ICMR Exam 2024: Notification, Eligibility, Syllabus, and Preparation Strategy
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | To be announced |
| Online Application Start Date | To be announced |
| Online Application Last Date | To be announced |
| Admit Card Release | To be announced |
| Exam Date | To be announced |
| Result Declaration | To be announced |
Note: These dates are tentative and subject to change. Candidates are advised to regularly check the official website of ICMR for the latest updates.
Eligibility Criteria
For Junior Research Fellowship (JRF):
- Educational Qualification: Master’s degree in Life Sciences/Medical Sciences/Veterinary Sciences/Agriculture Sciences/Engineering/Technology/Pharmaceutical Sciences/Statistics/Mathematics/Computer Science/Biotechnology/Biochemistry/Biophysics/Microbiology/Zoology/Botany/Environmental Sciences/Public Health/Epidemiology/Social Sciences (with relevant research experience) or equivalent qualification from a recognized university.
- Age Limit: The upper age limit for JRF is 28 years as on the last date of application. Age relaxation is applicable for reserved categories as per government norms.
For Senior Research Fellowship (SRF):
- Educational Qualification: Ph.D. degree in Life Sciences/Medical Sciences/Veterinary Sciences/Agriculture Sciences/Engineering/Technology/Pharmaceutical Sciences/Statistics/Mathematics/Computer Science/Biotechnology/Biochemistry/Biophysics/Microbiology/Zoology/Botany/Environmental Sciences/Public Health/Epidemiology/Social Sciences (with relevant research experience) or equivalent qualification from a recognized university.
- Age Limit: The upper age limit for SRF is 35 years as on the last date of application. Age relaxation is applicable for reserved categories as per government norms.
Note: Candidates must have a valid GATE/NET/CSIR-UGC NET qualification for JRF and SRF.
Exam Pattern
The ICMR exam is a computer-based test (CBT) conducted in two papers:
Paper 1: General Aptitude (Common for all subjects)
- Syllabus:
- General Science: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and General Knowledge.
- Reasoning: Logical Reasoning, Analytical Reasoning, and Data Interpretation.
- Quantitative Aptitude: Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, and Statistics.
- General English: Comprehension, Vocabulary, Grammar, and Composition.
Paper 2: Subject-Specific (Based on the candidate’s chosen subject)
- Syllabus: The syllabus for Paper 2 varies depending on the chosen subject. It covers topics related to the candidate’s postgraduate specialization.
Exam Duration: 3 hours for each paper (180 minutes).
Marking Scheme: Each paper consists of 120 multiple-choice questions (MCQs). Each correct answer carries 1 mark, and there is a negative marking of 0.25 marks for each incorrect answer.
Syllabus
Paper 1: General Aptitude
General Science:
- Physics: Basic concepts of mechanics, heat, light, sound, electricity, and magnetism.
- Chemistry: Basic concepts of atomic structure, chemical bonding, chemical reactions, and organic chemistry.
- Biology: Basic concepts of cell biology, genetics, evolution, and ecology.
- General Knowledge: Current affairs, history, geography, and general science.
Reasoning:
- Logical Reasoning: Syllogisms, analogies, series, and puzzles.
- Analytical Reasoning: Data analysis, critical thinking, and problem-solving.
- Data Interpretation: Tables, graphs, charts, and diagrams.
Quantitative Aptitude:
- Arithmetic: Number systems, percentages, profit and loss, time and work, and speed, distance, and time.
- Algebra: Linear equations, quadratic equations, and inequalities.
- Geometry: Lines, angles, triangles, circles, and quadrilaterals.
- Statistics: Mean, median, mode, standard deviation, and probability.
General English:
- Comprehension: Reading comprehension and interpretation.
- Vocabulary: Synonyms, antonyms, and idioms.
- Grammar: Parts of speech, tenses, and sentence structure.
- Composition: Paragraph writing, essay writing, and letter writing.
Paper 2: Subject-Specific
The syllabus for Paper 2 varies depending on the chosen subject. It covers topics related to the candidate’s postgraduate specialization. Candidates are advised to refer to the official notification for the detailed syllabus of their chosen subject.
Preparation Strategy
1. Understand the Syllabus:
- Thoroughly go through the syllabus for both Paper 1 and Paper 2.
- Identify your strengths and weaknesses.
- Create a study plan that covers all the topics.
2. Gather Study Material:
- Refer to standard textbooks, reference books, and online resources.
