IGIB

Eligibility Criteria

• Educational Qualification: Candidates should have a Bachelor's degree (B.Sc, B.Tech, or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Genetics, Life Sciences, or related disciplines from a recognized university. For some specialized courses or Ph.D. programs, a Master's degree may be required.
• Age Limit: Typically, there is no upper age limit for IGIB entrance exams for research-level programs; however, specific fellowship or scholarship eligibility may have age criteria. Candidates should check the specific notification for details.
• Nationality: The candidate must be an Indian citizen. Some programs may entertain foreign nationals or NRIs with specific admission policies.

Exam Pattern

• Mode of Exam: Usually conducted online (Computer Based Test), but can vary depending on specific program and year.
• Number of Questions: Typically ranges from 50 to 100 questions, depending on the level and type of program applied for.
• Marking Scheme: Generally, includes multiple-choice questions (MCQs) with 1 mark for each correct answer and negative marking for incorrect answers (-0.25 or -1/4). Confirm with specific notifications.
• Subjects Covered: Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Genomics, Bioinformatics, Statistics, and basic Sciences.
• Exam Frequency: Usually conducted once a year.
  • Notification Release: Typically between February and April.
  • Exam Date: Usually held in May or June.

Syllabus

• Molecular Biology: DNA/RNA structure and function, replication, transcription, translation, gene regulation, genetics, mutations.
• Genetics: Mendelian genetics, linkage and crossing over, chromosomal aberrations, population genetics.
• Biochemistry: Biomolecules, enzymes, metabolism pathways, bioenergetics.
• Microbiology: Microbial genetics, bacterial physiology, virology, immunology basics.
• Genomics and Bioinformatics: Genome organization, sequencing technologies, genomics data analysis, databases, algorithms for sequence alignment.
• Statistics: Basic probability, data analysis, hypothesis testing.
• Basic Sciences: Chemistry, Physics principles relevant to biological systems.

Other Important Information

Application Process

1. Visit the official Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology website: https://www.igib.in
2. Navigate to the 'Admissions' or 'Careers' section for the specific program of interest.
3. Check the eligibility and notification carefully.
4. Register and create a profile on the online application portal.
5. Fill in the application form with accurate personal and academic details.
6. Upload necessary documents as per the specifications (photograph, signature, certificates).
7. Pay the application fee online through available payment modes.
8. Submit the application and take a printout of the confirmation page for future reference.

Courses Offered

• Ph.D. in Genomics and Integrative Biology
• Integrated Ph.D. programs
• Postgraduate-level specialized training and fellowship programs in Genomics, Bioinformatics, and related fields

Facts About the Entrance Exam

• Highly recognized for research in genomics and molecular biology.
• Competitive exam focusing on understanding of core biological and computational subjects.
• Admission based on merit and performance in the entrance test and interview.

Admit Card

• Admit cards are issued online approximately 1-2 weeks before the exam date.
• Candidates must download their admit card from the official website by logging in to their application portal.
• Key Instructions: Carry the admit card and a valid photo ID on exam day. Check all details on the admit card are correct. Reach the exam center well ahead of time.

Results & Cut-Offs

• Results are announced on the official IGIB website in the 'Admissions' or 'Results' section.
• Cut-off marks vary by year and category; generally released along with the results.
• Selection is based on entrance exam score and interview performance.

Preparation Tips

• Understand the basic concepts in molecular biology, genetics, and biochemistry thoroughly.
• Practice previous years' question papers and sample tests if available.
• Refer to standard textbooks such as "Molecular Biology of the Cell" by Alberts, "Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry," and "Genetics" by Griffiths.
• Use online platforms for genomics and bioinformatics tutorials and quizzes.
• Focus on time management and accuracy during preparation.

FAQs

• Q: What is the mode of the IGIB entrance exam?
  A: The exam is generally conducted online, but candidates should confirm as per latest official notifications.
• Q: Can candidates from other countries apply?
  A: Mostly Indian nationals are eligible; foreign nationals may apply under specific provisions.
• Q: Is there any negative marking?
  A: Yes, usually there is negative marking for incorrect answers, typically -0.25 marks.
• Q: How to download the admit card?
  A: Admit card can be downloaded online from the official website by logging into the candidate portal.
• Q: What subjects should I focus on?
  A: Focus mainly on Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Genomics, and related bioinformatics topics.
• Q: When is the exam usually conducted?
  A: The exam is generally conducted in May or June each year, with notification released in February to April.