The ISI Admission Test 2027 is a national-level offline (pen-and-paper) entrance exam conducted by the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) for admission to B.Stat, B.Math, M.Stat, M.Math, M.Tech (CS), MS (QE), and research fellowship programs. The exam follows a two-paper format — Paper 1 is objective (MCQ, 120 marks) and Paper 2 is subjective (short answer or descriptive, 100 marks) — with each paper lasting 2 hours. For B.Stat and B.Math programs, the combined total is 220 marks across both papers held on the same day.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | ISI Admission Test 2027 |
| Conducting Body | Indian Statistical Institute (ISI), Kolkata |
| Exam Mode | Offline (Pen and Paper) |
| Paper Format | Paper 1: MCQ (Objective) + Paper 2: Short Answer / Descriptive (Subjective) |
| Duration per Paper | 2 hours |
| Total Marks (B.Stat / B.Math) | 220 marks (Paper 1: 120 marks + Paper 2: 100 marks) |
| Negative Marking | Yes, Paper 1 only (−1 per wrong MCQ); None in Paper 2 |
| Medium of Exam | English |
- The ISI Admission Test 2027 is an offline exam held across two 2-hour papers on the same day for most programs.
- Paper 1 has 30 MCQs carrying 4 marks each for a total of 120 marks in B.Stat and B.Math programs.
- Paper 2 is a subjective paper with 10 short-answer questions totalling 100 marks — partial credit applies and there is no negative marking.
- Negative marking of −1 mark applies to every wrong MCQ in Paper 1; unattempted questions carry zero marks.
- B.Stat and B.Math students appear for the same papers but ISI prepares separate merit lists for each program.
- Postgraduate programs — M.Stat, M.Math, MS (QE), and M.Tech (CS) — have program-specific paper structures with different syllabi.
- The exam is held once a year, typically on the second Sunday of May, with results declared by June or July.
| Direct Link | URL |
|---|---|
| Direct Link to ISI Official Website 2027 | isical.ac.in |
Table of Contents
- ISI Admission Test Exam Pattern 2027: Overview
- ISI Admission Test 2027: Important Dates
- ISI Admission Test 2027: Detailed Exam Pattern
- ISI Admission Test Marking Scheme 2027
- ISI Admission Test Subject-Wise Exam Pattern 2027
- ISI Admission Test Question Types 2027
- ISI Admission Test Exam Pattern: Changes in 2027 vs Previous Year
- How to Prepare Based on ISI Admission Test Exam Pattern
- ISI Admission Test Exam Pattern FAQs
ISI Admission Test Exam Pattern 2027: Overview
The ISI Admission Test 2027 follows an offline, pen-and-paper format and has remained structurally consistent over the past several years. The official 2027 notification — which will confirm any changes — is expected to be released by ISI in early 2027. Until then, the 2026 pattern serves as the reference structure for all programs.
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Mode | Offline (Pen and Paper; OMR sheet for Paper 1) |
| Exam Format | Two papers: Paper 1 (MCQ) + Paper 2 (Short Answer / Descriptive) |
| Duration per Paper | 2 hours (4 hours total for most programs) |
| Total Questions (B.Stat / B.Math) | 40 (30 MCQs in Paper 1 + 10 Short Answer in Paper 2) |
| Total Marks (B.Stat / B.Math) | 220 marks |
| Negative Marking | Yes — Paper 1 only (−1 per wrong MCQ); None in Paper 2 |
| Partial Marking | Yes — in Paper 2 (Subjective) |
| Language / Medium | English only |
| Programs Covered | B.Stat (Hons.), B.Math (Hons.), M.Stat, M.Math, M.Tech (CS), MS (QE), JRF programs |
| Conducting Body | Indian Statistical Institute (ISI), Kolkata |
ISI Admission Test 2027 is an offline exam with two 2-hour papers — Paper 1 (MCQ, 120 marks) and Paper 2 (Subjective, 100 marks) — totalling 220 marks for B.Stat and B.Math programs.
