IIT JAM 2026 Admit Card Released: The Complete Guide to Downloading, Troubleshooting, and Exam Day Protocols

The wait is finally over for M.Sc. and Integrated Ph.D. aspirants across the nation. The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay has officially released the IIT JAM 2026 Admit Card today.

This document is more than just an entry pass; it is the final green light for your preparation journey. With the exam scheduled for February 15, 2026, candidates have roughly six weeks to fine-tune their strategies. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know—from navigating technical glitches during download to mastering the Computer Based Test (CBT) environment.

Vital Statistics: JAM 2026 at a Glance

Before diving into the process, keep these critical dates and details at your fingertips.

Step-by-Step Guide to Downloading Your Admit Card

The admit card is hosted on the JOAPS (JAM Online Application Processing System) portal. Follow this detailed procedure to access it safely:

1. Navigate to the Source: Open your browser (Chrome or Firefox recommended) and visit the official website. Click on the prominent link labeled “JOAPS 2026: Candidate Portal”.
2. Enter Credentials:
   • Enrollment ID / Email ID: Use the ID sent to you during the initial registration.
   • Password: Enter the password you created.
3. Arithmetic Verification: Solve the simple arithmetic captcha (e.g., 7 + 2 = ?) to verify you are a human user.
4. Dashboard Access: Once logged in, look for the button: “Download Admit Card”.
5. Save and Back Up: The file will download as a PDF. Do not just print it. Save a soft copy in your Google Drive or email it to yourself as a backup.

Troubleshooting Login Issues

• Forgot Enrollment ID? Check the email inbox (including Spam/Junk folders) registered with JOAPS. Search for “IIT JAM Registration.”
• Forgot Password? Click on “Forgot Password” on the login page. You will receive an OTP via SMS or Email to reset it.
• Website Slow/Crashing? Thousands of students access the portal simultaneously. If the page doesn’t load, wait for 15-20 minutes and try again during off-peak hours (late night or early morning).

Critical Verification: The “Zero Error” Check

A single error on your admit card can lead to stress or disqualification on exam day. Verify the following immediately:

• Personal Identity: Name spelling, Registration Number, Photograph clarity, and Signature visibility.
• Test Paper Details: Ensure the code matches your subject (e.g., PH for Physics, CY for Chemistry).
• Category Status: Check if your category (Gen/OBC-NCL/SC/ST/PwD) is correctly listed, as this affects cut-offs.
• Exam Center: Use Google Maps to verify the location of the center. Check the distance from your residence.

Found a Discrepancy?

If your photo is blurry, your name is misspelled, or the paper code is wrong, you must contact the Chairperson, JAM 2026 at IIT Bombay immediately. Send an email with your Enrollment ID and a screenshot of the error. Do not wait until the last week.

Detailed Exam Schedule

The exam is divided into two sessions to accommodate the seven test papers. Ensure you know which shift you belong to.

Session I: Forenoon (9:30 AM – 12:30 PM)

• Chemistry (CY)
• Geology (GG)
• Mathematics (MA)

Session II: Afternoon (2:30 PM – 5:30 PM)

• Biotechnology (BT)
• Economics (EN)
• Mathematical Statistics (MS)
• Physics (PH)

The Exam Day Protocol: Rules of Engagement

What to Carry (The “Green” List)

1. Printout of Admit Card: A clear print on A4 paper. Color is preferred but B/W is acceptable if legible.
2. Original Photo ID: Must be valid and non-expired. Acceptable IDs: Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Voter ID, Passport, or Driving License.
   • Note: College IDs or Photocopies of IDs are NOT accepted.
3. Two Passport Size Photos: Carry these just in case the photo on the admit card is not clear during verification.
4. Transparent Water Bottle: Small, transparent bottle without labels.

What to Leave Behind (The “Red” List)

• Electronic devices (Mobile phones, Bluetooth earphones, Smartwatches).
• Physical Calculators (Scientific or Simple).
• Log tables, charts, or any paper material.
• Wallets or large bags (most centers have a cloakroom, but it’s risky; travel light).

Inside the Hall: Managing the CBT Interface

For many, the Computer Based Test environment can be intimidating. Here is what to expect:

• Biometric Verification: Your fingerprint and photo will be captured before you sit. This same data will be used during admission to verify it was actually you who took the test.
• Scribble Pads: You will be provided with a scribble pad for rough work. You must write your name and registration number on it. If you fill one, you can ask for another, but the previous one must often be returned.
• Virtual Calculator: Since physical calculators are banned, a scientific calculator will be available on the screen. Pro Tip: It is not as responsive as a physical one. Practice using the TCS iON demo calculator online beforehand to get used to the mouse clicks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I change my exam center now?

A: No. The center allotment is final and cannot be changed at this stage under any circumstances.

Q: My signature on the admit card is very small. Is that okay?

A: As long as it is legible, it is fine. If it is blurry or invisible, contact the JAM office immediately.

Q: Do I need to get my admit card attested by a Gazetted Officer?

A: No, attestation is not required for the JAM admit card unless specifically mentioned in special instructions (which is rare).

Final Words of Advice

With the admit card in hand, the exam feels real. The anxiety you feel is normal. Trust your preparation.

• Locate your center a day before the exam.
• Sleep well the night before; a tired brain makes calculation errors.
• Revisit the Exam Pattern: Remember, JAM has Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ), Multiple Select Questions (MSQ), and Numerical Answer Type (NAT) questions. Strategize accordingly.

All the best! Your journey to the IITs begins now.