INChO Exam Date 2026 Out: Check Schedule, Pattern And Admit Card Details

INChO Exam Date 2026 Out: The Indian National Chemistry Olympiad (INChO) is one of the most respected science Olympiads in India, conducted every year by the Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education (HBCSE). Students across the country compete for the chance to represent India at the International Chemistry Olympiad.

This year, the INChO Exam Date 2026 has been officially announced. The examination will be held on 31 January 2026 (Friday), from 13:30 to 16:30, in pen-and-paper mode.

INChO Exam Date 2026 Out: Highlights

With the NSEC cycle completed, aspirants have already begun preparing intensively. Staying updated on the exam schedule, pattern, admit card release, and preparation strategy is essential for anyone aiming to qualify for the next stages.

Who Can Appear for INChO 2026?

Only students who qualify for the National Standard Examination in Chemistry (NSEC 2025) are eligible for INChO.

HBCSE and IAPT will release the list of eligible candidates on their official portals. Shortlisted students move forward to:

• OCSC (Orientation-cum-Selection Camp)

• PDT (Pre-Departure Training)

• International Chemistry Olympiad (IChO)

This structured path ensures only the most conceptually strong and problem-solving-skilled students reach the international stage.

INChO 2026 Exam Pattern

The INChO exam pattern 2026 generally remains consistent every year. Students can expect:

• Duration: 3 hours

• Total Marks: 100

• Medium: English & Hindi

• Question Type: Combination of objective and long-form subjective problems

• Negative Marking: Applicable for certain sections

• Question Structure:

• 5–6 major questions

• Multi-step reasoning, numerical calculations, and conceptual analysis

The problems test chemical understanding, application, and logical reasoning rather than memorisation.

INChO Admit Card 2026

The INChO Admit Card 2026 will be released a few days before the exam on the official HBCSE portal. Students must download and print the hall ticket, as entry into the exam hall is not permitted without it.

Keep the following ready:

• Your registered email ID

• Application detail

• Personal identification document

Students should also cross-verify their name, exam centre, and reporting time on the admit card.

Preparation Tips for INChO 2026

1. Strengthen Fundamental Chemistry Concepts

INChO questions rely heavily on theory, so clarity in Physical, Organic, and Inorganic Chemistry is essential.

2. Practice INChO Previous Years Papers

Working through past papers helps students understand the exam’s analytical style and difficulty level.

3. Build Speed with Accuracy

Since the paper includes multi-step solutions, time management is crucial.

4. Go Beyond the Textbook

Consult advanced reference books, Olympiad-level problem banks, and conceptual notes.

5. Revise Topics Covered in NSEC

Most INChO questions build upon concepts assessed at the NSEC stage.