The IISER IAT 2026 Official notification will be released in february 2026 on the official website,iiseradmission.in. The IISER Exam 2026 will be held in the last week of May 2026 and the result is expected to be declared in june 2026.
- Around 2000 seats are offered by IISER every year, for admission into 5-Year BS-MS, 4-Year BS, and B.Tech Programs, along with the reservation by the Government of India.
- The IISER Exam 2026 will include 60 MCQ Questions, divided among Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics & Biology, with each subject carrying 15 questions.
- In each correct answer, +3 marks will be added for each correct and -1 mark will be deducted for each wrong answer, which makes the total marks 180.
The Syllabus of IISER will include NCET Class 11 and 12 topics from physics, chemistry, mathematics and biology. Different subject combinations can be selected from these 4 subjects.
You should regularly visit the official website, iiseradmission.in, to get information regarding the schedule, pattern, and syllabus.
Check: Colleges in India Accepting IISER

Key Summary
- In this Article, we have discussed about IISER IAT 2026 along with the Dates, Eligibility, Fees, Total Seats, Marking Scheme, Pattern, & Syllabus.
- The IISER Official notification will be released in February 2026, and the exam will be held in the last week of May 2026.
- The IISER Exam offers around 2000 seats for 5-Year BS-MS, 4-Year BS and B.Tech Programs.
- The IISER Application fees for general/EWS/OBC candidates are Rs. 2000, and for SC / ST / PwD, it is Rs. 1000.
- The IISER Exam 2026 will include 60 MCQ Questions, divided among Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics & Biology, with each subject carrying 15 questions.
- The IISER Syllabus is based on the NCERT Class 11 & 12 format.
- The IISER Result is expected to be declared in the last week of june 2026.
- What is IISER IAT 2026?
- IISER IAT 2026 Dates
- IISER IAT Registration Fees 2026
- IISER IAT Registration Statistics
- IISER IAT 2026 Eligibility
- Academic Programmes Offered by IISER
- Total seats in IISER 2026
- IISER Exam Pattern 2026
- IISER Previous Year Question Paper PDF
- IISER Syllabus 2026
- IISER IAT Preparation Strategy
- IISER IAT Expected Cutoffs
- IISER IAT 2026 Reservation
- Colleges Accepting IISER Score
- IISER Career Opportunities & Placement Trends
- FAQs for IISER IAT 2026
What is IISER IAT 2026?
The IISER IAT 2026 is a national-level exam for admission into IISERs in India. It is a gateway for admission into the 5-Year BS-MS Degree, 4-Year BS, and B.Tech Programs.
The IISER Exam is expected to be held in May 2026 in a CBT Mode, and the syllabus will be based on the NCERT Class 11 and 12 Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics & Biology subjects.
IISER IAT 2026 Overview
| Particulars | Details (Expected for 2026) |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | IISER Aptitude Test (IAT) 2026 |
| Conducting Body | Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISERs) |
| Exam Level | National |
| Mode of Exam | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Duration | 3 Hours |
| Total Questions | 60 (15 each from Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Biology) |
| Question Type | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
| Marking Scheme | +3 for correct answer, -1 for incorrect |
| Total Marks | 180 |
| Syllabus | NCERT Class 11 & 12 (PCM & Biology) |
| Programmes Offered | 5-Year BS-MS, 4-Year BS, B.Tech |
| Expected Seats | 1800–2000 across all IISERs |
| Official Website | iiseradmission.in |

Check: IISER Application Process
IISER IAT 2026 Dates
The IISER IAT Dates will follow a proper timeline, which starts from the release of the official notification to the result declaration. The IISER IAT Exam is expected to be conducted in the last week of May.
The Complete Schedule, including the process, admit card, and counselling, will be released on the official website, iiseradmission.in.
| Date (Expected) | Event |
|---|---|
| January 2026 (Fourth Week) / February 2026 (First Week) | IISER IAT Release of Notification |
| March 2026 (First Week) | IISER IAT Start of Application Process |
| April 2026 (Second Week) | Last Date to Apply |
| May 2026 (Second Week) | IISER IAT Admit Card Release |
| May 2026 (Fourth Week) | IISER IAT 2026 Exam Date |
| Within 48 hours of the exam | Provisional Answer Key |
| June 2026 (Fourth Week) | IISER IAT Result Declaration |
| July 2026 (First Week onwards) | IISER IAT Counselling & Seat Allotment |

