IAT Exam 2024: Eligibility, Important Dates, Application Fee and Other Details

The Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISERs) are renowned for their high standards in scientific research and education. The IISER Aptitude Test (IAT) is the gateway for students aspiring to join these prestigious institutions. In this article, we will explore the various facets of the IAT exam 2024, providing aspirants with a detailed understanding of the exam format, syllabus, eligibility, application process, and much more.

IAT Exam 2024 Overview

The IAT exam 2024 is a critical step for students aiming to pursue the BS-MS dual degree program at IISERs. Here’s a quick overview of the exam:

• Exam Name: IISER Aptitude Test
• Conducting Body: Indian Institute of Science Education and Research
• Exam Level: Undergraduate
• Frequency: Annually
• Mode: Online/Computer-based Test (CBT)
• Total Registrations: Approximately two lakh
• Courses Offered: BS-MS Dual Degree
• Application Fee: INR 2,000 for Gen/OBC/OBC-NCL/EWS; INR 1,000 for SC/ST/KM/PwD
• Exam Duration: 3 Hours
• Medium: English and Hindi
• Total Marks: 240
• Total Questions: 60
• Marking Scheme: +4 for correct answer, -1 for wrong answer
• Colleges Accepting Scores: All IISER campuses in India
• Official Website: IISER Admission
• Contact Details: Phone: 020 25908222, Email: ask-jac2022@acads.iiserpune.ac.in

Important Dates for IAT Exam 2024

The timeline for the IAT exam 2024 is crucial for aspirants to plan their preparation accordingly. Here are the key dates:

Event	Date
Online Application Starts	Second week of April, 2024
Online Application Ends	Third week of May, 2024
Admit Card Release	Second Week of June, 2024
IISER Aptitude Test	Third Week of June, 2024
Answer Key Release	Third week of June, 2024
Result Publication	First Week of July, 2024

Eligibility Criteria for IAT Exam 2024

Understanding the eligibility criteria is essential for candidates:

• Nationality: Indian nationals, PIO, OCI (for KVPY or IAT channel); Foreign nationals can apply only through JEE (Advanced) channel.
• Educational Qualification: Passed Class XII with science stream in 2022 or 2024 from a board recognized by COBSE.
• Subject Requirement: At least three subjects among Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics in Class XII.
• Minimum Marks: 55% for SC/ST/PwD and 60% for other categories.

Application Process

The application process for IAT 2024 is expected to start in the second week of April 2024. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Registration: Visit the official IISER website and register by providing personal and educational details.
2. Filling the Application Form: Log in with the credentials received and fill in the required information.
3. Document Upload: Upload necessary documents as per the specifications.
4. Application Fee Payment: Pay the fee online through credit/debit card or net banking.
5. Final Submission: Review and submit the application form.

IAT Exam Pattern and Syllabus

The IAT exam pattern and syllabus are designed to assess the candidate’s understanding of basic science subjects.

• Subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics
• Number of Questions: 15 questions from each subject
• Total Marks: 240 (60 marks per subject)
• Duration: 3 hours
• Marking Scheme: +3 for correct answer, -1 for incorrect answer

The syllabus includes topics from the Class 11 and 12 curriculum, covering various aspects of Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics. It is advised to refer to the official IISER brochure for detailed syllabus information.

Admit Card

The admit card for IAT 2024 will be released in the second week of June 2024. Candidates can download it from the official website using their registration credentials. The admit card will contain all necessary exam details and instructions.

IAT 2024 Preparation Strategy and Study Plan

A well-structured study plan is vital for cracking the IAT exam. Here’s a strategic approach:

1. Understand the Syllabus: Familiarize yourself with the detailed syllabus for Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology. The syllabus primarily covers Class 11 and 12 concepts.
2. Create a Balanced Study Timetable: Allocate equal time to all four subjects. Remember, each subject carries equal weightage in the IAT.
3. Conceptual Clarity: Focus on understanding concepts rather than rote learning. IAT questions often test your application skills.
4. Regular Revision: Make it a habit to revise topics regularly. This helps in retaining concepts and formulas.
5. Practice Problem-Solving: Regularly solve problems and practice previous years’ papers. This enhances your problem-solving speed and accuracy.
6. Mock Tests: Take online mock tests to get a real-time exam experience. Analyze your performance to identify and work on weak areas.

Subject-wise Study Tips

Each subject in the IAT requires a unique approach:

• Physics: Focus on conceptual understanding and application. Practice problems that connect theoretical concepts with real-life scenarios.
• Chemistry: For Organic Chemistry, emphasize understanding mechanisms and reactions. In Physical Chemistry, practice numerical problems extensively. Inorganic Chemistry requires thorough reading and memorization of key concepts from NCERT.
• Mathematics: Regular practice is key. Understand formulas and their applications. Focus on visualizing problems, especially in areas like graph and curve sketching.
• Biology: NCERT textbooks are crucial. Pay attention to diagrams and their labeling. Practice MCQs to strengthen your understanding.

IISER Aptitude Test Syllabus 2024

The IISER Aptitude Test syllabus for 2024 is comprehensive, covering significant portions of the 11th and 12th standard curricula in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology. Aspirants should refer to the official IISER syllabus for detailed topics.

Read: EMRS PGT Chemistry Syllabus

Recommended Books and Study Material

While NCERT textbooks are a must, additional reference books can provide deeper insights:

• Physics: Concepts of Physics by H.C. Verma, Fundamentals of Physics by Halliday, Resnick, and Walker
• Chemistry: Organic Chemistry by Morrison and Boyd, Physical Chemistry by P.W. Atkins
• Mathematics: Higher Algebra by Hall and Knight, Problems in Calculus of One Variable by I.A. Maron
• Biology: Trueman’s Elementary Biology, Objective Biology by Dinesh

Balancing IAT with JEE/NEET Preparation

Many students preparing for JEE or NEET can align their study plan with IAT preparation:

• For JEE Aspirants: Focus on Biology from NCERT. The preparation for Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics aligns well with JEE syllabus.
• For NEET Aspirants: Strengthen Mathematics by solving IAT-specific problems and previous year papers.

Read: NEET toughest paper ever

The Bottom Line

The IAT exam 2024 is not just a test of knowledge but also of application, understanding, and analytical skills. A balanced preparation strategy, focusing on all subjects equally and practicing regularly, will pave the way for success. Remember, the journey to IISER is not just about cracking an exam but about nurturing a passion for science and research.