JEE Main 2026: Dates, Eligibility, Syllabus, Application Process & Exam Pattern

The Joint Entrance Examination Main (JEE Main) is one of the most popular engineering entrance exams in India. JEE Exam is conducted in two parts JEE Mains and JEE Advanced. JEE Main Exams is Conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), it opens the door to B.E./B.Tech admissions, as well as B.Arch and B.Planning courses. Scores from the NTA JEE Main exam are accepted by NITs, IIITs, and other top colleges (GFTIs) through JoSAA counselling. JEE Main is also the qualifying exam for JEE Advanced, which is required for admission to the IITs. This makes JEE Main a crucial step for lakhs of students preparing for undergraduate engineering admissions every year.

JEE Main 2026 Latest Updates

• JEE Main 2026 Session 1 Registration: Expected to begin in November 2025. Students must fill the JEE Main application form online and complete the JEE Main registration process before the deadline.
• JEE Main Syllabus 2026: The official syllabus is yet to be released by NTA. It is expected to be based on the updated Class 11 and Class 12 NCERT curriculum, covering JEE Main Physics syllabus, Chemistry syllabus, and Maths syllabus.
• JEE Main Exam Date 2026: The official dates will be announced by NTA along with the exam schedule for both sessions.
• NTA Advisory: Students are advised to keep their Aadhaar, category certificates, and documents ready for JEE Main registration.

What is the JEE Main Exam?

The JEE Main exam (Joint Entrance Examination Main) is a national-level engineering entrance exam conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). It is the gateway for undergraduate engineering admissions into top institutes like NITs, IIITs, and GFTIs. Apart from direct admissions, NTA JEE Main also acts as the qualifying exam for JEE Advanced, which is required for admission to the IITs. This makes JEE Main one of the most important exams for students preparing for B.E./B.Tech, B.Arch, and B.Planning courses. The exam is held in two sessions every year — January and April. Students can appear in one or both sessions, and the best score out of the two attempts is considered for ranking and admission. This system helps students improve their performance and reduce exam pressure.

JEE Main 2026: Key Highlights

JEE Main 2026 Exam Dates

The following dates for JEE Main 2026 are tentative and based on the previous year’s schedule. The National Testing Agency (NTA) will release the official JEE Main exam dates on its website – jeemain.nta.ac.in. Students are advised to check regularly for updates on JEE Main registration, admit card, exam date, and result announcements.

JEE Main 2026 January Session 

JEE Main 2026 April Session (Tentative Dates)

Are You Eligible for JEE Main 2026?

Before filling out the JEE Main 2026 application form, students must carefully check the eligibility criteria released by the National Testing Agency (NTA). The JEE Main eligibility includes nationality, educational qualifications, subjects studied, and the number of attempts allowed.

Nationality

• The JEE Main exam is open to Indian nationals, OCI/PIO candidates, and foreign nationals.
• Foreign candidates can apply for admission under NTA JEE Main rules for CFTIs, NITs, IIITs, and GFTIs.

Age Limit

• There is no age limit for appearing in JEE Mains 2026.
• However, students must have passed their Class 12 / equivalent exam in the specified years to be eligible.

Qualifying Examination

Candidates should have passed or be appearing in any one of the following:

• Class 12 (10+2) from a recognized board (CBSE, ICSE, State Boards).
• Intermediate or Pre-University Examination.
• Final examination of the two-year course of the Joint Services Wing of the NDA.
• Senior Secondary School Examination conducted by the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS).
• Any public school, board, or university exam in India or abroad recognized as equivalent to 10+2.

Year of Appearance in Qualifying Examination

• Students who passed Class 12 in 2024 or 2025, or those appearing in 2026, are eligible for JEE Main 2026.
• Candidates who passed Class 12 in 2023 or earlier are not eligible.

Number of Attempts

• Students can appear in JEE Main twice each year (January and April sessions).
• The best score across both attempts is considered for ranking.
• There is a maximum of three consecutive years of attempts from the year of passing Class 12.

Required Subjects in Class 12

• For B.E./B.Tech admissions → Physics, Mathematics, and Chemistry/Biology/Biotechnology/Technical Vocational Subject are required.
• For B.Arch admissions → Mathematics is compulsory, along with Physics and Chemistry.
• For B.Planning → Mathematics is mandatory.

JEE Main 2026 Registration and Application Process

The JEE Main 2026 registration process will be conducted entirely online at the official website — jeemain.nta.ac.in. Candidates must carefully follow each step while filling out the JEE Main application form to avoid errors, as incomplete or incorrect details can lead to rejection.

How to Apply for JEE Main 2026?

Here is a clear, step-by-step guide to the JEE Main 2026 application process:

Step 1: Online Registration

• Visit the official NTA JEE Main website.
• Click on “New Candidate Registration”.
• Enter details like name, date of birth, mobile number, and email ID.
• Create a password and security question for future login.
• After registration, you will receive a JEE Main application number.