Ques. Do IISER Students Get a Stipend?
Ans. Yes, IISER Candidates receive financial support in stipends and scholarships according to their program and category. Ensuring that the candidates focus on academics and research rather than on financial stress.
| Type of Stipend / Support | Details |
|---|---|
| Merit-cum-Means Scholarship | For students from families with annual income ≤4.5 lakh INR, covers full tuition + monthly stipend (~1,000–2,000 INR). |
| Institute Stipend | All BS-MS students receive a monthly stipend (~5,000–6,000 INR) from the 2nd year onwards. |
| Contingency Grant | One-time or yearly grant for academic materials, lab work, and research projects. |
| Other Fellowships | Merit-based fellowships for research, summer internships, or national-level awards. |
Ques. Is IAT Conducted Twice a Year?
Ans. No, the IISER Exam is currently conducted only once a year, which is in May. The Admissions are only for that session, without any bi-annual or multiple attempts.
- The IISER Exam is conducted once a year in a CBT Mode.
- Students who are currently in class 12 and passed in the previous year are eligible to apply.
IISER IAT Registration Fees 2026
The IISER IAT Application fees 2026 will vary according to the category of the candidate. The IISER Fees are non-refundable and will be paid online by Debit/credit card, UPI or net banking during the form submission.
| Category | Application Fee (₹) |
|---|---|
| General / EWS / OBC-NCL | 2,000 |
| SC / ST / PwD | 1,000 |
| Foreign Nationals | 12,000 |

Ques. Is IISER Free of Cost?
Ans. The IISER is not completely free of cost, but the tuition fees are funded by the Ministry of Education.
Candidates from the reserve categories and with different fellowships can get full or partial fee waivers.
- For general category candidates, the tuition fees are around 34,000 to 40,000 per semester.
- There is no tuition fee for SC/ST and PwD candidates, only minimal charges for hostel and mess are covered.
- The candidates who are eligible for a scholarship get Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 7,000 per month.
- There are separate charges for hostel and mess, which are around Rs. 3,000 to Rs. .6,000 per month.
Ques. Which is the Most Preferred IISER?
Ans. The Top & Least preferred IISERs are based on the academic reputation, research facilities, location and the opportunity of placements. Among all the top 7 IISERs, IISER Pune, IISER Kolkata, and IISER Bhopal are generally the most preferred ones.
| Rank | IISER Institute | Reason for Preference |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | IISER Pune | Oldest, top research output, strong global collaborations |
| 2 | IISER Kolkata | Strong PhD pipeline, international opportunities |
| 3 | IISER Bhopal | Excellent infrastructure, strong industry interface |
| 4 | IISER Mohali | Research-focused, good faculty strength |
| 5 | IISER Thiruvananthapuram | Good academic environment, expanding labs |
| 6 | IISER Tirupati | Newer IISER, growing rapidly |
| 7 | IISER Berhampur | Relatively new, developing infrastructure |
IISER IAT Registration Statistics
Every year, IISER IAT has a high participation from science streams in India. The Total number of registered and appeared candidates has been increasing, showing the high popularity of BS-MS programs by IISERs.
- Around 75,000 to 85,000 candidates register every year, with 90 to 95% attendance.
- From 2021 to 2025, the registration has increased from 72,000 to 82,000, which shows increasing growth of IISER Programs.
- Around 94 to 95% registered candidates appear every year in the exam, which shows high attendance rates.
| Year | Candidates Registered | Candidates Appeared |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 82000 | 78000 |
| 2024 | 80600 | 76000 |
| 2023 | 78000 | 73000 |
| 2022 | 75000 | 70000 |
| 2021 | 72000 | 68000 |