ISI Admission Test 2027: Important Dates
The ISI Admission Test 2027 official dates have not been announced yet as of September 2026. ISI typically releases the notification and application schedule in January. The table below lists expected dates based on previous years — check isical.ac.in for confirmed dates once the official notification is out.
| Event | Expected Date (2027) |
|---|---|
| Official Notification Release | January 2027 (Expected) |
| Application Form Opens | February 2027 (Expected) |
| Application Form Last Date | March 2027 (Expected) |
| Admit Card Download | April 2027 (Expected) |
| ISI Admission Test 2027 — Exam Date | Second Sunday of May 2027 (Expected) |
| Result Declaration | June 2027 (Expected) |
| Interview / Selection Process | June–July 2027 (Expected) |
| Final Admission / Joining | July 2027 (Expected) |
ISI Admission Test 2027: Detailed Exam Pattern
The ISI Admission Test 2027 uses program-specific papers. Each program has two papers on the same day. The pattern below is based on the 2026 structure and is expected to remain the same for 2027 unless ISI announces changes in the official brochure.
B.Stat (Hons.) and B.Math (Hons.) — Paper Pattern
B.Stat and B.Math students appear for the same Paper 1 and Paper 2. ISI prepares separate merit lists for each program from the common scores.
| Paper | Type | Subject | No. of Questions | Marks per Question | Total Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 (MCQ) | Objective — Multiple Choice | Mathematics | 30 | 4 | 120 | 2 hours |
| Paper 2 (Short Answer) | Subjective — Short Answer | Mathematics | 10 | 10 | 100 | 2 hours |
| Total | — | — | 40 | — | 220 marks | 4 hours |
Note: Paper 1 carries negative marking of −1 mark per wrong MCQ. Paper 2 has no negative marking — attempt all questions and show full working, as ISI awards partial credit.
M.Stat — Paper Pattern
M.Stat students sit two papers covering advanced Statistics and Probability. You need a strong foundation in B.Stat-equivalent or undergraduate-level Statistics to qualify.
| Paper | Type | Subject | Total Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 (MCQ) | Objective — Multiple Choice | Statistics and Probability | 120 | 2 hours |
| Paper 2 (Descriptive) | Subjective — Descriptive | Advanced Statistics | 100 | 2 hours |
| Total | — | — | 220 marks | 4 hours |
M.Math — Paper Pattern
M.Math students appear for two papers in advanced Pure Mathematics. The descriptive paper tests rigorous proof-writing and analytical problem-solving.
| Paper | Type | Subject | Total Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 (MCQ) | Objective — Multiple Choice | Advanced Mathematics | 120 | 2 hours |
| Paper 2 (Descriptive) | Subjective — Descriptive | Advanced Mathematics | 100 | 2 hours |
| Total | — | — | 220 marks | 4 hours |
MS (QE) — Quantitative Economics — Paper Pattern
MS (QE) students appear for two papers testing Mathematics, Statistics, and Economics. Students from Economics, Mathematics, or Statistics backgrounds commonly appear for this program.
| Paper | Type | Subject | Total Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 (MCQ) | Objective — Multiple Choice | Mathematics and Statistics | 120 | 2 hours |
| Paper 2 (Descriptive) | Subjective — Descriptive | Economics and Mathematics | 100 | 2 hours |
| Total | — | — | 220 marks | 4 hours |
M.Tech (CS) — Computer Science — Paper Pattern
M.Tech (CS) students appear for two papers. Paper 1 tests Statistics and Mathematics, while Paper 2 tests Computer Science theory and problem-solving.
| Paper | Type | Subject | Total Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 (MCQ) | Objective — Multiple Choice | Statistics / Mathematics | 120 | 2 hours |
| Paper 2 (Descriptive) | Subjective — Descriptive | Computer Science | 100 | 2 hours |
| Total | — | — | 220 marks | 4 hours |
ISI Admission Test Marking Scheme 2027
The ISI Admission Test 2027 marking scheme applies negative marking only in Paper 1 (MCQ). Paper 2 — whether short answer for UG programs or descriptive for PG programs — carries no negative marking. ISI also awards partial credit in Paper 2, so you should attempt every question and write all working steps.
| Question Type | Paper | Marks for Correct Answer | Marks for Wrong Answer | Marks for Unattempted |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MCQ — Single Correct | Paper 1 (All Programs) | +4 | −1 | 0 |
| Short Answer (Written) | Paper 2 (B.Stat / B.Math) | Full or partial marks as per scheme | 0 (No negative marking) | 0 |
| Descriptive (Written) | Paper 2 (PG Programs) | Full or partial marks as per scheme | 0 (No negative marking) | 0 |
Negative marking of −1 mark applies to all MCQs in Paper 1 of ISI Admission Test 2027 — avoid random guessing in Paper 1 when you cannot eliminate any options.