Step 2: Filling the Application Form

• Log in using your application number and password.
• Fill in personal details (name, father’s/mother’s name, category, gender, etc.).
• Enter academic details (Class 10 & 12 marks, school/board information).
• Select your preferred exam centre city and exam medium (English/Hindi/Regional language).
• Choose the paper you are applying for: Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech), Paper 2A (B.Arch), or Paper 2B (B.Planning).

Step 3: Uploading Scanned Documents

• Upload a recent passport-size photograph (in JPEG/JPG format, as per NTA guidelines).
• Upload your signature in the correct file size.
• Reserved category candidates may also need to upload category certificates.

Step 4: Paying the Application Fee

• Pay the JEE Main 2026 application fee online using credit card, debit card, net banking, or UPI.
• The fee varies depending on gender, category (General/OBC/SC/ST), and choice of papers (one or both).
• Download the payment receipt for your records.

Step 5: Printing the Confirmation Page

• After successful payment, download and print the confirmation page.
• This serves as proof of successful JEE Main registration.
• Keep a copy safe until the end of the admission process.

JEE Main 2026 Exam Pattern

The JEE Main exam pattern 2026, released by the National Testing Agency (NTA), defines the structure of the exam for all three papers — Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech), Paper 2A (B.Arch), and Paper 2B (B.Planning). Understanding the JEE Main question pattern, marking scheme, and subject-wise weightage helps students plan their preparation effectively.

JEE Main 2026 Exam Pattern for Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech)

Paper 1 is for candidates applying to B.E./B.Tech courses in NITs, IIITs, and GFTIs.

Candidates have to attempt 25 questions per subject (20 MCQs + 5 numerical questions). Out of 10 numerical questions given, only 5 need to be attempted.

JEE Main 2026 Exam Pattern for Paper 2A (B.Arch)

Paper 2A is for candidates seeking admission into B.Arch courses.

The drawing test for B.Arch is conducted offline (pen & paper mode), while the other sections are in computer-based mode.

JEE Main 2026 Exam Pattern for Paper 2B (B.Planning)

Paper 2B is for candidates applying to B.Planning courses.

The planning section tests logical thinking, design, and analytical ability specific to urban and regional planning.

JEE Main 2026 Marking Scheme

The JEE Main marking scheme is the same across all papers.

• +4 marks → For every correct answer.
• -1 mark → For every incorrect MCQ (negative marking applies).
• 0 marks → For unattempted questions.
• For numerical value questions → +4 for correct answers, no negative marking for wrong or unattempted responses.

JEE Main 2026 Syllabus

The JEE Main syllabus 2026 is expected to be released by the National Testing Agency (NTA) along with the official information brochure. Just like previous years, the syllabus will be largely based on the Class 11 and Class 12 NCERT curriculum of Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Since the exam is designed to test a student’s understanding of fundamental concepts taught in school, knowing the JEE Main syllabus helps aspirants plan their preparation strategy and focus on important topics with maximum weightage.

JEE Main 2026 Physics Syllabus

Physics plays a major role in the JEE Main Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech). Questions are asked from both Class 11 and Class 12 Physics NCERT topics.

• Class 11 Physics Syllabus: Laws of Motion, Kinematics, Work, Energy & Power, Thermodynamics, Oscillations & Waves, Gravitation.
• Class 12 Physics Syllabus: Current Electricity, Electromagnetism, Optics, Modern Physics, Semiconductor Electronics, Communication Systems.

Focus on Numerical Value Questions in Physics, as they test problem-solving skills.

JEE Main 2026 Chemistry Syllabus 

Chemistry is often considered the scoring subject in JEE Main due to its mix of theory and application.

• Class 11 Chemistry Syllabus: Atomic Structure, Chemical Bonding, States of Matter, Equilibrium, Thermodynamics, Hydrocarbons.
• Class 12 Chemistry Syllabus: Solid State, Electrochemistry, Chemical Kinetics, Coordination Compounds, Biomolecules, Polymers, Chemistry in Everyday Life.

Inorganic Chemistry from Class 12 NCERT is a high-weightage area in JEE Main Chemistry syllabus.

JEE Main 2026 Mathematics Syllabus 

Mathematics is crucial as it carries the highest weightage (100 marks) in the exam.

• Class 11 Maths Syllabus: Sets, Relations & Functions, Complex Numbers, Sequences & Series, Permutations & Combinations, Probability, Trigonometry.
• Class 12 Maths Syllabus: Matrices & Determinants, Differential Calculus, Integral Calculus, Vectors, 3D Geometry, Probability Distributions.

Calculus and Algebra form the bulk of the JEE Main Maths syllabus.