Ques. How Many Seats are in IISER through IAT?
Ans. The Admission in the top IISERs by IAT is more than 2000 seats across the top 7 IISERs. The IISER Seat Matrix will vary according to the capacity of the institute, the norms of reservation, and policy updates.
IISER Seat Distribution (Expected 2026)
| BS-MS Program | Number of Seats |
|---|---|
| IISER Berhampur | 300 |
| IISER Bhopal | 300 |
| IISER Kolkata | 280 |
| IISER Kolkata (BS-MS in Computational and Data Sciences) | 30 |
| IISER Mohali | 270 |
| IISER Pune | 288 |
| IISER Tirupati | 350 |
| IISER Thiruvananthapuram | 320 |
| B. Tech. / BS Program | Number of Seats |
| IISER Bhopal (B. Tech.) | 140 |
| IISER Bhopal (BS in Economic Sciences) | 35 |
| IISER Tirupati (BS in Economic and Statistical Sciences) | 50 |
| Total | 2363 |
Ques. When to Register for IAT 2026?
Ans. The IISER IAT Registration is expected to start in the first week of April 2026, after the official notifications are expected to be released in February. The Application window will open for 4-5 weeks.
Expected Registration Timeline (2026)
| Expected Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Early February 2026 | Release of Official Notification |
| First Week of April 2026 | Start of Online Registration |
| First Week of May 2026 | Last Date to Apply |
| Third Week of May 2026 | Admit Card Release |
| Fourth Week of May 2026 | IAT 2026 Exam Date |
IISER IAT 2026 Eligibility
To appear in the IISER IAT 2026, candidates should meet a few academic and subject-related requirements. The IISER IAT Eligibility depends upon the educational qualification, class 12 subject combinations, and reservation.
The Candidates should meet the age and nationality requirements according to the official notification.
IISER IAT Eligibility Criteria
| Criteria | Details (Expected for 2026) |
|---|---|
| Educational Qualification | Must have passed Class 12 (10+2) or equivalent in 2025 or 2026 with the Science stream. |
| Subjects Required | Mandatory: Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Biology is optional but included in the exam. |
| Minimum Marks | Candidates must secure at least 60% aggregate (GEN/EWS/OBC-NCL) and 55% (SC/ST/PwD) in Class 12. |
| Year of Passing | Only candidates who passed Class 12 in 2025 or are appearing in 2026 are eligible. |
| Age Limit | No specific upper age limit, but candidates must meet the year of passing requirement. |
| Nationality | Open to Indian nationals, OCI/PIO cardholders, and foreign nationals. |
Ques. Does IAT require 75% Criteria?
Ans. The IISER IAT does not have any fixed 75% marks criteria in class 12. The Candidates should meet the eligibility cutoff set by IISERS for the respective boards.
- It is usually around the 20th percentile or 60% marks for General, EWS, and OBC Candidates and 55% for SC/ST/PwD.
- The Candidates should have passed class 12 in the science stream for 2025 or 2026 with valid scores.
Ques. Can a PCM Student Apply for IISER?
Ans. Yes, PCM Candidates can apply for IISER IAT 2026. The candidates with PCM and PCB are both eligible. Candidates should have mathematics in class 12 for admission in BS-MS Programs.
| Stream | Eligibility for IISER IAT 2026 | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics) | Eligible | Most common stream for IAT; required for BS-MS (Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Data Science) |
| PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) | Eligible | Allowed, but Maths is strongly recommended for multiple academic tracks |
| PCMB (Physics, Chemistry, Maths, Biology) | Eligible | Best suited for IISER; opens all subject specializations |
Academic Programmes Offered by IISER
The IISERs are the top institutes that focus on research and innovation in the basic sciences.
- Through IISER IAT 2026, candidates can get admission in the integrated and undergraduate programmes, combining the strong science foundation with research opportunities.
- These programs will prepare the candidates for a career in research, academia and industry.
| Programme | Duration | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| BS-MS Dual Degree | 5 Years | This is a flagship programme, combining a foundation of broad science with research in physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics and other areas. |
| BS Degree | 4 Years | This is offered in certain IISERs, B.S in Engineering Sciences, and Economic Sciences is offered at IISER Bhopal, which focuses on core science topics. |
| B.Tech Programme | 4 Years | This is available at IISER Bhopal for Data Science & Engineering, Electrical Engineering & Computer Science, and industry-related fields, with exposure to research. |
| Integrated PhD (iPhD) | Varies | Will get a direct entry after BS-MS for research-based students, with a master's and PhD in the science field. |
| PhD Programmes | Varies | Doctoral programmes in all major science streams; admission through national-level fellowships (not via IAT). |
Ques. Which Course is Best at IISER?
Ans. The IISERs are known for BS-MS Dual degree programs in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Biology and topics like Data Science and Earth Science. The Best course in IISER depends upon the candidate's career goals.
| Course | Why It’s Preferred |
|---|---|
| BS-MS in Physics | Strong demand for PhD, quantum research, and data-driven industries. |
| BS-MS in Biology | Ideal for biotech, genetics, and bioinformatics careers. |
| BS-MS in Chemistry | Popular for pharma, materials science, and R&D. |
| BS-MS in Mathematics | High demand in AI, finance, and data science sectors. |
| BS-MS in Earth/Environmental Science | A growing field with sustainability and climate research. |
Ques. What is IISER Famous For?
Ans. The IISERs are among India’s top research institutes in basic science, which are established by the Ministry of Education. They include a fixed curriculum, strong research and global collaboration.
- Include a high publication and global recognition rate.
- Includes unique BS-MS Dual degree programs.
- Includes centrally funded subsidies and fellowships.
- Have tie-ups with institutions like MIT, Oxford & Max Planck.
Total seats in IISER 2026
In all IISERs, around 2,000 seats are offered every year by IISER IAT. The Seats in IISER are different in all 7 IISERS.
Every IISER offers BS-MS, BS or B. Tech Programmes and seat intake, which differ every year according to the seat intake of the institutes.

