JEE Main 2026
Joint Entrance Examination for B.Tech/B.Arch admissions in NITs, IIITs, and CFTIs.
Overview
The JEE Main 2026 Session 2 Registration is over now, and city intimation slip is expected to be released in second week of March on the official website, jeemain.nta.nic.in. The JEE Main 2026 Session 2 Exams will be held from April 2 to April 9, 2026, and the admit cards will be released 3 to 4 days before the exam.
The JEE Main 2026 Session 1 Results for Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech) have been released on 16th February 2026, and for Paper 2 (B.Arch/B.Planning) on 24th February 2026. The JEE Main Session 1 Results include NTA Score (percentile), Category Rank, and subject-wise percentile scores. You can download your scorecard by logging in using your application number and password, and the best of 2 sessions will be considered for the final ranking.
With an improvement of around 20-25 marks in session 2, you can boost your percentile, as it is a second opportunity to improve your rank and secure a better college.
Related Links:
- Download JEE Main 2026 Question Papers Pdf
- Practice JEE Main 2026 Sectional Test for Free
- Predict your rank using Collegedunia’s JEE Main College Predictor

Key Summary
In this Article, we have discussed about JEE Main 2026, including the Result, Final Answer Key, Cutoff, College Predictor and Session 2 Registration.
- As per various coaching institutes, there are around 8-9 dropped questions, for which candidates will be given full marks if attempted.
- For the general category candidate, around 91-94, whereas for OBC/EWS, the percentile will be around 78 to 88.
- Around 75% board marks are mandatory for IIT/NIT Admissions by JoSAA despite qualification in JEE Main.
- In case of a tie, the Maths percentile, then Physics percentile, and age is used for rank tie-breaking.
- If you score below 90 percentile, you can get a seat through state counselling, private universities, and GFTIs using JEE Main scores.
- After JoSAA rounds, CSAB special rounds fill vacant NIT+ seats, giving another admission opportunity for candidates with ranks up to 40,000–80,000+.
- JEE Main 2026 Result Dates
- How to Download JEE Main Result 2026?
- Details Mentioned on JEE Main Scorecard Session 1
- How to Download the JEE Main Final Answer Key & Calculate Your Final Raw Score?
-
- What After JEE Main 2026 Result?
- JEE Main College Predictor
- JEE Main 2026 Session 2 Registration Process
- How Many Candidates Registered for JEE Main Session 2?
- JEE Main 2026 Shift-Wise Marks vs Percentile Analysis
- JEE Main 2026 Safe Score for NITs/IIITs
- JEE Advanced 2026 Eligibility
- JEE Main Seat Matrix 2026 (Expected)
- JEE Main 2026 Reservation Criteria
- JEE Main Counselling 2026
- FAQs for JEE Main 2026
JEE Main 2026 Important Dates
The JEE Main final answer key is out, and the JEE Main 2026 Result has been released. Registration for session 2 is ongoing. You should know the important dates related to the results, session 2 exams & counselling.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Final Answer Key | 16th Feb 2026 |
| Session 1 Result | 16th Feb, 2026 (Out) |
| Session 2 Registration Last Date | Feb 25, 2026 (9 PM) |
| Session 2 Exam Dates | Apr 2 – Apr 9, 2026 |
| Session 2 Admit Card | 3–4 days before the exam |
| Final Rank & AIR Release | After Session 2 |
| JoSAA Counselling Begins | June 2026 (expected) |

Source: JEE Main Information Bulletin
Check: Important Dates for JEE Main 2026
JEE Main Paper 2 Result
The JEE Main Paper 2 Result is out for the candidates who appeared in B.Arch and B.Planning. The JEE Main Scorecard will include the Normalised percentile score, subject-wise & overall score.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | JEE Main 2026 – Paper 2A (B.Arch) & Paper 2B (B.Planning) |
| Session 1 Exam Dates | January 29, 2026 |
| Provisional Answer Key Release | February 19, 2026 |
| Final Answer Key | 23rd February 2026 (OUT) |
| Result Date (Session 1) | 24th February 2026 (OUT) |
| Result Mode | Online (Scorecard PDF Download) |
| Login Credentials Required | Application Number + Date of Birth/Password |
| Normalization Process | Percentile calculated shift-wise to ensure fairness |
| Admission Through | NITs, IIITs, GFTIs, and other participating institutes |
| Score Validity | Valid for Academic Session 2026–27 |
JEE Main Result Login
The Candidates can check their JEE Main 2026 result on the official website after clicking on the “JEE Main Result 2026 Session-1.

Source: JEE Main Results
JEE Main Topper List
In the JEE Main Result Press Release, NTA has released the list of the total number of candidates registered & appeared in the exam, along with the state-wise toppers, gender-wise toppers & category-wise toppers.
JEE Main Overall Toppers 2026

JEE Main State-Wise Toppers

JEE Main Gender-Wise Toppers

Source: JEE Main Result Release PDF
JEE Main Result: Next Steps Based on Percentile
- The Best Percentile, from both sessions 1 & 2, will be used for the final ranking.
- The AIR and JEE Advanced eligibility will be released only after the Session 2 results.
- You can apply to different entrance exams to increase the admission options.
- Along with JEE Main preparation, also maintain 75% in boards.
- If you have scored above 95 percentile, you should shift towards the Advanced level practice.
- If your score is below 90%, then you should treat your april attempt as the main scoring chance.
| Percentile Range | What It Means | Recommended Focus |
|---|---|---|
| 95%ile & above | Strong position for top NITs/IITs |
|
| 90–95%ile | Borderline for top branches | Focus on the April attempt to boost the percentile; then decide on Advanced |
| Below 90%ile | Needs major improvement |
|
How to Download JEE Main Result 2026?
The JEE Main Result 2026 will be released online on the official website, jeemain.nta.nic.in. You can download the JEE Main Session 1 Scorecard by using the Application Number & password.
You can check this video by @collegedunia to know how to download the JEE Main Result in a step-by-step way.
Check:
Ques. How can I download the JEE Main 2026 scorecard from the official website?
Ans. The JEE Main Scorecard 2026 will be released online on the official website, jeemain.nta.nic.in.
You can log in by using the NTA website and download the PDF scorecard for counselling and admission use.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Visit jeemain.nta.nic.in |
| 2 | Click on “JEE Main 2026 Result” |
| 3 | Enter login credentials |
| 4 | Download scorecard PDF |
Ques. What login details are required to check the JEE Main 2026 result?
Ans. To check the JEE Main Result, you will require the application number and password.
- These will be the same as those created during the registration process, along with a security pin.
- The result will include Candidate details, application number, Subject-wise percentile, Overall percentile, Raw scores, Exam session and paper.
How to Download the JEE Main Final Answer Key & Calculate Your Final Raw Score?
The JEE Main Final Answer key will be released along with the session 1 result, which will be used to calculate the final raw scores and percentiles.
- You can download the answer key PDF and match it with the response sheet to calculate the final marks before the results are declared.
- To download the JEE Main Final Answer key, no login is required, as it will be released in PDF Form on the homepage of jeemain.nta.nic.in.
How to Calculate JEE Main 2026 Raw Score?
You can calculate the JEE Main Raw Score with the help of the final answer key by simply using the marking scheme.
As per the marking scheme, +4 marks will be given to each correct answer, and -1 mark will be deducted for each incorrect answer.
Formula for Raw Score:
| Raw Score = (Correct Answers × 4) – (Incorrect Answers × 1) |
For Eg:
| Parameter | Example Value |
|---|---|
| Total Correct Answers | 55 |
| Total Incorrect Answers | 10 |
| Marks from Correct Answers | 55 × 4 = 220 |
| Negative Marks | 10 × 1 = 10 |
| Final Raw Score | 220 – 10 = 210 |
After the raw score is calculated, NTA will normalise it to generate the final percentile score, which determines the final rank & eligibility for JEE Advanced & Counselling.
JEE Main Percentile Calculation
The NTA will use the normalisation method to convert raw scores into percentiles across shifts. The Percentile will show the percentage of candidates who scored equal to or below a candidate in that session.
JEE Main Percentile Formula:
| Percentile = (Number of candidates with score ≤ yours ÷ Total candidates in session) × 100 |
For Example:
| Candidate Raw Score | Candidates Below | Total Candidates in Shift | Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| 232 | 92,000 | 95,000 | (92,000/95,000)×100 = 96.84 |
| 180 | 70,000 | 95,000 | 73.68 |
| 120 | 40,000 | 95,000 | 42.10 |
Ques. What is a safe score in JEE Main 2026 for NITs and IIITs admission?
Ans. In JEE Main, the Safe Score depends on the category and branch preference. For general candidates, a 170 -220+ score is considered competitive for top NITs/IIITs options.
| Score Range | Admission Chances |
|---|---|
| 220+ | Top NIT CSE |
| 180–220 | Good NIT/IIIT |
| 140–180 | Decent NIT |
| 120–140 | Lower NIT/GFTI |
Ques. What is the expected JEE Advanced 2026 cutoff percentile?
Ans. The JEE Advanced Qualifying cutoff is expected to be around the 93–95 percentile for the General category, based on recent trends and participation levels.
| Category | Expected Percentile Cutoff |
|---|---|
| General | 93–95 |
| OBC/EWS | 90–93 |
| SC | 60–75 |
| ST | 50–65 |
Check:
What After JEE Main 2026 Result?
After the declaration of JEE Main 2026 Session 1 Result, you can check your percentile, have rank expectations and chances of admission.
The Next step will include appearing for session 2, checking for JEE Advanced Eligibility, and preparing for JoSAA Counselling for NITs, IIITs and GFTIs.
Next Steps After the JEE Main Result
- After both sessions are conducted, the best percentile will be used for the Final AIR and Counselling.
- The candidates who are above the required cutoff can register for JEE Advanced 2026.
- If you are targeting NIT/IIIT branches, consider giving the session 2 exam for improvement.
- Start shortlisting colleges based on expected rank and previous cutoffs.
| Step | Timeline | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| Check Scorecard & Percentile | Immediately after the result | Download and verify details |
| Decide on Session 2 Attempt | Feb 2026 | Reappear for score improvement if needed |
| Session 2 Registration Last Date | Feb 25, 2026 | Apply on the NTA portal |
| JEE Advanced Eligibility Check | After Session 2 | Top 2.5 lakh candidates qualify |
| Final AIR Release | After Session 2 results | Based on the best percentile |
| JoSAA Counselling Registration | June 2026 (expected) | Choice filling for colleges |
| Seat Allotment Rounds | June–July 2026 | Accept/upgrade/freeze seat |
Ques. When will JoSAA counselling for JEE Main 2026 start?
Ans. The JoSAA Counselling is expected to start in June 2026, after the session 2 results and the release of the final rank. This will include registration, choice filling, and seat allotment rounds.
| Stage | Expected Timeline |
|---|---|
| Registration | June 2026 |
| Choice Filling | June 2026 |
| Seat Allotment | June–July 2026 |
Ques. Can I improve my percentile by appearing in JEE Main Session 2?
Ans. Yes, if not satisfied with the session 1 score, you can appear in session 2 to improve your percentile.
The NTA will consider the best percentile of both sessions for the final ranking, without any disadvantage for multiple attempts.
JEE Main College Predictor
The JEE Main College Predictor will help the candidates check which college and branch they can get according to their expected percentiles and rank.
Top Colleges Accepting JEE Main Scores
| Institute Category | College Name | Admission Mode |
|---|---|---|
| NIT | NIT Tiruchirappalli (NIT Trichy) | JoSAA Counselling |
| NIT Surathkal | ||
| NIT Warangal | ||
| NIT Calicut | ||
| IIIT | IIIT Hyderabad | Institute Counselling |
| IIIT Allahabad | JoSAA Counselling | |
| IIIT Bangalore | Institute Counselling | |
| GFTI | IIEST Shibpur | JoSAA / CSAB |
| BIT Mesra | ||
| PEC Chandigarh | ||
| Delhi Govt College | DTU Delhi | JAC Delhi |
| NSUT Delhi | JAC Delhi | |
| State University | Jadavpur University | State Counselling |
| Private (JEE Main Based) | LNMIIT Jaipur | Institute Counselling |

