UGEE Exam 2026: The Ultimate Guide to IIIT Hyderabad Admission Process
- Divya Shinde
- Dec 23, 2025
- 4 min read
For many engineering aspirants, the dream isn't just a seat in an IIT; it’s a seat at the International Institute of Information Technology (IIIT), Hyderabad. Renowned for its world-class research culture and unparalleled placements in Computer Science and Electronics, IIIT Hyderabad offers a unique entry point called the UGEE exam.
If you are looking for more than just a standard B.Tech degree and want to dive deep into innovation, the UGEE exam is your golden ticket. In this comprehensive guide, we will break down everything you need to know about the 2026 admission cycle, from eligibility to the intricate interview process.
1. What is the UGEE Exam?
The Undergraduate Entrance Examination (UGEE) is a specialized entrance test conducted by IIIT Hyderabad. Unlike the JEE Main mode, which grants admission to 4-year B.Tech programs, the UGEE is the exclusive gateway to the institute's prestigious 5-year Dual Degree programs (B.Tech + MS by Research).
The philosophy behind the UGEE exam is to identify students who possess not just subject proficiency, but also a high "Research Aptitude." The curriculum for these dual-degree students is designed to integrate undergraduate studies with high-level research, culminating in a Master's thesis.
2. Why Choose IIIT Hyderabad via UGEE?
Research-Led Education: You start working in world-renowned labs like the Robotics Research Center (RRC) or the Center for Visual Information Technology (CVIT) much earlier than your peers.
Top-Tier Placements: Dual-degree students often bag the highest packages, with many joining R&D divisions of tech giants like Google, Microsoft, and Nvidia.
Gender Diversity: IIIT Hyderabad actively promotes diversity, aiming to shortlist at least 25% female candidates for the interview stage through the UGEE mode.
3. Eligibility Criteria for UGEE 2026
Before you start your preparation, ensure you meet the following requirements:
Educational Qualification: You must have passed or be appearing for your Class 12 (or equivalent) in 2026.
Core Subjects: Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) are mandatory.
Minimum Marks: While IIIT-H generally looks for high merit, a minimum of 60% aggregate in PCM in Class 12 is typically required.
Course Focus: This mode is only for those interested in the 5-year dual-degree programs.
4. IIIT Hyderabad Admission Process: Key Dates for 2026
Staying ahead of the timeline is crucial. Based on current trends for the 2026 academic year, here are the expected dates:
Event | Tentative Date (2026) |
|---|---|
Application Portal Opens | Second week of February 2026 |
Last Date to Apply | Fourth week of March 2026 |
Admit Card Release | Mid-April 2026 |
UGEE 2026 Exam Date | Third week of April 2026 (Expected April 19) |
Result Declaration | Second week of May 2026 |
Interview Dates | June 2026 |
5. The UGEE Exam Pattern: SUPR and REAP
The UGEE exam is a computer-based test (CBT) lasting 3 hours. It is divided into two distinct sections, and you must clear the cutoff in both to proceed.
1. SUPR (Subject Proficiency Test)
Duration: 60 Minutes (Expected)
Focus: Subject knowledge in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
Level: Comparable to JEE Main.
Purpose: This serves as the first filter. Your REAP paper is only evaluated if you pass the SUPR cutoff.
2. REAP (Research Aptitude Test)
Duration: 120 Minutes (Expected)
Focus: Critical thinking, logical reasoning, and data interpretation.
Level: Higher than SUPR; requires "out-of-the-box" thinking.
Purpose: Your REAP score is the primary factor used to rank you for the interview shortlist.
6. Programs Offered Through UGEE 2026
Successful candidates can choose from several trans-disciplinary dual-degree programs:
CSD: B.Tech in Computer Science and MS by Research in CSE.
ECD: B.Tech in Electronics & Communication and MS by Research in ECE.
CLD: B.Tech in CS and MS by Research in Computational Linguistics.
CND: B.Tech in CS and MS by Research in Computational Natural Sciences.
CHD: B.Tech in CS and MS by Research in Computing and Human Sciences.
7. Preparing for the UGEE Exam: Syllabus & Strategy
The syllabus for the UGEE exam is based on the Class 11 and 12 CBSE curriculum, but the application of concepts is where the challenge lies.
Mathematics (High Weightage)
Mathematics is the backbone of the UGEE. Topics like Probability, Combinatorics, and Calculus are tested with a focus on logical derivation rather than just formula application. In previous years, Probability alone has seen up to 15–20% weightage.
Physics & Chemistry
Physics: Focus heavily on Mechanics, Waves, and Optics.
Chemistry: Prioritize Physical Chemistry. Inorganic Chemistry weightage is traditionally lower in UGEE compared to JEE.
Master the REAP Section
To ace REAP, practice:
Linguistics Puzzles: Understanding patterns in unknown languages.
Data Interpretation: Analyzing complex graphs and tables.
Logical Reasoning: Similar to NTSE or Olympiad-level mental ability questions.
8. The Final Step: The Personal Interview
Shortlisted candidates are invited for an interview in June. This is not a typical "stress interview." The faculty at IIIT Hyderabad wants to see your thought process.
Think Aloud: If given a math problem, explain your steps. They value a correct logical path more than the final answer.
Be Authentic: If you don’t know a concept, admit it. The professors often give hints to see how quickly you can learn and apply new information.
Focus on 'Why': Be prepared to answer why you are interested in research specifically.
FAQs on UGEE Exam and IIIT Hyderabad Admissions
1. Is the UGEE exam harder than JEE Main?
A. The SUPR section is similar to JEE Main, but the REAP section is considered more challenging because it tests "aptitude" rather than "memory." It requires a different preparation mindset focused on puzzles and logical flow.
2. Can I apply for both JEE Main and UGEE modes for IIIT Hyderabad?
A. Yes! You can apply via the JEE Main mode (for 4-year B.Tech) and the UGEE exam mode (for 5-year Dual Degree) simultaneously. They are independent processes.
3. What is the application fee for UGEE 2026?
A. The expected fee is ₹3,000 for general candidates and ₹1,500 for female candidates.
4. Are there any negative markings?
A. Yes, typically there is a 25% negative marking for wrong answers in both SUPR and REAP sections.
Conclusion
The UGEE exam is more than just an entrance test; it is an invitation to join one of the most intellectually stimulating environments in India. If you have a passion for solving complex problems and a curiosity for research, IIIT Hyderabad is the place for you. Start your preparation early, focus on your logical reasoning, and keep an eye on the official portal for the 2026 notification!
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