There is no negative marking in Paper 2 of ISI Admission Test 2027 — always attempt every question and show your complete working, as ISI awards partial credit for correct steps.
ISI Admission Test Subject-Wise Exam Pattern 2027
The ISI Admission Test 2027 tests different subjects depending on the program. Mathematics is the core subject for undergraduate programs. Postgraduate programs cover Statistics, Mathematics, Economics, or Computer Science based on the degree.
B.Stat (Hons.) and B.Math (Hons.) — Mathematics
Both B.Stat and B.Math programs test Mathematics across Paper 1 and Paper 2. Paper 1 covers Class XI–XII level Mathematics plus higher reasoning, while Paper 2 demands proof-based and analytical problem-solving.
| Topic Area | Paper | Question Type |
|---|---|---|
| Algebra (Polynomials, Complex Numbers, Matrices) | Paper 1 + Paper 2 | MCQ + Short Answer |
| Calculus (Limits, Derivatives, Integrals) | Paper 1 + Paper 2 | MCQ + Short Answer |
| Geometry and Trigonometry | Paper 1 + Paper 2 | MCQ + Short Answer |
| Probability and Combinatorics | Paper 1 + Paper 2 | MCQ + Short Answer |
| Number Theory and Sequences | Paper 1 + Paper 2 | MCQ + Short Answer |
M.Stat — Statistics and Probability
The M.Stat exam covers advanced Statistics and Probability Theory at the undergraduate Honours level. Paper 2 tests derivation, inference, and multi-step problem solving.
| Topic Area | Paper | Question Type |
|---|---|---|
| Probability Theory and Distributions | Paper 1 + Paper 2 | MCQ + Descriptive |
| Statistical Inference (Estimation and Testing) | Paper 1 + Paper 2 | MCQ + Descriptive |
| Linear Models and Regression | Paper 2 | Descriptive |
| Multivariate Analysis | Paper 2 | Descriptive |
| Sample Surveys and Design of Experiments | Paper 1 + Paper 2 | MCQ + Descriptive |
M.Math — Advanced Mathematics
The M.Math exam covers Pure and Applied Mathematics at the undergraduate Honours level. Topics demand deep conceptual understanding and the ability to write rigorous mathematical proofs.
| Topic Area | Paper | Question Type |
|---|---|---|
| Real Analysis | Paper 1 + Paper 2 | MCQ + Descriptive |
| Abstract Algebra (Groups, Rings, Fields) | Paper 1 + Paper 2 | MCQ + Descriptive |
| Complex Analysis | Paper 1 + Paper 2 | MCQ + Descriptive |
| Linear Algebra | Paper 1 + Paper 2 | MCQ + Descriptive |
| Topology and Metric Spaces | Paper 2 | Descriptive |
MS (QE) — Mathematics, Statistics, and Economics
MS (QE) students need proficiency in Mathematics and Statistics for Paper 1, and in Microeconomics and Macroeconomics for Paper 2. The program attracts students from Economics and Mathematics backgrounds.
| Topic Area | Paper | Question Type |
|---|---|---|
| Calculus, Linear Algebra, and Optimisation | Paper 1 | MCQ |
| Statistics and Probability | Paper 1 | MCQ |
| Microeconomics (Consumer Theory, Market Structures) | Paper 2 | Descriptive |
| Macroeconomics (National Income, Monetary Policy) | Paper 2 | Descriptive |
| Game Theory and Econometrics | Paper 2 | Descriptive |
ISI Admission Test Question Types 2027
The ISI Admission Test 2027 uses two distinct question formats across its papers. Paper 1 is fully objective with MCQs, while Paper 2 tests analytical depth through hand-written short answers or descriptive solutions. The two-format structure is a defining feature of ISI’s selection process.