JEE Main 2026 Session 2 Registration Process
The NTA has released the JEE Main 2026 Application form for Session 2 for candidates who want to improve their percentile and have missed Session1 for better college options.
As NTA will consider the best score out of both sessions, session 2 is highly important for candidates.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Registration Mode | Online |
| Official Website | jeemain.nta.nic.in |
| Registration Window | Feb 1 – Feb 25, 2026 (up to 9:00 PM) |
| Form Correction Window | Last week of February 2026 |
| Eligible Candidates | Appeared in Session 1 or for new applicants |
| Number of Attempts Allowed | 2 (Session 1 & Session 2) |
| Score Considered | Best of two sessions |
How to apply for JEE Main 2026 Session 2?
To apply for JEE Main 2026 Session 2, you have to follow a few simple steps, including registration, documents & fees submission.
Check this video by @collegedunia to know about the step-by-step process of JEE Main Session 2 Registration.
How Many Candidates Registered for JEE Main Session 2?
Every year, a large number of candidates appear for JEE Main Session 2 after Session 1, to improve their score or because they have missed the first attempt.
Check year-wise registration statistics for candidates appearing in session 2 & session 1, as per the official data from NTA and exam statistics:
- In Years 2024 & 2025, the candidates registered in session 2 are the same as those in session 1, showing a high interest in the improvement session.
- In 2023, the registration for session 2 was more than for session 1.
- As the NTA chooses the best scores out of 2 sessions for ranking, the candidates choose to sit in both sessions to increase their score.
| Year | Session 1 Registered Candidates | Session 2 Registered Candidates | % Increase from Session 1 to Session 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 13,11,544 | 10,61,840 | 81% of Session 1 |
| 2024 | 12,21,624 | 11,79,569 | 97% of Session 1 |
| 2023 | 8,60,064 | 9,31,334 | 108% of Session 1 |
| 2022 | 8,72,970 | 6,22,034 | 71% of Session 1 |
JEE Main 2026 Shift-Wise Marks vs Percentile Analysis
The JEE Main Percentile will be calculated by using the shift-wise normalisation, so the raw marks will differ for each day as per the shift.The JEE Main Percentile will be your relative performance as per the overall session’s performance, depending on the shift-wise difficulty.
Check an expected range of Marks vs percentile, the actual percentiles will depend on shift-wise performance and score distribution.
JEE Main Overall Shift-Wise Marks vs Percentile (Expected)
- The JEE Main Marks vs Percentile will differ as per the candidate’s shift, but the normalisation will ensure rank fairness in the shifts.
- With a difference of 5-10 marks, your result percentile can still be the same.
- Maths is the most-time consuming, which also shows fewer marks for the same percentile.
- Inan easier shift, the marks will be higher for the same percentile, because of a better average performance.
| Percentile Range | Easier Shifts (High Scoring) | Moderate Shifts | Tougher Shifts (Time-Consuming) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 99+ | 195–205 | 188–198 | 180–190 |
| 98–99 | 178–194 | 170–187 | 162–175 |
| 95–97 | 158–177 | 150–169 | 142–155 |
| 90–94 | 138–157 | 130–149 | 122–135 |
| 85–89 | 122–137 | 115–129 | 108–120 |
Also Read:
JEE Main 2026 Safe Score for NITs/IIITs
As more than 13 lakh candidates appeared in JEE Main Session 1, the competition for NITs and IIITs is expected to be high in 2026.
A “Safe Score” depends upon the branch preference, category, and college tier, but data trends from recent years suggest that scoring 170–220+ significantly improves chances for top branches and institutes.
JEE Main Category-Wise Safe Score Estimate
| Category | Safe Score for Top NITs/IIITs | Safe Score for Decent NIT/IIIT | Expected Percentile Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| General (UR) | 200 – 230+ | 140 – 180 | 96 – 99.5 |
| EWS | 190 – 220 | 130 – 170 | 95 – 99 |
| OBC-NCL | 180 – 210 | 120 – 160 | 94 – 98.5 |
| SC | 120 – 150 | 90 – 120 | 80 – 94 |
| ST | 90 – 120 | 70 – 100 | 70 – 90 |
| PwD | 70 – 100 | 50 – 80 | 60 – 85 |

