How Many Attempts for JEE Advanced?

JEE Advanced is one of the most competitive entrance exams in India, serving as the gateway to prestigious institutions like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). A crucial aspect for every aspirant is understanding how many times they can appear for this examination. The attempt limit is not just a rule—it directly impacts planning, preparation, and long-term academic strategy.

Official Attempt Limit

As per the official guidelines set by the Joint Admission Board (JAB):

• You are allowed a maximum of two attempts at JEE Advanced.
• These two attempts must be made in two consecutive years.

For instance:

• If a student appears for JEE Advanced in 2025 after clearing JEE Main in 2025, they can also appear again in 2026 if they qualify JEE Main again.
• If they skip the first year after Class 12, they can still take it the following year—but only once.

This rule applies regardless of whether you qualify the exam or not in your first attempt. Even if you don’t appear after registering, that year is counted as one attempt.

Eligibility Criteria You Must Fulfill

Besides the attempt limit, you must meet these essential eligibility criteria:

• Qualify JEE Main: You must be among the top 2.5 lakh rank holders in JEE Main (across all categories).
• Age Limit: Candidates must have been born on or after October 1, 2000 (relaxation of 5 years for SC/ST/PwD).
• Year of Passing Class 12: You must have passed Class 12 (or equivalent) in the same year or one year prior to the JEE Advanced year.

So, you’re eligible for JEE Advanced only in the year of your 12th board exam and the following year.

Strategic Implications for Aspirants

This two-attempt limit significantly impacts decision-making. Here's how:

• No room for careless planning: Unlike JEE Main, where you get multiple sessions and attempts, Advanced gives you just two shots. That makes every attempt precious.
• Drop year decision: If you're unsure about your first attempt's preparation level, you may decide to take a strategic drop year—many do this to focus solely on JEE Advanced.
• Balanced strategy: Students often divide focus between board exams, JEE Main, and Advanced. With a clear attempt limit, strategic preparation becomes essential.

Important Notes

• Taking a “dummy admission” or reappearing for Class 12 just to reset your eligibility does not help.
• International students and foreign nationals may have different eligibility paths and should refer to the official JEE Advanced information bulletin.