The IIT JAM (Joint Admission Test for M.Sc.) is one of the most competitive entrance exams in India for aspirants who wish to pursue a master’s degree in science at top IITs, NITs, and other prestigious institutions. Many students wonder, “Is IIT JAM very hard?” The answer depends on various factors such as preparation, coaching, and strategy.
In this article, we will analyze the difficulty level of IIT JAM, the best strategies to prepare, and why Chandu Biology Classes is the best coaching institute for IIT JAM aspirants.
WHAT IS IIT JAM?
The Indian Institute of Technology Joint Admission Test (IIT JAM) will be a national-level entrance exam conducted for admission to M.Sc. (JAM) programs offered by the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and other participating institutes.
Exam Structure and Syllabus
Exam Pattern
The IIT JAM Biotechnology exam is a computer-based test that evaluates a candidate’s understanding through multiple-choice questions (MCQs), multiple select questions (MSQs), and numerical answer type (NAT) questions. The exam format is designed to test both theoretical knowledge and practical problem-solving skills. The questions are spread across different sections, each focusing on various areas of biotechnology.
Syllabus Overview
The syllabus for IIT JAM Biotechnology encompasses several core areas:
- Biochemistry: This includes the study of enzyme kinetics, metabolic pathways, and bioenergetics.
- Molecular Biology: Focuses on DNA replication, transcription, translation, and gene regulation.
- Genetics: Covers Mendelian genetics, population genetics, and genetic engineering.
- Microbiology: Deals with bacteriology, virology, and microbial genetics.
- Biotechnology: Examines applications of biotechnology in medicine, agriculture, and industry.
Eligibility
Candidates should hold a bachelor’s degree to fulfil the IIT JAM 2025 eligibility criteria. Candidates who appeared or will appear for their graduation exams in 2025 are also eligible to apply, provided they tentatively submit the proof by September 2025.
ADMISSION PROGRAMMES
JAM 2025 admission process is long and extensive and consists of many events like registration, application fee, application correction window, admit card, exam day, answer key, answer key challenge, result, counselling, and seat allocation process. Candidates can find the detailed JAM 2025 events from here: IIT JAM 2025 Registration The JAM 2025 Application form is expected to start in the first week of September 2024. The JAM application form 2025 will be available in an online mode on the official website of the exam. Candidates need to first register by providing their personal and educational details. After receiving the registration credentials via email and SMS, they have to log in again and fill up the application form with the rest of the personal, and academic details, exam city preference, course preference, and document upload. After all details on the application form are filled in, candidates need to pay the application fee. Candidates could make the payment of the application fee online (through credit/ debit card/net banking) mode. After the form is submitted, a new window will open that will display the name and enrollment ID of the candidate. The window will also display the amount to be paid by the candidate as the application fee. After checking these details, candidates need to click on the ‘Proceed to Payment’ button.
TEST PAPERS & PATTERN OF TEST PAPERS
JAM 2025 Examination will be conducted in SEVEN subjects, also referred to as Test Papers; Biotechnology, Chemistry, Economics, Geology, Mathematics, Mathematical Statistics, and Physics. The medium for all the Test Papers is English only. JAM 2025 Examination for all the Test Papers will be conducted as a Computer Based Test (CBT) where the candidates will be shown the questions in a random sequence on a computer screen.
The duration of the examination will be of THREE hours. Eligible PwD candidates may be given one- hour compensatory time and the assistance of scribe for the examination as per the guidelines of Government of India (Refer Section 9). There will be a total of 60 questions carrying a total of 100 marks. The entire paper will be divided into three sections, A, B and C. All sections are compulsory. Questions in each section will be of different types as given below:
Section – A contains a total of 30 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) involving 10 questions of one mark each and 20 questions of two marks each. Each MCQ has four choices out of which only one choice is the correct answer. Candidates can mark their answer by clicking one of the choices. A wrong answer will result in negative marks. For each wrong answer to 1 mark questions, 1/3 mark will be deducted and similarly for each wrong answer to 2 marks questions, 2/3 mark will be deducted.
Section – B contains a total of 10 Multiple Select Questions (MSQs) carrying two marks each. Each MSQ is similar to MCQ but with the difference that MSQ may have one or more than one correct choice(s) out of the four given choices. The candidate is awarded full credit only if all the correct answer(s) and no wrong answers are selected. Candidates can mark the answer(s) by clicking the choice(s). There is no negative marking or partial marking for MSQ.
Section – C contains a total of 20 Numerical Answer Type (NAT) questions involving 10 questions of one mark each and 10 questions of two marks each. For NAT questions, the answer is a signed real number, which needs to be entered using the virtual numeric keypad displayed on the monitor. No choices will be shown for NAT questions. There is no negative marking for NAT.
- In all sections, questions not attempted will result in zero mark. There is no provision for partial marking.
- The candidates are required to select the answer(s) for MCQ and MSQ type questions using the mouse.
- The answer for NAT questions must be entered using a virtual numeric keypad. The keyboard of the computer will be disabled.
