The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially opened the registration process for JEE Main 2026. Candidates aspiring to join B.Tech, B.E., B.Arch, and B.Planning courses can now be applied for online at the official website jeemain.nta.nic.in. The last date to submit applications for the first session is November 27, 2025. The exam is conducted in two sessions, with the first session scheduled from January 21 to 30, 2026, and the second session from April 1 to 10, 2026. Check JEE Main Application Form 2026
JEE Main Key Points Candidates Must Know
Candidates can check the key points about the JEE Main exam below.
- Updated Documents Required: Candidates should ensure that their Aadhaar, UDID, and category certificates are updated before filling the form. Mismatches in these documents have caused complications in past registrations. It is also clarified that document updates do not affect exam city allotment.
- Exam Sessions and Dates: The exam will be held in two sessions to offer flexibility. Session 1 runs from January 21 to 30, 2026, while Session 2 is scheduled for April 1 to 10, 2026. Candidates can choose to appear in one or both sessions.
- Eligibility Criteria: There is no age limit for JEE Main 2026. Candidates must have cleared Class 12 in 2024 or 2025 or be appearing in 2026. Subjects required include Physics and Mathematics, along with one of Chemistry, Biotechnology, Biology, or Technical Vocational subjects. For admissions, most engineering institutes expect a minimum of 75% marks in Class 12.
- Application Fee Structure: The fee varies by category, with general category candidates paying INR 1000, OBC/EWS INR 900, female candidates under OBC/EWS INR 800, and SC/ST/Transgender/PwD candidates INR 500. Payments can only be made online.
- Exam Pattern: The B.Tech paper includes 75 questions worth 300 marks, split equally across Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. The pattern remains consistent with previous years, with Section A featuring mandatory questions and no optional questions this year.
- Marking Scheme: Candidates earn four marks for each correct answer, lose one mark for each wrong answer, and receive no negative marking for unanswered questions.
- Important Dates: Registration opened on October 31 and closes on November 27, 2025. Admit cards will be released a few days before the exam, and city intimation is expected in early January 2026. Results for Session 1 will be declared by February 12, 2026, while Session 2 results will be released by April 20, 2026.
- Two Papers Available: Paper 1 is for B.E./B.Tech admissions (NITs, IIITs, CFTIs), and Paper 2 is for B.Arch and B.Planning admissions.
- How to Apply: Candidates must visit jeemain.nta.nic.in, select the relevant registration link, fill in personal and contact information, upload photographs and signatures, pay the fee online, and download the confirmation page for future reference.
- Pathway to IITs: After both sessions conclude, NTA will release final ranks based on the better scores. The top 2,50,000 candidates qualify for JEE Advanced, which is the gateway to IITs. Candidates must meet additional eligibility such as at least 75% marks in Class 12 or ranking in the top 20 percentile of their board for IIT admissions.
Candidates planning to appear for JEE Main 2026 should keep these points in mind to ensure smooth registration and preparation. Staying updated with official notifications will help avoid last-minute hassles.
JEE Main Exam Day Guidelines 2026
To help candidates have a smooth and successful exam experience, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has issued the following key guidelines for JEE Main 2026 exam day. Candidates must strictly follow these points to avoid any issues:
- Reach the exam centre at least 2 hours before the reporting time to complete entry formalities calmly.
- Carry the mandatory documents: JEE Main 2026 Admit Card, a valid photo ID (Aadhaar, Passport, Voter ID, etc.), and a recent passport-size photograph.
- Wear light and comfortable clothing without large buttons, badges, or thick fabrics. Sleeveless or transparent clothes are not allowed.
- Avoid accessories like jewellery, belts, watches (especially electronic or smartwatches), caps, and hats inside the exam hall.
- Keep electronic devices such as mobiles, calculators, and cameras outside the exam hall as they are strictly prohibited.
- Follow COVID-19 protocols: Wear a face mask and maintain social distancing as per centre instructions. Candidates might need to submit a self-declaration form about their health status.
- Listen carefully to the invigilators’ instructions and follow all exam hall rules throughout the exam.
- Only permitted stationery, like ballpoint pens and rough sheet,s will be allowed. Candidates must return all provided exam material before leaving.
- Avoid bringing any study material, bags, watches, wallets, or food into the exam room (except approved diabetic eatables).
- Do not communicate, cheat, or disturb other candidates, as this can lead to disqualification.
- Stay calm and manage time well during the exam to answer questions effectively.
By following these instructions carefully, candidates can ensure a hassle-free exam day, stay focused on their performance, and avoid any last-minute stress or disqualification risk.
FAQs
What is the official website to register for JEE Main 2026?
