselling 2026 is scheduled to begin in the first week of July 2026, when candidates with successful ranks in the entrance exam will participate. Call letters for counselling must be downloaded from the website by selected candidates.

During counselling, candidates will have the chance to select between freeze and float options upon accepting the seat and paying the acceptance fee. Reporting to the designated venue with the necessary documents is mandatory for candidates.

IISER 2026 Participating Colleges

IISER 2026 Participating Colleges offer various undergraduate and integrated dual-degree programs. These colleges are renowned for their excellence in science education and research.

IISER 2026 FAQ’s

Sunil Kushwaha

As a dedicated Biology Science graduate, I’m passionate about sharing the latest updates in national and state entrance exams through my blog. I aim to keep aspiring students informed about exam trends, important dates, and changes in syllabi. With a keen interest in education, I strive to offer valuable insights for students navigating the competitive landscape of entrance examinations and admission tests. Stay updated with me.