The IIT Joint Admission Test for M.Sc. (JAM) is one of the most prestigious national-level entrance exams for science graduates aiming to pursue post-graduate programs such as M.Sc., Joint M.Sc.-Ph.D., and integrated Ph.D. at leading institutes like IITs, IISc, NITs, and IISERs. Among various subjects, JAM Chemistry (CY) remains one of the most competitive and rewarding fields for aspirants.

If you’re beginning your JAM Chemistry preparation from scratch, this complete guide for the 2026 exam will walk you through everything you need to know — from exam pattern and syllabus to preparation strategies, study materials, and expert tips.

Understanding IIT JAM Chemistry 2026: Overview

Before diving into preparation, it’s essential to understand the structure and nature of the exam.

Exam Mode and Format

Mode: Online Computer-Based Test (CBT)

Duration: 3 hours

Total Marks: 100

Number of Questions: 60

Medium: English

Section-wise Distribution:

Section Type of Questions Number of Questions Marks

A Multiple Choice (MCQ) 30 50

B Multiple Select (MSQ) 10 20

C Numerical Answer (NAT) 20 30

Marking Scheme:

MCQ: +1/+2 for correct, -1/3 or -2/3 for incorrect (for 1-mark/2-mark questions)

MSQ/NAT: No negative marking

IIT JAM Chemistry 2026 Syllabus

The syllabus is divided broadly into three main sections:

1. Physical Chemistry

Atomic Structure and Quantum Chemistry

Chemical Thermodynamics

Chemical Kinetics

Electrochemistry

Surface Chemistry

Solutions and Colligative Properties

Gaseous and Liquid States

Solid State

2. Organic Chemistry

Reaction Mechanisms and Reactive Intermediates

Stereochemistry

Aromaticity

Named Reactions

Biomolecules

Polymers

Spectroscopy: UV, IR, NMR

3. Inorganic Chemistry

Periodic Table and Periodicity

Chemical Bonding

Coordination Chemistry

Main Group Elements

Transition and Inner-Transition Elements

Organometallics

Bioinorganic Chemistry

Refer to the official IIT JAM 2026 syllabus PDF for detailed and updated topics.

Step 1: Analyze the Syllabus and Exam Pattern

Start by downloading the official syllabus from the IIT JAM website. Categorize topics into strong, moderate, and weak zones based on your existing knowledge. Identify high-weightage topics from previous year papers.

Step 2: Create a Realistic Study Plan

Divide your preparation time into phases:

Phase 1 (April – July): Concept building

Phase 2 (August – October): Advanced practice and topic tests

Phase 3 (November – January): Full-length mock tests, revision, PYQs

Ensure your weekly schedule includes:

5–6 study hours daily

Balanced focus on Physical, Organic, and Inorganic Chemistry

Weekly revisions and practice questions

Step 3: Build Strong Fundamentals

Use NCERT textbooks of Class 11 and 12 to strengthen your basics in Physical, Organic, and Inorganic Chemistry. Move on to advanced books only after gaining clarity in foundational concepts.

Topic-Wise Preparation Tips

Physical Chemistry:

Practice numerical problems daily

Focus on formulas and derivations

Understand graphs and data interpretation

Organic Chemistry:

Build reaction mechanisms from basics

Practice name reactions and conversions

Understand spectroscopy-based structural analysis

Inorganic Chemistry:

Memorize periodic trends and exceptions

Revise coordination chemistry regularly

Practice structure-based questions from bioinorganic chemistry

Importance of Solving Previous Year Papers

Solving PYQs helps you:

Understand JAM’s difficulty level

Familiarize with question types

Identify repetitive and high-weightage topics

Mock Tests and Self-Evaluation

Enroll in a test series or solve mock tests every weekend after your basics are clear. Mock tests simulate real exam pressure and help identify weaknesses.

Track:

Accuracy

Speed

Time taken per section

Negative marking instances

Revise your mistakes and make short notes of incorrect questions.

Tips for Working Students or Late Starters

Utilize weekends for long study sessions

Study in Pomodoro sessions (25+5 minute blocks)

Watch recorded video lectures instead of live

Focus on high-weightage chapters first

Revision Strategy

In the final 2 months:

Make one-page summaries for each chapter

Revise using flashcards and formula sheets

Re-solve difficult PYQs

Attempt 2–3 full-length mocks per week

Use revision tables and mind maps for topics like chemical bonding, reaction mechanisms, and spectroscopy.

Day Before the Exam

Stay calm and confident

Revise only key formulas and reaction mechanisms

Do not start any new topic

Ensure good sleep and nutrition

On the Exam Day

Attempt NAT questions carefully, as they carry no negative marking

Do not spend more than 60 seconds on any one question in the first pass

Mark doubtful questions for review

Maximize attempt in MSQs with logic and elimination

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Ignoring Inorganic Chemistry until the last moment

Rote learning without understanding mechanisms

Over-reliance on one resource

Skipping mock tests

Not analyzing previous year trends

IIT JAM Chemistry 2026: Month-by-Month Preparation Plan

Month Goals

April – May Syllabus analysis, basics from NCERT

June – July Physical & Inorganic Chemistry fundamentals

August Start Organic Chemistry, PYQ practice

September Full syllabus completion

October Topic-wise tests and notes making

November Begin full-length mocks and revisions

December Mock analysis, final revision

January Polishing weak areas, peak preparation

February Final touch-ups and confidence building

How GATEIIT Institute Helps in JAM Chemistry Preparation

GATEIIT (Bangalore) is a renowned coaching institute known for its focused JAM Chemistry preparation. Here’s how GATEIIT supports aspirants:

1. Structured Coaching Program

GATEIIT offers a well-organized course curriculum covering all aspects of JAM Chemistry, from basic to advanced topics, aligned with the latest syllabus.

2. Expert Faculty and Live Classes

The institute has experienced educators from IITs and IISc, delivering live interactive classes and one-on-one mentorship.

3. High-Quality Study Material

Students receive updated notes, formula sheets, and topic-wise problem sets designed specifically for JAM Chemistry.

4. Regular Tests and Assessments

The institute conducts frequent unit tests, topic tests, and full-length mocks, helping students track their progress and improve.

5. Doubt Clearing Sessions

Live doubt-clearing sessions and dedicated Telegram groups ensure that students never get stuck in any concept.

6. Online + Offline Flexibility

Whether you’re a final-year student or a working professional, GATEIIT provides flexible coaching options including recorded lectures, crash courses, and weekend batches.

7. Impressive Track Record

Every year, a significant number of GATEIIT students secure top ranks in JAM Chemistry, reflecting the institute’s quality and credibility.