| Question Type | Paper | Format | Negative Marking | Partial Credit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ) — Single Correct | Paper 1 (All Programs) | 4 options; one correct; answer on OMR sheet | Yes (−1 per wrong answer) | No |
| Short Answer Questions | Paper 2 (B.Stat / B.Math) | Written solutions in answer booklet; step-by-step working required | No | Yes |
| Descriptive / Long-Answer Questions | Paper 2 (PG Programs) | Detailed written answers; proofs, derivations, and analysis expected | No | Yes |
ISI’s Paper 2 is different from most national entrance exams — it does not test formula recall. You need to construct mathematical arguments, write proofs, and show step-by-step reasoning. The examiner evaluates the quality of your approach, not just the final answer.
Partial marks are awarded in Paper 2 of the ISI Admission Test 2027 — always show your working steps even if you cannot complete the solution fully.
ISI Admission Test Exam Pattern: Changes in 2027 vs Previous Year
The ISI Admission Test 2027 official brochure has not been released as of September 2026 — the notification is expected in January 2027. The ISI exam pattern has been highly stable over the past several years with no major structural changes. The comparison below uses the 2026 pattern as the reference. ISI will confirm any changes for 2027 in the official notification at isical.ac.in.
| Parameter | ISI Admission Test 2026 | ISI Admission Test 2027 (Expected) |
|---|---|---|
| Exam Mode | Offline (Pen and Paper) | Offline (Pen and Paper) — Expected |
| Number of Papers per Program | 2 (Paper 1 + Paper 2) | 2 (Paper 1 + Paper 2) — Expected |
| Paper 1 — Questions (B.Stat / B.Math) | 30 MCQs | 30 MCQs — Expected |
| Paper 1 — Marks (B.Stat / B.Math) | 120 marks (+4 per correct, −1 per wrong) | 120 marks — Expected |
| Paper 2 — Questions (B.Stat / B.Math) | 10 Short Answer questions | 10 Short Answer questions — Expected |
| Paper 2 — Marks (B.Stat / B.Math) | 100 marks (no negative marking) | 100 marks — Expected |
| Total Marks (B.Stat / B.Math) | 220 marks | 220 marks — Expected |
| Duration per Paper | 2 hours | 2 hours — Expected |
| Negative Marking (Paper 1) | −1 per wrong MCQ | −1 per wrong MCQ — Expected |
| Negative Marking (Paper 2) | None | None — Expected |
| Medium | English | English — Expected |
No major changes are expected in the ISI Admission Test 2027 pattern — the exam has followed a consistent two-paper format for several years. Verify the official 2027 brochure at isical.ac.in once released.
How to Prepare Based on ISI Admission Test Exam Pattern
The ISI Admission Test 2027 pattern reveals exactly what skills you need. Paper 1 rewards speed and precision on MCQs. Paper 2 rewards deep mathematical thinking. These tips are directly derived from the pattern structure.
- Build speed for Paper 1: Paper 1 gives you 2 hours for 30 MCQs — roughly 4 minutes per question. Practice timed Mathematics problems daily to develop the pace and accuracy the format demands.
- Prioritise Paper 2 practice equally: Paper 2 carries 100 out of 220 marks — nearly half the total. Many students over-prepare for MCQs and neglect written problem-solving. ISI awards partial credit in Paper 2, so consistent practice on proof-writing yields reliable returns.
- Use the −1 negative marking rule strategically in Paper 1: Each wrong MCQ costs you 1 mark on top of the 4 marks you miss. Skip a question only when you have no idea at all. If you can eliminate two of four options, the expected value of attempting is positive.
- Solve ISI previous year papers for both papers: ISI publishes previous year question papers on its official website. These are the most accurate guide to question style, difficulty, and topic balance for both Paper 1 and Paper 2.
- Strengthen Mathematics fundamentals for UG programs: Algebra, calculus, combinatorics, geometry, and probability appear consistently across B.Stat and B.Math papers. ISI tests conceptual depth — not formula memorisation. Focus on understanding why results hold, not just how to apply them.
- Cover the full program syllabus for PG programs: M.Stat, M.Math, and MS (QE) papers often include multi-step derivations and proofs in Paper 2. Review all topics listed in ISI’s official brochure for your target program.
