• Updated on 11 Sept, 2025 by Souvik
JEE Main Exam Pattern 2026: The National Testing Agency will conduct the JEE Main 2026 exam in CBT mode in January 2026 and April 2026. The medium of the exam will include English, Hindi, and regional languages, based on the candidate’s selection. JEE Main 2026 will consist of three papers: Paper 1 for B.E./ B.Tech, Paper 2A for B.Arch, and Paper 2B for B.Planning. Paper 1 includes questions from Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, with a total of 75 questions (25 per subject) and 300 marks.
The JEE Main Question Paper will have two sections: MCQs in Section A and numerical value-based questions in Section B. Paper 2A for B.Arch includes Mathematics, Aptitude, and a Drawing Test, with a total of 77 questions carrying 400 marks. Paper 2B for B.Planning comprises Mathematics, Aptitude, and Planning-Based Questions, with 100 questions and a total of 400 marks. Each correct answer will carry +4 marks, and for MCQs, 1 mark is deducted for each incorrect response, while numerical questions have no negative marking. Read further to know more about the JEE Mains Exam Pattern 2026 in detail.
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Table of Contents
JEE Main Exam Pattern 2026
The Joint Entrance Examination Mains 2026 will be conducted in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode, except for the drawing section in Paper 2A, which will be conducted offline. Paper 1 is for B.E./B.Tech aspirants, Paper 2A is for B.Arch candidates, and Paper 2B is for B.Plan aspirants. The duration of all three papers is three hours. The exam includes MCQs and numerical value questions. Check the following table for JEE Mains Exam Pattern 2026.
Particulars | Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech) | Paper 2A (B.Arch) | Paper 2B (B.Plan) |
Mode of Exam | Online (Computer-Based) | Mathematics & Aptitude: Online; Drawing: Offline | Online (Computer-Based) |
Subjects | Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics | Mathematics, Aptitude Test, Drawing Test | Mathematics, Aptitude Test, Planning-based Questions |
Total Duration | 3 hours | 3 hours | 3 hours |
Total Marks | 300 marks (100 per subject) | 400 marks | 400 marks |
Number of Questions | 75 (25 per subject) | Mathematics: 25 (20 MCQs + 5 NVQs), Aptitude: 50, Drawing: 2 | Mathematics: 25 (20 MCQs + 5 NVQs), Aptitude: 50, Planning: 25 |
Question Types | 20 MCQs + 5 Numerical (per subject) | MCQs (Math & Aptitude), Drawing Tasks (pen & paper) | MCQs + Numerical Value + Planning-based Questions |
Numerical Value Questions | 5 per subject (all compulsory) | 5 in Mathematics (all compulsory) | 5 in Mathematics (all compulsory) |
Marking Scheme | +4 for correct, -1 for incorrect | +4 for correct, -1 for incorrect, 0 for unattempted | +4 for correct, -1 for incorrect, 0 for unattempted |
Languages Offered | Hindi, English, Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Marathi, Malayalam, etc. | Hindi, English, Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Marathi, Malayalam, etc. | Hindi, English, Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Marathi, Malayalam, etc. |
JEE Main Exam Pattern 2026 of Paper 1 (B.Tech/BE)
JEE Main Paper 1 2026 will be conducted for candidates seeking admission in B.Tech/BE programs. The exam will be held in computer-based mode only. It consists of three subjects – Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, with both MCQs and numerical value questions. The total exam duration is 3 hours, while PwD candidates get 4 hours. The paper carries 300 marks in total and will be offered in multiple regional languages along with Hindi, English, and Gujarati. Check the following table for the Paper 1 exam pattern.
Particulars | Details |
Exam Mode | Online (Computer-based) |
Number of Sections & Subjects | 3 (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics) |
Duration of Exam | 3 hours (180 minutes); 4 hours for PwD candidates |
Type of Questions | MCQs (single correct option), Numerical Value Questions |
Section A (MCQ) | Mathematics: 20, Physics: 20, Chemistry: 20 |
Section B (Numerical Value) | Mathematics: 5, Physics: 5, Chemistry: 5 (all compulsory) |
Total Questions | 75 |
Total Marks | 300 marks |
Language of Paper | Assamese, Bengali, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Odia, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, Urdu, Hindi, English, Gujarati |
JEE Main Exam Pattern 2026 of Paper 2A (B.Arch)
JEE Main Paper 2A 2026 will be designed for students applying for B.Arch courses. It is conducted in both online and offline modes - Mathematics and Aptitude are computer-based, while the Drawing test is pen-and-paper. The paper consists of three sections: Mathematics, Aptitude, and Drawing. It carries 400 marks in total, with the drawing section contributing 100 marks. The total number of questions in this paper is 77. Check the following table for Paper 2A.