Special Notes on JEE Main 2026 Syllabus

• For B.Arch (Paper 2A) → In addition to Mathematics, candidates must study topics from Aptitude and Drawing/Design.
• For B.Planning (Paper 2B) → Along with Mathematics, the syllabus includes Aptitude and Planning-based objective questions.
• NTA may release minor changes or reductions in the syllabus depending on updates in NCERT Class 11 & 12 books.

Best Study Material for JEE Main 2026 Preparation

To score well in the JEE Main exam 2026, aspirants must follow the right study material, books, and mock test strategy. The National Testing Agency (NTA) sets the exam pattern, but preparation depends on how effectively students combine NCERT concepts, reference books, previous year question papers, and JEE Main mock tests. Best Books for JEE Main 2026 Preparation While NCERT textbooks form the backbone of the JEE Main syllabus, practicing from recommended reference books helps in building conceptual clarity and problem-solving speed.

Start with NCERT books for theory, then move to reference books for advanced practice.

JEE Main Previous Year Papers & Mock Tests

• Solving JEE Main previous year question papers helps students understand the exam pattern, difficulty level, and important chapters.
• Practicing JEE Main mock tests improves time management, speed, and accuracy.
• NTA also provides official mock tests on the NTA website in computer-based test format, which simulate the real exam environment.
• Regularly attempting chapter-wise and full-length mock tests helps in analyzing strengths and weaknesses.

Aim to solve at least 10–12 full-length mock tests before the exam and review mistakes to avoid repeating them.

JEE Main 2026 Admit Card

The JEE Main 2026 admit card is a mandatory document required to enter the examination hall. The National Testing Agency (NTA) will release the admit card on the official website, jeemain.nta.ac.in, a few days before the scheduled exam date. Candidates must download their admit card and verify all details carefully.

How to Download the JEE Main 2026 Admit Card?

1. Visit the official NTA JEE Main website.
2. Click on the link titled “Download JEE Main 2026 Admit Card (Session 1/2)”.
3. Log in using your Application Number and Date of Birth.
4. Your admit card will appear on the screen.
5. Download the admit card and print at least two copies for future reference.

Details to Check on Your Admit Card

• Candidate’s Name and Photograph
• Application Number and Roll Number
• Exam Date and Reporting Time
• Exam Centre Name and Address
• Exam Day Instructions and Guidelines

If you find any discrepancy in your admit card details, you must contact the NTA helpline immediately for correction.

JEE Main 2026 Answer Key, Response Sheet, and OMR

After the conclusion of the exam, the NTA releases the provisional JEE Main 2026 answer key along with the candidate’s recorded response sheet. This allows students to calculate their estimated score and predict their performance before the official result is declared.

How to Check and Challenge the Answer Key?

1. Download: Log in to the NTA portal to download the provisional answer key and your response sheet.
2. Calculate Score: Compare your answers with the official key. For every correct answer, add 4 marks, and for every incorrect MCQ, deduct 1 mark.
3. Challenge Process: If you find a discrepancy in the provisional answer key, you can challenge it by paying a non-refundable processing fee per question.
4. Final Answer Key: After reviewing all challenges, the NTA will release a final answer key, which will be used for calculating the final result.

JEE Main 2026 Marks vs. Percentile vs. Rank Analysis

Understanding the relationship between marks, percentile, and rank is crucial for predicting your admission chances. The JEE Main result is declared as a percentile score, which indicates your relative performance compared to all other candidates.

What is a Percentile Score?

A percentile score is not the same as a percentage of marks. It represents the percentage of candidates who scored equal to or below you in the exam. For example, a 99 percentile means you have scored more than 99% of the test-takers.

Expected Marks vs. Percentile for JEE Main 2026

Based on previous years' trends, this table provides an estimated marks vs. percentile analysis for JEE Main 2026. Please note this is an approximation and can vary based on the exam's difficulty level.

Many students use a JEE Main rank predictor tool after the exam by entering their expected score to get an idea of their potential All India Rank (AIR).

JEE Main 2026 Exam Day Guidelines

To ensure a smooth and fair examination process, the NTA has set strict exam day guidelines. All candidates must adhere to these rules at the exam centre.

What to Carry to the Exam Centre?

• A clear printout of the JEE Main Admit Card.
• One passport-size photograph (same as uploaded in the application form).
• A valid original Photo ID proof (Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Voter ID, etc.).
• A transparent water bottle.
• A simple transparent ballpoint pen.

What is Prohibited in the JEE Mains Exam Hall?

• Electronic devices like mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators, or Bluetooth devices are strictly forbidden.
• Any kind of study material, notes, or paper.
• Handbags, wallets, or metallic items.
• Food items (except for diabetic candidates with prior permission).

Candidates are advised to reach the exam centre at least 60-90 minutes before the reporting time mentioned on their admit card for security checks and verification.

