JEE Main 2026: Notification, Eligibility, Dates, Registration, Pattern, Syllabus, Preparation Tips

The Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main, administered by the National Testing Agency (NTA), serves as the gateway for undergraduate courses such as B.E/B.Tech/B.Arch/B.Plan. Conducted twice a year in January and April sessions, JEE Main is crucial for admission into prestigious institutions like NITs, IIITs, and other participating universities. For aspiring engineers, qualifying JEE Main Paper 1 is imperative, while those aiming for architecture and planning courses must clear Paper 2. Additionally, JEE Main acts as the eligibility test for JEE Advanced, the gateway to IITs.

The Joint Entrance Examination (Main), commonly referred to as JEE Main, serves as the entrance exam for admission to BTech, BArch, and BPlan programs at NITs, IIITs, and other Central Funded Technical Institutions (CFTIs), as well as institutions/ universities supported or recognized by participating state governments. Additionally, JEE Main serves as a qualifying test for JEE Advanced, which facilitates admission to the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs).

The exam comprises three papers: Paper 1 for BTech admissions, Paper 2A for BArch admissions, and Paper 2B for BPlan admissions. Find comprehensive details about JEE Main 2026 registration, application procedures, examination schedules, eligibility criteria, examination formats, syllabi, and more.

JEE Main 2026 Highlights

JEE Main 2026 is a prominent national-level undergraduate entrance examination conducted by the NTA.

JEE Main 2026 Exam Dates

JEE Main 2026 exam dates are pivotal for aspirants seeking admission to prestigious engineering and architecture programs across India.

JEE Main 2026 Application Form

The JEE Main 2026 Application Form process commences in the first week of November 2025, ushering in the opportunity for aspiring candidates to apply for the prestigious exam. Conducted entirely online, the application process offers flexibility with bilingual forms available in both Hindi and English. It’s imperative to meticulously fill in the details during registration, as changes post-submission are not permissible. Candidates can opt for single or both sessions, but submitting multiple applications is strictly prohibited. 

• JEE Main 2026 Application Form process starts in the first week of November 2025.
• The application process is conducted exclusively online, with no provision for offline submissions.
• Candidates can choose to register for either a single session or both sessions of the exam.
• Application forms are available in bilingual format, allowing candidates to choose between Hindi and English.
• Careful attention must be paid during the registration process as changes after submission are not allowed.
• Submitting multiple applications is strictly prohibited, and strict actions may be taken against violators.
• The application process involves several steps, including online registration, form filling, document uploads, and fee payment.
• After submission, candidates need not send any physical documents to the authorities via post, fax, email, or by hand.
• The application fee varies based on the category and the number of sessions applied for.
• Candidates are advised to keep a copy of the submitted application form for future reference and verification purposes.

JEE Main 2025 Application Fee

The JEE Main 2026 application fee can be conveniently paid online via various payment methods, including credit card, debit card, UPI, or net banking. It’s important to note that the fee is non-refundable, and candidates may be subject to additional processing or GST charges, which vary based on the candidate’s category and the paper they are applying for, both within India and outside.

How to Fill JEE Main 2026 Application Form

Filling out the JEE Main 2026 application form is a crucial step for candidates aspiring to appear for the exam. Here is a detailed guide on how to fill out the application form:

• Registration: Visit the official website of JEE Main 2026 and click on the registration link. Enter the required details such as name, email ID, mobile number, and date of birth to register for the exam.
• Fill Application Form: After successful registration, log in using the credentials provided and fill in the application form with personal details, academic qualifications, choice of exam centres, etc.
• Upload Documents: Upload scanned copies of your recent passport-sized photograph, signature, and other required documents such as category certificate (if applicable) in the prescribed format.
• Fee Payment: Pay the application fee online through the available payment modes such as credit card, debit card, net banking, or UPI. The fee varies based on the category of the candidate and the number of papers opted for.
• Review and Submit: Before final submission, review all the details filled in the application form carefully. Make sure all information provided is accurate and matches the documents.
• Print Confirmation Page: After successful submission of the application form, download and print the confirmation page for future reference. Keep the confirmation page safe until the completion of the admission process.
• Application Correction (if required): The conducting authority may provide a limited window for application correction. In case of any errors or discrepancies, candidates can make corrections during this period.

Documents Required to Fill JEE Main 2026 Application Form

Candidates appearing for JEE Main 2026 must ensure to carry the following documents:

JEE Main 2026 Application Form Correction

The application correction window for JEE Main 2026 opens shortly after the conclusion of the registration process. This online facility allows candidates to rectify any errors or update certain details in their application form. It is important to note that corrections can only be made through the online portal, and requests for amendments via post, fax, mail, or in person will not be entertained.

For the January session, the JEE Main 2026 Correction facility is available from the first to the second week of December 2025, while for the April session, it is open from the first to the second week of March 2026. Candidates are advised to utilize this opportunity judiciously as only one chance is provided for editing the form.