Source: iiseradmission.in
IISER Exam Pattern 2026
The IISER IAT Exam will be conducted in a CBT Mode, and will test candidates' conceptual understanding along with the analytical skills in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics and Biology.
- The IISER Exam will follow the syllabus from NCERT Class 11 and 12, and will include MCQ Questions.
- The IISER Exam will be of a 3-hour time duration, and on average, candidates can take 3 minutes per question.
- In the IISER Exam, +3 marks will be given for each correct answer, and -1 mark will be deducted for an incorrect answer.

Ques. What is the Difficulty Level of IISER IAT 2026?
Ans. The IISER IAT Exam is expected to be moderate to high difficulty level, as compared to JEE Main, along with JEE Advanced school-level concepts. The IISER IAT Exam includes conceptual clarity, analytical skills, and multi-disciplinary understanding.
- The Overall difficulty level is moderate to high, but it is tougher than CUET and easier than JEE Advanced.
- The Physics & Maths are generally moderate to difficult with application-based questions.
- The Chemistry is mostly a moderate section, with more NCERT-based questions.
- Biology is the easiest section, and direct NCERT-based questions will be asked.
- The Difficulty level is different every year; if the exam is tougher, the cutoff will be lower by 5 to 10 marks.
Ques. Can I Get Into IISER With 75 Marks?
Ans. By getting 75 marks in the IISER IAT 2026, the admission chances are less for the general category, as the cutoffs are generally around 100-180 marks according to the category of the candidate.
Expected Cutoff Range (2026)
| Category | Expected Cutoff (Marks) | Admission Chance with 75 Marks |
|---|---|---|
| General | 160–180 | Very Low |
| EWS | 150–160 | Low |
| OBC-NCL | 140–150 | Low |
| SC | 120–130 | Possible only in lower-ranked IISERs |
| ST | 100–110 | Chance in newer IISERs |
| PwD | 90–100 | Moderate chance |
IISER Previous Year Question Paper PDF
| Year | Question Paper PDF |
|---|---|
| IISER 2024 Question Paper | Check Here |
| IISER 2023 Question Paper | Check Here |
| IISER 2022 Question Paper | Check Here |
| IISER 2021 Question Paper | Check Here |
| IISER 2019 Question Paper | Check Here |
| IISER 2018 Question Paper | Check Here |
| IISER 2017 Question Paper | Check Here |
IISER Syllabus 2026
The IISER IAT Syllabus includes NCERT Class 11 and 12 format for Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology. It focuses on problem-solving and analytical skills.
These are the subject-wise topics and sub-topics for candidates to focus on their preparation in an effective way.
IISER IAT Physics Syllabus
| Topic | Subtopics |
|---|---|
| Mechanics | Kinematics, Laws of Motion, Work, Energy & Power, Rotational Motion, Gravitation, Oscillations, Fluid Mechanics |
| Thermal Physics | Thermodynamics, Kinetic Theory of Gases, Heat Transfer |
| Waves & Optics | Wave Motion, Sound Waves, Ray Optics, Wave Optics, Interference, Diffraction, Polarisation |
| Electricity & Magnetism | Electrostatics, Current Electricity, Magnetic Effects of Current, Magnetism, Electromagnetic Induction, Alternating Currents |
| Modern Physics | Dual Nature of Matter, Atomic Structure, Nuclear Physics, Photoelectric Effect, Quantum Mechanics Basics |
IISER IAT Chemistry Syllabus
| Topic | Subtopics |
|---|---|
| Physical Chemistry | Mole Concept, Thermodynamics, Chemical Kinetics, Equilibrium (Chemical, Ionic, & Solubility), Electrochemistry |
| Inorganic Chemistry | Periodic Table, Chemical Bonding, Coordination Compounds, Block Elements (s, p, d, f), Metallurgy |
| Organic Chemistry | General Organic Chemistry, Hydrocarbons, Haloalkanes & Haloarenes, Alcohols, Phenols & Ethers, Carbonyl Compounds, Carboxylic Acids & Derivatives, Amines, Biomolecules, Polymers |
IISER IAT Mathematics Syllabus
| Topic | Subtopics |
|---|---|
| Algebra | Complex Numbers, Quadratic Equations, Sequences & Series, Binomial Theorem, Matrices & Determinants |
| Calculus | Limits, Continuity, Differentiation, Application of Derivatives, Integration, Application of Integrals, Differential Equations |
| Coordinate Geometry | Straight Lines, Circles, Conic Sections (Parabola, Ellipse, Hyperbola) |
| Vectors & 3D Geometry | Vector Algebra, Scalar & Vector Product, 3D Geometry (Planes & Lines) |
| Probability & Statistics | Probability Rules, Random Variables, Distributions (Binomial, Poisson, Normal) |
IISER IAT Biology Syllabus
| Topic | Subtopics |
|---|---|
| Diversity of the Living World | Taxonomy, Plant & Animal Classification, Evolutionary Trends |
| Cell Biology | Cell Structure, Cell Cycle, Cell Organelles, Cell Division (Mitosis & Meiosis) |
| Genetics & Evolution | Mendelian Genetics, Molecular Genetics, DNA & RNA, Gene Expression, Evolutionary Mechanisms |
| Human Physiology | Circulatory System, Respiratory System, Digestive System, Excretory System, Nervous & Endocrine Systems, Reproductive System |
