The IIT Joint Admission Test for Masters (JAM) 2026 is one of the most prestigious national-level examinations for science graduates who wish to pursue higher education in India’s premier institutes. The registration process for IIT JAM 2026 has officially started from September 5, 2025, and candidates can apply online through the JAM Online Application Processing System (JOAPS) until October 12, 2025.
Conducted as a Computer Based Test (CBT), JAM 2026 will open doors to postgraduate programmes such as M.Sc., M.Sc. (Tech.), M.Sc.–Ph.D. Dual Degrees, Joint M.Sc.–Ph.D., and M.S. (Research) at IITs. It is also accepted by other top institutes like IISc Bengaluru, IISERs, IIPE, JNCASR, and several NITs and CFTIs through CCMN.
Important Dates for IIT JAM 2026
The exam authorities have announced the complete schedule for JAM 2026. Candidates must carefully note the deadlines to avoid missing out.
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Start of JOAPS Registration & Application Process | September 5, 2025 |
| Closure of JOAPS Registration | October 12, 2025 |
| JAM 2026 Examination | February 15, 2026 (Sunday) |
| Declaration of Results | March 18, 2026 |
Also Read: JAM 2026 Notification Out: Check Official Dates, Eligibility, Pattern & Other Details Released
How to Apply for IIT JAM 2026?
Candidates must submit their applications only through JOAPS. The step-by-step process is given below:
Registration on JOAPS
- Visit the JOAPS portal.
- Enter your name, valid email ID, active mobile number, and create a password.
- After registration, you will receive an Enrolment ID and OTP on your email and phone.
Fill Application Form
- Log in with your Enrolment ID/Email and password.
- Provide personal details, academic qualifications, and select the test paper(s) (one or two).
Upload Documents
- Upload recent passport-size photograph and signature.
- Upload certificates if applicable (OBC-NCL, EWS, SC, ST, PwD).
- Proof of Date of Birth must also be uploaded.
Pay Application Fee
- Application fees can be paid only online via Net Banking, Credit/Debit Card, UPI, or Wallets.
- After successful payment, download the completed application form with payment details.
Check Application Status
- Candidates can track their form status (Under scrutiny, Accepted, Defect status, Admit card ready, etc.) on JOAPS.
Note: Submit only one application form. Multiple applications may lead to rejection.
Documents Required for IIT JAM 2026
Candidates must keep scanned copies of the following documents ready before applying:
- Class X (SSC) Marksheet/Certificate (proof of Date of Birth).
- Recent Passport-size Photograph (as per specified dimensions).
- Signature (scanned, clear, on white background).
- Category Certificate (OBC-NCL / EWS / SC / ST, if applicable).
- PwD Certificate (for candidates applying under PwD category).
- Final Year/UG Certificate (if applicable for eligibility).
Make sure that all uploaded documents are clear and valid; otherwise, applications may be rejected.
Also Read: JAM 2026 Syllabus and Exam Pattern, Find Subject Wise PDF Link Here
Application Fees for IIT JAM 2026
| Category | One Test Paper | Two Test Papers |
|---|---|---|
| Female / SC / ST / PwD | ₹1000 | ₹1350 |
| All Others | ₹2000 | ₹2700 |
- Changing exam city/test paper/category/gender/DOB requires an additional ₹300 fee plus the applicable difference.
- The application fee is non-refundable and non-transferable.
Also Read: JAM 2026 Exam Date: Check Official Schedule and Mock Test Links
FAQs
Q1. Can I apply for two test papers in JAM 2026?
Yes, candidates can appear in one or two test papers. If applying for two, ensure there is no clash in exam sessions.
Q2. Can I change my exam city or category after submitting the form?
Yes, corrections can be made by paying an additional ₹300 fee (plus the difference in category fees, if any) before the deadline.
Q3. Is there an offline application form available?
No. Applications for JAM 2026 can only be submitted online through the JOAPS portal.
Q4. What happens if I forget my JOAPS password?
Candidates can use the “Forgot Password” option on JOAPS to reset it using their registered email/mobile number.
Q5. Does being in the JAM Merit List guarantee admission?
No, qualifying in JAM only makes you eligible for admission. Final admission depends on merit, seat availability, and institute-specific eligibility criteria.