Also Check:
JEE Advanced 2026 Eligibility
The Eligibility of JEE Advanced will be completed after both JEE Main Sessions. The Top 2.5 lakh candidates of all the categories in JEE Main 2026 will be eligible to appear for JEE Advanced admission into IITs.
JEE Advanced Eligibility Criteria
- The JEE Advanced eligibility is based on the best percentile of both JEE Main Sessions.
- Around 2.5 Lakh candidate qualify for the exam every year, out of which only 1.6 to 1.8 lakh candidates actually appear.
- For the general category, a 95+ percentile is usually safe for qualification for JEE Advanced.
| Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| JEE Main Qualification | Among the top 2.5 lakh candidates (all categories combined) |
| Cutoff Percentile (General – expected) | 93–95 percentile |
| Cutoff Percentile (OBC/EWS – expected) | 90–93 percentile |
| Cutoff Percentile (SC/ST – expected) | 50–75 percentile |
| Attempts Allowed | Maximum 2 attempts in consecutive years |
| Class 12 Requirement | Passed in 2025 or appearing in 2026 |
| Age Limit | Born on/after Oct 1, 2001 (relaxation for reserved categories) |
Check: JEE Main vs JEE Advanced
JEE Main Seat Matrix 2026 (Expected)
The JEE Main seat matrix 2026 is expected to provide around 42,000-43,000 seats across the NITs, IIITs, and GFTIs, increased to 60,000 with IITs included.
- NITs lead with 24,500–25,000 seats, followed by 9,800–10,000 in IIITs and 11,000 in GFTIs, with a steady 3–4% yearly increase driven by new courses and female supernumerary seats.
- The General category candidates will have the largest share of seats, while EWS will have around 7-8%, and the PwD category will have the horizontal reservation.
JEE Main Institute-Wise Seat Matrix (Expected)
| Institute Type | Number of Institutes | Approx B.Tech Seats |
|---|---|---|
| NITs | 31 | 24,000 |
| IIITs | 26 | 10,000 |
| GFTIs | 40+ | 11,000 |
| Total Seats | — | 43,000- 45,000 |
IIT seats (~17,000), which are filled through JEE Advanced, are not included here.
Also Check: JEE Main Seat Matrix 2026
JEE Main 2026 Reservation Criteria
In JEE Main, the Seat allocation by JoSAA will follow the Government of India policies. These reservations will apply across NITs, IIITs and Most GFTIs, with additional home-state quotas in NITs.
JEE Main Category-Wise Reservation
| Category | Reservation Percentage |
|---|---|
| EWS | 10% |
| OBC-NCL | 27% |
| SC | 15% |
| ST | 7.5% |
| PwD (within each category) | 5% |
| Female Supernumerary Seats | 20% (in select institutes) |
| Home State Quota (NITs) | 50% seats |
Also Check:
JEE Main Counselling 2026
The JEE Main Counselling for NITs, IIITs and GFTIs will be conducted by JoSAA after the release of the final AIR after Session 2.
The JEE Main Counselling process is completely online and includes registration, choice filling, multiple seat allotment rounds, and final admission confirmation.
| Stage | Timeline (Expected) | Detailed Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| JoSAA Registration | June 2026 | Candidates log in using JEE Main credentials and complete counselling registration. Only registered candidates can participate in seat allotment. |
| Choice Filling | June 2026 | Fill and arrange NIT/IIIT/GFTI branches in order of preference. More choices increase the chances of allotment. Lock choice before the deadline. |
| Mock Allotment Rounds | June 2026 | JoSAA releases 1–2 mock allotments. The candidates should understand the possible seat outcomes and modifies choices accordingly. |
| Round 1 Seat Allocation | June 2026 | First official allotment based on AIR, category, and preferences. Candidates must choose Freeze/Float/Slide and pay the seat acceptance fee. |
| Document Upload & Verification | After allotment | Upload the required documents online for verification. Failure to verify can lead to seat cancellation. |
| Subsequent Rounds (2–6) | June–July 2026 | Candidates can upgrade seat using the Float/Slide options. Cutoffs drop slightly in later rounds. |
| Final Seat Allotment | July 2026 | The last round confirms the final institute and branch. No further upgrades after this stage. |
| Reporting to the Institute | July–Aug 2026 | Candidates report to the allotted institute (online/offline) and complete admission formalities. |
Also Check: JEE Main Counselling 2026
FAQs for JEE Main 2026
Ques. When will the JEE Main 2026 Session 1 result be declared?
Ans. The JEE Main 2026 Session 1 result is officially expected to be released on 12th Feb 2026; it can also be released on the evening of 11th Feb as well, along with the final answer key.
| Event | Date (Expected) |
|---|---|
| Final Answer Key | Feb 11–12, 2026 |
| Session 1 Result | By Feb 12, 2026 |
| Scorecard Download | Same day as the result |
Ques. When will the JEE Main 2026 final answer key be released?
Ans. The JEE Main Final Answer key is expected to be released before the Session 1 Result. On the basis of the final answer key, the result will be released.
JEE Main Answer Key Timeline
| Stage | Status |
|---|---|
| Provisional Key | Released |
| Objection Window | Closed |
| Final Key | Before result |
| Result | After the final key |
Ques. How can I calculate my JEE Main 2026 raw score using the answer key?
Ans. To calculate your score, you can match your responses with the final answer key and use the marking scheme to estimate your raw marks before normalisation.
JEE Main Score calculation Formula:
Raw Score = (Correct × 4) – (Incorrect × 1)
Ques. How many candidates appeared for JEE Main 2026 Session 1?
Ans. Around 13.5 lakh candidates registered for JEE Main Session 1, from which 13,00,368 candidates appeared.
The attendance rate of 96%, showing high competition in the exam.
Ques. What are the total seats available through JEE Main 2026 counselling?
Ans. The total JEE Main Scores used for Admission in NITs, IIITs, and GFTIs are around 45,000 B.Tech Seats.
| Institute Type | Seats |
|---|---|
| NITs | 24,000 |
| IIITs | 9,000 |
| GFTIs | 11, 000 |
| Total | 45, 000 |
Ques. What should I do after the JEE Main 2026 result is declared?
Ans. After the JEE Main Session 1 result is declared, you can analyse percentile, predict rank, and plan next steps like Session 2 attempt or counselling preparation.
Next Steps after result declaration are:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| Download scorecard | Check percentile |
| Decide Session 2 | Improve score if needed |
| Track AIR release | After Session 2 |
| Prepare for JoSAA | Shortlist colleges |
Eligibility
JEE Main eligibility criteria are divided into two categories, including criteria for appearing for the JEE Main Examination and JEE Main admission criteria. NTA has prescribed the JEE Main eligibility criteria in the JEE Main information bulletin on the official website at jeemain.nta.nic.in.
- To appear for JEE Main 2026, you only need to fulfil qualifying examination criteria and year appearance in qualifying examination criteria.
- To get admission based on JEE Main scores, you must fulfil criteria like subject combination, and minimum marks requirement.
| Criteria | General Requirement | SC/ST/PwD Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Age Limit | No age restriction | Same |
| Minimum Subjects | 5 subjects (PCM + 1 language + any other) | Same |
| Aggregate Marks | ≥75% in 5 subjects | ≥65% |
| Top 20%ile | ≥75 percentile in board | Same |
| Attempts | 3 consecutive years post-Class 12 Result | Same |
You can check the detailed JEE Main eligibility criteria by going through the JoSAA Business Rules/CSAB Information Brochure on the official websites at josaa.nic.in and csab.nic.in.
Related Articles

Key Summary
- No minimum age is required for JEE Main 2026, however, you can appear for JEE Main 2026 in only 3 consecutive years.
- You can only have a maximum of 6 attempts in JEE Main examination, with 2 attempts each year in 3 years.
- Eligibility for JEE Main is determined based on year of passing class 12 exam. Students who passed class 12th in 2023 or earlier are not eligible to appear for JEE Main 2026.
- Candidates who passed class 12 in 2024 have only 2 attempts remaining and those passed class 12 in 2025 have 4 attempts left.
- Physics, Mathematics, and a Language subjects are compulsory for Paper 1. For Paper 2A Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics are compulsory.
- For Paper 2B, Mathematics is a compulsory subject.
- JEE Main Eligibility Criteria: Eligibility and Qualification
1.1 JEE Main Eligibility Criteria 2026: Age Criteria
1.2 JEE Main Eligibility Criteria 2026: Qualifying Examination
1.3 JEE Main Eligibility Criteria 2026: State of Eligibility
- JEE Main Eligibility Criteria 2026: Reservation
- JEE Main Eligibility Criteria: Admission
3.1 JEE Main Eligibility Criteria for NITs, IIEST, IIITs & GFTIs
3.2 JEE Main Eligibility Criteria for Other Institutions
- Eligibility Criteria for Appearing in JEE Advanced
- JEE Main Eligibility Criteria FAQs
JEE Main Eligibility Criteria: Eligibility and Qualification
JEE Main eligibility and qualification criteria include age criteria, qualifying examination, year of appearance in the qualifying examination, and state of eligibility.
JEE Main Eligibility Criteria 2026: Age Criteria
To appear for JEE Main 2026, there is no age restriction prescribed by NTA on the official website. If you have passed the class 12th examination in 2024 or 2025 or are appearing for the class 12 examination in 2026, you are eligible to appear for JEE Main 2026.
After qualifying the JEE Main 2026, you may be required to fulfil the JEE Main age requirement prescribed by instituition to which you are desirous of taking admission.
JEE Main Eligibility Criteria 2026: Qualifying Examination
Aspirants must have completed class 12th or equivalent from any recognized board or institute to be eligible to appear for JEE Main 2026. You can check the list of qualifying examinations required to appear for JEE Main 2026 in the table below.
| S.No. | Qualifying Examination | Conducted by/Recognized by |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Class 10+2 Examination conducted by | Any recognized Central/ State Board, such as the Central Board of Secondary Education, New Delhi; Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations, New Delhi, etc, recognized Central/ State Board, such as the Central Board of Secondary Education, New Delhi; Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations, New Delhi, etc. |
| 2 | Intermediate or two-year Pre-University examination | Recognized Board/ University |
| 3 | Final examination of the two-year course of the Joint Services Wing | National Defence Academy |
| 4 | Senior Secondary School Examination (with a minimum of five subjects) | National Institute of Open Schooling |
| 5 | Public School/ Board/ University examination in India or any foreign country | Association of Indian Universities (AIU) |
| 6 | 3-year Diploma | AICTE/State board of technical education |
| 7 | General Certificate of Education (GCE) examination | (London/Cambridge/Sri Lanka) at theAdvanced (A) level |
| 8 | High School Certificate Examination or InternationalBaccalaureate Diploma | Cambridge University/International Baccalaureate Office, Geneva |
| 9 | Class 10+2 | Board of Open Schooling and Skill Education (BOSSE), Sikkim |
Note:
- Those who have cleared class 12th or equivalent from outside India or from a Board not specified in the table above must have a certificate from the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) stating that the qualification is equivalent to class 12th.
- If the class 12 examination is not a public examination, then the candidates must have cleared at least one public examination earlier (Board or Pre University).
JEE Main Qualifying Examination Criteria: Year of Appearance
Aspirants who cleared class 12th in 2024 or 2025 are eligible to appear for JEE Main exam 2026.
- Students appearing for the Class 12th or equivalent examination in 2026 are also eligible to appear for the JEE Main 2026 examination.
- Candidates who have passed class 12th in 2023 or before are not eligible to appear for JEE Main 2026.
Note:
- Class 12 passing year means the year in which the result is released and the candidate is declared “Pass” for the first time in that particular year.
- If a candidate has cleared class 12th with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology in 2023 and has passed class 12th with Mathematics in 2024, then 2023 will be considered as the year of their class 12 passing.
- If you are appearing in class 12th in 2026, you must mention your Roll Number/ Registration Number/ Enrollment Number, etc., in the relevant fields while filling out the JEE Main application form 2026.
JEE Main Eligibility Criteria 2026: State of Eligibility
JEE Main State Code of Eligibility is the code of the state from which aspirants have passed their class 12th or equivalent examination. Students become eligible for JEE Main 2026 based on the state code of eligibility.
- State code of eligibility does not depend on the place of residence or the native place of students. However, it is the state from which candidates have passed the Class 12 examination.
- Students who have passed class 12th from one state and appeared for improvement from another state, the state from which they first passed the examination will be their state of eligibility.
- For students who passed or are appearing for class 12th from NIOS, their state code of eligibility will be the state in which the study Centre is located.
- Indian nationals who passed class 12th from Nepal/Bhutan, their state code of eligibility will be determined based on their permanent address in India, as mentioned on their passports.
- The state code of eligibility for OCI candidates is similar to that of Indian Nationals. However, such candidates are eligible only for All India quota seats, but not the home state quota seats.
Also Read: JEE Main Attempts
Ques. I first appeared in class 12 in 2023 but passed in 2025. Will I be eligible for the JEE Mains 2026?
Ans. As per the JEE Main eligibility criteria, only the passing year will be considered to calculate your remaining attempts. If ou have passed class 12th examination for the first time in 2025, then only you are eligible for JEE Main 2026. If you have passed few subjects in 2023 and remaining subjects in 2025, then you are not eligible for JEE Main 2026.