JEE Main 2026 Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for JEE Main 2026 are fundamental requirements that candidates need to fulfil to be eligible for the exam. These criteria encompass various aspects such as educational qualifications, age limit, and nationality.

Nationality: 

• Both Indian nationals and international applicants are eligible to apply. However, international applicants must meet the eligibility criteria specified by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) to appear for JEE Main.

Qualifying Exam: 

• Candidates who have passed their 12th standard examination or its equivalent in the years 2024, and 2025, or are appearing for the exam in 2026 are eligible to apply for JEE Main 2026.

Age Limit: 

• There is no upper age limit specified for candidates applying for JEE Main 2026. However, candidates must fulfil the age criteria specified by the institution where they seek admission.

Attempt Limit: 

• There is no restriction on the number of attempts to appear in JEE Main.

State Code of Eligibility: 

• Candidates need to select the state code of eligibility based on the state from which they have passed their 12th standard examination. This selection is independent of their native place or residence. Candidates who have completed their qualifying exam from a foreign nation should choose their state code of eligibility based on the permanent address mentioned on their passport.

Eligibility for Admitting Institutes: 

Different institutions such as IITs, NITs, and CFTIs may have specific subject combination requirements for admission:

• For B.Tech/B.E programs, candidates must have passed their 12th with Physics and Mathematics along with Chemistry/Biology/Biotechnology/Technical Vocational subjects.
• For B.Arch programs, candidates must have passed their 12th with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as compulsory subjects.
• For B.Plan programs, candidates must have passed their 12th with Mathematics as a compulsory subject.

Qualifying Marks (Through CSAB): 

• Candidates seeking admission through CSAB counselling must have secured a minimum of 75% marks (65% for ST/SC candidates) in their 12th standard examination, or they must be among the top 20 percentile in their respective board examinations.

JEE Main 2026 Exam Pattern

JEE Main 2026 follows a structured exam pattern designed to assess candidates’ proficiency in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. The exam is conducted in multiple sessions across various test centres. It comprises two sections – Section A and Section B – in each subject, contributing to a total of 300 marks.

• Mode of Exam: JEE Main 2026 Paper 1 & 2 will be conducted in Computer Based Test (CBT) mode, while the drawing test of Paper 2 (Architecture) will be held offline in pen and paper mode.
• Total Papers: Paper 1 is for B.E/ B.Tech, Paper 2A is for B.Arch, and Paper 2B is for B.Plan.
• Choice of Medium: The exam will be conducted in 13 languages, including English, Hindi, and various regional languages.
• Type of Questions: Multiple choice questions (MCQs) will be asked in the exam.
• Time: Paper 1 and Paper 2A/B will have a duration of 3 hours each, while both Paper 2A and 2B together will have a duration of 3 hours 30 minutes. PWD candidates for 1-hour exams will get an additional 20 minutes.
• Marking Scheme: Each correct answer will be awarded 4 marks, while 1 mark will be deducted for every incorrect answer.

For B.E/ B.Tech:

For B.Arch:

For B.Plan:

JEE Main 2026 Syllabus

The JEE Main 2026 syllabus, available online, closely aligns with the curriculum of 11th and 12th grades. Below, you can find a breakdown of the syllabus by paper and subject.

JEE Main 2026 Preparation Tips

Preparing for the JEE Main 2026 exam requires a strategic approach and diligent effort. Here are some effective preparation tips to help you excel:

1. Understand the Syllabus: Begin by thoroughly understanding the JEE Main syllabus and identifying key topics in each subject.
2. Create a Study Plan: Develop a well-structured study plan that allocates sufficient time for each subject and topic.
3. Practice Regularly: Regular practice is crucial for mastering concepts and improving problem-solving skills. Solve a variety of questions from different sources.
4. Utilize Quality Study Material: Refer to standard textbooks and study materials recommended by experts to ensure comprehensive coverage of topics.
5. Mock Tests and Previous Papers: Take regular mock tests and solve previous years’ question papers to familiarize yourself with the exam pattern and improve time management skills.
6. Focus on Weak Areas: Identify your weaknesses and devote extra time to improving those areas. Seek help from teachers or peers if needed.
7. Stay Healthy: Maintain a healthy lifestyle with proper diet, exercise, and sufficient rest to stay focused and energized during the preparation period.
8. Stay Positive and Confident: Stay positive, believe in yourself, and stay confident in your abilities. Maintain a positive mindset to overcome challenges and perform your best on the exam day.

JEE Main Exam Centres

The JEE Main exam is conducted across numerous centres both within and outside India to accommodate candidates from diverse locations, ensuring accessibility and convenience for all aspirants. Below is a comprehensive list of exam centres for JEE Main 2026.

JEE Main 2026 City Intimation Slip

Before the issuance of the JEE Main 2026 admit card, NTA will publish the city intimation slip online. This slip will provide essential details such as the exam city and exam date for the appearing candidates. To access this information, students will need to log in using their credentials.

