IIT JAM Economics Exam Pattern 2026: Structure, Marking Scheme, Question Types
IIT JAM Economics Exam Pattern 2026 outlines the CBT structure, question types, and marking scheme for the Economics (EN) paper. Scheduled for 15th February 2026, the 100-mark exam includes MCQ, MSQ, and NAT questions, making strategic preparation and time management essential.
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IIT JAM Economics Exam Pattern 2026 serves as a comprehensive guide for candidates preparing for admission into M.Sc. Economics programs at premier institutes like the IITs. The official exam structure for JAM 2026 has been released by the organizing institute, providing clarity on question types, marking scheme, and section-wise distribution.
With the IIT JAM 2026 exam scheduled for 15th February 2026, aspirants must now focus on thoroughly understanding the Economics (EN) paper pattern. Familiarity with the total number of questions, marking rules, and negative marking criteria is essential for building an effective preparation strategy. As the exam date approaches quickly, a clear grasp of the exam pattern can significantly enhance time management, accuracy, and overall performance on the final day.
IIT JAM Economics Exam Pattern 2026
IIT JAM Economics Exam Pattern shows the structure of the Computer-Based Test (CBT) and the objective-type questions that will be asked in the exam. The Economics (EN) paper is designed to test the knowledge of candidates in five areas. These include Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Statistics for Economics, Mathematical Methods in Economics, and Indian Economy.
The exam consists of 60 questions with a total maximum score of 100 marks. The paper is divided into three compulsory sections: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ), Multiple Select Questions (MSQ), and Numerical Answer Type (NAT) Questions.
IIT JAM 2026 Economics (EN) Exam Pattern Overview
The IIT JAM 2026 Economics exam is a very important step for candidates who are seeking admission to M.Sc. programs in economics at IITs. Having knowledge about the exam pattern helps aspirants strategise their preparation and manage time effectively during the test. Having awareness of the IIT JAM Exam Pattern for Economics helps candidates manage their time and prioritize sections. Here is a quick overview of the key details for the Economics (EN) paper:
| IIT JAM 2026 Economics (EN) Exam Pattern Overview | |
| Particulars | Details |
| Exam Name | Joint Admission Test for Masters (JAM) 2026 |
| Official Conducting Body | IIT Bombay |
| Exam Date (Tentative) | February 15, 2026 |
| Exam Mode | Online (Computer-Based Test - CBT) |
| Exam Duration | 3 Hours (180 Minutes) |
| Total Questions | 60 Questions |
| Total Marks | 100 Marks |
| Sections | Section A: Multiple Choice Questions, Section B: Multiple Select Questions, Section C: Numerical Answer Type questions) |
| Medium of Exam | English |
| Official Website | @jam2026.iitb.ac.in |
IIT JAM Economics Exam Paper Structure 2026
The Economics (EN) paper, like all other JAM test papers, is divided into three compulsory sections, each featuring a distinct question type and marking rule. Here is the basic structure of the economics exam paper 2026:
| IIT JAM Economics Exam Paper Structure 2026 | ||||
| Section | Question Type | Number of Questions | Marks per Question | Total Marks |
| Section A | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ) | 30 | 10 Qs of 1 Mark 20 Qs of 2 Marks | 50 |
| Section B | Multiple Select Questions (MSQ) | 10 | 2 Marks Each | 20 |
| Section C | Numerical Answer Type (NAT) | 20 | 10 Qs of 1 Mark 10 Qs of 2 Marks | 30 |
| Total | 60 | 100 | ||
IIT JAM Economics Marking Scheme 2026
A complete understanding of the IIT JAM Economics Marking Scheme is very important for candidates. This helps you maximize your score, as it helps you identify the risk associated with each section and know about the provision of IIT JAM Economics Negative Marking.
| IIT JAM 2026 Section-wise Marking Details | ||||
| Section | Question Type | Correct Answer | Incorrect Answer | Unattempted Question |
| Section A (MCQ) | 1-Mark Questions | +1 Mark | -1/3 Mark Deduction | 0 Mark |
| 2-Mark Questions | +2 Marks | -2/3 Mark Deduction | 0 Mark | |
| Section B (MSQ) | 2-Marks Each | +2 Marks (Only if ALL correct options are selected) | No Negative Marking | 0 Mark |
| - | (No partial marking) | - | - | |
| Section C (NAT) | 1 & 2-Mark Questions | +1 or +2 Marks | No Negative Marking | 0 Mark |
Important Points on IIT JAM Economics Exam Pattern 2026
IIT JAM 2026 Economics exam is a very important step for candidates who are seeking admission to M.Sc. programmes in economics at IITs. Having an understanding of the exam pattern helps aspirants to make a proper strategy for their preparation and learn time management. Here are basic details candidates should keep in mind:
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Mode of Exam: The examination is conducted as an online Computer-Based Test (CBT).
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Total Questions: The paper has a fixed number of 60 questions. The IIT JAM economics total questions carry a weightage of 100 marks.
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Virtual Calculator: A virtual scientific calculator will be provided on the screen. External calculators are strictly prohibited.
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Risk-Free Sections: Both Section B (MSQ) and Section C (NAT) have No Negative Marking, making them essential to attempt fully.
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MSQ Scoring: For MSQ questions, partial credit is not awarded. Selecting even one incorrect option will result in a zero score for that question.
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NAT Input: Answers for Numerical Answer Type questions must be entered as a signed real number using the virtual numeric keypad provided on the screen.