National Testing Agency (NTA)

JEE Mains 2026 Overview

JEE Main 2026 is a national level entrance exam conducted by NTA for admission into NITs, IIITs, and other engineering colleges in India. Check exam dates, eligibility, exam pattern, and admission process.

JEE Mains 2026 Highlights

Exam Name

Joint Entrance Examination (Main)

Conducting Body

National Testing Agency (NTA) / JEE Apex Board (JAB)

Exam Level

National UG exam for B.Tech, B.Arch, B.Plan

Frequency

Twice a year (January and April)

Mode

CBT for BE/B.Tech/B.Plan; Drawing section of B.Arch in PBT

Duration

3 hours (B.Tech/B.Arch/B.Plan), 3.5 hours for B.Arch + B.Plan, 4 hours for PwD

Papers & Marks

Paper 1 (B.Tech) 300; Paper 2A (B.Arch) 400; Paper 2B (B.Plan) 400

Marking Scheme

+4 correct, -1 incorrect, 0 unattempted

Languages

English, Hindi, Punjabi, Malayalam, Tamil, Assamese, Bengali, Marathi, Gujarati, Kannada, Odia, Telugu, Urdu

Scores Accepted

Qualifying exam for NITs, IIITs, GFTIs; gateway to JEE Advanced

Exam Centres

400 cities in India, 24 outside India

JEE Mains 2026 Important Dates — Session 1 (January 2026)

Official notificationOctober 19, 2025
Application form releaseOctober 31, 2025
Application windowOctober 31 – November 27, 2025 (9:00 PM)
Fee payment deadlineNovember 27, 2025 (11:50 PM)
Form correctionDecember 1 – 2, 2025
City slipJanuary 8, 2026
Admit cardJanuary 17, 2026
Exam datesPaper 1: Jan 21, 22, 23, 24 & 28, 2026 | Paper 2: Jan 29, 2026
Provisional answer keyBy February 4, 2026
ResultFebruary 12, 2026

Status: Session 1 exam completed. Answer key released on February 4, 2026. Results will be announced by February 12, 2026.

JEE Mains 2026 Important Dates — Session 2 (April 2026)

Notification + applicationsFebruary 1, 2026
Application deadlineFebruary 25, 2026
Form correctionFebruary/March 2026
City slipMarch 2026
Admit cardMarch/April 2026
Exam datesApril 2 – 9, 2026
Answer keyApril 2026
ResultApril 2026

Note: Session 2 registration will open in February 2026. Candidates can attempt both sessions, and the best score will be considered for final ranking.

JEE Mains 2026 Exam Pattern— Paper 1 (B.Tech/B.E)

PaperSectionsMarksDuration
Paper 1 (B.Tech/B.E)Section A (MCQ) + Section B (NAT) in Physics, Chemistry, Maths300180 minutes

JEE Mains 2026 Exam Pattern — Paper 2 (B.Arch & B.Plan)

PaperSectionsMarksDuration
Paper 2A (B.Arch)Section A (MCQ) Maths & Aptitude, Drawing; Section B (NAT) Maths400180 minutes
Paper 2B (B.Plan)Section A (MCQ) Maths, Aptitude, Planning; Section B (NAT) Maths400180 minutes

JEE Mains 2026 Syllabus Overview

JEE Main syllabus is based on the Class 11 and Class 12 syllabus covering Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Candidates should refer to the official NTA syllabus for detailed topics.

Mathematics

Core
  • Sets, Relations & Functions
  • Complex Numbers & Quadratic Equations
  • Matrices & Determinants
  • Permutation & Combination
  • Mathematical Induction
  • Binomial Theorem
  • Sequence & Series
  • Limit, Continuity & Differentiability
  • Integral Calculus
  • Differential Calculus
  • Coordinate Geometry
  • Three Dimensional Geometry
  • Vector Algebra
  • Statistics & Probability
  • Trigonometry
  • Mathematical Reasoning

