The IISER Aptitude Test (IAT) is a national-level entrance exam conducted for admission to the Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISERs). Students who wish to pursue BS, BS-MS, or Integrated Science programs in top IISER campuses must appear for the IAT exam. This blog provides a simple and SEO-friendly overview of the IISER Aptitude Test 2026.

What is the IISER Aptitude Test?

The IISER Aptitude Test (IAT) is conducted every year to offer admission into science and research programs at IISER campuses like Pune, Kolkata, Mohali, Bhopal, Trivandrum, Berhampur, and Tirupati. The exam checks students’ understanding of Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology.

IISER Aptitude Test 2026 – Highlights

• Exam Name: IISER Aptitude Test (IAT)
• Conducting Body: Joint Admission Committee (JAC), IISER
• Courses Offered: BS, BS-MS Dual Degree
• Exam Mode: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
• Expected Exam Date: June 2026
• Application Form: Likely to release in April 2026

IISER Aptitude Test 2026 Eligibility Criteria

1. Educational Qualification

• Candidates must have passed Class 12 (Science stream) from a recognized board.
• Subjects required: Physics, Chemistry, and Biology/Mathematics.

2. Minimum Marks

• Students must meet the cutoff set by IISER for their board.
• No fixed minimum percentage; cutoffs vary by category and board.

3. Nationality

• Indian nationals, PIO, and OCI candidates are eligible.

IISER Aptitude Test 2026 Exam Pattern

Mode of Exam: Online (CBT)

Total Questions: 60

Total Marks: 180

Duration: 3 hours

Sections in the Exam

• Physics
• Chemistry
• Biology
• Mathematics

Each section contains 15 questions.

Marking Scheme

• Correct Answer: +3
• Wrong Answer: -1
• Unattempted: 0

IISER Aptitude Test 2026 Syllabus Overview

The syllabus is based on Class 11 and 12 NCERT topics.

Physics

• Motion
• Gravitation
• Electricity
• Optics
• Thermodynamics

Chemistry

• Atomic structure
• Chemical bonding
• Organic chemistry basics
• Equilibrium
• Thermochemistry

Biology

• Cell biology
• Genetics
• Plant physiology
• Human physiology
• Ecology

Mathematics

• Algebra
• Calculus
• Trigonometry
• Probability
• Coordinate geometry

IISER Aptitude Test 2026 Application Process

Here are the steps to apply:

1. Visit the official IISER website
2. Register with email ID and mobile number
3. Fill out the online application form
4. Upload documents and photograph
5. Select exam centres
6. Pay the application fee
7. Submit the form and download the confirmation page

IISER Admission Channels

IISER admissions are done through three channels:

1. IAT Channel – Through IISER Aptitude Test
2. KVPY Channel – For students with a valid KVPY fellowship (if applicable)
3. JEE Advanced Channel – For students with a qualifying JEE rank

Most students apply through the IAT Channel, as it offers the highest number of seats.

IISER Aptitude Test 2026 Preparation Tips

• Follow NCERT textbooks for all subjects
• Practice IAT mock tests and previous papers
• Focus on conceptual clarity rather than memorization
• Prepare equally for all four subjects
• Improve time management and accuracy

Conclusion

The IISER Aptitude Test 2026 is an excellent opportunity for students who wish to pursue a career in science and research. With the right preparation and a clear understanding of the syllabus and exam pattern, securing admission to IISER becomes easier.