IIT JAM Physics Exam Pattern 2026, Paper Structure, Marking Scheme
IIT JAM Physics Exam Pattern 2026 outlines the CBT structure, marking scheme, and question types for the exam on 15th February 2026. The paper includes MCQ, MSQ, and NAT questions totaling 100 marks across 60 questions for postgraduate admissions.
IIT JAM Physics Exam Pattern 2026 is crucial for candidates preparing for the Joint Admission Test for Masters (JAM) 2026. Understanding the exam structure, marking scheme, and question distribution helps aspirants plan their preparation strategically and manage time effectively.
With theIIT JAM 2026 exam scheduled for 15th February 2026, candidates must thoroughly review the Physics exam pattern to maximize their performance. This national-level examination opens doors to M.Sc., Joint M.Sc.–Ph.D., M.Sc.–Ph.D. Dual Degree, and other postgraduate science programs at IITs, IISc, and various Centrally Funded Technical Institutes (CFTIs). Proper awareness of the pattern can significantly boost confidence and accuracy on exam day.
IIT JAM Physics Exam Pattern 2026
IIT JAM Physics Exam Pattern defines the structure of the Computer-Based Test (CBT) and the types of questions that might be asked in the exam. As per the latest guidelines for IIT JAM 2026, the Physics (PH) paper is created to assess the comprehensive understanding of Physics concepts as per seven major sections.
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 Physics (PH) Exam Pattern Overview
Having knowledge about the IIT JAM Exam Pattern can help aspirants manage time and performance strategy. Here is a basic overview of the key details for the Physics (PH) paper:
The Physics paper, like all other test papers in JAM 2026, is divided into three distinct sections. The question paper with different question types, marks, and marking rules. Here is the structure of the IIT JAM Physics exam 2026:
IIT JAM Physics 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 Physics Marking Scheme 2026
Having knowledge about the IIT JAM Physics Marking Scheme is very important for a strategic attempt. It is especially due to the provision for IIT JAM Physics Negative Marking in one of the sections.
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 Physics Exam Pattern 2026
Candidates appearing for the IIT JAM 2026 Physics examination should be familiar with the structure and rules of the paper. Knowledge about the exam pattern can help you make a proper strategy of the exam and manage time effectively. Here are the important points one should keep in mind:
Mode of Exam: The exam will be a completely online Computer-Based Test (CBT).
Total Questions: The paper has a fixed number of 60 questions, carrying a total of 100 marks.
Question Types: The paper assesses a wide range of skills through MCQs, MSQs, and NAT questions.
Virtual Calculator: A virtual scientific calculator will be provided on the screen. No physical calculator is permitted.
No Negative Marking: Sections B (MSQ) and C (NAT) have No Negative Marking. It makes them high scoring if approached with accuracy.
MSQ Rule: For MSQ questions, partial credit is not awarded. You should select all the correct options in order to get the full 2 marks.
NAT Rule: The answer should be entered as a signed real number using the virtual numeric keypad.
IIT JAM Physics Exam Pattern 2026 FAQs
What is the total number of questions in the IIT JAM Physics (PH) exam?
IIT JAM Physics total questions in the exam are 60. These are distributed across three sections: 30 MCQs, 10 MSQs, and 20 NAT questions.
Is there negative marking in the IIT JAM 2026 Physics paper?
Yes, there is IIT JAM Physics Negative Marking only in Section A (MCQ). For 1-mark MCQs, 1/3 mark is deducted, and for 2-mark MCQs, 2/3 mark is deducted for every incorrect answer. There is no negative marking in Section B (MSQ) and Section C (NAT).
What are the three sections of the IIT JAM Exam Pattern?
The three sections of the IIT JAM Exam Pattern are Section A (Multiple Choice Questions - MCQ), Section B (Multiple Select Questions - MSQ), and Section C (Numerical Answer Type - NAT).
What is the duration of the IIT JAM 2026 exam?
The total duration for the IIT JAM 2026 exam is 3 hours (180 minutes) for the Physics (PH) paper.
Where can I download the IIT JAM 2026 Information Brochure?
You can download the official information brochure, which contains the complete syllabus, pattern, and eligibility details, from the official IIT JAM 2026 website: @jam2026.iitb.ac.in.
When will IIT JAM 2026 be conducted?
The IIT JAM 2026 exam will be held on 15th February 2026 (Sunday).
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