| Ecology & Environment | Ecosystems, Biodiversity, Conservation, Environmental Issues |
Check: IISER Previous Year Question Paper
Ques. Which Topic Has the Highest Weightage in IISER IAT?
Ans. The IISER IAT Exam has equal weightage in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics and Biology, but in each subject, some topics carry high weightage.
Subject-Wise Highest Weightage Topics
| Subject | Topic with Highest Weightage | Avg. % Weightage |
|---|---|---|
| Physics | Mechanics (Kinematics, Laws of Motion, Work-Energy) | 25% |
| Chemistry | Organic Chemistry (General, Hydrocarbons, Biomolecules) | 30% |
| Biology | Genetics & Molecular Biology | 28% |
| Mathematics | Calculus (Differentiation, Integration, Limits) | 30% |
Ques. Which Are the Important Topics for IISER IAT 2026?
Ans. In IISER, if candidates focus on high-weightage and repeatedly asked topics, it can improve their performance. By prioritising these topics, candidates can ensure accuracy and optimise their scores.
| Subject | Important Topics |
|---|---|
| Physics | Mechanics, Thermodynamics, Optics, Modern Physics, Electricity & Magnetism |
| Chemistry | Organic Chemistry (Hydrocarbons, Biomolecules), Physical Chemistry (Thermodynamics, Equilibrium, Electrochemistry), Inorganic (Periodic Table, Coordination Compounds) |
| Biology | Genetics, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Human Physiology, Ecology & Evolution |
| Mathematics | Calculus, Algebra (Quadratic Equations, Complex Numbers), Probability, Coordinate Geometry, Vectors & 3D Geometry |
IISER IAT Preparation Strategy
To crack the IISER IAT 2026, candidates should follow a strategic approach to focus on conceptual clarity, NCERT and practice with Mock tests.
- The weightage of all 4 subjects is equal in the exam, so candidates should give time according to their strengths and previous year analytics.
- Before the exam, candidates should attempt at least 10-12 full-length mock tests in CBT Mode before the exams.
- Solve the last 5 years of IAT Papers to understand the question paper analysis.
- Candidates should attempt the easier questions first, then move to the difficult ones.
IISER IAT Subject-wise Preparation Strategy
| Subject | Focus Areas | Strategy | Practice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physics | Mechanics, Electricity & Magnetism, Optics, Modern Physics | Understand concepts, derivations, and formulas; practice numerical problems | 40–50 MCQs/week + 1 mock sectional test |
| Chemistry | Physical, Organic, Inorganic | Revise NCERT; memorise reactions, mechanisms, periodic trends | 30–40 MCQs/day + previous IAT questions |
| Mathematics | Algebra, Calculus, Coordinate Geometry, Vectors, Probability | Focus on problem-solving & formula derivation; practice time-bound questions | 30–50 MCQs/day + 1 full-length mock/week |
| Biology | Genetics, Cell Biology, Human Physiology, Ecology | Learn diagrams, processes, and definitions; revise NCERT diagrams & cycles | 25–35 MCQs/day + sectional quizzes |
Ques. How to Start Preparing for IAT?
Ans. To prepare for IISER IAT, candidates require a strong concept-based approach by focusing on the NCERT Syllabus along with problem-solving speed and previous year trends.
- Start your preparation with NCERT, cover classes 11 & 12 completely for all 4 subjects.
- Give priority to high-weightage topics like mechanics, organic chemistry, genetics and calculus.
- Solve the PYQs & Mock tests weekly, as they are time-based.
- Give equal time to all 4 subjects.
- Have a target of more than 150+ marks to get safe admission chances.
Ques. Is IAT Easy to Crack?
Ans. The IISER IAT Difficulty level is moderate to high; with NCERT-based practice, it can be easily cracked.
- Biology: Easy, mostly NCERT-based.
- Chemistry: Moderate, mix of theory + numericals.
- Physics & Math: Conceptually tougher, problem-solving based.
IISER IAT Expected Cutoffs
Through IISER, candidates can get admission into 7 IISERs. The IISER IAT 2026 expected cutoffs are expected to be the same as the previous year, as per the factors like difficulty level, availability of seats and category-wise reservations.
- The General category candidates require around 160-180 marks, and the top IISERs require a rank of 1-500 to get admission.
- For the EWS Category, the expected cutoff is around 150-160 marks, and the closing rank is around 501 to 700.
- The Competition is high as around 80,000 candidates are expected to appear for around 1,800 to 2,000 seats.
- By scoring more than 160 marks, candidates can increase their chances of getting into top IISERs.
| Category | Expected Cutoff (Marks) | Expected Closing Rank |
|---|---|---|
| General | 160–180 | 1–500 |
| EWS | 150–160 | 501–700 |
| OBC-NCL | 140–150 | 701–1000 |
| SC | 120–130 | 1001–1500 |
| ST | 100–110 | 1501–2000 |
| PwD (All) | 90–100 | 2001–2500 |