Source: @ jeemain.nta.nic.in official brochure
JEE Main Eligibility Criteria 2026: Reservation
Reserved categories ike EWS, OBC-NCL, SC, ST, and PwD are eligible to avail the JEE Main reservation benefits. JEE Main eligibility criteria are designed as per the reservation criteria prescribed by the Government of India.
- The OBC-NCL category has the highest reservation percentage of 27% seats in JEE Main.
- 10% seats are reserved for EWS candidates.
- For SC and ST candidates, 15% and 7.5% seats are reserved, respectively.
- 5% seats from each category are reserved for PwD candidates. To avail of the reservation benefits, students must have a specified disability of at least 40%.
| Category | Reservation(%) |
|---|---|
| EWS | 10% |
| OBC-NCL | 27% |
| SC | .15% |
| ST | 7.5% |
| PwD | 5% in each category |
JEE Main Eligibility Criteria: Admission
At the time of admission, students must follow the admission policies prescribed by the respective institutions. Aspirants can check below the eligibility criteria for admission to NITs, IIEST, IIITs & GFTIs.
JEE Main Eligibility Criteria for NITs, IIEST, IIITs & GFTIs
For NIT+ system (NITs, IIEST, IIITs, & GFTIs), aspirants must have passed class 10+2 or equivalent board examination with a minimum of 5 subjects.
- In the qualifying examination, students must have secured at least 75% marks in aggregate in 5 subjects.
- For reserved categories like SC, ST, and PwD candidates, the minimum marks required are 65% in aggregate.
- Candidates must be within the category wise top 20 percentile of successful candidates in their respective class 12th board examination.
Students musst have relevant subject combinations in class 12th for respective courses as prescribed in the table below.
| Course | Subjects Requirement for Class XII / Equivalent qualifying Examination |
|---|---|
| Programs based onPaper 1 rank (BE/Btech) | Physics, Mathematics, Language, one from Chemistry/ Biotechnology/ Biology/ Technical VocationalSubject and any other subject |
| Programs based on Paper 2A rank (B.Arch) | Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and two other subjects |
| Programs based on Paper 2B rank (B.Planning) | Mathematics and four other subjects |

Source: @jeemain.nta.nic.in
JEE Main Eligibility Criteria for Other Institutions
Other institutions can also consider the above mentioned eligibility criteria adopted by institutes participating in JoSAA/CSAB counselling. Institutes affiliated with state universities are free to prepare their separate rank list as per the eligibility criteria prescribed by them.
However, for B.Plan. and BArch programs, students must fulfil the below eligibility criteria.
- For B.Planning programs, aspirants must have passed qualifying examination with a minimum of 50% marks in aggregate.
- No candidate will be admitted to BArch course unless she/he has passed 10+2 or equivalent with at least 45% marks in aggregate in Physics, Mathematics, Chemistry or Biology or Technical Vocational subject or Computer Science or Information Technology or Informatics Practices or Engineering Graphics or Business Studies.
Also Check
Eligibility Criteria for Appearing in JEE Advanced
After clearing JEE Main, students must fulfil the eligibility conditions to appear for JEE Advanced examination. To be eligible for appearing in JEE Advanced 2026, students must be among the top 2,50,000 candidates in B.E./B.Tech. Paper of JEE Main 2026.
The last year’s JEE Main qualifying marks for appearing in JEE Advanced are listed in the table below.
| Category | Qualifying Percentile (from) | Qualifying Percentile (to) |
|---|---|---|
| UR | 100 | 93.1023262 |
| PwBD | 93.0950208 | 0.0079349 |
| EWS | 93.0950208 | 80.3830119 |
| OBC | 93.0950208 | 79.4313582 |
| SC | 93.0950208 | 61.1526933 |
| ST | 93.0950208 | 47.9026465 |
Read More: JEE Advanced Eligibility
People asked on quora: What is the JEE Mains eligibility criteria for a dropper student?
A Quora user replied: You must have scored atleast 75 % in your 12th exam. This is the only eligibility criteria assuming that it's your 1st or 2nd drop after your class 12th.
JEE Main Eligibility Criteria FAQs
Ques. How is JEE Main eligibility criteria different from BITSAT eligibility criteria?
Ans.
| Aspect | JEE Main | BITSAT |
|---|---|---|
| 75% Aggregate |
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| Subjects |
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| Age Limit |
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| Attempts/Improvement |
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Ques. What if I do not fulfil the JEE Main 75% eligibility criteria?
Ans. if a candidate fails to fulfil the JEE Main eligibility criteria of 75% marks, such candidates must appear for improvement exams. Improvement exams can help aspirants to get 75% marks or more if prepared well.
If any of your main subjects are weak, you must appear for improvement for those papers in which you are confident.
| Aspect | Key Details | User Advice/Tips |
|---|---|---|
| 75% Criteria |
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| Subjects |
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Ques. Is 75 criteria removed from JEE 2026?
Ans. No, 75% criteria is not removed from JEE Main 2026. Students must have scored a minimum of 75% marks in aggregate to be eligible for admission to NIT+ system (NITs, IIITs, GFTIs, etc.).
Ques. Do we need 75 in PCM or overall for JEE?
Ans. for JEE Main 2026, you do not need 75% in PCM only. However, you must have secured a minimum of 75% marks in 5 subjects chosen by candidates. That means, overall 75% marks are required for JEE Main 2026 admissions.
Ques. What happens if I am OBC but not ncl?
Ans. If you are OBC but not NCL, you will not be eligible for JEE Main reservation benefits for OBC candidates. You will be considered as general candidate while appearing for JEE Main exam and JEE Main counselling.
Application Process
The JEE Main 2026 Session 2 Registration has concluded on 25th February 2026. The Form Correction Window for JEE Main Session 2 has started on 27th February and will continue till 28th February 2026, (up to 11:50 PM) on the official website, jeemain.nta.nic.in.
You can log in by using your Application Number and Password to have access to the JEE Main Session 2 Form Correction Window.
- This is an one time opportunity for candidates to submit their changes; the forms will be frozen, and no further changes will be allowed.
- In the correction window, you cannot change your mobile number, email address, or permanent/present address.
- The JEE Main Form correction window is free for some changes, but for category change, more additional papers and for change of the exam city, fees will be charged.
In JEE Main 2026 Session 1, 13,55,293 Canddiates registered, and from which 13,04,653 candidates appeared, with an attendance rate of 96.26%. The Registration is expected to be higher in session 2 as well.
Check:

Key Summary
In this Article, we have discussed about JEE Main Registration for Session 2, including the Expected Dates, Documents Required & Fees.
- The JEE Main Session 2 can be a strategic second attempt for the candidates, as around 40 to 45% toppers use Session 2 to improve their percentile.
- The Rejections in JEE Main Session 2 can be because of category, Pwd or paper selection issues.
- The JEE Main Session 2 also aligns with board exams and other entrances; the major metro city slots are filled more easily.
- In JEE Main Session 2, more than 80% candidates score 95+ percentile.
- In 2026, NTA implemented major changes such as live photo capture, Aadhaar-based e-KYC, mandatory scanned ID proof, APAAR ID entry, and introduced 33 new exam cities.
- JEE Main Registration is mandatory for admission into 31 NITs, 25 IIITs, 28 GFTIs, and other state/private engineering institutes
JEE Main 2026 Registration Dates
The JEE Main Session 2 Registration is a shorter and more competitive admission cycle, as it is a final opportunity for candidates to improve their scores before the final rank calculation and JoSAA Counselling. The NTA is expected to open the session 2 registration on 1st february 2026.
JEE Main 2026 Session 2 Registration Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Session 2 Registration Start | 1st February 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 25th February 2026 |
| Application Correction Window | February–March 2026 |
| City Intimation Slip Release | March 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | 3–5 days before the exam |
| JEE Main Session 2 Exam Dates | April 2–9, 2026 |

Source: JEE Main Information Brochure
Ques. Is there a separate registration timeline for fresh candidates and Session 1 applicants?
Ans. In JEE Main, there is no separate registration window for fresh candidates and Session 1 candidates in JEE Main Session 2.
JEE Main Registration Timeline (Session 2)
| Candidate Type | Registration Method | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh candidates | New registration | Same Session 2 window |
| Session 1 candidates | Log in with existing credentials |
Ques. How long is the application correction window for Session 2?
Ans. The Correction window for JEE Main Session 2 will open for 2-3 days after the registration window closes.
JEE Main Session 2 Correction Window
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Mode | Online only |
| Duration | 2–3 days |
| Opens | After Session 2 registration closes |
| Extension | Not extended |
Ques. Is NTA providing a centre near the permanent address?
Ans. Yes, NTA prioritises centres near your permanent address.
- For JEE Main 2026, centres are allotted based on your Aadhaar-linked permanent address or present address.
- You can select up to 4 preferred cities during the application form, but they must be in the same state as your address.
Check:
JEE Main 2026 Session 2 Registration Process
The JEE Main Session 2 Registration is mainly for the repeat candidates, as a large number of candidates appear for this session to improve their January scores.
- The JEE Main Registration process is completely online, where NTA uses a single candidate process to apply for both sessions.
- For the Session 2 Registrations, the session 1 candidates can log in using their existing credentials and new candidates must do a fresh registration.
- The Candidates have to upload a live photograph along with a scanned signature as per the NTA Guidelines.
How to Apply for JEE Main 2026?
To know about the complete registration process for JEE Main, you can watch this video by @collegedunia for the full step-by-step registration process of JEE Main Session 2.
Check:
JEE Main 2026 Session 2 Registration Fees
The JEE Main Application fee for session 2 should be paid separately for the candidates who have already appeared in session 1. As per the analysis, more than 60% session 2 candidates are repeat candidates, and the delayed fee payment is the top reason for the incomplete application process.
JEE Main 2026 Session 2 Application Fee (Expected)
| Category | Application Fee (₹) |
|---|---|
| General (Male) | 1000 |
| General (Female) | 800 |
| OBC-NCL / EWS | 800 |
| SC / ST / PwD | 500 |
| Transgender | 500 |

Source: JEE Main Information Brochure
Ques. What is the step-by-step process to register for JEE Main Session 2?
Ans. The JEE Main Session 2 Registration Process is completely online, and the profile is maintained by NTA. The Candidates have to complete all the steps for registration, which are:
- Visit the official website jeemain.nta.nic.in and click on JEE Main Session 2 Registration.
- Log in if you are a session 1 candidate and complete the new registration, if a new candidate.
- Fill in the personal, academic and contact details & upload a live photograph along with the signature.
- Select your paper type, city preference & pay the application fee online.
Ques. Can Session 1 candidates use their existing credentials for Session 2 registration?
Ans. Yes, candidates who have appeared in JEE Main Session 1 can use their existing application number and password to apply for Session 2. They are not required to register again.
JEE Main Session 1 vs Session 2 Login Process
| Candidate Type | Login Requirement |
|---|---|
| Session 1 appeared to be for candidates | Use existing credentials |
| Fresh candidates | New registration required |
Ques. I passed Class 12 in 2023—am I eligible for JEE Main 2026? NTA says 2024/2025/appearing 2026 only. As a two-year dropper, can I still apply, or is this my last chance?
Ans. No, you are not eligible for JEE Main 2026, as NTA requires passing Class 12 (or equivalent) in 2024, 2025, or appearing in 2026; 2023 passers are excluded.
As a two-year dropper (2023 pass, now 2025), this aligns with the 3 attempts, but it is limiting the passing year rule.
- This is your last chance, but due to the year passing, you are not eligible.
- Your options are: Reappear for Class 12 in 2026to qualify as “appearing”, or you can consider state exams like BITSAT, VITEEE for engineering.
JEE Main Registration Statistics: Session 1 & Session 2
To understand the competition level of JEE Main, you should know about the JEE Main Session 1 vs Session 2 registration statistics.
As per the previous year's statistics, in april session, major registered candidates are repeat candidates who have already appeared in session 1 to improve their percentiles.
JEE Main Registration & Appearance Statistics (Session 1 vs Session 2)
- In JEE Main Session-1, January, around 15 to 25% higher registrations are expected there as compared to Session 2.
- The JEE Main Session 2 is more competitive, as 60 to 65% of the candidates are repeaters, making a high percentile jump.
- As per the attendance rate, 90% of the registered candidates appear for the exam.
| Year | Session | Registered Candidates | Appeared Candidates |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 (Expected) | Session 1 (Jan) | 14,50,000 | 13,80,000 |
| Session 2 (Apr) | 11,50,000 | 11,00,000 | |
| 2025 | Session 1 (Jan) | 13,78,000 | 13,00,273 |
| Session 2 (Apr) | 10,61,840 | 9,92,350 | |
| 2024 | Session 1 (Jan) | 12,21,624 | 11,70,048 |
| Session 2 (Apr) | 11,79,569 | 10,67,959 | |
| 2023 | Session 1 (Jan) | 8,60,064 | 8,23,967 |
| Session 2 (Apr) | 9,31,334 | 8,83,367 |