Physics

Core
  • Physics & Measurement
  • Kinematics
  • Laws of Motion
  • Work, Energy & Power
  • Rotational Motion
  • Gravitation
  • Properties of Solids & Liquids
  • Thermodynamics
  • Kinetic Theory of Gases
  • Oscillations & Waves
  • Electrostatics
  • Current Electricity
  • Magnetic Effects of Current
  • Electromagnetic Induction
  • Electromagnetic Waves
  • Optics
  • Atoms & Nuclei

Chemistry

Core

Physical

  • Some Basic Concepts of Chemistry
  • Atomic Structure
  • Chemical Thermodynamics
  • Chemical Bonding & Molecular Structure
  • Solutions
  • Equilibrium
  • Redox Reactions & Electrochemistry
  • Chemical Kinetics

Inorganic

  • Classification of Elements & Periodicity
  • p-Block Elements
  • d- and f-Block Elements
  • Coordination Compounds

Organic

  • Purification & Characterisation of Organic Compounds
  • Basic Principles of Organic Chemistry
  • Hydrocarbons
  • Organic Compounds Containing Halogens
  • Organic Compounds Containing Nitrogen
  • Biomolecules
  • Principles Related to Practical Chemistry

B.Arch Aptitude & Drawing

Paper 2A
  • Awareness of persons, places, materials and textures
  • 3D perception and visualising different sides of objects
  • Analytical reasoning and mental ability
  • Design and drawing of geometrical/abstract shapes
  • Development of surfaces and volumes; plans, elevations, 3D views

Drawing

Sketching scenes and activities from memory (urban, landscape, rural contexts).

B.Plan Planning

Paper 2B
  • General awareness
  • Social sciences
  • Thinking skills

JEE Mains City Intimation Slip — Steps

  1. 1Visit jeemain.nta.nic.in
  2. 2Open the city intimation slip link
  3. 3Log in with application number and DOB/password
  4. 4Enter the captcha and submit
  5. 5Download the city slip and log out

Note: The city slip is informational only. It shows your assigned exam city, but the exact exam centre will be mentioned in your admit card.

JEE Mains 2026 Admit Card — How to Download

  1. 1Go to jeemain.nta.nic.in and click the admit card link
  2. 2Log in using application number and password
  3. 3Enter captcha, submit, and download the hall ticket
  4. 4Print a clear copy and verify exam centre/date

Important: Carry a printed copy of your admit card and a valid photo ID to the exam centre. Entry is strictly prohibited without these documents.

JEE Mains 2026 Answer Key & Results

NTA releases a provisional answer key, accepts challenges, then publishes the final key along with results.

  1. 1Visit jeemain.nta.nic.in and choose the result link
  2. 2Log in with application number and DOB/password
  3. 3Enter the security PIN and submit
  4. 4Download and save the scorecard

How to Apply for JEE Mains 2026 — 4 Stages

  1. 1Register with email, phone, and basic details on jeemain.nta.nic.in
  2. 2Fill personal, academic, and exam city preferences
  3. 3Upload photo, signature, and documents in prescribed formats
  4. 4Pay the application fee and download the confirmation page

Important: Session 1 registration is now closed. Session 2 registration will open on February 1, 2026. Keep all documents ready for quick registration.

JEE Mains 2026 Eligibility Criteria

10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics (or appearing)
No upper age limit for JEE Main
Three consecutive attempts permitted after Class 12
For IIT/NIT/IIIT/GFTI admission: 75% in 10+2 or top 20%ile (as applicable)

Additional Information:

  • Candidates who have passed Class 12 in 2023, 2024, or appearing in 2025 are eligible
  • Choice of exam paper (Paper 1, 2A, or 2B) depends on the course you want to pursue
  • No minimum percentage required for appearing in JEE Main exam

JEE Mains Prediction Tools

AI Prompt LibraryCopy button only15 prompts

Top AI Prompts for JEE Students

Use these prompts to get personalized branch, college, and career guidance from an AI assistant. Each prompt is copied with the button only, and you must sign in before copying.

Quick Access

Sign in, then tap Copy Prompt to save it instantly.

