IIT JAM Exam Day Instructions 2026 explain the reporting time, items to carry, dress code, and exam hall rules for candidates appearing on February 15, 2026. Candidates must carry the IIT JAM 2026 admit card and a valid photo ID and follow all exam day guidelines to avoid disqualification.
The IIT JAM 2026 exam is scheduled for February 15, 2026. It is conducted in Computer Based Test (CBT) mode with a duration of 3 hours.
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Shift 1 timing: 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM (typically for Chemistry, Geology, Mathematics)
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Shift 2 timing: 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM (typically for Biotechnology, Economics, Mathematical Statistics, Physics)
IIT JAM Exam Day Instructions 2026: Reporting Time & Entry Rules
Candidates should reach the exam centre at least 60–90 minutes before the exam start time to complete verification processes smoothly.
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Entry usually closes 30 minutes after the exam begins; late entry is not permitted.
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Follow the specific reporting time mentioned on the admit card.
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Candidates cannot leave the exam hall before the exam ends.
Step-by-step process:
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Reach the centre early.
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Stand in the verification queue.
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Undergo biometric/photo capture.
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Proceed to the allotted system.
Documents Required on IIT JAM 2026 Exam Day
Mandatory Documents to Carry
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Printed IIT JAM 2026 admit card (with clear photo and details).
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Original valid photo ID (such as Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Voter ID, Passport, Driving Licence, or College ID, as specified in the official notification).
Name, photo, and date of birth on the ID must match the admit card details; any mismatch may require extra verification.
One or two passport-size photographs are recommended (though optional).
Items Provided at the Centre
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System with virtual scientific calculator on screen.
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Scribble pad/rough sheet for calculations (to be returned after the exam).
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No personal stationery is needed; candidates must not carry their own.
IIT JAM 2026 Permitted and Prohibited Items
Items Allowed Inside the Exam Hall
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Printed IIT JAM admit card.
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Original photo ID proof.
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Simple clothing following dress guidelines.
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Basic items in special medical cases (e.g., medicines, transparent water bottle) with prior approval as per rules.
Banned Items at IIT JAM 2026 Exam Centres
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Electronic devices: mobile phones, smart watches, fitness bands, Bluetooth devices, earphones, calculators.
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Written material: notes, books, rough papers, log tables.
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Personal stationery: pens, pencils, erasers, rulers, paper sheets.
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Accessories and valuables: wallets, bags, jewellery, metallic ornaments.
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Food items and drinks (unless medically permitted).
If any prohibited item is found, candidature can be cancelled, and legal action may be taken as per IIT JAM 2026 rules.
IIT JAM 2026 Dress Code and Exam Hall Rules
IIT JAM 2026 Dress Code (Recommended)
No specific official dress code is released, but candidates should follow basic norms to avoid extra frisking or entry issues.
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Prefer light, simple clothing without heavy embroidery, metal buttons, or large accessories.
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Avoid jewellery, chains, bracelets, and metallic items.
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Many centres do not allow shoes; wear simple sandals or slippers unless instructed otherwise.
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Do not wear caps, hoodies, or clothing that can hide devices or papers.
Exam Hall Rules & Conduct
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Sit only at the system allotted for the roll number; occupying a different seat may lead to cancellation.
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Do not log in before the invigilator’s instruction; read on-screen instructions during the login window (typically 15–20 minutes).
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Do not talk, gesture, or share rough sheets with others.
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Submit the scribble pad and complete on-screen submission only when instructed; wait for permission before leaving.
IIT JAM 2026 Exam Pattern and Marking Scheme
All test papers are in English and CBT mode.
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Duration: 3 hours; total 60 questions carrying 100 marks.
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Three sections: A (MCQ), B (MSQ), C (NAT).
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Negative marking applies in certain sections; read on-screen instructions carefully.
IIT JAM 2026 Exam Day Dos and Don’ts
Do’s for IIT JAM Exam Day
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Reach the exam centre well before time and check the room/system number.
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Carry the printed admit card and valid original photo ID.
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Follow invigilator instructions and use the virtual calculator and scribble pad provided.
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Read all on-screen instructions and the marking scheme before attempting the paper.
Don’ts for IIT JAM Exam Day
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Don’t carry mobile phones, smart watches, earbuds, or any electronic device.
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Don’t wear heavy jewellery, metal accessories, or restricted footwear.
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Don’t argue with staff or violate instructions; this may lead to cancellation.
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Don’t indulge in cheating, copying, or helping others.
Last-Minute Tips for IIT JAM 2026 Candidates
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Revise formulae and key concepts instead of starting new topics on the last day.
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Check the route and travel time to the exam centre one day before to avoid delays.
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Keep documents and simple clothes ready the previous night; ensure adequate sleep.
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Reach the centre calmly and plan the attempt according to the exam pattern and negative marking.
