IIT JAM vs CUET PG vs JEST: Which Exam is Best for MSc Aspirants?

For MSc aspirants, IIT JAM is great for top IITs/IISc science programs, CUET PG offers wider access to central universities (DU, BHU) across many streams like Arts, Sci, Comm). 

On the other hand, JEST is for deep research-focused PhD/Int-PhD at IISc, IISERs, but also MSc. Read this Shiksha Article to understand everything about IIT JAM, CUET PG, and JEST so that they can differentiate better and choose the best for them. 

With the rapid interest in MSc courses among the test takers, there are thousands of BSc degree holders who appear for IIT JAM, CUET PG & PHD holders for JEST. Their comparison is based on many factors like difficulty level, pattern, list of MSc courses, etc.

IIT JAM vs CUET PG

Here, in this table we have detailed comparative analysis between CUET vs JAM exams:

IIT JAM vs JEST

Here we will analyse IIT JAM vs JEST on the basis of a criterion where from its full form to its marking scheme, we will have a proper analysis.

IIT JAM vs CUET PG vs JEST: Exam Pattern 2026

Here will discuss about the exam pattern for 2026 for IIT JAM vs CUET 

IIT JAM (Joint Admission Test for M.Sc.)

Focus: Those wishing to enter into M.Sc. and Joint M.Sc.-Ph.D. programs in IITs, IISc, Other universities.

Format (2026): Online testing with three sections.

Section A (MCQ): 30 Questions (10 Questions of 1 Mark and 20 Questions of 2 Marks) = 50 Marks

Section B (MSQ): Ten Questions (Each worth 2 Marks) = 20 Marks

Section C (NAT): 20 Questions (10 Questions of 1 Mark and 10 Questions of 2 Marks) = 45 Marks

Important Key: Higher-level knowledge of Subjects will be required. There will be a negative marking for answering wrong Questions in the MC rights section; there is no penalty for wrong answer in MSQ and NAT Sections.

CUET PG (Common University Entrance Test for PG Courses)

Focus: Whether to Study at the Central, State or Private Universities for Broad Post Graduate Programs such as M.Sc, M.A, etc.

Format (2026): Varies Between Subjects but usually has two Parts: 

• General Aptitude (Part A)
•  Subject Specifics (Part B).

Important Key: Speed and Accuracy are Keys to success. You have a much larger range of Subjects and Universities to choose from.

JEST (Joint Entrance Screening Test)

Focus: Individuals looking to take their PhD or Integrated PhD in the currently growing areas of Physics, Neuroscience, and Similar Research Facilities (IISc, TIFR).

Format (2026): Offline Test with approximately 50 Questions (Both MCQs and Subjective Based Physics) over 3 hours.

Important Key: Highly research oriented with questions focused on both objective and conceptual/theoretical types.

IIT JAM vs CUET PG vs JEST: Exam Difficulty Level

JEST is the toughest exam, then IIT JAM is considered moderately difficult, and CUET PG is comparatively easier as compared to IIT JAM and JEST.

• JEST: This is the hardest of the 3. It is similar to the CSIR NET/ PhD level of difficulty. There is a heavy emphasis on Research/A Research Based Test. The majority of the questions asked on the JEST test require an extensive understanding of the material to be able to answer them correctly.
• IIT JAM: IIT JAM test falls somewhere between Easiest (CUET PG) and Hardest (JEST). It is generally more difficult than the CUET PG but less difficult than the JEST.
• CUET PG: CUET PG is the easiest test of the 3 tests discussed above. It covers the same full range of the UG course material as the other two tests but is based more on the "present" knowledge and less on the research oriented knowledge.

How to Prepare for IIT JAM, CUET PG & JEST?

Here are some of the common and effective preparation methods for the MSc students to achieve great ranks in whatever exam they choose CUET PG vs IIT JAM vs JEST:

1. Go through the syllabus

The most effective way to understand the subject on a deep level is to understand syllabus and create a plan accordingly.

2. Important Topics

Mark the important topics for IIT JAM vs JEST and CUET PG and prioritise your time. 

3. Create a Study Plan

Create a proper schedule to gain proper access to the time you are utilising while preparing.

4. Practice Mock Test & Previous Year Question Papers

Always remember to practice at least once a week whether mock tests or the previous year question papers. This will give you an exact idea of the exam.

5. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

Students need to understand that it is necessary to prioritise their mental & physical health to have a proper mindset for the exam.

Now, if there is still a question arises in your mind, "IIT JAM vs CUET PG vs JEST: which exam is best for MSc aspirants?" then you may take time and properly research before deciding to give any of these exams.

Also Read: Is IIT JAM exam difficult?