

IIHM eCHAT 2026 is the national-level online entrance test conducted by the International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM) for students aspiring to pursue careers in the hospitality and hotel management industry. This exam is crucial for admission into IIHM’s undergraduate and diploma programs, including B.Sc. in Hotel Management, Culinary Arts, and other specialized hospitality courses.
The hospitality sector in India is booming, offering career opportunities in hotels, resorts, cruise lines, airlines, event management, and tourism. By clearing eCHAT, students gain access to industry-oriented programs that combine theoretical knowledge with practical training, internships, and international exposure. This page will guide you through everything about IIHM eCHAT 2026—from registration to counseling—so you can prepare effectively and secure your seat.
Table of Contents
About IIHM eCHAT
The IIHM eCHAT (e-Common Hospitality Admission Test) is designed to evaluate candidates’ academic skills, aptitude, and suitability for hospitality management courses.
Conducting Body: International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM), a leading hospitality education provider in India.
Level: National (all India-level recognition).
Purpose: Shortlist meritorious students for admission into IIHM’s campuses across India and abroad.
Courses Covered: B.Sc. in Hotel Management, Culinary Arts, Hospitality and Tourism programs, and specialized certifications in bakery, pastry, and culinary skills.
This exam ensures that candidates not only have the academic foundation but also possess communication skills, logical reasoning, and awareness of the hospitality sector, which are critical for a successful career in this field.
Important Dates for IIHM eCHAT
| Event | Tentative Dates 2026 | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Registration Start | January 2026 | Early registration recommended to avoid last-minute issues |
| Registration End | April 2026 | Complete all documents and fee payment before this date |
| Admit Card Release | April 2026 | Download online; no physical copies are sent |
| Exam Date | May 2026 | Online test; ensure stable internet connection |
| Result Declaration | June 2026 | Check official website; merit list published |
| Counseling / Admission | June-July 2026 | Seats allocated based on merit and preferences |
Eligibility Criteria for IIHM eCHAT
Before applying for IIHM eCHAT 2026, ensure you meet the following eligibility requirements:
Educational Qualification: Minimum 10 2 in any stream (Science, Commerce, or Arts). Students from vocational or hospitality-related streams are also eligible.
Age Limit: Minimum 17 years, no upper age limit is usually specified.
Nationality: Indian citizens, NRIs, and international students can apply.
Other Requirements: Candidates must have basic computer skills, good communication abilities, and a passion for hospitality and service industries.
Meeting eligibility is crucial, as applications from ineligible candidates are rejected, and it can delay your admission process.
Registration Process for IIHM eCHAT
The IIHM eCHAT registration is fully online and straightforward, but it requires careful attention:
Visit the official IIHM website and click on “eCHAT Registration 2026”.
Create an account using your email ID and mobile number.
Fill in the application form with personal details (name, date of birth, contact info) and academic details (10th, 12th marks, school information).
Upload required documents, including:
Recent passport-size photograph
Signature
10th and 12th mark sheets/certificates
Pay the registration fee online (usually via credit/debit card, net banking, or UPI).
Submit the application and note the registration ID, which will be used for admit card download, exam login, and result checking.
Tip: Double-check all details before submission, as mistakes in the form may cause delays or rejection.
Exam Pattern for IIHM eCHAT
The IIHM eCHAT 2026 exam is designed to test aptitude, communication skills, general awareness, and basic hospitality knowledge.
| Exam Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Mode | Online (computer-based test) |
| Duration | 60–90 minutes |
| Question Type | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
| Total Questions | 50–60 |
| Sections | English, Aptitude/Logical Reasoning, General Knowledge, Hospitality Awareness |
| Marking Scheme | 1 for correct answer; no negative marking |
Section-wise Details:
English: Grammar, comprehension, vocabulary, sentence correction
Aptitude/Logical Reasoning: Numbers, percentages, ratios, patterns, and problem-solving questions
General Knowledge: Current affairs, general science, geography, history
Hospitality Awareness: Knowledge of hotel operations, food and beverage, tourism industry, service etiquette, and culinary basics
Understanding the pattern and weightage of each section helps students prioritize their preparation and manage time during the exam.
Syllabus for IIHM eCHAT
A clear understanding of the syllabus is essential for effective preparation. IIHM eCHAT 2026 covers:
English Language Skills: Reading comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, sentence formation, and communication skills.
Quantitative Aptitude and Logical Reasoning: Basics of mathematics, problem-solving, logical sequences, data interpretation, and analytical thinking.
General Knowledge and Current Affairs: Awareness of current events, general science, geography, history, tourism, and hospitality trends.
Hospitality and Culinary Awareness: Understanding hotel operations, kitchen management, service etiquette, food and beverage management, menu knowledge, and industry-specific terminology.
Tip: Focus on practical examples in hospitality, like handling customer queries, food service etiquettes, or culinary basics, as they may appear in scenario-based questions.
Preparation Tips for IIHM eCHAT
To perform well in IIHM eCHAT 2026:
Make a structured timetable: Divide your preparation into sections—English, GK, Aptitude, Hospitality.
Practice regularly: Solve previous year papers, online mocks, and sample tests.
Read extensively: Newspapers, hospitality magazines, and online articles improve your GK and English.
Focus on hospitality knowledge: Watch tutorials on food and beverage service, kitchen operations, and hotel management.
Join online forums or discussion groups: Learn tips, shortcuts, and share study strategies.
Revise daily: Focus on weak areas, memorize important terms, and practice MCQs to improve speed.
Admit Card for IIHM eCHAT
The IIHM eCHAT admit card is an essential document for appearing in the exam.
Availability: Downloadable from the official IIHM website using your registration ID and password.
Details Mentioned: Candidate’s name, photograph, exam date, time, and test center (if applicable).
Instructions: Candidates must carry a printed copy of the admit card and a valid photo ID to the exam.
Tip: Verify all details; any discrepancies should be reported to IIHM immediately.
Results and Cut-offs
Result Announcement: Published on the official IIHM website.
Merit List: Based on total scores in eCHAT; high scorers are eligible for counseling.
Cut-offs: Vary each year depending on number of applicants and exam difficulty.
Follow-up: Only candidates meeting the minimum cut-off score will be considered for seat allocation.
Counseling and Admission after IIHM eCHAT
After clearing eCHAT:
Counseling Call: Selected candidates are notified via email or SMS.
Document Verification: Includes 10th and 12th mark sheets, ID proof, photographs, and certificates.
Seat Allotment: Based on merit and course preference.
Fee Payment and Confirmation: Confirm your seat by paying the required fees.
Orientation: New students receive guidance on courses, training, and campus facilities.