Check: IISER Cutoff
IISER Closing Ranks 2025
By having an analysis of the previous year's ranks, candidates can understand the Closing Rank of IISER.
IISER 2025: Round 1 Closing Ranks

Source: @iiseradmission.in
IISER 2025: Round 2 Closing Ranks

Source: @iiseradmission.in
IISER 2025: Round 3 Closing Ranks

Source: @iiseradmission.in
IISER 2025: Round 4 Closing Ranks

Source: @iiseradmission.in
IISER 2025: Round 5 Closing Ranks

Source: @iiseradmission.in
These ranks are available on the official website. For more information, check :
Ques. What is the Lowest Cutoff for IISER?
Ans. The IISER Lowest cutoff will differ every year, but it is under 100-110 marks for the ST Category and 90 for PwD.
Category-Wise Lowest Cutoff Trends
| Category | Lowest Cutoff Range (Marks) |
|---|---|
| General | 160 |
| OBC-NCL | 140 |
| EWS | 150 |
| SC | 120 |
| ST | 100 |
| PwD | 90 |
Ques. What is a Safe Score out of 240 for IISER?
Ans. A Safe score will ensure admission into a top IISER.
- Top IISERs (Pune/Kolkata/Bhopal): Safe score of more than 170–180 marks.
- Mid IISERs (Mohali/Thiruvananthapuram): Safe score of 150–160 marks.
- New IISERs (Tirupati/Berhampur): Safe score of 130–140 marks.
IISER IAT 2026 Reservation
The IISER follows a reservation policy set by the government of India for admission through IAT. The IISER Seats are allotted according to different categories such as SC, ST, OBC-NCL, EWS and PwD, which ensures fair representation.
IISER IAT 2026 Reservation Matrix
| Category | Reservation (%) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| General (Unreserved) | 45% | Open for all candidates without reservation benefits |
| OBC-NCL | 27% | Non-Creamy Layer; separate cutoff for this category |
| SC | 15% | Reserved seats for the Scheduled Castes |
| ST | 7.5% | Reserved seats for Scheduled Tribes |
| EWS | 10% | Economically Weaker Section of the General category |
| PwD (All Categories) | 5% | Horizontal reservation across all categories |