Particulars | Details |
Exam Mode | Mathematics & Aptitude: Online; Drawing Test: Offline |
Number of Sections & Subjects | 3 (Drawing, Mathematics, Aptitude) |
Duration of Exam | 3 hours (180 minutes) |
Sections | Mathematics (20 MCQ + 5 Numerical), Aptitude Test (50), Drawing Test (2) |
Total Questions | 77 |
Type of Questions | Mathematics & Aptitude: Objective; Drawing: Sketching & Design Tasks |
Total Marks | 400 (Drawing section: 100 marks) |
Language of Paper | Assamese, Bengali, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Odia, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, Urdu, Hindi, English, Gujarati |
JEE Main Exam Pattern 2026 of Paper 2B (B.Plan)
JEE Main Paper 2B 2026 will be conducted for admission into B.Plan programs. This paper is fully computer-based and consists of three sections: Mathematics, Aptitude, and Planning-Based Questions. It contains 100 questions in total and carries a maximum of 400 marks. The paper duration is 3 hours, and it is offered in multiple regional languages along with Hindi, English, and Gujarati. Check the following table for JEE Mains exam pattern of Paper 2B.
Particulars | Details |
Exam Mode | Online (Computer-based) |
Number of Sections & Subjects | 3 (Mathematics, Aptitude, Planning-Based Questions) |
Duration of Exam | 3 hours (180 minutes) |
Sections | Mathematics (20 MCQ + 5 Numerical), Aptitude Test (50), Planning-Based Questions (25) |
Total Questions | 100 |
Type of Questions | Mathematics & Aptitude: Objective; Planning: MCQs |
Total Marks | 400 |
Language of Paper | Assamese, Bengali, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Odia, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, Urdu, Hindi, English, Gujarati |
JEE Main 2026 Question Types
The question types vary across sections:
- Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs): There are four options for each question, and only one is correct. This type of question is used in Paper 1 and parts of Paper 2.
- Numerical Value Questions (NVQs): Candidates are asked to provide a numerical answer in the place of option selection. Paper 1 consists of five NVQs for each subject.
- Drawing Questions: This specifically refers to Paper 2A in B.Arch exams where the candidates need to draw or design based on the given prompt.
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JEE Main 2026 Marking Scheme
Every correct answer in MCQs and NVQs will carry 4 marks. There is a deduction of 1 mark for incorrect answers in MCQs. However, there is no negative marking for wrong answers in NVQs. Check out the following table for JEE Main Marking Scheme 2026.
Component | B.E./B.Tech (Paper 1) | B.Arch (Paper 2A) | B.Plan (Paper 2B) |
Marks for Correct Answer | +4 | +4 | +4 |
Marks for Incorrect Answer | -1 | -1 | -1 |
Marks for Unattempted Question | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Mathematics | 25 Questions × 4 = 100 Marks | 25 Questions × 4 = 100 Marks | 25 Questions × 4 = 100 Marks |
Physics | 25 Questions × 4 = 100 Marks | - | - |
Chemistry | 25 Questions × 4 = 100 Marks | - | - |
Aptitude Test | - | 50 Questions × 4 = 200 Marks | 50 Questions × 4 = 200 Marks |
Drawing Test | - | 2 Questions × 50 = 100 Marks | - |
Planning Based Questions | - | - | 25 Questions × 4 = 100 Marks |
Total Marks | 300 | 400 | 400 |
JEE Main 2026 Time Allocation
The total duration for the exam is 3 hours (180 minutes) for Paper 1 and Paper 2. Here are the details.
- Candidates have 60 minutes for each subject in Paper 1: Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
- For Paper 2A, time is split between Mathematics, Aptitude, and Drawing.
- For Paper 2B, time will be shared among Mathematics, Aptitude, and Planning.
JEE Main Syllabus 2026
JEE Main Syllabus 2026 is designed separately for Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech), Paper 2A (B.Arch), and Paper 2B (B.Plan). Paper 1 covers Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, while Paper 2A includes Mathematics, Aptitude, and Drawing skills. Paper 2B consists of Mathematics, Aptitude, and Planning-based questions. Candidates should focus on the most important topics from each subject as per previous years’ weightage to improve their chances of scoring well. Check the following table for the important topics of JEE Main Syllabus 2026.