Candidates can register for JEE Main 2026 only through the official website jeemain.nta.nic.in. The National Testing Agency (NTA) manages the registration process online. No offline forms are accepted. Candidates must create a login using their Aadhaar number, mobile number, and email ID. All application steps, including fee payment and document upload, happen on this portal. Candidates should ensure all data provided is accurate to avoid issues later in the process.
When does JEE Main 2026 registration start and end?
The JEE Main 2026 registration window opened on October 31, 2025, and will close on November 27, 2025. Candidates must complete their application, upload required documents, and pay the exam fee before the deadline. It is advisable to register early to avoid last-minute technical problems. Late applications will not be accepted, so candidates should keep track of these dates closely.
How many sessions will JEE Main 2026 have?
JEE Main 2026 will be conducted in two sessions. The first session is scheduled from January 21 to January 30, 2026, and the second session will be held from April 1 to April 10, 2026. This gives candidates two opportunities to appear for the exam. The final rankings will be based on the best score achieved from either session.
What documents are needed to register for JEE Main 2026?
Candidates must upload a scanned passport-size photograph, signature, Class 10 and Class 12 mark sheets, and Aadhaar card during registration. They should also have their Class 11 registration number ready, as it is now required for identity verification. Candidates must keep all documents in the prescribed format and file size to ensure smooth submission of the application form.
Is Aadhaar mandatory for JEE Main 2026 registration?
Yes, an Aadhaar card is mandatory for JEE Main 2026 registration. Candidates must provide their Aadhaar number during the registration process for authentication purposes. This verification helps reduce fraudulent applications and ensures each candidate’s identity. Candidates who do not have Aadhaar must follow special guidelines issued by NTA.
What is the application fee for JEE Main 2026?
The application fee varies based on the category and the number of papers a candidate opts for. Typically, the fee ranges from INR 650 to INR 1300 for general category candidates. Fee payment is done online through net banking, debit/credit cards, or other available options on the official portal. Candidates should keep their payment receipt after the transaction for future reference.
Can candidates change exam centers after registration?
Usually, candidates can select their preferred exam city while filling out the application. However, changing the exam center after submitting the form is generally not allowed. Candidates must carefully choose their exam center during registration, considering convenience and accessibility. The final exam center allotment will be confirmed at the time of the admit card release.
When will JEE Main 2026 admit cards be released?
Admit cards for JEE Main 2026 will be available for download approximately two weeks before each exam session. For Session 1, admit cards are expected around the first week of January 2026. Candidates must download and print the admit card from the official website. This card is mandatory to appear in the examination and contains important details like exam date, time, and center.
What new changes are introduced in JEE Main 2026?
For JEE Main 2026, candidates will see the introduction of an on-screen calculator during the exam. Also, providing the Class 11 registration number is a new requirement for identity verification. The exam will continue to be held in two sessions, giving more flexibility. The number of exam centers has increased, and some centres were removed to optimise the process.
How will the JEE Main 2026 exam be conducted?
The JEE Main exam will be held online as a computer-based test. There will be multiple shifts to accommodate all candidates across exam centers. The exam consists of three papers for B.E./B.Tech, B.Arch, and B.Planning courses. Candidates should check their specific paper and schedule on the official website. The online exam mode ensures faster results and transparency.
What is the syllabus of JEE Main 2026?
The JEE Main 2026 syllabus includes topics from Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics taught in Classes 11 and 12. It covers subjects relevant to engineering entrance, including Mechanics, Organic Chemistry, Algebra, and others. Candidates should follow the official syllabus provided by NTA to prepare well. Previous year question papers are also useful for practice.
How are the JEE Main 2026 results declared?
Results for each session of JEE Main 2026 will be declared on the official website within a few weeks after the last exam date. Candidates can check their scores by logging in with their application number and password. The best score from either session will be considered for ranking and eligibility for JEE Advanced and admission to institutes.
What is the eligibility criteria for JEE Main 2026?
Candidates must have passed their Class 12 board exams or equivalent in 2024 or 2025 to be eligible. There is no age limit, but candidates can attempt the exam up to three consecutive years. They must fulfill other academic and citizenship criteria set by NTA. It is advised to check the official information bulletin for detailed eligibility before applying.
Can candidates apply for both sessions of JEE Main 2026?
Yes, candidates can apply for one or both sessions of the JEE Main exam in 2026. Applying for both sessions increases the chance of scoring better, as the best score is counted in the final merit list. However, they need to complete separate application processes for each session when the registration window opens.
How to prepare effectively for JEE Main 2026?
Candidates should create a clear study plan covering all important topics from Physics, Chemistry, and Maths. Practising previous year papers and mock tests is essential. Time management during preparation and exam day is crucial. Regular revision and clearing doubts on tough topics will boost confidence. Many coaching institutes and online platforms offer structured preparation guidance.
