IISER Berhampur to Conduct IISER IAT 2026
The IISER Aptitude Test (IAT) 2026, the gateway for admission into the prestigious five-year BS and BS-MS Dual Degree programs offered by the seven Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISERs), will be organized and hosted by IISER Berhampur for the 2026-27 academic session.
The IISER Aptitude Test (IAT) 2026, the gateway for admission into the prestigious five-year BS and BS-MS Dual Degree programs offered by the seven Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISERs), will be organized and hosted by IISER Berhampur for the 2026-27 academic session. This announcement confirms the formation of the IISER Admissions Board (IAB-2026), with the Director of IISER Berhampur, Prof. Ashok Kumar Ganguli, appointed as the Chairperson.
The IISER IAT is a crucial examination for high school students passionate about fundamental sciences. The IAB-2026 is tasked with finalizing the procedure, schedule, seat matrix (including reservations), and coordinating the subsequent counseling process. Aspirants should expect the official notification and detailed information brochure to be released soon by IISER Berhampur, with the examination tentatively scheduled for May 2026.
IISER IAT 2026 Exam Structure and Pattern
The IISER Aptitude Test is designed to test a candidate's understanding of the Class 11 and Class 12 science curriculum.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Mode of Exam | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Duration | 3 Hours (180 Minutes) |
| Total Questions | 60 Questions |
| Total Marks | 240 Marks |
| Sections | Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology (15 questions from each section) |
| Marking Scheme | +4 Marks for every correct answer. -1 Mark for every incorrect answer (negative marking applies). |
The uniform distribution of 15 questions across all four core science subjects emphasizes the importance of a balanced preparation in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics. Aspirants must focus on securing the minimum cutoff marks to be included in the merit list for seat allocation across the participating IISER institutes.
Eligibility Criteria and Admission Scope
To secure a seat in the IISERs, which offer admission through the IAT channel, candidates must adhere to specific eligibility norms:
- Qualifying Exam: Candidates must have passed the Class 12 (or equivalent) examination with science stream subjects in the current or previous academic year.
- Minimum Marks: Generally, candidates must have scored a minimum percentage (typically 60-75% for the General category, with relaxations for reserved categories) in their qualifying board examination. Note: The exact percentage criteria are confirmed in the official information brochure, which is yet to be released by IAB-2026.
- Subjects: A strong command over the four subjects tested in the IAT is required.
The IISERs fill their seats based on the IAT merit list, which ensures fairness and standardization in the admission process for science education.
Aspirants in the Engineering stream, particularly those with an interest in fundamental science, should intensify their preparations for the four core subjects. For regular updates follow Only Education News and for more information on the syllabus, courses, and other Engineering entrance exams, visit: https://www.onlyeducation.in/course-list/engineering.