Check: JEE Main vs JEE Advanced
Ques. What is the average attendance rate for Session 2 compared to Session 1?
Ans. The JEE Main Session 2 can be less than Session1, but it remains high. The January session sees more registrations due to fresh attempts, but in april session, more serious and prepared candidates appear for the exam.
JEE Main Average Attendance Trend
| Session | Registered Candidates | Appeared Candidates | Attendance Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Session 1 (Jan) | Higher | Slightly higher | 93–95% |
| Session 2 (Apr) | Lower | Lower | 90–93% |
Ques. Is the competition tougher in Session 2 compared to Session 1?
Ans. Yes, Session 2 is generally considered tougher as per the percentile, even if the difficulty is the same. This is a larger number of repeated and better-prepared candidates.
JEE Main Session 1 vs Session 2
| Factor | Session 1 | Session 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh candidates | Higher | Lower |
| Repeat candidates | Lower | Much higher |
| Percentile jump difficulty | Moderate | High |
| Score vs percentile tightness | Relatively flexible | More compressed |
JEE Main 2026 Registration Major Changes
The Major changes in JEE Main 2026 Registrations are:
- Aadhaar e-KYC: Auto-fetches personal details from UIDAI; applicants must match Aadhaar with school records; users reported form lock issues and city allotment tied to Aadhaar address.
- Live Photo Capture: Mandatory browser-based live photo during registration; applicants should use a device with a working camera; introduced as an anti-fraud feature.
- Scanned ID Upload: Compulsory upload of scanned Aadhaar/passport/ID; applicants must scan in advance; tied to e-KYC glitches as reported by students.
- Mandatory UDID for PwD: PwD candidates must upload UDID + updated medical certificate; applicants should prepare documents early; UDID portal downtime caused panic.
- Class 11 Registration Number: Required to avoid board verification clashes; applicants should obtain it from school beforehand; user complaints forced schools to share IDs.
- Updated Fee Structure: New fee slab, for male ₹1000, female ₹800, OBC/EWS male ₹900, SC/ST/PwD ₹500; applicants must ensure correct category proof; certificate update reminders trending.
- More Test Cities Added: 33 new cities added; applicants can choose 4 preferences, but may be reassigned; widely praised for better accessibility.
- New Form Sections: Added APAAR ID and additional disability details; applicants must fill in carefully, as the correction window may not allow edits; overlaps with UDID issues discussed online.
Who Can Apply for JEE Main Session 2?
The JEE Main Eligibility Criteria for Session 2 is the same as Session 1, but the april attempt is mainly for the repeat candidates and those looking for score improvement.
The NTA allows the eligible candidates to appear in both sessions of the same year; the best percentile will be considered for ranking.
JEE Main 2026 Session 2: Eligibility Criteria
| Eligibility Parameter | Requirement for Session 2 |
|---|---|
| Age Limit | No age limit for appearing in JEE Main |
| Class 12 Passing Year | Passed/appearing in 2024, 2025, or 2026 |
| Qualifying Exam | Class 12 or equivalent from a recognised board |
| Mandatory Subjects (B.E./B.Tech) | Physics & Mathematics + one of Chemistry / Biology / Biotechnology / Technical Vocational |
| Mandatory Subjects (B.Arch) | Physics, Chemistry & Mathematics |
| Mandatory Subjects (B.Planning) | Mathematics |
| Number of Attempts | 3 consecutive years maximum |
| Sessions Allowed per Year | Up to 2 sessions (Jan & Apr) |
| Minimum Class 12 Percentage | Not required for registration |
| 75% Criteria | Applicable only at the JoSAA admission stage, not during registration |
| Nationality | Indian, NRI, OCI, PIO & Foreign nationals |
Also, Check: JEE Main Eligibility
Ques. Can candidates who missed Session 1 directly apply for Session 2?
Ans. The Candidates who did not appear or register for Session1 can directly apply for JEE Main Session 2.
The NTA offers different opportunities for candidates in the form of a separate application, which allows fresh registration in JEE Main Session 2.
| Aspect | Session 2 Rule |
|---|---|
| Missed Session 1 | Can apply directly |
| New registration allowed | Yes |
| Same application portal | jeemain.nta.ac.in |
| Credentials required | Fresh registration details |
| Attempts counted | Session 2 counted as a separate attempt |
Ques. Are there any age limits for Session 2 registration?
Ans. No, there is no upper age limit to appear for JEE Main Session 2. The NTA does not have any age restrictions for either session.
| Criteria | Session 2 Requirement |
|---|---|
| Minimum age | Not specified |
| Maximum age | No upper limit |
| Year of passing Class 12 | As per current eligibility rules |
| Attempts allowed | Up to 3 consecutive years |
What All Do You Need Before Filling JEE Main Session 2 Form?
To complete the JEE Main Registration Process, candidates have to upload the required documents.
- The NTA follows strict upload and verification rules, along with minor issues like blurred images and incorrect certificates.
- The Candidates from session 1 are not required to upload the documents again unless there is a correction in the same.
Documents Required for JEE Main 2026 Session 2 Registration
| Document | Purpose | Key Specifications / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Passport-size Photograph | Identity verification | Recent, clear, preferably white background; live photo upload required |
| Signature | Application authentication | Scanned signature in black/blue ink on white paper |
| Class 10 Marksheet / Certificate | Date of birth verification | Must match the details entered in the application |
| Class 12 Marksheet / Certificate | Academic eligibility | Required if already passed; appearing candidates can skip upload |
| Category Certificate (if applicable) | Reservation benefits | SC/ST/OBC-NCL/EWS certificate in the prescribed format |
| PwD Certificate (if applicable) | Disability reservation | Issued by a competent medical authority |
| Photo ID Proof | Identity confirmation | Aadhaar Card, Passport, Voter ID, or PAN Card |
| Active Mobile Number & Email ID | Official communication | Used for OTP, login, and NTA alerts |
JEE Main Registration: Application Form Correction Window
The JEE Main Registration Correction window for session 2 will be provided once by the candidates to allow them to edit the specific details they have submitted in the application form.
CUET Session 2 Correction Window
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Who Can Use It | Candidates who successfully submitted the CUET application form |
| Correction Window Mode | Online only (no offline requests accepted) |
| When It Opens | Usually, after the registration window closes |
| Duration | 2–3 days (short, non-extendable) |
| Official Website | cuet.nta.nic.in |
| Fee for Corrections | Applicable only ifthe category/subject change increases the fee |
Fields That Can Usually Be Corrected
| Editable Fields | Remarks |
|---|---|
| Candidate Name | Minor spelling corrections allowed |
| Category / Sub-category | Fee difference may apply |
| Gender | Editable |
| Date of Birth | Must match the Class 10 certificate |
| Exam City Preferences | Allowed before final allotment |
| Subject / Test Paper Selection | Editable within eligibility rules |
| Photograph & Signature | Re-upload permitted if rejected |
JEE Main Admit Card vs City Slip: What Comes First for JEE Main Session 2 & Why It Matters?
For the JEE Main Session 2, NTA will release 2 separate documents before the exam: the city intimation slip and the admit card. The Purpose of both documents is different, and they are released separately.
JEE Main 2026 Session 2: City Intimation Slip & Admit Card
| Aspect | City Intimation Slip | Admit Card |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Informs the allotted exam city | Confirms exam centre, date, shift & roll number |
| Release Timeline | Around 7–10 days before the exam | 3–5 days before the exam |
| Contains Centre Address? | No | Yes |
| Mandatory on Exam Day? | No | Yes (compulsory) |
| Official Website | jeemain.nta.nic.in | |
| Download Requirement | Log in with the application number & DOB | |
Check:
FAQs for JEE Main Registration 2026
Ques. Which payment modes are accepted for the Session 2 application fee?
Ans. The JEE Main Session 2 Application fee should be paid online.
- The NTA does not accept offline payment or cash transactions.
- The NTA accepts the UPI, Debit card, credit card and net banking for payment.
Ques. During registration, should names be written in all caps as per the 10th marksheet? How to avoid rejection?
Ans. Enter exactly as in your Class 10 marksheet – match spelling, order, capitalisation. If it’s all in caps (e.g., ROHAN), use all caps; if title case (e.g., Rohan), then use that.
The NTA verifies against the uploaded Class 10 certificate—no specific "all caps" rule, but discrepancies lead to rejection.
Ques. Do I have to register again for Athe pril session if I registered for Jan but didn't appear?
Ans. Yes, you must apply separately for session 2 of JEE Main, as the sessions are independent; your session 1 registration does not auto-enrol you in session 2.
Ques. What is the right time to register for JEE Mains? Does registration time affect shift/date?
Ans. Register ASAP – now is ideal (open till Nov 27, 2025, for Session 1).
- Session 1 Window: Oct 31 – Nov 27, 2025 (form by 9 PM; fee by 11:50 PM IST).
- Why early? Avoids last-minute glitches (e.g., Aadhaar/photo issues), gives time for corrections (late Nov), and ensures eligibility. No advantage to delaying.
Ques. How many repeat candidates appear in Session 2 every year?
Ans. Around 60% of the candidates in Session 2 are repeaters, who have already appeared in January and are attempting to improve their percentile.
Repeat Candidate Share in Session 2
| Year Trend | Repeat Candidates in Session 2 |
|---|---|
| Average share | 60–65% |
| Fresh candidates | 35–40% |
Exam Pattern
The JEE Main 2026 Exam Pattern has been released on the official website along with the information brochure. The JEE Main Exam Pattern 2026 is the same as the previous year, including 75 questions, 25 in each subject Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics for Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech).
- JEE Main Exam Pattern for BE/BTech- 25 questions will be asked from each section, including Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. 20 questions will be MCQs, and 5 questions will be numerical value-based from each section.
- JEE Main Exam Pattern for BArch- A total of 77 questions will be asked in JEE Main BArch (Paper 2A). 25 Questions will be from Mathematics, 50 questions from Aptitude, and 2 questions from drawing.
- JEE Main Exam Pattern for BPlan- A total of 100 questions will be asked in JEE Main BPlan (Paper 2B). 25 questions will be from Mathematics, 50 questions from Aptitude Test, and 25 from Planning.
- According to the JEE Main Exam Pattern for Paper 1, each subject will include 20 MCQs and 5 NVQs, ensuring a balanced exam across all subjects.
The NTA has revised the JEE Main Exam Pattern for Section B. In Section B, Numerical value-based questions have been reduced from 10 to 5, and all 5 questions are compulsory.
The JEE Main Difficulty level is expected to be the same as the NCERT, which will focus on conceptual clarity and application concepts, rather than rote learning.
Also Read
What is the JEE Main Exam Pattern 2026?
The JEE Main Exam Pattern will follow the same structure as the previous year. The JEE Main will include Paper 1 for B.E./ B.Tech. and Paper 2A/2B for B.Arch and B.Planning.
- The JEE Main Exam will be held in a CBT Mode for a duration of 3 hours.
- Each subject will have the same weightage, with negative marking in both MCQs and NVQs.
JEE Main Exam Pattern: Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main 2026 |
| Conducting Body | National Testing Agency (NTA) |
| Exam Mode | Online (Computer-Based Test) – Drawing in Paper 2A: Pen-Paper |
| Papers | Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech), Paper 2A (B.Arch), Paper 2B (B.Planning) |
| Medium of Exam | 13 languages: English, Hindi, Gujarati, Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Marathi, Malayalam, Odia, Punjabi, Assamese, Urdu |
| Duration | 3 hours (180 minutes) – 3.5 hours for combined papers |
| Type of Questions | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) + Numerical Value Questions |
| Total Marks |
|
| Subjects |
|
| Marking Scheme | +4 for correct answer & -1 for incorrect MCQ and Numerical Value-based Questions |
| Total Questions |
|
| Eligibility | Passed or appearing in Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics |
| Exam Frequency | Twice a year (Session 1: January, Session 2: April) |

