Important Dates 
Syllabus
Eligibility
Application Process
Other DetailsJEE Mains Exam 2026 is a prestigious exam to get admission to reputed engineering colleges all over India for courses such as B.Tech, B.Arch, and B.Plan. The National Testing Agency (NTA) conducts this exam twice a year in two distinct sessions. It is a computer-based test held in multiple languages. JEE has two parts: Main and Advanced.
Students who qualify for the JEE Mains will be eligible to appear for the JEE Advanced examination. The Advanced level is slightly more challenging than that of the Mains as the questions test deeper conceptual application. If you want to stay ahead of the curve regarding the latest 2026-27 changes to eligibility, syllabus, and the mandatory numerical section, read on!
Highlights for 2026-27
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Joint Entrance Examination Main (2026) |
| Governing Authority | National Testing Agency (NTA) |
| Official Website | jeemain.nta.ac.in |
| Mode of Exam | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Medium | English, Hindi, and 11 other regional languages |
| Number of Attempts | Best of two sessions per year; eligible for 3 consecutive years |
| Marking Scheme | +4 for correct; -1 for every incorrect answer (including Numericals) |
Important Dates (Confirmed 2026 Schedule)
Timing is everything. For 2026, NTA has maintained a tight schedule. Session 2 registration is officially OPEN as of February 1, 2026.
| Event | Session 1 (January) | Session 2 (April) |
|---|---|---|
| Registration Period | Nov 2025 – Dec 2025 | Feb 1 – Feb 25, 2026 |
| Exam Dates | Jan 21 – Jan 29, 2026 | April 2 – April 9, 2026 |
| Result Declaration | Expected Feb 12, 2026 | Expected May 2026 |
JEE Main 2026 Syllabus
The 2026 syllabus continues to follow the rationalized NCERT structure. We recommend focusing on the core high-weightage topics as several chapters remain excluded:
- Mathematics: Mathematical Induction and Mathematical Reasoning remain removed.
- Physics: Communication Systems and specific topics like the Carnot Engine are out.
- Chemistry: Environmental Chemistry, Polymers, and Chemistry in Everyday Life are deleted.
Critical Pattern Change: In Section B (Numerical Questions), NTA has removed the internal choice. You must now attempt all 5 mandatory numerical questions per subject. There is no longer a “5 out of 10” safety net.
Eligibility & The 75% Rule
To ensure your application is valid, you must meet these 2026 criteria:
- Educational Qualification: Passed 12th in 2024, 2025, or appearing in 2026.
- The 75% Nuance: You must secure at least 75% marks in your 12th board (65% for SC/ST) OR be in the Top 20 Percentile. Remember, this is required for admission to NITs/IIITs, not just for appearing in the exam.
- No Age Limit: There is still no upper age limit for JEE Main 2026.
Application Process (2026 Security Updates)
NTA has significantly tightened security for the 2026 cycle. We recommend starting your application early to avoid server traffic.
- Aadhaar Verification: 2026 mandates Aadhaar-based biometric authentication. During registration, your details must match your Aadhaar exactly.
- Session Selection: You can apply for Session 2 even if you didn’t appear for Session 1. If you did appear for Session 1, log in with your existing Application Number.
- Fee Payment: The window closes on February 25, 2026 (9:00 PM). Do not wait until the final hour.
Application Process (Step-by-Step)
Applying for Session 2? Follow these steps carefully to avoid rejection:
- Registration: Visit jeemain.nta.ac.in and use your existing Session 1 credentials or register fresh.
- Aadhaar Authentication: 2026 mandates Aadhaar-based biometric verification. Ensure your Aadhaar details match your Class 10 certificate.
- Upload Documents: Scanned photo (white background) and signature are mandatory.
- Fee Payment: Complete the payment via UPI, Net Banking, or Card before Feb 25, 2026.
Other Details: Ranking & Security
Tie-Breaking Policy: If two of you score the same percentile, NTA has scrapped the age factor. The rank is now decided by:
- Highest score in Mathematics, then Physics, then Chemistry.
- Lower ratio of incorrect answers across all subjects.
Security: Be prepared for mandatory face and biometric authentication at the center. If you are a non-Aadhaar candidate, you must report 1 hour early for manual verification.
Other Details: Ranking & Tie-Breakers
What happens if you and another student get the same percentile? In 2026, NTA uses a specific subject-wise hierarchy. Age and Application Number have been removed as tie-breakers.
The priority order for ranking is: Mathematics Score > Physics Score > Chemistry Score > Lower Ratio of Incorrect/Correct Answers.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I apply for Session 2 if I didn’t give Session 1?
Yes, the portal allows fresh registrations for the April session until Feb 25.
2. Is there negative marking in Section B?
Yes, every incorrect numerical answer results in a -1 penalty.
Conclusion
The JEE Main 2026 cycle is more competitive than ever with the removal of choices in Section B. However, with a focused approach on the rationalized syllabus and timely registration for Session 2, you can definitely secure your spot in a top-tier institute. We believe that clarity on these technical changes is half the battle won. Stay focused, stay updated, and give it your best shot!
References & Authority Sources (E-E-A-T)
- Official Information Bulletin 2026: NTA JEE Main Portal
- NIRF 2025 Engineering Rankings: Official NIRF India Rankings
- NTA Security Advisory 2026: NTA.ac.in Public Notices
Author By
Neha
Meet Neha, a highly qualified and experienced educator with a passion for empowering women through education. Neha holds a Master's degree in education and has over 10 years of teaching experience at both the secondary and higher education levels. She has a deep understanding of the Indian education system and is dedicated to helping women achieve their academic and career goals. With her extensive knowledge and insights into the different career options available to all students. Neha is committed to providing detailed and personalized guidance to help young students make informed choices and succeed in their chosen fields.