- Join online forums and discussion groups to interact with other aspirants.
- Subscribe to relevant journals and magazines.
3. Practice Previous Years’ Papers:
- Solve previous years’ question papers to understand the exam pattern and difficulty level.
- Analyze your performance and identify areas that need improvement.
4. Time Management:
- Develop a time management strategy to complete the exam within the stipulated time.
- Practice mock tests to improve your speed and accuracy.
5. Stay Updated:
- Keep yourself updated with the latest developments in your field of study.
- Read newspapers and magazines to stay informed about current affairs.
6. Take Care of Your Health:
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating nutritious food, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep.
- Avoid stress and anxiety by practicing relaxation techniques.
7. Stay Motivated:
- Set realistic goals and celebrate your achievements.
- Stay positive and focused on your goal.
Important Tips
- Start your preparation early: Don’t wait till the last minute to start preparing.
- Create a study schedule: Stick to a study schedule to ensure that you cover all the topics.
- Take regular breaks: Avoid studying for long hours without taking breaks.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay focused and alert.
- Avoid distractions: Find a quiet place to study and avoid distractions like social media and television.
- Seek guidance: If you are facing difficulty in understanding any topic, seek guidance from your teachers or mentors.
- Stay positive and confident: Believe in yourself and your abilities.
Resources
- ICMR Website: https://www.icmr.nic.in/
- National Testing Agency (NTA) Website: https://nta.ac.in/
- Online Study Materials: https://www.google.com/
- Previous Years’ Question Papers: https://www.google.com/
Table 1: Exam Pattern Summary
| Paper | Subjects | Number of Questions | Duration | Marking Scheme |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | General Aptitude | 120 | 3 hours (180 minutes) | 1 mark for correct answer, -0.25 marks for incorrect answer |
| Paper 2 | Subject-Specific | 120 | 3 hours (180 minutes) | 1 mark for correct answer, -0.25 marks for incorrect answer |
Table 2: Preparation Strategy Summary
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Understand the Syllabus |
| 2 | Gather Study Material |
| 3 | Practice Previous Years’ Papers |
| 4 | Time Management |
| 5 | Stay Updated |
| 6 | Take Care of Your Health |
| 7 | Stay Motivated |
Note: This article provides general information about the ICMR exam. Candidates are advised to refer to the official notification for the latest updates and specific details.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When will the ICMR Exam 2024 notification be released?
The official notification for the ICMR Exam 2024 is expected to be released soon. Keep checking the official ICMR website for updates.
2. What are the eligibility criteria for the ICMR Exam?
The eligibility criteria vary depending on whether you are applying for Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) or Senior Research Fellowship (SRF). Generally, a Master’s degree for JRF and a Ph.D. degree for SRF are required, along with a valid GATE/NET/CSIR-UGC NET qualification.
3. What is the exam pattern for the ICMR Exam?
The ICMR exam is a computer-based test (CBT) conducted in two papers: Paper 1 (General Aptitude) and Paper 2 (Subject-Specific). Each paper consists of 120 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) with a duration of 3 hours.
4. What is the syllabus for the ICMR Exam?
The syllabus for Paper 1 covers General Science, Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, and General English. The syllabus for Paper 2 varies depending on the chosen subject and is detailed in the official notification.
5. How can I prepare for the ICMR Exam?
Start your preparation early, understand the syllabus thoroughly, gather relevant study material, practice previous years’ papers, and develop a time management strategy. Stay updated with current developments in your field and take care of your health.
6. What are some important tips for the ICMR Exam?
- Start your preparation early.
- Create a study schedule and stick to it.
- Take regular breaks and stay hydrated.
- Avoid distractions and seek guidance when needed.
- Stay positive and confident.
7. Where can I find the official notification and other relevant information?
Visit the official websites of ICMR and NTA for the latest updates, notification, syllabus, and other important information.
8. What are the resources available for preparation?
You can find resources like standard textbooks, reference books, online study materials, previous years’ question papers, and online forums for preparation.
9. What is the selection process for the ICMR Exam?
The selection process involves clearing both Paper 1 and Paper 2 of the exam. The final selection is based on the candidate’s overall performance in the exam.
10. What are the benefits of qualifying the ICMR Exam?
Qualifying the ICMR exam opens doors to research opportunities in various fields of medical science, providing financial assistance and a platform for career advancement.