Ques. Is JEE Main 2026 Going to Be Tough?
Ans. The JEE Main Difficulty level is expected to be moderate to difficult, the same as the previous year.
As per the expert analysis, Physics includes conceptual and numerical questions, whereas Maths remains lengthy.
| Year | Overall Difficulty | Physics | Chemistry | Mathematics | Key Observation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Moderate | Moderate | Easy-Moderate | Lengthy | NCERT-based Chemistry dominated |
| 2025 | Moderate to Difficult | Moderate | Moderate | Difficult | High weightage to Calculus & Mechanics |
| 2026 (Expected) | Moderate to Slightly High | Conceptual | Balanced | Lengthy | More application-based questions are likely |
Ques. Which IIT Made JEE Main 2026 Paper?
Ans. Unlike JEE Advanced, JEE Main is conducted by NTA, not by IIT. However, the JEE Main Exam is created by experienced educators and subject experts who follow the NTA Pattern.
| Exam | Conducting Body | Paper Prepared By | Mode of Exam | Notable Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JEE Main 2026 | National Testing Agency (NTA) | Expert panel of educators | Computer-Based Test (CBT) | Increased focus on analytical reasoning |
| JEE Advanced 2026 | IIT Madras | IIT Faculty | CBT | Conceptual & multi-step reasoning focus |
Also Read

Key Summary
In this Article, we have discussed about JEE Main Exam Pattern 2026, including the Latest updates, Marking Scheme, Weightage, & Syllabus.
- Changes in JEE Main 2026 Exam Pattern: The JEE Main 2026 exam pattern is expected to follow the same pattern as 2025, returning to the pre-pandemic in CBT mode.
- The NVQ questions will have negative marking of -1 for each incorrect answer. Paper 1 (B.Tech): 75 questions (25 each in PCM), 300 marks. +4 for correct, −1 for wrong MCQs and NAVs both.
- Paper 2A (B.Arch): 77 questions (Maths, Aptitude, Drawing), 400 marks.
- The drawing section (100 marks) has no negative marking. Paper 2B (B.Plan): 100 questions (Maths, Aptitude, Planning), 400 marks. No drawing section. +4/−1 marking for all.
- Marking Scheme: The NVQ will also have a negative marking of -1 mark for each wrong answer.
- JEE Main Syllabus: The JEE Main 2026 syllabus will align with the NCERT Class 11-12 curriculum, with no additions or deletions from the 2025 syllabus.
Table of Contents
- What is the JEE Main Exam Pattern 2026?
- What Has Changed in the JEE Main 2026 Exam Pattern?
- JEE Main Exam Pattern 2026: Paper-wise
- JEE Main Total Questions
- JEE Main Total Marks 2026
- JEE Main Marking Scheme 2026
- JEE Main 2026 Syllabus: What Should You Focus On?
- JEE Main Previous Year Question Papers
- JEE Main PYQs- Download Most Asked JEE Main PYPs
- JEE Main Exam Pattern Previous Years Analysis (2025-2022)
What Has Changed in the JEE Main 2026 Exam Pattern?
If you are going to appear in JEE Main 2026, you should know that there are no major changes in the JEE Main Exam Pattern. As per the NTA official notification, the structure is the same as the previous year.
As per the Reddit user, there are no expected changes in the syllabus and the exam pattern of JEE Main.JEE Main Exam Pattern: Then vs Now
- If you are appearing for JEE Main 2026, you can follow the same mock test format according to the previous year, as the exam will have 75 Total questions of 300 marks and to be completed in a duration of 3 hours.
- As there were some confusing regarding the use of calculators, NTA has now clarified that no type of calculator will be used in a CBT Mode.
- The JEE Main Exam cities will be linked as per your Aadhar address, which will reduce random allotments and help you with a centre nearer to your home.
| Feature / Change Area | JEE Main 2025 | JEE Main 2026 | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Structure | 3 Subjects (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics); 75 questions total | Same structure followed | No change — Paper 1 pattern remains stable since 2021 |
| Numerical Value Questions (NVQs) | Section B had 10 questions, any 5 to attempt | All 5 are now compulsory and with no choice | Follows a balanced pattern in all subjects |
| Calculator Usage | Confusion existed due to an NTA typo | Not allowed (officially clarified) | Ensures equal conditions for all test-takers |
| Exam Mode | Fully Computer-Based except Drawing Test (Paper 2A) | Same for 2026 | No change — continues hybrid mode for B.Arch |
| Exam City Allotment | Based on city preferences | Linked to Aadhaar-based address verification | Helps reduce city allocation errors and fraud |
| Syllabus | Revised in 2025 (based on NCERT 2023) | No further revision in 2026 | Maintains consistency for ongoing aspirants |
| Marking Scheme |
| Same | No change; negative marking continues for MCQs |

Ques. Is 75% Criteria Removed from JEE Main 2026?
Ans. No, the 75% criteria has not removed from JEE Mains 2026. It is still applicable for admission into NITs, IIITs and GFTIs, still not mandatory to appear in the exam.
You should score 75% marks (65% for SC/ST) in Class 12 or should be in top 20 percentile of the respective board.
| Criteria Type | General/OBC | SC/ST | Applicable For | Status in 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum Marks in Class 12 | 75% | 65% | Admission to NITs, IIITs, GFTIs | Applicable |
| Top 20 Percentile Rule | Valid alternative | Valid alternative | All Categories | Accepted |
| Requirement to Appear in JEE | No | No | All Candidates | Not mandatory |
Ques. What Are the Most Weightage Chapters for JEE Main 2026?
Ans. In JEE Mains, most weightage chapter are same as 2025, in which Calculus, Thermodynamics, and Coordination Compounds are of high importance.
- Around 60 to 65% questions are directly NCERT Based.
- Consistent practice of Numerical and Application-type questions are also important.
| Subject | High Weightage Chapters | Avg. No. of Questions | Weightage (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physics | Laws of Motion, Current Electricity, Modern Physics | 7–8 | 25–27% |
| Chemistry | Thermodynamics, Organic Reactions, Coordination Compounds | 9–10 | 30–32% |
| Mathematics | Calculus, Coordinate Geometry, Vectors & 3D | 10–12 | 35–38% |
Ques.Is Scoring 150 in JEE Main Easy?
Ans. The Score of 150 marks in JEE Mains can be achieved with strong concepts and regular mock test practice.
As per previous year analysis, with 150 marks you can get around 92 to 94 percentile, and can get admission in decent NITs and GFTIs.
| Score Range | Expected Percentile | Difficulty Level | Admission Possibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| 180+ | 98–99+ | High | Top NITs (CSE/EEE) |
| 150–170 | 92–94 | Moderate | Mid-tier NITs, IIITs |
| 120–140 | 85–88 | Easy-Moderate | State-level GFTIs, Private Colleges |
JEE Main Exam Pattern 2026: Paper-wise
The JEE Main Exam is conducted for 3 Subjects: Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech), Paper 2A (B.Arch), and Paper 2B (B.Planning). Each paper will follow a pattern according to the course type.
The JEE Main Paper 1 will test candidates in physics, chemistry and mathematics, whereas Paper 2A and 2B will include architectural and planning skills.
JEE Main Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech) Exam Pattern 2026
- In JEE Main, around 60 to 65% questions are based on NCERT, which makes conceptual clarity important.
- The Physics & Mathematics are of moderate to difficult level, whereas Chemistry is more conceptual and scoring.
| Section | Number of Questions | Questions to be Attempted | Marks per Question | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Physics | 25 (20 MCQs + 5 Numerical) | 25 | 4 | 100 |
| Chemistry | 25 (20 MCQs + 5 Numerical) | 25 | 4 | 100 |
| Mathematics | 25 (20 MCQs + 5 Numerical) | 25 | 4 | 100 |
| Total | 90 | 75 | — | 300 |