Sign in to copy prompts and open the login dialog if needed.

Prompt 01

3 sources

CSE or ECE

I am confused about choosing between Computer Science Engineering and Electronics and Communication Engineering. Please explain the core differences between these two branches, focusing on their focus areas, the types of skills required, and the potential job opportunities for each in the year 2030. After that, please ask me diagnostic questions about my interests, strengths, and career goals to help me make the best decision for my future.

Reference Sources

  • Official institute websites
  • Reddit or Quora student experiences
  • Tech industry job trend reports

Prompt 02

3 sources

Top College vs Better Branch

I am torn between the prestige of a top university and the job security of a popular branch in a lesser-known one. Please analyze these two options, looking at the trade-offs in placement opportunities and long-term career growth, and ask me diagnostic questions to help me clarify my priorities.

Reference Sources

  • College placement statistics
  • Alumni career paths on LinkedIn
  • Campus review sites

Prompt 03

3 sources

Will I Like Coding?

I enjoy gaming and tech, but I've never written actual code. Please explain what a Computer Science degree really entails, the skills required, and ask me questions to assess my aptitude and interest in this field.

Reference Sources

  • Computer science curriculum outlines
  • Intro to programming courses
  • Online coding platform resources

Prompt 04

3 sources

Core Branch Job Market

I'm considering a traditional branch like Mechanical or Civil, but I'm worried about the job market. Please provide a realistic overview of career opportunities in non-IT sectors by 2030 and ask me questions about my practical interests versus my career goals.

Reference Sources

  • Job portals
  • Industry reports for core engineering sectors
  • Alumni placement data from reputed institutes

Prompt 05

3 sources

General CSE vs Specialization

I am confused about whether to build a strong foundation in Computer Science or dive directly into a specialization. Please analyze the benefits and drawbacks of both approaches for my career, and ask me questions to help me decide which path aligns better with my long-term goals.

Reference Sources

  • Curriculum details for general vs specialized programs
  • Industry demand for specific skills
  • Advice from tech professionals

Prompt 06

3 sources

Campus Life vs Placements

I'm considering a college with fantastic facilities, but it has average placements compared to others. Please explain how important campus life is versus academic reputation and job prospects, and ask me questions about my priorities.

Reference Sources

  • Student reviews on Collegedunia or Shiksha
  • Placement reports
  • Campus tour videos

Prompt 07

3 sources

Near Home or Tech Hub

I am confused about choosing between staying in my hometown for a local college to save money, versus relocating to a major tech hub like Bangalore or Hyderabad for a better environment and potential opportunities. Please analyze the pros and cons of both, and ask me questions about my financial situation and career aspirations to help me decide.

Reference Sources

  • Cost of living comparisons
  • City-specific job market reports
  • Student experiences in tech hubs

Prompt 08

3 sources

Management Quota ROI

I am torn between the prestige of an elite institution and the financial burden it would place on my family. Please analyze the long-term value of a premium college brand versus graduating debt-free, and ask me questions about my financial situation and my goals to help me weigh the options.

Reference Sources

  • ROI studies for engineering colleges
  • Average salary data vs tuition costs
  • Financial aid resources

Prompt 09

4 sources

New-Age Institute Check

I see heavily advertised claims from institutes like Scaler School of Technology or Newton School, but I want to understand the actual outcomes for students. Please provide a strategy to research their placement records, alumni feedback, and the details of their industry partnerships, and ask me questions to help me guide my research effectively.

Reference Sources

  • Official institute websites
  • Alumni LinkedIn profiles
  • Reddit threads
  • Independent review platforms

Prompt 10

3 sources

Traditional University vs New-Age School

I am torn between a well-established university degree and an intensive, industry-focused program at a specialized tech institute. Please analyze the differences in curriculum, placement success, and campus experience between these paths, and ask me questions to help me determine which model suits my learning style and career goals.

