If a seat at IIT is your dream, there's news for you.

Expect some changes in the format for the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE), a competitive examination you must crack in order to gain admission. The admission criteria has also been modified slightly for JEE 2006. So, what are these changes?

i. You must secure a first class (60 per cent) in Class XII or its equivalent to be eligible for admission. This rule is relaxed for SC/ ST students by 5 per cent.

ii. The present structure is a two-tier examination -- screening and mains.

Part I: The screening consists of one objective type question paper of three hours in Physics, Mathematics and Chemistry.

Part II: The main exam has three separate papers, each of two hours, in Physics, Mathematics and Chemistry.

The new JEE structure will be a single objective-type examination, which could include short write-ups on various topics followed by objective questions based on the write-up. This will test your comprehension as well as analytical ability.

iii. The number of attempts has been brought down to two. You will be allowed to take the JEE in the year in which you pass out of Class XII as well as the following year.

iv. If you join any of the IITs, you will not be allowed to take the JEE again. Please note, however, that this procedure will be reviewed after JEE 2006.

You must submit your applications between November 28, 2005 and January 6, 2006.