The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially commenced the registration process for Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main 2026 Session 1, marking the beginning of the admission cycle for India’s premier engineering institutions. As the primary gateway to NITs, IIITs, and other CFTIs, and the qualifying test for JEE Advanced for IIT admissions, this examination represents a critical milestone for engineering aspirants across the country. The registration process began on October 31, 2025, and will remain open until November 27, 2025, with the first session scheduled to be held between January 21 and 30, 2026 .
This comprehensive guide covers all essential aspects of JEE Main 2026 – from registration and eligibility to preparation strategies and recent changes introduced by NTA. Whether you’re a fresh Class 12 student or a dropper, understanding these details will ensure a smooth application process and help you avoid common pitfalls that could jeopardize your candidature.
JEE Main 2026 Key Dates and Schedule
Staying informed about important deadlines is crucial for a hassle-free JEE Main application experience. The table below outlines all critical dates for Session 1:
For Session 2, registrations are expected to begin in the last week of January 2026, with exams scheduled from April 2 to 9, 2026 . NTA has increased the number of exam cities from 284 to 323 this year, enhancing accessibility for students across India .
JEE Main 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Academic Qualification and Age Limit
Candidates must have passed their Class 12 or equivalent examination in 2024 or 2025, or be appearing for it in 2026 . There is no upper age limit for appearing in JEE Main 2026, though candidates must satisfy any age criteria specified by individual institutes for admission .
Subject Combination Requirements
The subject requirements vary based on the course :
- B.E./B.Tech: Physics, Mathematics, and one of Chemistry/Biology/Biotechnology/Technical Vocational Subject
- B.Arch: Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry
- B.Planning: Mathematics as a compulsory subject
Minimum Marks Requirement
While there are no minimum marks required to appear for JEE Main 2026, candidates seeking admission to NITs, IIITs, and GFTIs must secure either 75% marks in Class 12 (65% for SC/ST) or be in the top 20 percentile of their respective board examinations .
Number of Attempts
Candidates can attempt JEE Main for a maximum of three consecutive years. Since the exam is conducted twice a year, this allows for up to six total attempts over three years .
Complete JEE Main 2026 Application Process
Step-by-Step Registration Guide
- Visit Official Website: Go to jeemain.nta.nic.in – the only official portal for JEE Main registration
- Registration: Create an account using basic details like name, date of birth, mobile number, and email ID
- Fill Application Form: Provide personal, academic, and contact details; select exam preferences including paper combination and exam cities
- Upload Documents: Submit scanned copies of photograph, signature, and required certificates in specified formats
- Fee Payment: Pay the application fee online through credit/debit card, net banking, or UPI
- Final Submission: Review all details carefully and submit the form; download the confirmation page for future reference
Document Specifications
- Photograph: JPEG format, 10-200 KB size, 4-30 KB for signature
- Category Certificate (if applicable): Details of OBC-NCL/EWS certificate required
- Identity Proof: Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Passport, or other government-issued ID
- PwD Certificate: UDID card or disability certificate for candidates with disabilities
Application Fee Structure
The application fee varies based on category and gender :
- General/Unreserved Male: ₹1000
- General/Unreserved Female: ₹800
- Gen-EWS/OBC-NCL Male: ₹900
- Gen-EWS/OBC-NCL Female: ₹800
- SC/ST/PwD/Transgender: ₹500
New Features in JEE Main 2026 Application
NTA has introduced several significant changes to enhance the application process for JEE Main 2026 :
- Live Photo Capture: A new feature to capture live photographs during the application process
- APAAR ID Integration: Option to provide APAAR ID (One Nation One Student ID) in the application form
- Enhanced Identity Verification: Requirement to upload a scanned copy of identity proof, with multiple options including Aadhaar, PAN, and Passport
- Streamlined PwD Documentation: PwD candidates can provide either UDID card or disability certificate
- Increased Exam Cities: Expansion from 284 to 323 exam cities for wider accessibility
JEE Main 2026 Exam Pattern and Syllabus
Paper Structure and Marking Scheme
JEE Main 2026 will follow this pattern :
- Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech): Computer Based Test (CBT) with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics
- Paper 2A (B.Arch): Mathematics and Aptitude Test in CBT mode, Drawing Test in offline mode
- Paper 2B (B.Planning): Mathematics, Aptitude Test, and Planning-Based questions in CBT mode
The marking scheme includes +4 marks for each correct answer and -1 mark for every incorrect response in MCQs, with no negative marking for unattempted questions .
