Check the detailed IIT JAM Physics Syllabus 2026 with chapter-wise topics, subject-wise weightage, and exam pattern. Know important areas, preparation tips, and key chapters to score high in IIT JAM Physics.
The first step to effective preparation for the IIT JAM (Joint Admission Test for M.Sc.) in Physics is comprehending the 2026 Physics syllabus. Mathematical Methods, Solid State Physics, and Electronics are among the fundamental physics topics covered in the curriculum. In addition to topics, understanding chapter-by-chapter weighting, exam format, and common question types aids in effective planning and helps you focus on high-yield areas.
This article will provide you with:
- A summary of every topic and section on the syllabus.
- Weighting approximation (based on historical trends).
- Pointers for strategy.
- Examples of "question-style" headings to direct further investigation.
IIT JAM Physics Syllabus PDF: Download Link
| Particulars | PDF Link |
| IIT JAM Physics Syllabus 2026 | Click Here |
What is the IIT JAM Physics Syllabus for 2026?
The syllabus is broadly divided into these major sections:
- Mathematical Methods
- Electricity and Magnetism
- Mechanics & General Properties of Matter
- Kinetic Theory & Thermodynamics
- Oscillations, Waves & Optics
- Modern Physics
- Solid State Physics, Devices & Electronics
Each of these has several subtopics. Next, let’s look at each section in more detail and see what you must cover.
Related IIT JAM Physics Syllabus 2026 Article Links
Section-wise Topics in the IIT JAM Physics Syllabus
- Mathematical Methods
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- Vector calculus: gradient, divergence, curl, line, surface integrals
- Differential equations: ordinary differential equations
- Fourier series, partial differential equations
- Complex variables (analytic functions, Cauchy integral theorem)
- Matrices, determinants, eigenvalues & eigenvectors
- Electricity and Magnetism
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- Electrostatics: Gauss’s law, potential, field of charge distributions
- Dielectrics, polarization, boundary value problems
- Magnetostatics, Ampere’s law, Biot–Savart law
- Electromagnetic induction, Faraday’s & Lenz’s laws
- Maxwell’s equations in differential and integral forms
- Mechanics & General Properties of Matter
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- Newton’s laws, work/energy, Lagrangian formalism
- Central forces, orbital motion
- Rigid body motion, moment of inertia, dynamics of rotation
- Elasticity, stress & strain, bending of beams
- Kinetic Theory & Thermodynamics
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- Kinetic theory of gases, Maxwell distribution
- Laws of thermodynamics, heat engines, Carnot theorem
- Entropy, free energy, thermodynamic potentials
- Phase transitions, Gibbs / Helmholtz free energy
- Oscillations, Waves & Optics
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- Simple harmonic motion, damped & forced oscillations
- Wave equation, superposition, interference, diffraction
- Polarization, light propagation in media
- Geometrical optics, ray optics, lenses, mirrors
- Modern Physics
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- Photoelectric effect, Compton scattering
- Atomic models: Bohr, Sommerfeld
- Nuclear physics basics, radioactivity, decay laws
- Particle physics fundamentals (if included)
- Solid State Physics, Devices & Electronics
- Crystal structure, Bravais lattices, reciprocal lattice
- Band theory of solids, semiconductors
- Devices: diodes, transistors, optoelectronic devices
- Basic circuits, operational amplifiers
- Magnetic materials, dielectric materials
How Much Weightage Does Each Section Carry in IIT JAM Physics?
While the official notification doesn’t always specify exact weightage, from past years and GetMyUni’s observations, the following rough distribution is common:
| Section | Approx. Weightage | Trends |
| Mathematical Methods | 12-18% | Always important, used to solve physics problems elegantly |
| Mechanics & General Properties | 10-15% | Many candidates find rotational dynamics and rigid body tough |
| Electricity & Magnetism | 12-18% | Very often tested, especially on boundary problems |
| Thermodynamics & Kinetic Theory | 8-12% | Conceptual questions + calculations |
| Oscillations, Waves & Optics | 10-14% | Optics, interference & diffraction are frequent draws |
| Modern Physics | 8-12% | Core for certain questions, crucial to master basics |
| Solid State & Electronics | 8-12% | Devices + semiconductors increasingly featured |
These are approximations based on past papers and syllabus analyses from sources
Tip: Focusing more on Electricity & Magnetism, Mathematical Methods, and Mechanics usually gives you leverage, while also covering all topics.
What is the Exam Pattern for IIT JAM Physics 2026?
You can refer to the overall IIT JAM 2026 exam pattern in the table provided below.
| Particulars | Details |
| Total Duration | 3 hours |
| Total Marks | 100 marks |
| Type of Questions | Multiple choice questions (MCQs)Multiple select questions (MSQs)Numerical answer type (NAT) questions |
How Should You Prepare Using This Syllabus?
- Map out a timetable aligned with weightage: give more time to high-yield topics.
- Start with core mathematics (vector calculus, ODEs) since it applies across physics.
- Use standard textbooks:
- Introduction to Electrodynamics by Griffiths
- Classical Mechanics by Goldstein / Marion & Thornton
- Solid State Physics by Kittel
- Modern Physics by Beiser / Serway
Conclusion
Mathematical foundations, classical physics, contemporary subjects, and electronics are all covered in the extensive and demanding IIT JAM Physics Syllabus 2026. Understanding which chapter is more significant is nearly as crucial as understanding the subjects. Utilize the above section-by-section arrangement, practice problem-style questions, match your preparation to weighting trends, and make strategic revisions.
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Syllabus covers 7 major physics sections. -
Exam duration: 3 hours, 100 total marks. -
Question types: MCQ, MSQ, NAT. -
Math Methods & E&M often carry high weightage.
