IIT JAM Eligibility Criteria: Age Limit, Qualifications, Subjects & Reservation

The requirements that candidates must fulfill prior to applying for the exam are outlined in the IIT JAM eligibility criteria 2026. Through CCMN counseling, IIT JAM (Joint Admission Test for M.Sc.) serves as the entry point to postgraduate science programs at IITs, IISc Bangalore, and NITs.

The application process for IIT JAM 2026 commenced on September 5, 2025, and the exam is scheduled for February 15, 2026. Candidates should carefully review the eligibility requirements, which include minimum grades, age restrictions, educational requirements, and reservation policies, before completing the form.

What is the Basic IIT JAM Eligibility Criteria 2026?

Candidates need to have a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field in order to be eligible for IIT JAM 2026. As long as they finish their degree by the deadline, final-year students are also eligible to apply.

• General/OBC-NCL/EWS: 55% aggregate marks or 5.5 CGPA
• SC/ST/PwD: 50% aggregate marks or 5.0 CGPA
• There is no age limit for IIT JAM eligibility criteria 2026.

Educational Qualifications in IIT JAM Eligibility Criteria

To appear in IIT JAM 2026, candidates must fulfill the following educational requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree: Must have completed B.Sc., B.Tech., or an equivalent program.
• Final-Year Students: Eligible to apply but must submit proof of graduation by September 2026.

Which Degrees are Accepted as per IIT JAM Eligibility Criteria?

Candidates with a variety of academic backgrounds are accepted by IIT JAM:

• B.Sc. in a relevant field (General, Hons., Major)
• B.Tech. or B.E. with suitable subjects
• Integrated B.Sc.–M.Sc. or a comparable degree
• Degrees accepted by the AICTE, AIU, and UGC

Please Note: Professional degrees with no relevant subjects, such as a BA, MBBS, or BBA, typically do not meet the eligibility requirements.

Subject-Wise IIT JAM Eligibility Criteria 2026

Each paper in IIT JAM has specific subject prerequisites. Students should verify subject eligibility before selecting their test paper.

• Mathematics (MA): Mathematics for at least 2 years (4 semesters).
• Mathematical Statistics (MS): Mathematics or Statistics for at least 2 years.
• Physics (PH): Physics for 2 years and Mathematics for 1 year.
• Chemistry (CY): Chemistry for 2 years and Mathematics at 10+2 level.
• Biotechnology (BT): Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics at graduation or +2 level.
• Economics (EN): Mathematics is compulsory at the undergraduate level.
• Geology (GG): Requires Geology and allied subjects in the degree.

Can Final-Year Students Apply Under IIT JAM Eligibility Criteria 2026?

Yes, IIT JAM 2026 is open to final-year students. They have to:

• Provide evidence that you earned the required degree.
• Meet the necessary CGPA or percentage.
• Submit your paperwork by the deadline of September 2026.

Reservation Policy in IIT JAM Eligibility Criteria 2026

Admissions are made in accordance with the reservation policy of the Government of India. During admission counseling, candidates must show valid certificates (OBC-NCL/EWS issued after April 2025).

• OBC-NCL: 27%
• EWS: 10%
• SC: 15%
• ST: 7.5%
• PwD: 5% horizontal reservation

Key Points About IIT JAM Eligibility Criteria 2026

There is no upper age limit for applicants.

Depending on the selected paper, different subject requirements must be met.

Final-year students are eligible, although they must present proof of graduation.

Reservations are available in accordance with central government regulations.

Eligibility does not guarantee admission counselling and seat allotment depend on All India Rank and preferences.

Counselling

For admission to IITs, IIScs, and NITs, candidates must meet the IIT JAM eligibility requirements 2026, which guarantee that they possess the necessary academic background and subject knowledge. The exam provides flexibility for final-year students and has no age restrictions, so it is open to a diverse pool of candidates. But being eligible is just the first step; admission is decided by exam performance and subsequent counseling.

To prevent rejection, candidates should read the reservation policies, marks criteria, and subject-specific requirements before applying.