IIM Bangalore UG Exam Syllabus 2026 – The UG Entrance Exam from IIM Bangalore for 2026 has excited candidates enormously. Students have been asking what it will actually mean for their preparation since IIM Bangalore suggested that the exam will be set on the NCERT syllabus for grades 10, 11, and 12 for all sections.
This blog provides a breakdown of the IIM Bangalore UG Exam syllabus by section, sub-topics, and the level of difficulty or complexity to help you anchor your preparation effectively and stay ahead of the game.
Table of Contents
Understanding the IIM Bangalore UG Entrance Exam
IIM Bangalore’s new undergraduate program aims to identify students with the ability to think analytically, demonstrate logical reasoning, and communicate effectively.
The institute has confirmed that the test will follow the NCERT syllabus (Classes X-XII). The topics are as follows:
- Mathematics: Based entirely on the NCERT syllabus of Classes X, XI, and XII, focusing on conceptual understanding and application.
- English: Will include reading comprehension, grammar, vocabulary, and verbal reasoning to assess interpretation and language skills.
- Logical Reasoning: Designed to test critical reasoning, analytical reasoning, and numerical reasoning abilities, ensuring strong problem-solving skills.
Additionally, Mock tests and sample papers will be provided by the institute for students to understand the exam pattern. This will likely be released in the first week of December, most likely by 3rd December.
So what does “NCERT-derived” really mean?
Probably it means that the areas will be coming from NCERT books, but that the questions will be looking for application, logic, and conceptual clarity, not rote memorization.
IIM Bangalore UG Exam 2026: Section-by-Section Syllabus Summary
Considering the information received & similar patterns of aptitude-based tests concerning their respective entrance tests (IPMAT Indore, IPMAT Rohtak, and JIPMAT), below there is a likely section-wise distribution for IIM Bangalore UG Entrance 2026:
Quantitative Ability (QA) Syllabus
Source: NCERT Mathematics (Classes 10–12)
Expected topics from the entrance exam perspective
| Area | Key Topics | Core Subtopics / Concepts |
| Number System & Arithmetic | Real Numbers , Arithmetic Progressions , Sequences & Series | Fundamental Theorem of Arithmetic, Irrational Numbers, Euclid’s Lemma, AP & GP formulas, nth term, sum of series, A.M. and G.M. relationship |
| Algebra | Polynomials , Quadratic Equations , Linear Inequalities , Complex Numbers , Binomial Theorem , Relations & Functions , Matrices & Determinants | Zeros & coefficients, factorization, quadratic roots, modulus & conjugate, inequalities, functional relations, matrix operations, inverse & determinant, algebraic expansions |
| Geometry & Mensuration (2D & 3D) | Triangles , Circles , Coordinate Geometry, Conic Sections , 3D Geometry , Surface Areas & Volumes , Vector Algebra | Similar triangles, tangents, coordinate geometry (distance, section, slope), circle/parabola/ellipse basics, direction ratios, line equations, volumes of solids, vector operations |
| Trigonometry | Introduction to Trigonometry , Trigonometric Functions , Inverse Trigonometric Functions | Trigonometric ratios, identities, angle values, sum/difference formulas, inverse trigonometric domains & ranges |
| Calculus | Limits & Derivatives , Continuity & Differentiability , Applications of Derivatives , Integrals , Applications of Integrals , Differential Equations | Concept of limit, differentiation rules, maxima/minima, rate of change, integration techniques, area under curves, basic differential equations |
| Probability & Combinatorics | Permutations & Combinations, Probability | Counting principle, factorials, permutations, combinations, conditional probability, independent events, Bayes’ theorem |
| 7. Statistics & Data Interpretation | Statistics | Mean, median, mode, variance, standard deviation, range, and \grouped data interpretation |
| 8. Sets, Logic & Relations | Sets, Relations & Functions | Set operations, Venn diagrams, Cartesian product, types of relations/functions |
| 9. Linear Programming | Linear Programming | Constraints, feasible region, objective function optimization |
Preparation Tip:
Don’t rely on just memorizing formulas, but instead concentrate on understanding why a concept is applicable. Work through NCERT examples and practice applying them to aptitude-style questions with more difficulty.
