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IISER Aptitude Test (IAT) 2026: Applications Open on March 5 for Admission to India’s Premier Science Institutes

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Praful Bhatnagar
College Admin | Updated on Mar 4, 2026

IISER Aptitude Test (IAT) 2026: Applications Open on March 5 for Admission to India’s Premier Science Institutes: Students aspiring to build a career in scientific research and innovation can now gear up for the IISER Aptitude Test (IAT) 2026, the national-level entrance examination for admission to India’s top science institutions. The application process for IAT 2026 will commence on March 5, 2026, opening the gateway to prestigious five-year dual degree programmes in science.

The IISER Aptitude Test is conducted for admissions to the renowned Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISERs), a group of premier autonomous institutions dedicated to excellence in science education and research.

Course Offered

Through IAT 2026, candidates can seek admission to the BS–MS Dual Degree Programme (5 Years). This integrated programme is designed to provide strong theoretical foundations along with early exposure to cutting-edge scientific research.

Subjects Covered in the Examination

The entrance test evaluates candidates across core science disciplines, including:

  • Physics

  • Chemistry

  • Mathematics

  • Biology

Students from both PCM and PCB backgrounds are eligible, provided they meet the basic academic criteria.

Participating IISERs

Admissions through IAT 2026 will be offered at the following participating institutes:

  • Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Pune

  • Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata

  • Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Mohali

  • Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Bhopal

  • Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Thiruvananthapuram

  • Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Tirupati

  • Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Berhampur

These institutes are widely recognized as top research institutions in India, offering students early involvement in scientific research, access to advanced laboratories, and excellent funding and scholarship opportunities.

Exam Overview

  • Exam Name: IISER Aptitude Test (IAT) 2026

  • Conducting Body: Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research

  • Course: BS–MS Dual Degree (5 Years)

  • Exam Subjects: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics

  • Eligibility (Basic): 12th pass with Science stream; strong foundation in PCM/PCB

  • Application Start Date: 05.03.2026

Why Choose IISER?

The IISERs are known for:

  • Being among India’s leading research-focused institutions

  • Offering early exposure to scientific research methodologies

  • Providing excellent funding support and scholarships

  • Encouraging innovation, interdisciplinary learning, and global academic collaborations

With applications opening on March 5, 2026, science aspirants are encouraged to begin their preparation early to secure a seat in one of India’s most prestigious science programmes

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