What is the 75% (or top 20 percentile) eligibility criterion for JEE, and how is it applied?

The 75% (or top 20 percentile) criterion is an important academic eligibility requirement for admission to NITs, IIITs, CFTIs, and for appearing in JEE Advanced (and thus for IITs). Here’s how it generally works (always verify with the latest official NTA and JoSAA brochures as rules can be updated):

• The Criterion: To be eligible for admission to NITs, IIITs, CFTIs (participating through CSAB/JoSAA) and for IITs (via JEE Advanced), a candidate must satisfy at least one of the following two conditions:
  1. Have secured at least 75% aggregate marks in the Class 12 (or equivalent) Board examination.
  2. Be within the category-wise top 20 percentile of successful candidates in their respective Class 12 (or equivalent) Board examination.
• For SC/ST/PwD Candidates: The aggregate mark requirement is usually relaxed to 65%. The top 20 percentile rule also applies category-wise if that is more beneficial.
• How Aggregate is Calculated: The method of calculating aggregate percentage can vary slightly based on Board rules, but it typically includes Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, a language paper, and one other elective subject. Refer to the JoSAA business rules for specifics.
• Top 20 Percentile: Each educational Board (CBSE, ICSE, State Boards, etc.) declares its own cut-off marks for the top 20 percentile, category-wise (General, OBC-NCL, SC, ST). If a candidate's Board marks fall within this top 20 percentile for their category, they meet this part of the criterion, even if their aggregate is below 75% (or 65% for reserved categories).
• Applicability: This criterion is primarily for admission. You can appear for JEE Main without meeting it, but for seat allocation in these premier institutes, it becomes mandatory.
• Actionable Insight: Focus on scoring well in your Class 12 Board exams alongside your JEE preparation. If your Board is known for strict marking, the top 20 percentile rule can be very helpful. Check your Board's official website for previous years' top 20 percentile cutoffs to get an idea.