Colleges Accepting IISER Score
The IISER IAT 2026 is used for admission into the top 7 IISERs across India. The IISER is for admission in IISERs, but other institutes and programs consider the IISER Scores for admission in BS-MS or research-oriented programs.
Colleges Accepting IISER IAT 2026 Score
| Institute / College | Programs Offered | Location |
|---|---|---|
| IISER Pune | BS-MS Dual Degree, BS, B.Tech | Pune, Maharashtra |
| IISER Bhopal | BS-MS Dual Degree, BS | Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh |
| IISER Kolkata | BS-MS Dual Degree | Kolkata, West Bengal |
| IISER Mohali | BS-MS Dual Degree | Mohali, Punjab |
| IISER Thiruvananthapuram | BS-MS Dual Degree | Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala |
| IISER Berhampur | BS-MS Dual Degree | Berhampur, Odisha |
| IISER Tirupati | BS-MS Dual Degree | Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh |
Check: IISER College Predictor
Ques. What is the Budget of IISER?
Ans. The IISERs are centrally funded institutes, with the tuition and hostel fees being heavily subsidised.
| Category | Tuition Fees | Hostel + Mess | Total (per year) |
|---|---|---|---|
| General/OBC/EWS | ₹34,000–40,000 | ₹35,000–45,000 | ₹70,000–85,000 |
| SC/ST/PwD | NIL | ₹35,000–45,000 | ₹35,000–45,000 |
Ques. Are There Any Scholarships Available at IISER?
Ans. Yes, different national fellowships and scholarships are available for IISER Students.
Major Scholarships at IISER:
- INSPIRE Fellowship: ₹5,000/month stipend + ₹20,000 annual contingency grant.
- KVPY Fellowship (till 2025 batch): ₹5,000/month stipend.
- State Govt. Scholarships: Category-based financial aid.
- Institute Merit Scholarships: Based on performance in IISER.
Check: IISER Result & Counselling
IISER Career Opportunities & Placement Trends
The IISERs are basically research-based institutes, which are opted for by the candidates for higher studies or research careers after the BS-MS or BS Programs.
The Placements in the IISER main campus are limited, as compared to the engineering colleges, in which candidates receive an internship opportunity, research fellowships, and international PhD Programs.
IISER Career & Placement Overview
- More than 70-80% graduates of IISER pursue M.Sc., PhD or integrated PhD programs.
- The Candidates will receive a monthly stipend from Rs 5,000 to Rs 15,000 according to the fellowships and year of study.
- The IISER has collaborations with top global universities for summer programs, PhD and research internships.
| IISER Institute | Popular Career Pathways | Average Package / Stipend | Notable Opportunities |
|---|---|---|---|
| IISER Pune | M.Sc, PhD, Research | ₹5,000–₹15,000/month (stipend) | DST, CSIR, INSPIRE Fellowships, PhD abroad |
| IISER Bhopal | M.Sc, PhD, Industry Roles | ₹6,000–₹12,000/month (stipend) | Biotechnology, Pharma internships, Summer Research Programs |
| IISER Kolkata | Research & Higher Studies | ₹5,000–₹15,000/month | IISc, IITs, International universities, Research projects |
| IISER Mohali | Academia & R&D | ₹5,000–₹14,000/month | National & international fellowships, Start-ups |
| IISER Thiruvananthapuram | Ph.D., R&D | ₹5,000–₹12,000/month | CSIR, ICMR, NIH collaborations |
| IISER Berhampur | Research & Higher Education | ₹5,000–₹12,000/month | Summer internships, Biotechnology/Pharma industry |
| IISER Tirupati | Academic & Research | ₹5,000–₹12,000/month | Fellowships, national research labs, M.Sc/PhD programs abroad |
FAQs for IISER IAT 2026
Ques. Is Living in a Hostel Compulsory for IISER Students?
Ans. Yes, IISERs are fully residential-based institutes, so the hostel accommodations are compulsory for the BS-MS Candidates.
- Hostel Allotment: All students will get hostel rooms.
- Facilities: The Mess, Wi-Fi, common rooms, sports facilities.