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) Syllabus
Source: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension topics common in aptitude-based entrance exams.
| Topic | Description |
| Reading Comprehension | Passages testing inference, tone, and argument-based understanding |
| Vocabulary | Synonyms, Antonyms, Word usage, Contextual meaning |
| Grammar | Error Detection, Sentence Correction, Parts of Speech |
| Para Jumbles & Summary Writing | Logical sequencing and summarizing skills |
| Critical Reasoning | Inference, Assumptions, Strengthen/Weaken type questions |
| Question Nature | Conceptual and reasoning-based |
| Preparation Tip | Read editorials and articles daily to enhance comprehension, vocabulary, and reasoning. |
Preparation Tip:
Read editorial pages daily to improve comprehension and vocabulary. Practice analyzing arguments and identifying assumptions.
Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation (LRDI) Syllabus
Source: Analytical and Logical Topics Common in Aptitude Exams
| Topic | Description |
| Critical Reasoning | Statements and Assumptions, Conclusion, Arguments |
| Analytical Reasoning | Syllogisms, Coding-Decoding, Series, Analogies, Directions |
| Puzzles & Arrangements | Linear/Seating/Box/Grouping arrangements |
| Data Interpretation | Charts, Graphs, Tables, Caselets |
| Data Sufficiency | Questions based on evaluating the adequacy of data |
| Logical Sequences | Pattern and number/letter sequences |
| Question Nature | Tests reasoning, pattern recognition, and problem-solving under time pressure |
| Preparation Tip | Practice puzzles and DI sets daily. Analyze each mock test to improve logical flow and accuracy. |
Preparation Tip:
Practice reasoning sets regularly and focus on accuracy. Mock tests will help you develop pattern recognition and time management.
How “NCERT-Based” Impacts Preparation
While the test draws from NCERT topics, it won’t mimic school-level exams.
Here’s how to interpret IIMB’s statement:
| Misconception | Reality |
| NCERT-based = Easy paper | No- it means topics are NCERT-aligned, but questions test conceptual reasoning |
| Formula-based questions only | Expect application and analytical questions |
| Similar to board exams | Pattern will be aptitude-based, not academic |
| Focus only on math | English and reasoning will play equally strong roles |
In short, the NCERT mentions ensuring topic familiarity, not simplicity.
How to Prepare Effectively for IIMB UG Entrance Exam
Step 1: Build NCERT Foundations
Begin with maths and English, and read the NCERT books from Class 10 to 12. Understand every topic conceptually.
Step 2: Introduce Aptitude Practice
Practice with IPMAT/JIPMAT standard practice sets in Quant, Verbal, and Reasoning.
Step 3: Analyze Mocks
Attempt sectional and full-length mocks weekly to understand strengths and weaknesses.
Step 4: Solidify Reasoning
Complete a set of puzzles, logical sets, and comprehension exercises every day.
Step 5: Stay Updated (For Interview Prep)
Spend some time on current affairs every day!
IIMB UG Entrance Exam Expected Difficulty Level
| Section | Expected Difficulty | Focus Area |
| Quantitative Ability | Moderate to Tough | Concept & Application |
| Verbal Ability | Moderate | Reading & Inference |
| Logical Reasoning | Moderate | Analytical Thinking |
FAQs on IIM Bangalore UG Exam 2026
- Is the IIM Bangalore UG Exam similar to IPMAT Indore or Rohtak?
Yes, it is expected to follow a slightly similar aptitude-based pattern. However, it will have its own overall structure. The emphasis will be on Quant, Verbal, and Reasoning.
- What does “NCERT-based” syllabus mean?
It means the topics are based on NCERT textbooks (Classes 10-12), however, the questions will assess clarity of concepts and analytical thinking – not rote memorization.
- Will there be negative marking in the IIMB UG exam?
Yes, 1/3rd for every incorrect attempt.
- How should I start preparing for IIM Bangalore UG 2026?
Start with NCERT fundamentals, then progress to aptitude problem sets and mocks. Try to devote equal time to reasoning and reading comprehension.
- What is the level of difficulty for the exam?
The exam will likely be patterned similarly to IPMAT Indore and will range from moderate to high difficulty levels. It will test more on logic, comprehension, and application of concepts.