The city intimation slip for the January session is expected to be released in the second week of January 2026. Similarly, for the Session 2 exam, the advance city intimation slip will be made available in the third week of March 2026. It’s crucial for candidates to regularly check the official website for updates and notifications regarding the release of these slips.

JEE Main 2026 Admit Card

The JEE Main 2026 admit card will be released by the National Testing Agency (NTA) exclusively through online channels. Access to the admit card will be granted via the official website, where candidates must input their correct login credentials, including their application number and date of birth.

Possessing a hard copy of the JEE Main 2026 admit card will be obligatory for candidates appearing in the entrance examination. This vital document will contain crucial information such as the candidate’s name, roll number, exam details (date, time, venue), signature, etc. On the day of the examination, candidates must bring their admit card along with a valid photo ID for verification purposes.

JEE Main 2026 Answer Key

The JEE Main 2026 answer key will be exclusively available online for candidates who have appeared for the exam. It will be released separately for each session and can be accessed on the official website in PDF format.

Furthermore, the National Testing Agency will provide candidates with the opportunity to challenge the answer key if they identify any discrepancies. With the aid of the answer key, candidates will be able to estimate their scores in the exam. Following the resolution of all raised queries regarding the answer key, the final version will be published for reference.

JEE Main 2026 Result

The JEE Main 2026 result is expected to be announced in the first week of April 2026, and candidates can access it through the official website using their login credentials, including the application number and date of birth.

The result will include important details such as the NTA scores, roll number, percentile, and more. Candidates who qualify as the top 2,50,000 scorers in the NTA exam will be eligible to participate in the JEE Advanced examination. Candidates need to download and retain their JEE Main 2026 scorecard from the website for future reference during the admission procedure.

JEE Main 2026 Cut-Off

The NTA will publish the qualifying cutoff for JEE Main 2026 online, and candidates can access it through the NTA website after the result declaration. Separate cutoffs will be provided for each session of the JEE Main exam.

Additionally, the cutoff will specify the minimum marks required for candidates to be eligible to appear for the JEE Advanced 2026 exam. Aspiring candidates should regularly check the NTA website for updates and announcements regarding the cutoff release.

JEE Main 2026 Counselling

The counselling procedure for JEE Main 2026 will be conducted online by JoSAA. Detailed information about the counselling process will be provided on the official website. Qualified candidates from the JEE Main 2026 exam will be invited to participate in the counselling process.

To participate in counselling, candidates must complete the registration process. The counselling process will include several steps such as registration, choice filling, choice locking, seat allotment, and payment of the seat acceptance fee. Additionally, candidates will need to undergo a document verification process, for which original documents will be required. Admission into NITs, IITs, and GFTIs will be facilitated through this counselling procedure.

Required Documents for Counselling:

During the counselling process for JEE Main 2026, candidates are required to present several documents to complete the admission formalities. These documents are crucial for verification purposes and ensuring the eligibility of candidates for seat allotment. 

• JEE Main 2026 Seat Allotment Letter: This document will be issued by JoSAA (Joint Seat Allocation Authority) and confirms the allocation of a seat to the candidate.
• Passport Size Photographs: Three recent passport-size photographs are required for identification purposes and documentation.
• Government-issued Photo Identity Card: Candidates need to carry a valid government-issued photo identity card such as an Aadhar Card, Passport, Voter ID, or Driver’s License for identity verification.
• Proof of Fee Payment: Candidates must provide proof of fee payment for seat acceptance in JEE Main 2026. This can include transaction receipts or payment acknowledgement documents.
• Date of Birth Proof: A document validating the candidate’s date of birth, such as a birth certificate or Class 10th mark sheet, is required for age verification.
• JEE Main 2026 Admit Card: The admit card issued for the JEE Main 2026 examination is essential for verification purposes and confirms the candidate’s appearance in the exam.
• Class 12th Mark Sheet: Candidates need to present their Class 12th mark sheet as proof of having cleared the qualifying examination.
• JEE Main 2026 Score Card: The scorecard of JEE Main 2026, displaying the candidate’s performance in the exam, is mandatory for counselling and admission procedures.
• Category Certificate (if required): Candidates belonging to reserved categories (such as SC, ST, OBC, EWS) need to furnish the relevant category certificate issued by the competent authority for verification.
• Other Relevant Documents: Depending on specific requirements or circumstances, candidates may be asked to provide additional documents or certificates during the counselling process.

Participating Institutes of JEE Main 2026

JEE Main 2026 offers admission to various prestigious engineering institutions across India. Here is a list of participating institutes where candidates can pursue their undergraduate engineering courses.

JEE Main 2026 FAQ’s

Sunil Kushwaha

As a dedicated Biology Science graduate, I’m passionate about sharing the latest updates in national and state entrance exams through my blog. I aim to keep aspiring students informed about exam trends, important dates, and changes in syllabi. With a keen interest in education, I strive to offer valuable insights for students navigating the competitive landscape of entrance examinations and admission tests. Stay updated with me.