IAT doesn’t limit your chances of getting into India’s top science research institutes. If you’ve completed Class 12th with a science background – PCM, PCB, or PCMB – If you’re pursuing IISER Courses, you’re eligible for the IAT exam. However, to score well, it’s important to attempt the Math section.

In this blog, we’ll show you how to approach the IAT, even if Math wasn’t your main subject in 12th grade. Let’s dive in!

Understanding the IISER Aptitude Test (IAT)

The IISER Aptitude Test (IAT) is an entrance exam. It opens doors to top science research institutes in India. With IAT, you can get admission to IISc Bangalore, IIT Madras, and seven IISERs. These institutes offer the BS-MS dual degree program. It’s a great path to a career in science and research.

Is Mathematics Compulsory for IAT? 

Let us first look into the eligibility criteria for IAT: 

• Mathematics is not compulsory for the IAT. You only need at least three subjects from Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, or Biology. So, if you are a PCB student, you can still take the IAT!
• The IAT is a computer-based test. It lasts for 3 hours and contains 60 multiple-choice questions. These questions are divided into four subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology, with 15 questions from each. The total marks for the test are 240.
• The marking scheme is simple: correct answers earn +4 marks, incorrect answers deduct 1 mark, and unanswered questions have no penalty.

The IAT gives equal weight to each section, so all four sections contribute the same to your final score. Therefore, it is important to perform well in every section. However, for IIT Madras and IISc Bangalore, Mathematics is compulsory. In other words, you must have Mathematics in your Class 12th to apply.

How to Prepare for the Mathematics Section in IAT?

SciAstra’s Book – The Guiding Hand in Your Preparation Journey! 

If you’re preparing for the IAT, SciAstra’s book will help you succeed. It walks you through each exam topic step by step. Additionally, the book simplifies tough concepts and makes them easier to understand. It also includes practice questions and mock tests to track your progress.

With SciAstra’s book, you’ll stay focused and boost your confidence. Whether you need extra practice or want to refine your test-taking skills, this book has everything you need. In fact, it’s the perfect resource to guide your IAT preparation.

Check out SciAstra’s book here and start preparing smarter today!

Focus on Key Chapters and Concepts

Start by prioritizing topics that appear often in past papers. You don’t need to cover the whole math syllabus, especially if Math isn’t your strong suit. Just focus on the key areas. Also, try SciAstra’s Free Mock Tests. They give detailed feedback based on past IAT papers.

Practice Regularly

Practice is key. Solve mock tests, and pay attention to your weak areas. Make a plan to work on them. At the end of each week, review your progress. Turn your weak points into strengths, and improve your strong points even more.

Take Small, Consistent Steps

Small steps add up. Spend at least 30 minutes on Math every day. Doing this consistently will help more than cramming last-minute.

Time Management

Time management matters, especially if Math isn’t your main subject. Take your time with the Math section and try to answer every question. This will help boost your score.

Build Conceptual Clarity

It’s important to understand the theory behind each topic. Practice solving different types of questions to strengthen your grasp. Also, go through past year questions (PYQs) to deepen your understanding.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, you can take the iiser courses​ Aptitude Test (IAT) without Mathematics in 12th. The IAT lets students from both PCB and PCM backgrounds apply, giving them access to IISER’s prestigious BS-MS programs.

Although the IAT doesn’t require Mathematics, it gives it equal weight as the other sections. Preparing for it will boost your final scores.

Focus on key chapters, practice mock tests, manage your time well, and build strong concepts to perform well in the IAT and secure a spot at iiser courses​. Whether Mathematics is your strength or not, stay positive, build on your strengths, and trust your ability.

Good luck with your IAT journey!

FAQs :

Can I take the IISER Aptitude Test (IAT) without studying Mathematics in Class 12?
Yes, you can! Mathematics is not required to take the IAT. You only need any combination of three subjects: Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, or Physics.

Is it possible to score well in IAT without attempting the Mathematics section?
Yes, it is possible. However, skipping the Mathematics section may lower your score. This section accounts for 25% of the exam. Even if you are not confident in Math, attempting a few questions can still help boost your score.

Do I need Mathematics to get into IISER through the IAT channel?
No, you do not need Mathematics. If you have a PCB background, you are still eligible for iiser courses​ through the IAT, as long as you meet the other criteria.

How is IISER different from IIT-M and IISc Bangalore in terms of Mathematics requirements?
IISER does not require Mathematics for the IAT. However, IIT-M and IISc Bangalore do. They require Mathematics, along with Physics and Chemistry, for admission.

About Us:

SciAstra is a team of scientists and research scholars from the top research institutes around the world, like Oxford, Harvard, Cambridge, and so on. Our vision is to promote critical thinking and scientific temperament by helping students pursue careers in science.

We offer many free and paid courses where our mentors from the top research institutes like IISER, NISER, IACS, CMI, ISI, IISC Bangalore, etc., teach students in live classes, with study materials,  mock tests, books, and everything needed. We have taught more than 10,000 students already since 2021 and achieved over 1000 selections with AIR 1, 7,10, 12, and 13 in  IISc Bengaluru, IISERs, NISER, IACS, and so on.  If you are looking to prepare for IAT / NEST 2025, you can check out our courses and get access to live classes, recorded lectures, study material, mock tests, doubt-clearing classes, and much more! 

To know more about us, click here OR download the SciAstra App from the Play Store and App Store!