IIT JAM Biotechnology Exam: Complete Guide for MSc Biotechnology Aspirants
The IIT JAM Biotechnology pathway is one of the most sought-after routes for admission into MSc Biotechnology, MSc–PhD Dual Degree, and Integrated Research programmes at premier institutes like IITs, IISc Bengaluru, IISERs, NITs, and Central Universities. Biotechnology through IIT JAM focuses on molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, and applied biological sciences.
What is IIT JAM Biotechnology?
- Conducting body: IITs (on rotation)
- Mode of exam: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
- Duration: 3 Hours
- Medium: English
- Negative marking: Only for MCQs
IIT JAM Biotechnology Syllabus (Core Areas)
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics & Genomics
- Biochemistry
- Microbiology & Immunology
- Biostatistics & Bioinformatics (Basics)
- Recombinant DNA Technology
IIT JAM Biotechnology Exam Pattern
| Section | Question Type | No. of Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | MCQ | 30 | 30 |
| B | MSQ | 10 | 20 |
| C | NAT | 20 | 50 |
Eligibility for IIT JAM Biotechnology
- BSc / BTech / equivalent degree in Life Sciences, Biotechnology, or related disciplines
- Final-year students are eligible
- No age limit
Top Institutes Offering Biotechnology via IIT JAM
| Sl. No. | Institute Name | City | Programme Offered |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Indian Institute of Science (IISc) | Bengaluru | MSc Biotechnology |
| 2 | IIT Bombay | Mumbai | MSc Biotechnology |
| 3 | IIT Delhi | New Delhi | MSc Biotechnology |
| 4 | IIT Guwahati | Guwahati | MSc Biotechnology |
Note: Availability of MSc Biotechnology seats through IIT JAM may change every year. Always verify programmes from the official IIT JAM brochure and institute websites.
Career Scope After MSc Biotechnology
Graduates can pursue PhD, research fellowships, biotech industry roles, pharmaceutical R&D, clinical research, bioinformatics, regulatory affairs, teaching, and government scientific services.
FAQs – IIT JAM Biotechnology
Biotechnology admissions are mainly through the Biosciences (BI) paper, depending on institute requirements.
Yes, negative marking is applicable only for MCQ questions.
Yes, BSc Biotechnology students are fully eligible for IIT JAM.