- Practise under full exam conditions: Both papers are held on the same day with a short break between them. Simulate this 4-hour sitting during your preparation to build exam-day stamina and manage mental fatigue effectively.
ISI Admission Test Exam Pattern FAQs
Ques. Is there negative marking in ISI Admission Test 2027?
Ans. Yes, the ISI Admission Test 2027 carries negative marking of −1 mark for every wrong MCQ in Paper 1. Paper 2 (Short Answer or Descriptive) has no negative marking. Avoid random guessing in Paper 1 when you cannot eliminate any options.
Ques. How many questions are asked in ISI Admission Test 2027?
Ans. For B.Stat and B.Math programs, the ISI Admission Test 2027 has 40 questions in total — 30 MCQs in Paper 1 and 10 short answer questions in Paper 2. Postgraduate programs have different question counts based on the specific program.
Ques. What is the total marks for ISI Admission Test 2027?
Ans. The ISI Admission Test 2027 carries 220 marks for B.Stat and B.Math programs — Paper 1 is worth 120 marks (30 MCQs at 4 marks each) and Paper 2 is worth 100 marks (10 questions at 10 marks each). Postgraduate programs also follow a 220-mark structure across their respective two papers.
Ques. Is the ISI Admission Test 2027 online or offline?
Ans. The ISI Admission Test 2027 is an offline (pen and paper) exam. Students mark Paper 1 answers on an OMR sheet and write Paper 2 solutions in an answer booklet. ISI does not conduct its admission test in computer-based (CBT) mode.
Ques. How long is the ISI Admission Test 2027?
Ans. Each paper in the ISI Admission Test 2027 is 2 hours long. Most programs have two papers on the same day, making the total sitting 4 hours, excluding any break between papers. Time management across both papers on the same day is an important part of preparation.
Ques. What subjects does the ISI Admission Test 2027 cover?
Ans. The subjects depend on the program you apply for. B.Stat and B.Math programs cover Mathematics across both papers. M.Stat covers Statistics and Probability. M.Math covers advanced Pure Mathematics. MS (QE) covers Mathematics, Statistics, and Economics. M.Tech (CS) covers Mathematics/Statistics in Paper 1 and Computer Science in Paper 2.
Ques. Do B.Stat and B.Math students sit the same papers in ISI Admission Test 2027?
Ans. Yes, B.Stat and B.Math students appear for the same Paper 1 and Paper 2. ISI uses the scores to prepare separate merit lists for each program. Your application specifies which program you are seeking admission to, and ISI ranks you within that program’s merit list accordingly.
Ques. Does ISI award partial marks in Paper 2?
Ans. Yes, ISI awards partial credit in Paper 2 (Short Answer and Descriptive). You should always write every step you know, even if you cannot complete the full solution. The examiner evaluates your reasoning process and method, not just the final numerical or theoretical answer.
Ques. When will the ISI Admission Test 2027 be held?
Ans. The exact exam date for ISI Admission Test 2027 has not been announced as of September 2026. Based on previous years, the exam is typically held on the second Sunday of May. ISI will publish the confirmed date in the official 2027 notification at isical.ac.in, expected in January 2027.
Ques. How many marks does each MCQ carry in ISI Admission Test 2027?
Ans. Each MCQ in Paper 1 of the ISI Admission Test 2027 carries +4 marks for a correct answer and −1 mark for a wrong answer. There are 30 MCQs in Paper 1 for B.Stat and B.Math programs, making Paper 1 worth 120 marks in total when all answers are correct.
Ques. Does ISI conduct separate exams for each program?
Ans. ISI conducts program-group papers rather than one common exam. B.Stat and B.Math students share the same papers. M.Stat, M.Math, MS (QE), and M.Tech (CS) students each have their own program-specific papers. You apply for a specific program and appear only for the papers relevant to that program.
Ques. What is a good score in ISI Admission Test 2027?
Ans. ISI does not publish official cutoffs publicly. For B.Stat and B.Math, students who clear the written exam are called for an interview. Based on historical patterns, scoring 130+ out of 220 is generally considered competitive for the written stage. The exact threshold varies each year based on difficulty and the number of applicants.
*The article might have information for the previous academic years, which will be updated soon subject to the notification issued by the University/College.
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