New Delhi : The application window for the IISER Aptitude Test (IAT) 2026 is set to close on April 13, 2026, marking the final opportunity for aspiring science students across India to apply for one of the country’s premier entrance tests dedicated to science education and research.
The IISER Aptitude Test (IAT) serves as the gateway to the Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISERs), which are widely recognized for their excellence in fundamental science, interdisciplinary learning, and cutting-edge research.
Candidates seeking admission to BS-MS (Dual Degree) and four-year BS degree programs at IISER Berhampur, Bhopal, Kolkata, Mohali, Pune, Thiruvananthapuram, and Tirupati can apply through the official website:
👉 https://www.iiseradmission.in/
Diverse Academic Programmes
IAT 2026 offers access to a wide range of academic pathways, including the flagship 5-year BS-MS dual degree programmes and specialized courses such as:
- Computational and Data Sciences (IISER Kolkata)
- Geology and Environmental Sciences (IISER Mohali)
- 4-year BS and B.Tech programmes (IISER Bhopal and IISER Tirupati)
These programmes enable students to explore disciplines spanning pure sciences, data science, economics, and engineering within a research-driven academic environment.
Important Dates
- April 13, 2026: Application deadline
- April 16–18, 2026: Application correction window
- May 24, 2026: Hall ticket release
- June 7, 2026: IAT 2026 Examination (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM IST)
Expanded Opportunities in 2026
A key development this year is the expanded scope of IAT scores. Select undergraduate programmes at premier institutions such as IITs, IISc, IACS, and IIEST Shibpur will also consider IAT scores, offering students broader access to top-tier science education through a single examination.
Application Process
Applicants can follow these steps:
- Visit the official IISER admissions portal
- Click on “Apply for IAT-2026”
- Register to receive login credentials
- Complete the application form, upload documents, and pay the fee
Candidates are advised to fill in details carefully, as certain fields cannot be modified after submission.
Exam Structure
IAT 2026 will be conducted as a computer-based test across multiple centers in India.
- Total Questions: 60 (15 each in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics)
- Duration: 180 minutes
- Marking Scheme:
- +4 for correct answer
- -1 for incorrect answer
- 0 for unanswered questions
- Maximum Marks: 240
Why IISERs
IISERs emphasize early exposure to research through lab work, internships, and independent projects. Their flexible curriculum and strong faculty mentorship allow students to specialize in emerging domains such as artificial intelligence, data science, and deep-tech research.
Aspiring candidates are encouraged to complete their applications well before the deadline to avoid last-minute delays.