IISER Aptitude Test 2026 exam is scheduled to be held on June 7, 2026, at multiple exam centres across the nation. Before stepping into the examination hall, test takers must check the IAT 2026 Shift Timings to know the exam timings and how much in advance they need to reach the IISER 2026 exam centres.
For the academic session 2026–2027, the IISER exam 2026 will be conducted in a single shift to test candidates' domain understanding in Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics, and Biology subjects. As per the official information shared on the official website, the IISER 2026 shift timings are from 9 AM to 12 PM.
Knowing the shift timings also allows aspirants to align their preparation strategy accordingly. Practising mock tests during the same time slot can improve concentration levels and help simulate real exam conditions. Overall, staying informed about the IAT 2026 shift timings is crucial for a smooth and disciplined exam experience.
Read this SciAstra blog to get complete insight on IAT 2026 Shift Timings, reporting time, exam pattern, and important exam day guidelines.
IAT & NEST 2026 Crash Course
SciAstra launched the IAT & NEST 2026 Crash Course, dedicated to preparing students for IAT 2026 and NEST 2026, on March 30, 2026, in offline mode.
If you wish to broaden the choices of institutes to pursue undergraduate science and research courses, you should prepare for both exams and register for our crash course.
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IISER Aptitude Test (IAT) 2026 Highlights
Before starting the IISER 2026 preparation, candidates are advised to check out the important key features of the IISER entrance exam 2026 (IISER Aptitude Test 2026) from here:
Features | Details |
Exam Name | IISER Aptitude Test (IAT), IISER Entrance Exam |
Exam Organizing Institute | One of the IISERs |
Exam Level | Graduate Level |
Courses Offered | 5 year BS-MS dual degree |
Exam Mode | Online |
Exam Frequency | Once a year |
Registration Fee | Gen/OBC/OBC-NCL/EWS – INR 2,000 |
Type of Question | Multiple Choice Questions (60 questions) |
IAT Negative Marking Scheme | -1 mark for incorrect, +4 marks for correct |
Official Website |
IAT 2026 Shift Timings
The IAT 2026 shift timings are crucial for candidates appearing in the IISER Aptitude Test conducted by the Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research. The exam will be held on June 7, 2026, in a single shift nationwide, ensuring uniformity in question difficulty and fairness in evaluation.
IISER 2026 Shift | IISER 2026 Shift Timing | Duration (in hours) |
Morning Shift (Only 1 Shift) | 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM | 180 Minutes or 3 hours |
IISER 2026 Reporting Timings
The test is scheduled from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, with a total duration of 3 hours. However, candidates must not confuse exam timing with reporting timing. The reporting process begins much earlier to accommodate security checks, document verification, and seating arrangements. Candidates are expected to arrive at their allotted exam centres between 7:00 AM and 8:30 AM.
Time | Event/Activity | Description |
7:00 AM | Reporting Begins | Candidates can start entering the exam centre premises |
8:30 AM | Gate Closing Time | Entry gates are closed; no entry allowed after this time |
8:30 AM – 8:50 AM | Verification Process | Document checking, biometric verification, and frisking |
8:50 AM – 9:00 AM | Login & Instructions | Candidates log in to the system and read exam instructions |
9:00 AM | Exam Begins | IAT 2026 starts officially |
12:00 PM | Exam Ends | Candidates must submit their responses and exit as instructed |
IAT 2026 Exam Pattern: Marking Scheme
Candidates can check out the marking scheme for the correct answer and incorrect answers, and the IAT 2026 Exam Pattern from here:
Subject | No of Questions | Correct Answer | Incorrect Answer |
Physics | 15 | +4 | -1 |
Chemistry | 15 | +4 | -1 |
Mathematics | 15 | +4 | -1 |
Biology | 15 | +4 | -1 |
IAT 2026 Exam Day Guidelines
Important instructions to be followed on the Day of the Examination
Candidates must carry their Hall Ticket printed on an A4 size paper using a laser printer. The Hall Ticket is valid only if the candidate’s photograph and signature images are legibly printed. Paste the photograph at the indicated place on the Hall Ticket. The IISER 2026 Hall Ticket is to be produced for verification at the time of the test. This Hall Ticket is valid only for the test date and session time as specified.
The Hall Ticket is to be produced for verification at the time of the test and at least one original (not scanned) valid (not expired) photo identification card (such as Voter ID, Passport, Pan Card, Driving License, Photo pasted Nationalized Bank Passbook, UID Aadhar card, Photo pasted 10th/12th Marksheet /Certificate /Admit Card) should also be presented. The candidate’s photograph and signature should be legibly printed and visible on the photo ID card and should match the name on the Hall Ticket. The Photo ID card should not be damaged or smudged.
Candidates should report at 7:00 AM for the session. No candidate will be allowed inside the test centre after 8:30 AM. PwD candidates will get priority entry into the test centre. Candidates are advised to locate their test centre and its accessibility at least a day before the test so that they can reach the centre on time on the day of the test.
Do not wear any jewellery or other items containing metal. Mobile phones or any other electronic gadgets, such as smart watches and calculators, are NOT ALLOWED inside the test centre. There is no facility for the safekeeping of candidates’ personal belongings outside the test hall, and we are not responsible for any loss.
Only Hall Ticket, Original Photo ID Card, Transparent Water Bottle, and Ball Pen will be allowed inside the test hall.
Extra / sheet(s) will be provided to the candidates for rough work, which will have to be returned to the invigilator after the test. Candidates should clearly write their name and application number on the rough pad. An online non-programmable scientific calculator will be provided on the candidate’s console. Please DO NOT carry your own calculator. Friends and/or relatives accompanying the candidate will not be allowed to enter the test centre.
Candidates need to make their own travel and accommodation arrangements to attend the test. Request for change of test centre will NOT be entertained.
Kindly be informed that the printout of the Hall Ticket, along with a photocopy of the photo ID will be collected at the examination hall. Hence, candidates are requested to keep an additional copy of the Hall Ticket for their own reference.
Best SciAstra Books for IAT 2026
SciAstra books are specifically designed for IAT, unlike traditional books, which focus on JEE or NEET. Aspirants preparing for the NEST 2026 and IAT 2026 exams can check out the best SciAstra books from here:
Book Name | Features | Purchase Link |
Mastering Combo- Class 11 Bookset
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Mastering Combo- Class 12 Bookset
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Mastering Combo- Class 11 and Class 12 Bookset
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NEST PYQs (2018-2025)
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IISER Aptitude Test Mock Book (2025-2026)
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NEST Aptitude Test Mock Book (2025-2026)
| This is the Best Ever NEST Mock Book made by mentors from IISc, IISERs, NISER, and IITs. Comes with Pan India FREE DELIVERY This book will have—
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Conclusion
Understanding the IAT 2026 shift timings is a crucial part of your exam preparation strategy. With the exam scheduled from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, candidates must plan their day effectively, right from waking up early to reaching the exam centre on time.
A well-planned approach, combined with awareness of reporting guidelines and exam instructions, can help you avoid unnecessary stress and perform at your best. Make sure to practice mock tests during the same time slot to build familiarity and confidence.
Stay focused, stay prepared, and give your best shot at securing admission to the prestigious IISERs.