- Compulsory Rule: Ensures academic discipline and peer learning.
- Exemptions: Rare, mostly for local day scholars (subject to approval).
Ques. Which is the Most Beautiful IISER Campus?
Ans. All 7 IISERs have modern campuses, but some are famous for their location, greenery and architecture. According to some students, IISER Thiruvananthapuram and IISER Bhupal are the most beautiful.
| IISER | Beauty Factor |
|---|---|
| IISER Thiruvananthapuram | Scenic greenery, hilly terrain, eco-friendly campus. |
| IISER Bhopal | Modern architecture, a vast 200-acre campus, is clean and well-planned. |
| IISER Kolkata | Located in Kalyani township, serene with water bodies. |
| IISER Pune | Urban campus with modern labs, compact but green. |
| IISER Mohali | Spacious and organised, focus on functional design. |
| IISER Tirupati | Developing campus, focus on modern infrastructure. |
| IISER Berhampur | New campus, still expanding, but scenic surroundings. |
Ques. What is the criteria for IAT 2026?
Ans. The IISER IAT 2026 Eligibility depends upon the academic qualification, subject requirement and percentile criteria.
Eligibility Criteria for IAT 2026
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Qualification | Class 12 (10+2) with Science stream (2025/2026 pass-outs) |
| Subjects Required | Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics/Biology |
| Minimum Marks | At least 60% (GEN/EWS/OBC-NCL), 55% (SC/ST/PwD) |
| Age Limit | No specific upper age limit |
Ques. Can a 3-year dropper give the IISER exam in 2026?
Ans. Yes, the candidates who have valid Class 12 Certificates, which should not be older than 3 years, can apply.
If a candidate has passed class 12 in 2023, 2024, and 2025 can appear for IAT 2026.
Ques. Can I crack the IAT exam in 3 months?
Ans. Candidates can crack the IAT Exam in 3 months if they follow a focused preparation strategy.
3-Month Strategy for IAT 2026:
- Focus on the NCERT Physics, Chemistry, Math/Biology
- Prioritise high-weightage topics like Organic Chemistry, Optics, and Genetics
- Practice mock tests & previous year papers daily.
Ques. Does everyone in IISER get a scholarship?
Ans. No, not all students do not receive the scholarships. The Scholarships are based on the candidates' category and performance.
Scholarship Types at IISER:
- INSPIRE Fellowship (DST) – For top IAT rankers.
- Institute Scholarships – Need & merit-based.
- Government Schemes – SC/ST/OBC/PwD scholarships.
Ques. How many rounds of counselling are there in IISER?
Ans. The IISER has 3-4 counselling rounds, according to the number of vacant seats.
Counselling Rounds (General Trend)
| Round | Process |
|---|---|
| Round 1 | Seat allotment based on merit & preference |
| Round 2 | Upgradation and fresh allotment |
| Round 3 | Further allotment if seats remain |
| Special/Spot Round | Conduct if seats are vacant |
Ques. Does IISER have a female quota?
Ans. Yes, IISER has a reservation for supernumerary seats for female candidates to have gender diversity.
- Around 15–20% supernumerary seats are allocated for females.
- This will improve the chances of female candidates beyond the category-wise quotas.
Ques. What are the fees for IISER Pune for 5 years?
Ans. The IISER Pune fees structure is comparatively affordable compared to IITs/NITs.
IISER Pune 5-Year BS-MS Fee (Approx.)
| Fee Component | Amount (per year) |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fee | ₹34,000 |
| Hostel Fee | ₹12,000 – ₹18,000 |
| Mess Charges | ₹18,000 – ₹22,000 |
| Other Fees | ₹10,000 |
| Total (per year) | ₹70,000 – ₹80,000 |
| Total (5 years) | ₹3.5 – ₹4 Lakhs |
*The article might have information for the previous academic years, which will be updated soon subject to the notification issued by the University/College.








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