Latest Update (January 14, 2026): The wait is finally over for thousands of MSc aspirants across India. The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay has officially released the IIT JAM 2026 Admit Card. Candidates who successfully registered for the exam can now download their hall tickets directly from the official portal, jam2026.iitb.ac.in.
If you are preparing for the Joint Admission Test for Masters (JAM) 2026, this is the most critical document you need right now. The exam is scheduled for February 15, 2026, and no student will be allowed to enter the exam center without a printed copy of the admit card. This detailed article covers everything you need to know about the download process, exam timings, and important exam day guidelines.
IIT JAM 2026: Key Highlights
For the academic year 2026-27, IIT Bombay is the organizing institute. The exam will be conducted in Computer Based Test (CBT) mode in over 100 cities across India.
- Exam Name: Joint Admission Test for Masters (JAM) 2026
- Organizing Body: IIT Bombay
- Admit Card Status: Released (January 13, 2026)
- Exam Date: February 15, 2026 (Sunday)
- Result Announcement: March 20, 2026 (Tentative)
- Official Website: jam2026.iitb.ac.in
How to Download Your Admit Card (Step-by-Step)
The admit card is not sent by post or email. You must download it online. Since many students face traffic issues on the website immediately after the release, it is better to try during off-peak hours if the site is slow. Follow these simple steps:
- Visit the Official Website: Open your web browser and go to the official IIT JAM 2026 website (jam2026.iitb.ac.in).
- Find the JOAPS Portal: On the homepage, look for the link labeled “JOAPS 2026: Candidate Portal” or “Download Admit Card.”
- Login: You will be redirected to the login page. Enter your E-mail ID / Enrolment ID and your Password.
- Security Check: Solve the simple arithmetic expression (captcha) shown on the screen.
- Download: Once logged in, you will see a button to download the Admit Card. Click on it.
- Print: Save the PDF file to your device. Take at least two clear printouts on A4 size paper.
Exam Schedule and Session Timings
The IIT JAM 2026 exam will be held in two sessions on Sunday, February 15, 2026. It is very important to check which session your paper falls into so you can reach the center on time.
Forenoon Session (9:30 AM to 12:30 PM):
- Chemistry (CY)
- Geology (GG)
- Mathematics (MA)
Afternoon Session (2:30 PM to 5:30 PM):
- Biotechnology (BT)
- Economics (EN)
- Mathematical Statistics (MS)
- Physics (PH)
Details to Verify on Your Hall Ticket
After downloading the admit card, do not just keep it in your bag. Check every detail mentioned on it carefully. A small error could cause big problems on exam day.
Check these specific details:
- Name and Registration Number: Ensure the spelling matches your ID proof.
- Test Paper Code: Verify that the code (e.g., PH for Physics) is what you applied for.
- Exam Centre Address: Read the full address of the venue. Sometimes there are multiple centers with similar names in the same city. It is wise to locate the center on Google Maps a day before.
- Photograph and Signature: Your photo must be clear. If the photo on the admit card is blurry, bring a passport-size photo to the center along with you.
What if there is a mistake? If you find any discrepancy in your name, date of birth, or paper code, you must immediately contact the IIT Bombay JAM helpdesk. You can find the email ID and phone number on the official website.
Important Exam Day Guidelines
IITs are very strict about exam rules. To ensure a smooth entry on February 15, keep these points in mind:
- Mandatory Documents: You must carry the printed admit card and an original photo ID proof (Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Voter ID, Driving License, or Passport). The name on the ID must match the name on the admit card.
- Reporting Time: Reach the exam center at least 90 minutes before the scheduled start time. This allows time for security checks and biometric verification.
- Biometric Registration: Your fingerprint and photo will be captured before you enter the exam hall. This is used to verify your identity during admission counseling later.
- Prohibited Items: Do not carry mobile phones, smartwatches, Bluetooth devices, calculators, or printed notes. A virtual calculator will be available on the computer screen for calculations.
- Scribble Pad: The center will provide a scribble pad for rough work. You must return this pad to the invigilator before leaving the examination hall.
Why IIT JAM is Important
The Joint Admission Test for Masters (JAM) is the gateway to some of the best science education in India. Qualifying in this exam allows you to seek admission to:
- M.Sc. (Two-year), Joint M.Sc.-Ph.D., and M.Sc.-Ph.D. Dual Degree programs at various IITs.
- Integrated Ph.D. programs at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore.
- M.Sc. programs at various National Institutes of Technology (NITs) and CFTIs (through CCMN counseling).
With the admit card now out, the final countdown has begun. Use this last month to revise formulas, solve previous year’s papers, and practice using the virtual calculator.
FAQs on IIT JAM 2026
Q1: Is the IIT JAM 2026 Admit Card released?
IIT Bombay released the admit card on January 13, 2026. You can download it from the JOAPS portal.
Q2: Can I show a digital copy of the admit card on my phone?
No. You must carry a printed hard copy of the admit card. Digital copies on mobile phones are not accepted at the exam center.
Q3: What is the official website to download the hall ticket?
The official website is jam2026.iitb.ac.in.
Q4: I am unable to login. What should I do?
First, ensure you are using the correct Enrolment ID and password. If you forgot them, click on “Forgot Enrolment ID or Password” to retrieve them via email/SMS. If the site is slow, wait for some time and try again.
Q5: Is there negative marking in IIT JAM 2026?
Yes. Section A (MCQs) has negative marking. However, Section B (MSQs) and Section C (NATs) do not have any negative marking.