The Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA), Pune has officially released the notification for the IUCAA National Admission Test (INAT-2026). IUCAA INAT 2026 is conducted to select candidates for pursuing a Ph.D. degree with a scholarship at IUCAA. The written test will also be used for selecting eligible candidates into the SPPU-IUCAA Joint M.Sc. (Physics with Astrophysics) programme. Interested candidates can apply online from now until November 24, 2025, through the official INAT website.
IUCAA INAT 2026 Notification
The IUCAA INAT 2026 information is provided on the official website for candidates’ reference. The portal contains complete details about the programmes, eligibility, application process, important dates, and selection procedure. Aspirants should read all instructions carefully to ensure they meet all requirements before applying. The process also includes guidelines for referee reports and admit letter download.
Visit the Official IUCAA INAT 2026 Portal
IUCAA INAT 2026: Overview
The IUCAA INAT 2026 provides a premier opportunity for candidates to pursue research in Astronomy, Astrophysics, and Physics at a leading national centre. Below is a detailed overview with all key information for aspirants.
| Organization | Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA) |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Ph.D. (with scholarship) and SPPU-IUCAA Joint M.Sc. (Physics with Astrophysics) |
| Advertisement No. | INAT-2026 |
| Registration Dates | From now until Monday, November 24, 2025, 11:59 p.m. |
| Mode of Application | Online |
| Selection Process | Written Test followed by Interviews (for Ph.D. shortlist) |
| Stipend/Scholarship | As per IUCAA norms for Ph.D. scholars |
| Official Website | inat.iucaa.in |
| Application Portal | INAT-2026 Online Application Form |
| Eligibility | As per IUCAA Ph.D. and M.Sc. programme requirements |
| Exam Date | Sunday, January 18, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. |
| Referee Report Last Date | Wednesday, November 26, 2025, 11:59 p.m. |
IUCAA INAT Apply Online 2026
The IUCAA INAT Apply Online 2026 process is now active for all eligible candidates. The application is a two-step procedure involving registration and form submission. Candidates must use a valid personal email ID, as all communications, including the application password and admit letter, will be sent via email. Applicants are required to provide the details of two referees. Below, we have provided the essential steps to apply online.
Direct Link to the INAT-2026 Application Portal
How to Apply for IUCAA INAT 2026?
Candidates applying for the IUCAA INAT 2026 must complete the process online only. A valid personal email ID is mandatory.
| Step | Procedure |
|---|---|
| 1 | Register: Go to the application portal and register by entering your Name and a valid E-mail address. |
| 2 | Receive Password: An application password will be automatically sent to your email. |
| 3 | Fill Form: Use your email and the received password to log in and fill out the Online Application Form. |
| 4 | Referee Details: Provide the names and e-mail addresses of two referees in the form. |
| 5 | Submit Form: Submit the Online Application Form by November 24, 2025. You will receive a confirmation email with your Online ID. |
| 6 | Inform Referees: Automatic emails will be sent to your referees. You must inform them to submit the Confidential Assessment Form by November 26, 2025. |
IUCAA National Admission Test Important Dates
Candidates must adhere to the following important deadlines for the INAT-2026 application process.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Last date to apply online | Monday, November 24, 2025, 11:59 p.m. |
| Last date to submit referee report | Wednesday, November 26, 2025, 11:59 p.m. |
| Date of Admission (Written) Test | Sunday, January 18, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. |
| Interview Dates for Short-listed Candidates | To be announced |
IUCAA INAT Selection Process 2026
The IUCAA INAT Selection Process 2026 is a multi-stage procedure for selecting candidates for its Ph.D. and M.Sc. programmes.
- Written Test: Based on the applications and referee assessments, a subset of candidates will be shortlisted and invited for the written test on January 18, 2026.
- Interview (for Ph.D.): Based on the marks in the written test, a further subset of candidates will be invited to attend two interviews by two different committees.
- Final Selection: The final selection for Ph.D. scholarships will be based on a combination of marks obtained in the written test and the interviews. For the M.Sc. programme, selection will be based on the written test.
IUCAA National Admission Test Exam Day Instructions 2026
Candidates must report to their assigned test centre with the necessary documents for verification.
- Documents Required: Passport-size Photo, one original Photo ID (Aadhaar/ PAN/ Voter ID/ Driving License/ College ID/ Passport), and the Admit Letter.
- Registration Time: Registration will begin at 8:00 a.m. and end at 9:45 a.m. A seat in the test is not guaranteed unless registration is completed during this period.
Also Read: NHTET December 2025 Registration Begins @ nchm.gov.in, Apply Online for Teaching Eligibility
FAQs
Q1. What is the last date to apply for IUCAA INAT 2026?
Ans: The last date to submit the online application form is Monday, November 24, 2025, by 11:59 p.m.
Q2. How can I apply for IUCAA INAT 2026?
Ans: Candidates must first register on the official INAT portal using their name and email, receive a password, and then log in to fill out and submit the Online Application Form.
Q3. Is the INAT written test for Ph.D. only?
Ans: No, the written test is used to select candidates for both the Ph.D. programme (with scholarship) and the SPPU-IUCAA Joint M.Sc. (Physics with Astrophysics) programme.
Q4. What is the role of referees in the application process?
Ans: Applicants must provide details of two referees. After the application is submitted, the referees will be automatically contacted to submit a Confidential Assessment Form online by November 26, 2025.
Q5. When and where will the INAT-2026 written test be held?
Ans: The written test will be held on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. in various cities across the country. The exact test centre details will be available in the Admit Letter.