IIT JAM Chemistry Exam Pattern 2026, Marking Scheme
IIT JAM Chemistry Exam Pattern 2026 outlines the CBT structure for the 15th February 2026 exam. The paper includes 60 questions (MCQ, MSQ, NAT) for 100 marks. Understanding marking scheme and negative marking is crucial for scoring well.
Subham Sahoo13 Feb, 2026
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IIT JAM Chemistry Exam Pattern 2026: The IIT JAM (Joint Admission Test for Masters) is a prestigious national-level examination for students aspiring to pursue M.Sc. and other postgraduate science programs at IITs, IISc, and CFTIs. Among all subjects, Chemistry remains one of the most popular choices for candidates aiming for M.Sc., M.Sc.–Ph.D. Dual Degree, and other allied programs.
With the IIT JAM 2026 exam scheduled for 15th February 2026, time is running short. Candidates must now focus on understanding the IIT JAM Chemistry Exam Pattern 2026 in detail. Familiarity with the number of questions, section-wise distribution, marking scheme, and negative marking rules is essential to improve accuracy and maximize scores. As the exam date approaches rapidly, a clear strategy and smart time management can make all the difference on the final day.
IIT JAM Exam Pattern 2026
As per the IIT JAM Exam Pattern 2026, the exam will be held in a computer-based test (CBT) mode. There will be 7 subjects for the exam, and the medium of the questions will be English. Candidates will get three hours to complete the paper, which contains a total of 60 questions carrying 100 marks.
The question paper is organised into three parts:
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Section A: 30 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
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Section B: 10 Multiple Select Questions (MSQs)
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Section C: 20 Numerical Answer Type (NAT) questions
For MCQs, marks will be deducted for wrong answers. There is no negative marking for incorrect answers in the MSQs and NATs section. Candidates belonging to the Persons with Disabilities (PwD) category will be given an extra hour as per the official Government of India guidelines.
IIT JAM Chemistry Exam Pattern 2026 Overview
The IIT Joint Admission Test for M.Sc. (IIT JAM) 2026 is a national-level entrance examination conducted for students who wish to pursue postgraduate science programs. It serves as a gateway for admission to various post-bachelor’s degree courses offered by the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and other participating institutes.
The IIT JAM 2026 Exam will be conducted on February 15, 2026. The paper will include Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and Numerical Answer Type (NAT) questions, designed to assess candidates’ understanding of key scientific concepts and analytical skills. The table below presents the IIT JAM Exam Pattern 2026 Overview:
| IIT JAM Exam Pattern 2026 Overview | |
| Particulars | Details |
| Exam Name | IIT JAM |
| Full-Form | Indian Institutes of Technology Joint Admission Test |
| Post Category | IIT JAM Chemistry Exam Pattern 2026 |
| Exam Types | Post-Graduate Degree Level |
| Exam Level | National |
| Courses Offered | Post-Bachelor’s Degree Courses |
| Eligibility | Candidates appearing for the exam should have a bachelor's degree. Foreign nationals having Indian degrees are also eligible. |
| Exam Mode | Online |
| IIT JAM Exam Date 2026 | 15 February 2026 |
| Exam Duration | 3 Hours |
| IIT JAM Chemistry Total Questions | 60 |
| Total Marks | 100 |
| Question Type | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
IIT JAM Chemistry Marking Scheme
The marking scheme related to the IIT JAM Chemistry Exam Pattern 2026 is designed to reward accurate answers and proper understanding. The distribution of marks is provided below:
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MCQ Type Questions: Usually carry 1 or 2 marks each.
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MSQ Type Questions: Can carry 2 or 3 marks, depending on the question.
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NAT Type Questions: Carry 1 or 2 marks.
IIT JAM Chemistry Negative Marking
Negative marking is applied only to MCQs. For incorrect answers in MCQs:
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For the MCQs that are allotted 1 mark, 1/3 mark is deducted for a wrong answer.
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For the MCQs carrying 2 marks, 2/3 marks are deducted for a wrong answer.
IIT JAM Chemistry Syllabus 2026
The syllabus for IIT JAM Chemistry covers a broad range of topics from Physical Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, and Organic Chemistry. The details of the Syllabus related to the IIT JAM Chemistry Exam Pattern 2026 are provided in the table below:
| IIT JAM Chemistry Syllabus 2026 | |
| Subjects | Details |
| Physical Chemistry |
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| Inorganic Chemistry |
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| Organic Chemistry |
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IIT JAM Chemistry Exam Pattern 2026 is designed to test a candidate’s overall knowledge in chemistry, combining MCQs, MSQs, and NATs. The Chemistry Syllabus covers topics such as physical, inorganic, and organic chemistry.
The marking scheme is awarded to correct answers, while negative marking for MCQs is ensured for careful answering. Knowing the pattern, syllabus, and marking details in advance helps students plan study schedules, practice efficiently, and attempt the exam strategically.