IIT JAM Exam Day Guidelines: What to Carry, What Not to Carry

If you are appearing for the IIT JAM examination, it is important to follow the official exam-day guidelines strictly. Failure to follow instructions may lead to disqualification or cancellation of candidature. Below is a clear and structured guide based on the official instructions mentioned.

1. Mandatory Documents to Carry

1. Admit Card

• Carry a printed copy of your admit card.

• Ensure all details are clearly visible.

2. Original Photo ID Proof (Compulsory)

You must carry any one original government-issued photo ID:

• Aadhaar Card

• Driving License

• PAN Card

• Passport

• Voter ID

Important:

• The ID must be original.

• Photocopies or scanned copies are not allowed.

2. Items Allowed Inside the Exam Hall

You may carry:

• Pen

• Pencil

• Eraser

• Sharpener

These are required for rough work and basic writing.

Rough Work Arrangement

• A notepad/sheet will be provided at the centre.

• You must write:

• Your Name

• Registration Number
  on the provided sheet before starting.

3. Virtual Calculator Facility

• A virtual scientific calculator will be available on the computer screen.

• Do NOT carry a physical calculator.

Physical calculators are strictly prohibited.

4. Reporting Time & Entry Rules

Arrival Time

• Reach the examination centre at least 1.5 hours before the exam.

Inside the Centre

• Candidates may be allowed inside about 40 minutes before the exam.

• You can log in approximately 20 minutes before the exam to read the instructions.

Late Entry Rule

• Candidates will NOT be allowed to log in if they arrive more than 30 minutes after the scheduled start time.
  
  

Plan travel accordingly to avoid disqualification.

5. Items Strictly Prohibited

Do NOT carry:

• Any paper (blank or written)

• Notes or charts

• Books

• Bills or loose sheets

• Physical calculator

• Mobile phone

• Smartwatch

• Any electronic device

• Laptop or iPad

• Any digital gadget

Even non-smart watches are best avoided since the system clock will be visible on the screen.

6. Electronic Items & Personal Belongings

• Examination authorities are NOT responsible for personal belongings.

• Arrange external storage (locker/outside arrangements) if needed.

• Avoid carrying valuables to the centre.

7. Biometric Verification Instructions

Fingerprint scanning will be conducted.

Do NOT apply:

• Ink

• Mehendi (Henna)

• Any substance on fingers

This may interfere with biometric verification and create issues during entry.

8. During the Examination

• You are not allowed to leave the exam hall before the exam ends.

• Follow all instructions carefully.

• Violation may be treated as a breach of the JAM Code of Conduct.

• Exam cancellation is possible in case of misconduct.

9. Exam Day Preparation Advice

Do NOT:

• Study heavily the night before.

• Stay awake late.

• Revise new topics on the exam day.

• Carry books to the centre.

Last-minute heavy studying may increase stress and reduce focus.

On Exam Day:

• Do not open books.

• Avoid mental overload.

• Stay calm and composed.

10. Mental Preparation Guidelines

Go to the exam centre with:

• Positive attitude

• Fresh mind

• Focused attention

• Balanced confidence

Avoid:

• Overconfidence after solving a few questions

• Anxiety or stress

• Overthinking future outcomes during the exam

Maintain steady concentration throughout.

Final Checklist Before Leaving Home

• Admit Card (Printed)

• Original Photo ID

• Pen & Pencil

• Reach 1.5 hours early

• No electronic devices

• No books or papers

• Fingers clean for biometric