Reference Sources

  • Official institute websites
  • Student reviews on Reddit or Quora
  • Recent placement reports

Prompt 11

3 sources

Engineering or Other Degrees

I scored well in my boards but I'm not sure if engineering is the right path for me. Please compare the career outcomes, learning environment, and long-term opportunities of a B.Tech versus alternative degree programs like BCA, BSc Computer Science, or BBA. Then ask me diagnostic questions about my interests and strengths to help me decide.

Reference Sources

  • University degree curricula
  • Salary and employment data from NASSCOM and industry reports
  • Student testimonials on Quora

Prompt 12

4 sources

Accreditation and Rankings

I keep hearing about NAAC grades, NBA accreditation, and NIRF rankings, but I'm not sure how much they actually matter for my career. Please explain what each of these means in practical terms for a student and an employer, and ask me questions about what I value most in a college to help me weigh these factors appropriately.

Reference Sources

  • NAAC official website
  • NBA official website
  • NIRF rankings portal
  • HR hiring policy discussions on LinkedIn

Prompt 13

4 sources

Study Abroad or India

I'm wondering whether pursuing an engineering degree abroad (in countries like Germany, Canada, or the US) is worth the cost and effort compared to studying in India and potentially going abroad later for a Master's. Please analyze the financial investment, visa challenges, cultural adjustment, and career outcomes for both paths, and ask me diagnostic questions about my goals and financial situation.

Reference Sources

  • University websites
  • Cost-of-living calculators
  • International student forums
  • Immigration department websites

Prompt 14

3 sources

Alumni Network Value

I've been told that alumni networks are very important, but I don't fully understand how they work or how to assess the strength of a college's alumni community. Please explain the practical value of alumni networks in getting internships, jobs, and mentorship, and ask me questions to help me evaluate this factor for colleges I'm considering.

Reference Sources

  • LinkedIn alumni searches
  • College alumni achievement pages
  • Alumni testimonials on Shiksha

Prompt 15

3 sources

JEE vs State CET

I have a strong JEE Mains rank but a relatively weak state-level CET rank. I'm confused about which admission route gives me better college and branch options. Please compare the types of colleges, branches, and seat availability under JEE-based admissions versus state CET counselling, and ask me questions about my college and branch preferences to help me choose the right path.

Reference Sources

  • JoSAA counselling website
  • State CET official portals
  • College admission dashboards like CollegeRank.in

JEE Mains 2026 FAQs

Can I appear for both Session 1 and Session 2 of JEE Main?

Yes, candidates can appear in both sessions. Your best percentile score across the two sessions will be considered for final ranking and admissions. It's recommended to attempt both sessions to maximize your chances.

What is the difference between JEE Main and JEE Advanced?

JEE Main is conducted by NTA for admission to NITs, IIITs, and GFTIs. JEE Advanced is conducted by IITs for admission to IITs, ISM, and IISc. To appear for JEE Advanced, you must first qualify JEE Main and be among the top 2.5 lakh rank holders.

How many attempts are allowed for JEE Main?

Candidates can appear for JEE Main in three consecutive years after passing Class 12. There is no age limit for appearing in JEE Main, but specific age criteria may apply for admission to certain institutes like NITs.

What is the qualifying percentile for JEE Main?

There is no specific qualifying percentile for JEE Main itself. However, for admission to NITs/IIITs/GFTIs, candidates must have 75% marks in Class 12 (65% for SC/ST) or be in the top 20 percentile of their board. For JEE Advanced eligibility, you need to be in top 2.5 lakh in JEE Main.

Can I change my exam city after form submission?

During the correction window (typically 1-2 days after registration closes), you can change exam city preferences. However, the final exam centre within your city is assigned by NTA and cannot be changed. Check your city intimation slip and admit card for exact centre details.

Explore More JEE Resources

Top Engineering Colleges Accepting JEE Main

Some of the top institutions accepting JEE Main scores include:

  • NIT Trichy
  • NIT Surathkal
  • NIT Warangal
  • IIIT Hyderabad
  • IIIT Delhi
👉 Explore Engineering Colleges

Quick Stats

Exam Frequency:2X/Year
Exam Mode:CBT
Exam Duration:3 Hours
Total Marks:300
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