- There is a provision for using online virtual calculator. Candidates are not allowed to bring their own calculators.
- A scribble pad will be provided for rough work. Candidates have to write their name and registration number before using it. The scribble pad has to be returned at the end of the examination.
- The examination will end automatically after the stipulated time.
- Candidates are required to adhere to the code of conduct specified in Annexure V.
- Candidates will also be able to take a mock examination through a ‘Mock Test’ link that will be made available on the JAM 2025 website. Question Papers of last three years are also available on JAM 2025 website.
EXAM INFORMATION
1. What is IIT JAM?
IIT JAM (Joint Admission Test for M.Sc.) is an entrance exam conducted by IITs for admission to M.Sc., Joint M.Sc.-Ph.D., M.Sc.-Ph.D. Dual Degree, and other post-bachelor’s degree programs at IITs, IISc, and other top institutes in India.
- Conducted annually by different IITs on a rotational basis
- Held in seven subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Biotechnology, Biological Sciences, Mathematical Statistics, and Geology
- The exam is completely online (Computer-Based Test – CBT)
- Focuses on conceptual understanding, analytical thinking, and problem-solving skills
IIT JAM is not just about memorizing concepts but applying them effectively, which makes it different from traditional university exams.
2. Is IIT JAM Very Hard? Understanding the Difficulty Level
Factors That Make IIT JAM Difficult:
- High competition: Thousands of students compete for limited seats.
- Conceptual depth: Questions test deep understanding, not rote learning.
- Limited time: Answering all questions within 3 hours requires speed and accuracy.
- Application-based questions: Requires strong problem-solving skills.
Is IIT JAM Harder Than JEE or GATE?
- IIT JAM is easier than GATE but tougher than university-level exams.
- Compared to JEE Advanced, IIT JAM is considered moderate to difficult, depending on the subject.
Despite its challenges, with the right preparation and guidance from coaching like Chandu Biology Classes, IIT JAM can be cracked with ease.
3. IIT JAM Exam Pattern & Syllabus
| Exam Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Duration | 3 Hours |
| Total Questions | 60 |
| Total Marks | 100 |
| Sections | MCQs, MSQs, NATs |
| Negative Marking | Only for MCQs |
Each subject has its own detailed syllabus, covering fundamental to advanced topics.
4. IIT JAM Subject-Wise Difficulty Analysis
IIT JAM Physics
- Heavy emphasis on mathematical concepts
- Topics like quantum mechanics & electromagnetism are challenging
IIT JAM Chemistry
- Organic chemistry requires strong conceptual clarity
- Inorganic chemistry is memory-based
IIT JAM Mathematics
- Pure mathematics is tricky for those weak in proofs
- Time-consuming calculations make it challenging
IIT JAM Biotechnology & Biological Sciences
- Requires deep understanding of biological processes
- Biochemistry & microbiology sections are challenging
5. IIT JAM Success Rate & Competition
| Year | Candidates Appeared | Candidates Qualified | Success Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 62,654 | 14,623 | 23.3% |
| 2022 | 66,913 | 16,237 | 24.2% |
| 2023 | 68,892 | 18,012 | 26.1% |
The success rate is low, making strategic preparation and expert coaching essential.
6. Common Challenges Faced by Students in IIT JAM
- Time constraints
- Conceptual clarity issues
- Syllabus vastness
- Lack of guidance
This is where Chandu Biology Classes plays a vital role by offering structured learning and expert mentorship.
7. How to Prepare for IIT JAM Effectively?
- Start early (At least 6 months before the exam)
- Follow a structured timetable
- Use high-quality study material
- Solve previous years’ question papers
- Enroll in a reputed coaching institute like Chandu Biology Classes
8. Why Choose Chandu Biology Classes for IIT JAM Coaching?
- Expert faculty with years of IIT JAM coaching experience
- Comprehensive study materials
- Regular mock tests for performance evaluation
- Personalized doubt-solving sessions
- Success-driven strategies to crack IIT JAM
Chandu Biology Classes has produced many successful IIT JAM aspirants and continues to be the best choice for students.
9. Conclusion: Is IIT JAM Hard or Achievable?
While IIT JAM is challenging, it is not impossible to crack. With strategic preparation, expert coaching from Chandu Biology Classes, and consistent practice, aspirants can achieve top ranks and secure admission in premier institutes.
FAQs
1. Is self-study enough for IIT JAM?
Self-study is possible, but coaching helps with structured learning and expert guidance.
2. How many hours should I study for IIT JAM?
At least 6-8 hours daily with revision and mock tests.
3. What is the best book for IIT JAM preparation?
Books by Arihant, Wiley, and NCERTs are highly recommended.
4. Can an average student crack IIT JAM?
Yes! With the right preparation strategy and coaching, anyone can crack IIT JAM.
5. Why is Chandu Biology Classes recommended for IIT JAM coaching?
Chandu Biology Classes provides expert guidance, high-quality study material, and proven success strategies to help students excel.