The Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main 2026 is a nationwide computer-based exam conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), serving as the gateway for admission into top engineering programs such as B.E., B.Tech., B.Arch, and B.Planning at NITs, IIITs, CFTIs, and other participating institutions. This prestigious exam is generally conducted twice a year – in January and April – giving aspirants two opportunities to secure a strong score. Every year, over 10 lakh students appear for JEE Main, with around 2.5 lakh qualifying for JEE Advanced, the next step for admission to IITs.
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Key Highlights
Key Points | Details |
---|---|
Organization Name | National Testing Agency (NTA) |
Exam Name | JEE Main 2026 |
Vacancies/Opportunities | Admission to B.E./B.Tech/B.Arch/B.Planning in NITs, IIITs, CFTIs, and participating state institutions |
Join WhatsApp | Click Here |
Official Website | nta.ac.in |
JEE Main 2026 Important Dates
Events | Session 1 | Session 2 |
---|---|---|
Online Submission of Application Forms | October 2025 | February 2026 |
Application Form Correction Window | November 2025 | Last week of January 2026 |
Admit Card Release | 3 days before exam | 3 days before exam |
Exam Date | 21–30 January 2026 | 01–10 April 2026 |
Provisional Answer Key | February 2026 | April 2026 |
Final Answer Key | February 2026 | April 2026 |
Result Declaration | February 2026 | April 2026 |
Counselling Process | July/August 2026 | July/August 2026 |
How to Apply for JEE Main 2026
- Visit the official NTA website (nta.ac.in).
- Click on JEE Main 2026 Application Form link.
- Register using a valid email ID and mobile number.
- Fill in personal, academic, and contact details accurately.
- Upload photograph, signature, and other required documents in prescribed format.
- Pay the application fee online using net banking, UPI, or credit/debit card.
- Submit the application and take a printout for future reference.
Eligibility Criteria
Step 1 – Nationality
- Candidates must be Indian citizens.
- NRIs, PIOs, OCIs, and foreign nationals are also eligible.
Step 2 – Educational Qualification
- Passed Class 12 or equivalent from a recognized Board.
- Acceptable Boards include CBSE, CISCE, State Boards, NIOS, and international equivalents.
- Candidates with a 3-year diploma or GCE (A-level) are also eligible.
Step 3 – Subject Criteria
Program | Required Subjects in Qualifying Exam |
---|---|
B.E./B.Tech | Physics, Mathematics, and one of Chemistry/Biology/Biotechnology/Technical Vocational Subjects |
B.Arch | Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry |
B.Planning | Mathematics |
Step 4 – Age Criteria
- No age limit.
- Eligible candidates include those who passed Class 12 in 2024, 2025, or appearing in 2026.
Step 5 – State of Eligibility
- Determined by the state where Class 12 was completed, not the birthplace or residence.
JEE Main Exam Pattern 2026
- Mode: Online (Paper-1: B.E./B.Tech), Paper-2A/B: Online & Pen-Paper for Drawing Test.
- Duration: 3–4 hours depending on PwD status.
- Marking Scheme: +4 for correct, -1 for wrong answers in MCQs.
- Medium: English, Hindi, and multiple regional languages.
Selection Process
- Best scores from Session 1 & 2 considered for merit list.
- All India Rank (AIR) released after Session 2.
- Candidates qualifying JEE Main may appear for JEE Advanced.
Important Links
Links | URL |
---|---|
Official JEE Main Website | jeemain.nta.nic.in |
Demo Registration | demo.nta.nic.in |
Admit Card | Download Here |
Official Notification | Notification PDF |