The IISER Aptitude Test (IAT) 2026, a major national-level entrance examination for undergraduate science aspirants, will be conducted on June 7, 2026. The application process will begin on March 5, 2026, providing students across India, including those from Bengaluru and Karnataka, an opportunity to compete for admission into premier science institutions.

Key Dates for IAT 2026

According to the official announcement, the important timelines for the examination cycle are as follows:

• Start of online applications: March 5, 2026
• Last date to apply: April 13, 2026
• Application correction window: April 16 to April 18, 2026
• Admit card release: May 24, 2026
• Date of examination: June 7, 2026
• Exam time: 9:00 am to 12:00 noon

Candidates are advised to complete the registration process well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues.

Gateway to India’s Premier Science Institutes

The IAT serves as the sole entrance examination for admission into undergraduate programmes offered by the Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research. These institutes offer BS, BS–MS dual degree, and select BTech programmes with a strong focus on scientific research and interdisciplinary learning.

For the 2026–27 academic year, admissions will be based exclusively on IAT scores, making the exam especially significant for students aspiring to build careers in scientific research and higher education.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for IAT 2026, candidates must meet the following conditions:

• Must have passed Class 12 (or equivalent) in 2024, 2025, or be appearing in 2026.
• Must have studied at least three subjects among Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics at the Class 12 level.
• Must have secured a minimum of 60 per cent aggregate marks (55 per cent for SC, ST, and PwD candidates).

Certain specialised programmes may require Mathematics as a compulsory subject.

Examination Pattern

The IISER Aptitude Test 2026 will be conducted as a computer-based test (CBT) at centres across the country.

Key features of the exam include:

• Questions from Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics
• Objective-type questions testing conceptual understanding and analytical ability
• Duration of three hours
• National-level ranking used for centralized counselling and seat allotment

Importance for Karnataka and Bengaluru Students

For students in Karnataka, particularly in Bengaluru, the IAT is one of the most important pathways into top-tier science education. With growing interest in research-driven careers and innovation-based learning, IISERs continue to attract high-performing science students from across the state.

Education experts note that early preparation in Class 11 and 12 core science subjects remains the key to success in the examination.

Conclusion

With the IISER Aptitude Test 2026 scheduled for June 7 and applications opening on March 5, science aspirants now have a clear timeline to plan their preparation. The exam remains a crucial stepping stone for those aiming to pursue advanced studies and research in fundamental sciences at some of India’s most respected institutions.

  Exam Notifications, Higher Education India, IAT 2026, IISER Admissions, IISER Aptitude Test 2026, National Level Entrance Test