Subject | Important Topics |
Mathematics | Inverse Trigonometric Functions, Circles & Family of Circles, Sequence & Series, Probability, Vectors, Quadratic Equations & Expressions, Complex Numbers, Matrices, Parabola, Hyperbola (Coordinate Geometry), Functions, Limits, Continuity & Differentiability, Application of Derivatives, Definite Integral |
Physics | Current Electricity & Heat Transfer, Dimensional Analysis, Gravitation & Electrostatics, Geometrical Optics, Waves & Sound, Thermodynamics, Kinetic Theory of Gases, Rotational Dynamics, Electromagnetic Induction |
Chemistry | Physical Chemistry: Mole Concept & Equivalents, Redox Reactions, Electrochemistry, Thermodynamics, Chemical Equilibrium Organic Chemistry: Carbonyl Compounds & Derivatives Inorganic Chemistry: Coordination Chemistry, Chemical Bonding, Qualitative Analysis |
Also Read: JEE Main Syllabus 2026
JEE Main 2026 Preparation Tips
It is very important to master effective preparation strategies for acing the JEE Mains 2026. Here are a few tips on the basis of the exam pattern:
- Understand the Syllabus: Divide the syllabus into sections and make a study plan.
- Practice Regularly: Solve the previous years' papers and mock tests to familiarize with the exam pattern and time management.
- Focus on Weak Areas: Find out the weak subjects or topics and give more time to them.
- Use Quality Resources: Refer to standard books and internet resources, including NCERT books, coaching material, and educational websites.
- Revise Frequently: Revision is the key to retaining concepts and enhancing speed and accuracy.
- Time Management: Practice time management during the preparation as well as while giving mock tests.
JEE Main 2026 Sample Papers/ Mock Tests
Practicing sample papers and mock tests is very important to become familiar with the pattern of the exams and sharpen the skills in answering the questions. Here's why:
- Familiarization: Helps to get familiar with the type of questions and exam format.
- Time Management: Enhances the ability to manage time efficiently during the actual exam.
- Identify Weaknesses: Highlights areas where applicants need more practice.
- Build Confidence: Regular practice with sample papers boosts confidence and reduces exam anxiety.
Many platforms and books provide sample papers and mock tests. Relevant study materials can be accessed from the official website of NTA and other educational portals.
JEE Main 2026 Common Challenges
Candidates usually share common problems with:
- Time Management: So many students would fail to even finish the exam by the time scheduled. This might be overcome using some time management techniques.
- Stress and Anxiety: The pressure to perform can be overwhelming. Regular breaks, relaxation techniques, and staying positive can alleviate stress.
- Some concepts might be tough to understand. Utilizing several resources and seeking assistance from teachers or peers can clarify the concepts.
- Negative Marking: Fear of negative marking can have an impact on performance. Preparing to avoid silly mistakes and careful answering can reduce this effect.
JEE Main Exam Pattern 2026 FAQs
What is the exam mode of JEE Main 2026?
JEE Main 2026 will be conducted in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode for most sections. However, the drawing section in Paper 2A (B.Arch) will be held in offline pen-and-paper mode.
How many papers are there in JEE Main 2026?
JEE Main 2026 consists of three papers – Paper 1 for B.E./B.Tech, Paper 2A for B.Arch, and Paper 2B for B.Plan. Candidates can appear for one or more papers as per their eligibility.
What is the duration of JEE Main 2026?
The duration of JEE Main 2026 is 3 hours for all papers. PwD candidates will be given an extra hour, making the total duration 4 hours.
How many questions are asked in JEE Main 2026 Paper 1?
JEE Main 2026 Paper 1 for B.E./B.Tech will have 75 questions in total. Each subject—Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics—carries 25 questions.
What is the total mark of JEE Main 2026 Paper 1?
The total marks for JEE Main 2026 Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech) are 300 marks. Each correct answer carries 4 marks, while 1 mark is deducted for wrong attempts.
What is the marking scheme of JEE Main 2026?
In JEE Main 2026, +4 marks are awarded for every correct answer and -1 mark is deducted for every incorrect response. No marks are deducted for unattempted questions.
How many questions are there in JEE Main 2026 Paper 2A (B.Arch)?
JEE Main 2026 Paper 2A consists of 77 questions. These include Mathematics, Aptitude, and Drawing-based tasks.
What is the exam pattern of JEE Main 2026 Paper 2B (B.Plan)?
JEE Main 2026 Paper 2B has 100 questions divided into Mathematics, Aptitude, and Planning-based questions. The total marks for this paper are 400.
In how many languages will JEE Main 2026 be conducted?
JEE Main 2026 will be conducted in 13 languages, including Hindi, English, Gujarati, Assamese, Bengali, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Odia, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu.
Has the JEE Main 2026 exam pattern changed from previous years?
Yes, the JEE Main 2026 exam pattern follows the revised structure introduced in 2025. It includes a mix of MCQs and numerical value questions, along with negative marking for wrong answers.