JEE Main Cutoff and Result Analysis

The JEE Main result 2026 will be released by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for each session (January & April). Along with the result, NTA publishes the JEE Main cutoff — the minimum score or percentile required for qualifying JEE Advanced and for admissions into NITs, IIITs, and GFTIs. Understanding the cutoff trends and the result calculation process helps students estimate their chances of admission and plan accordingly.

Understanding JEE Main Cutoff

There are two types of JEE Main cutoff every candidate must know:

1. JEE Main Qualifying Cutoff (Eligibility for JEE Advanced):
   • Released by NTA along with the result.
   • It is the minimum percentile required to qualify for JEE Advanced.
   • Varies category-wise (General, OBC, SC, ST, EWS, PwD).
2. JEE Main Admission Cutoff (For NITs, IIITs & GFTIs):
   • Released by JoSAA (Joint Seat Allocation Authority) after counselling.
   • Refers to the closing ranks/percentiles at which candidates are admitted to specific institutes and branches.
   • Changes every year depending on difficulty level, number of candidates, and seat availability.

JEE Main Previous Years’ Qualifying Cutoff (Category-Wise)

The table below shows the JEE Main qualifying cutoff percentiles for the last three years (2025, 2024, and 2023). This trend helps predict the expected cutoff for JEE Main 2026.

These are the qualifying cutoffs for JEE Advanced. The admission cutoffs for NITs, IIITs, and GFTIs vary across institutes and branches.

How to Check the JEE Main Result?

Candidates can check their JEE Main result 2026 on the official NTA website: jeemain.nta.ac.in. Steps to Download the JEE Main 2026 Result:

1. Visit the official NTA JEE Main result page.
2. Log in using your Application Number and Password/Date of Birth.
3. Click on “View Result/Scorecard”.
4. The screen will display your subject-wise scores, NTA percentile, and overall score.
5. Download and print the JEE Main scorecard for counselling and admission purposes.

Understanding the NTA Percentile Score

• The JEE Main result is not given in raw marks but in the form of a percentile score.
• The NTA percentile reflects the relative performance of a candidate compared to all other test-takers.
• It is not the same as percentage marks — even a student with fewer raw marks can get a higher percentile if the exam was tough.
• The best of the two session scores (January & April) will be considered for ranking.

What After JEE Main Result? The JoSAA Counselling Process

Once the JEE Main result 2026 is declared, the next step for students is JoSAA Counselling (Joint Seat Allocation Authority). JoSAA manages the centralized counselling process for admission into NITs, IIITs, GFTIs, and IITs (for students who qualify JEE Advanced). Through JoSAA, candidates can apply for seats, lock preferences, and secure admission based on their JEE Main rank, category, and cutoff trends.

Role of JoSAA in JEE Main Counselling

• Acts as the single counselling platform for all NITs, IIITs, and GFTIs.
• Conducts seat allocation in multiple rounds based on the JEE Main rank list.
• Ensures transparency in seat distribution and prevents duplicate admissions.
• Provides students with access to seat matrix, cutoff ranks, and allotment results.

Step-by-Step JoSAA Counselling Process 2026

1. Online Registration & Login
   • Candidates must log in at josaa.nic.in using their JEE Main application number and password.
   • Registration usually starts soon after the JEE Main result announcement.
2. Choice Filling & Locking
   • Candidates select their preferred NITs, IIITs, and GFTIs (and IITs if eligible).
   • Choices must be arranged in order of preference.
   • Once finalized, candidates must lock their choices to prevent changes later.
3. Seat Allotment (Round-wise)
   • JoSAA conducts 6–7 rounds of seat allotment.
   • Seat allocation is based on JEE Main rank, seat availability, category, and preferences filled.
   • Candidates can accept, freeze, float, or slide their seat allotment.
4. Document Verification & Reporting
   • Candidates who accept a seat must upload required documents online.
   • After verification, students must report to the allotted institute for final admission.
5. Upgradation & Withdrawal Options
   • If unsatisfied, candidates can wait for further rounds for a possible upgraded seat.
   • Withdrawal options are available before the final round.

Important Documents Required for JoSAA Counselling 2026

• JEE Main 2026 scorecard & admit card
• Class 10 & 12 mark sheets
• Category certificate (if applicable)
• Passport-size photographs
• Photo ID proof (Aadhaar / Passport / Voter ID)

Key Highlights of JoSAA Counselling 2026

• Institutes Covered: 31 NITs, 25 IIITs, 28 GFTIs, and 23 IITs (for JEE Advanced qualifiers).
• Mode: Entire process is online at josaa.nic.in.
• Rounds: Usually 6–7 rounds of counselling.

Stay connected with us at Infinity Learn to be updated on all the latest changes. Moreover, Infinity Learn also provides JEE coaching and IIT JEE Main books to boost your preparation and help students get admission into their desired colleges.