Lucknow – The registration deadline for the IISER Aptitude Test 2026 (IAT 2026) is fast approaching, with the application portal set to close on April 13, 2026. Candidates aspiring to pursue science education and research at premier institutes are advised to complete their applications at the official website: IISER Admission Portal before the deadline.
The IISER Aptitude Test serves as the primary gateway for admission to the prestigious Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research, which are among the country’s leading institutions for fundamental sciences, interdisciplinary learning, and advanced research.
Admissions to Top IISER Campuses
Through IAT 2026, candidates can secure admission to BS-MS (Dual Degree) and four-year BS degree programmes offered at the following IISER campuses:
- IISER Berhampur
- IISER Bhopal
- IISER Kolkata
- IISER Mohali
- IISER Pune
- IISER Thiruvananthapuram
- IISER Tirupati
The flagship five-year BS-MS dual degree programme continues to be a major attraction, along with a growing range of specialised and interdisciplinary courses.
Expanding Academic Opportunities
In recent years, IISERs have significantly expanded their academic offerings. Some of the notable programmes include:
- Computational and Data Science at IISER Kolkata
- Geology and Environmental Science major at IISER Mohali
- Four-year BS and B.Tech programmes at IISER Bhopal and IISER Tirupati
These programmes provide students with a strong research-oriented environment, enabling them to explore fields such as pure sciences, data science, economics, and engineering.
Key Dates for IAT 2026
Applicants must keep track of the following important dates:
- April 13, 2026 – Last date for application submission
- April 16–18, 2026 – Application correction window
- May 24, 2026 – Release of admit cards
- June 7, 2026 – IAT 2026 examination (9:00 AM to 12:00 PM IST)
Major Change This Year
A significant development in IAT 2026 is the expansion of its acceptance beyond IISERs. The test scores will now also be considered for select undergraduate programmes at leading institutions such as:
- Indian Institutes of Technology
- Indian Institute of Science
- Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science
- Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology Shibpur
This move is expected to enhance accessibility to high-quality science education and allow students to apply to multiple top institutions through a single entrance test.
How to Apply for IAT 2026
Candidates can follow these steps to complete their application:
- Visit the official website: https://www.iiseradmission.in/
- Click on “Apply for IAT 2026” on the homepage
- Register to obtain a user ID and password
- Fill in the application form, upload required documents, and pay the application fee
Applicants are advised to carefully verify all details before submission, as certain fields cannot be edited later.
Exam Pattern and Marking Scheme
The IAT 2026 will be conducted as a computer-based test across multiple centres in India. The structure of the examination is as follows:
- Total Questions: 60
- Subjects: Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics (15 questions each)
- Duration: 180 minutes
Marking Scheme:
- +4 marks for each correct answer
- -1 mark for each incorrect answer
- 0 marks for unanswered questions
The maximum score in the examination will be 240 marks.
Focus on Research and Innovation
From its inception, IISER has emphasised early involvement of students in research. Students are actively engaged in laboratory work, internships, and independent research projects. The flexible curriculum, combined with strong faculty mentorship and interdisciplinary exposure, prepares students for emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, data science, and deep-tech research.
Helpdesk for Applicants
To assist candidates throughout the admission process, a dedicated helpdesk has been established. Applicants can reach out via:
- Phone: +91 7205457461 (2:00 PM to 5:00 PM on working days)
- Email: askjac2026@iiserbpr.ac.in
With the deadline fast approaching, aspiring candidates are encouraged to complete their registration promptly and take advantage of this opportunity to join some of India’s most prestigious science institutions.
