
The IIT JAM Mathematics Exam Pattern 2026 provides a clear understanding of the exam structure, question types, and marking scheme, helping candidates know exactly what to expect on test day. It outlines the number of questions, section-wise distribution, and negative marking rules, which are crucial for strategic preparation.
With the IIT JAM 2026 exam scheduled for 15th February 2026, the time left for preparation is limited. Aspirants must thoroughly analyze the Mathematics exam pattern, focus on high-weightage areas, and practice mock tests regularly. A strong understanding of the pattern will not only improve time management but also boost accuracy and confidence on the final day.
Before you start your preparation, it is important to understand the structure of the IIT JAM Mathematics exam. The table below provides an overview of the IIT JAM 2026 to help you plan your study strategy effectively.
| IIT JAM Mathematics Exam Pattern 2026 Overview | |
| Particulars | Details |
| Exam Name | IIT JAM |
| Full Form | Indian Institutes of Technology Joint Admission Test |
| Post Category | IIT JAM Exam Pattern 2026 |
| Exam Type | Post-Graduate Degree Level |
| Exam Level | National |
| Exam Mode | Online (Computer-Based Test) |
| IIT JAM Exam Date 2026 | 15 February 2026 |
| Exam Duration | 3 Hours |
| Total Questions | 60 |
| Total Marks | 100 |
| Question Type | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), Multiple Select Questions (MSQs), and Numerical Answer Type (NAT) |
| Paper Pattern |
|
| Negative Marking | Yes, for MCQs only. No negative marking in Section C (NAT) |
IIT JAM Mathematics paper is designed to test a student’s understanding of fundamental mathematical concepts and problem-solving ability. The exam consists of 60 questions carrying a total of 100 marks and it is conducted online for 3 hours. The question paper includes three types of questions Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), Multiple Select Questions (MSQs) and Numerical Answer Type (NAT) questions.
| IIT JAM Mathematics Exam Pattern | |
| Particulars | Details |
| Sections | The paper consists of three sections – Section A, Section B, and Section C |
| Total Number of Questions | 60 |
| Maximum Marks | 100 |
| Time Allotted | 3 hours |
| Mode of Exam | Online (Computer-Based Test) |
| Type of Questions | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), Multiple Select Questions (MSQs), and Numerical Answer Type (NAT) |
| Negative Marking |
|
Understanding the negative marking system is very important to plan your attempt strategy wisely during the exam. The table below highlights the IIT JAM Mathematics Negative Marking for each section in detail.
| IIT JAM Mathematics Negative Marking | |||
| Section | Type of Questions | Marks per Question | Negative Marking |
| Section A | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) | 1 mark & 2 marks |
- For 1-mark question: 1/3 mark deducted for every wrong answer - For 2-mark question: 2/3 mark deducted for every wrong answer |
| Section B | Multiple Select Questions (MSQs) | 2 marks each | No negative marking |
| Section C | Numerical Answer Type (NAT) Questions | 1 mark & 2 marks | No negative marking |
Before starting your preparation it is important to know how the questions are distributed in the IIT JAM Mathematics paper. Understanding the distribution of questions for 2026 will make it easier to plan your study strategy effectively.
| IIT JAM Mathematics Total Questions | ||||
| Section | Type of Questions | Number of Questions | Marks per Question | Total Marks |
| Section A | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) | 30 | 1 or 2 marks each | 50 |
| Section B | Multiple Select Questions (MSQs) | 10 | 2 marks each | 20 |
| Section C | Numerical Answer Type (NAT) Questions | 20 | 1 or 2 marks each | 30 |
| Total | — | 60 Questions | — | 100 Marks |