Syllabus Overview
The JEE Main 2026 syllabus aligns with the NCERT curriculum for Classes 11 and 12, with emphasis on :
- Physics: Mechanics, Thermodynamics, Electromagnetism, Optics, Modern Physics
- Chemistry: Physical, Organic, and Inorganic Chemistry with balanced weightage
- Mathematics: Algebra, Calculus, Coordinate Geometry, Trigonometry, and Probability
Preparation Strategies for JEE Main 2026
Effective Study Approach
- Master NCERT Fundamentals: Build strong conceptual foundation through NCERT textbooks before advancing to reference books
- Strategic Time Management: Create a realistic study plan allocating time for concepts, problem-solving, and revision
- Practice with Mock Tests: Regular full-length practice tests improve speed, accuracy, and time management
- Focus on High-Weightage Topics: Prioritize chapters with higher question frequency based on previous years’ trends
- Consistent Revision: Maintain short notes and formula sheets for quick review; dedicate daily time for revision
Recommended Books
- Physics: HC Verma for conceptual clarity and problem-solving
- Chemistry: NCERT textbooks for inorganic, OP Tandon for physical chemistry
- Mathematics: RD Sharma for comprehensive practice and advanced problems
Important Points to Remember
- Single Application Only: Submitting multiple application forms will lead to cancellation of candidature
- Document Verification: Ensure all documents (Aadhaar, category certificates, etc.) are valid and updated before applying
- Correction Window: NTA provides a limited form correction facility in December 2025; use it carefully as not all details can be modified
- Exam Day Requirements: Follow dress code guidelines – wear light-colored clothes without large buttons or metallic items
Conclusion
JEE Main 2026 represents a significant opportunity for engineering aspirants to secure admission to India’s premier technical institutions. With the registration process now open, candidates should carefully review all eligibility requirements, prepare necessary documents, and complete their applications before the November 27 deadline. The introduction of new features like live photo capture and APAAR ID integration streamlines the process while enhancing security.
Stay updated through the official NTA website jeemain.nta.nic.in for the latest notifications, and begin your preparation strategically to maximize your performance. With thorough planning, consistent effort, and attention to application details, you can navigate the JEE Main 2026 process successfully and take a significant step toward your engineering career.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, readers are advised to consult the official JEE Main website jeemain.nta.nic.in for the most current and accurate information regarding registration, eligibility, and exam details. The author and publisher are not responsible for any errors or omissions or for results obtained from the use of this information.
FAQs
1. Is there any age limit for JEE Main 2026?
No, there is no upper age limit for appearing in JEE Main 2026. Candidates who passed Class 12 in 2024, 2025, or are appearing in 2026 can apply regardless of age .
2. Can diploma holders apply for JEE Main 2026?
Yes, diploma holders can apply for JEE Main 2026. However, they are not eligible for admission to NITs, IIITs, or CFTIs through JEE Main, but can appear to qualify for JEE Advanced for IIT admissions .
3. What is the 75% criteria for NITs? Is it for overall marks or just PCM?
The 75% requirement (65% for SC/ST) refers to the overall aggregate marks in Class 12, not just PCM subjects. It includes all five subjects taken in the board exams .
4. How many attempts are allowed for JEE Main 2026?
Candidates can attempt JEE Main for three consecutive years, with two attempts per year (January and April sessions), allowing for a maximum of six attempts over three years .
5. Can I edit my JEE Main 2026 application form after submission?
Yes, NTA provides a correction window in December 2025 where candidates can edit certain details in their application. However, not all fields can be modified, and some changes may require additional fee payment .