Source: jeemain.nta.nic.in
JEE Main Paper 2A (B.Arch) Exam Pattern 2026
- In JEE Main Paper 2A, the aptitude test carries the highest weightage of around 50% and will test spatial ability and visualisation.
- In the drawing section, creativity, clarity, and proportion will influence the final score.
- The Mathematics will be based on Class 11 & 12 NCERT, focusing on geometry and 3D visualisation.
| Section | Number of Questions | Type of Questions | Marks per Question | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 25 (20 MCQs + 5 Numerical) | Objective & Numerical | 4 | 120 |
| Aptitude Test | 50 | Objective | 4 | 200 |
| Drawing Test | 2 | Descriptive | 50 | 100 |
| Total | 77 | — | — | 400 |

Source: jeemain.nta.nic.in
JEE Main Paper 2B (B.Planning) Exam Pattern 2026
- In JEE Main, the B.Planning will focus on urban planning, general awareness, and the reasoning section.
- The Aptitude section is of moderate difficulty level and includes the highest weightage of 200 marks.
| Section | Number of Questions | Type of Questions | Marks per Question | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 25 (20 MCQs + 5 Numerical) | Objective & Numerical | 4 | 120 |
| Aptitude Test | 50 | Objective | 4 | 200 |
| Planning-Based Questions | 25 | Objective | 4 | 100 |
| Total | 100 | — | — | 400 |

Source: jeemain.nta.nic.in
Ques. How Many Questions Are There in Each Subject of Paper 1?
Ans. In JEE Mains Paper 1, each subject: Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics includes 25 questions, which makes a total of 75 questions.
- In each, 20 questions are of MCQs, and 5 are of NVQs.
- Every question will carry +4 marks and will have a total of 300 marks.
| Subject | Type of Questions | Total Questions | Marks per Question | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Physics | 20 MCQs + 5 NVQs | 25 | 4 | 100 |
| Chemistry | 20 MCQs + 5 NVQs | 25 | 4 | 100 |
| Mathematics | 20 MCQs + 5 NVQs | 25 | 4 | 100 |
| Total | — | 75 | — | 300 |
Ques. Are All Questions Compulsory in JEE Main Paper 1?
Ans. Yes, in JEE Main 2026, every question in each section is compulsory. Earlier, the candidates had internal choices in Numerical-type questions, but according to latest pattern, all 5 NVA questions should be attempted.
| Section | Question Type | Choice Available | Status (2026) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Section A | MCQs | No | Compulsory |
| Section B | Numerical Value Questions | No | Compulsory |
Ques. How Is Section A Different from Section B in Each Subject?
Ans. The Section A, focuses on MCQs while testing the conceptual understanding, whereas Section B will include NVQs, which will test the problem-solving and calculation-skills.
| Section | Type | No. of Questions | Marking Scheme | Negative Marking | Skill Tested |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Section A | MCQs | 20 | +4 / -1 | Yes | Conceptual Understanding |
| Section B | NVQs | 5 | +4 / 0 | No | Calculation Accuracy |
Ques. Can I Skip Numerical-Type Questions in Section B?
Ans. If you are not aware about the answer you can skip them, but it is not advised as all 5 questions are compulsory and have a contribution in total marks.
| Section | Can You Skip? | Negative Marking | Marks Lost if Skipped | Suggested Strategy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Section B (NVQs) | No | -1 | 20 marks per subject | Attempt all; no penalty for wrong answers |
Ques. How Much Time Should I Spend per Section to Complete the Paper on Time?
Ans. You have 3 hours around 180 minutes to complete the entire article, so management of time is important. You should systematically divide your time among all 3 subjects.
| Subject | Ideal Time (Minutes) | Recommended Strategy | Key Focus Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physics | 55–60 | Attempt conceptual MCQs first, then NVQs | Speed + Accuracy |
| Chemistry | 50–55 | Solve theoretical questions quickly | Formula Recall |
| Mathematics | 60–65 | Prioritize easy and medium-level problems | Logical Flow |
| Total | 180 mins | Include 5–10 mins for review | Overall Balance |
JEE Main Subject-Wise Exam Pattern
JEE Main Total Questions
JEE Main total questions are different for different papers, like JEE Main Paper 1 BE/BTech, JEE Main Paper 2A BArch, and JEE Main Paper 2B BPlan.
- As per the JEE Main exam pattern for each paper, JEE Main Paper 1 BE/B.Tech. The total questions is 75.
- However, for JEE Main Paper 2A, BArch has a total of 77 questions, and JEE Main Paper 2B has a total of 100 questions.
| JEE Main Paper | Total Questions | Total Marks | Time Allotted |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 BE/BTech | 75 | 300 | 3 hours |
| Paper 2A BArch | 77 | 400 | 3.5 hours |
| Paper 2B BPlan | 100 | 400 | 3 hours |
JEE Main Total Marks 2026
The JEE Main 2026 total marks vary across the different papers, as per the specific requirements.
- Paper 1 (B.Tech) will be of a total of 300 marks, including 75 questions across Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, with 4 marks awarded for each correct answer and -1 will be deducted for each incorrect answer.
- Paper 2A (B.Arch) will be of 400 marks, with 77 questions, including a drawing section for 100 marks, which will be evaluated separately.
- Paper 2B (B.Plan) will also be of 400 marks, consisting of 100 MCQs across the Maths(100), Aptitude(200), and Planning(100).
| Paper | Total Questions | Total Marks | Question Types |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 (B.Tech) | 75 | 300 | MCQs + Numerical-value questions |
| Paper 2A (B.Arch) | 77 | 400 | MCQs, Numerical (Math/Aptitude), Drawing |
| Paper 2B (B.Plan) | 100 | 400 | MCQs including the Planning section |
Also Read
Ques. Which Subject Carries the Highest Weightage in JEE Main Paper 1?
Ans. In JEE Main Paper 1, Mathematics carries highest weightage, as it often decides the percentile difference among the candidates. Each subject Physics, chemistry & mathematics are of 100 marks each, but in maths questions are more time-consuming and concept-based.
| Subject | Total Questions | Total Marks | Level of Difficulty | Effective Impact on Rank |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Physics | 25 | 100 | Moderate | Medium |
| Chemistry | 25 | 100 | Easy–Moderate | High (Scoring) |
| Mathematics | 25 | 100 | Moderate–Tough | Very High |
Ques. What Sections Are Included in the JEE Main B.Arch Paper?
Ans. In JEE Main Paper 2A, 3 sections are included: Mathematics, Aptitude, and Drawing. The JEE Main Exam includes both analytical and and creative skills, unlike Paper 1, which is objective-based.
| Section | Mode of Exam | Total Questions | Marks | Skill Tested |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | Computer-Based | 25 | 100 | Quantitative Aptitude |
| Aptitude | Computer-Based | 50 | 200 | Spatial & Visual Reasoning |
| Drawing | Pen-and-Paper | 2 | 100 | Creativity & Design Skills |
| Total | Mixed Mode | 77 | 400 | — |
Ques. How Many Questions Are Asked in the Drawing Section?
Ans. In the drawing section of JEE Main Paper 2A, 2 descriptive questions will be included carrying 50 marks, for a total of 100 marks. You should attempt all of them on manual basis in the exam.
| Number of Questions | Marks per Question | Total Marks | Medium of Attempt |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 50 | 100 | Pen and Paper |
Ques. How Much Time Is Allotted for the Drawing Section?
Ans. In JEE Main Paper 2A, the drawing section includes a total of 60 minutes, in 3 hours.
This section will be conducted after CBT Portion, under the supervision of invigilators.
| Section | Duration | Mode | Total Marks | Ideal Time per Question |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drawing | 1 hour | Offline | 100 | 30 minutes |
Ques. What Type of Questions Are Asked in the Aptitude Section?
Ans. In JEE Main Aptitude Section, B.Arch and B.Planning are included having spatial reasoning, visualization and analytical ability. It includes 50 objective based question of 4 marks each.
| Topic Area | Type of Question | Avg. No. of Questions | Weightage (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3D Visualization | Spatial reasoning & shapes | 10–12 | 25% |
| Mental Ability | Analytical & logical thinking | 10–15 | 30% |
| Architecture Awareness | Historical monuments, design basics | 10 | 20% |
| Direction & Perspective | 2D/3D observation | 10–12 | 25% |
What Is the JEE Main 2026 Marking Scheme, Normalisation & Tie-Breaker Process?
The JEE Main Marking Scheme is the same as the previous year. In JEE Main Paper 1 (Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics), each carries equal weightage, which makes a total of 300 marks.
The JEE Main Exam includes both Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and Numerical Value Questions (NVQs), with different marking rules for each.
| Aspect | Rule |
|---|---|
| MCQ Correct | +4 marks |
| MCQ Incorrect | −1 mark |
| Numerical Correct | +4 marks |
| Numerically Incorrect | 0 (No negative marking) |
| Unanswered | 0 marks |
| Normalization | Percentile-based across multiple sessions (raw marks converted to NTA score) |
| Tie-Breaker (Paper 1) |
|
How to Use the JEE Main Exam Pattern for Smart Preparation ?
By Understanding the JEE Main Exam Pattern, you will not only know the marks and questions, its about strategic preparation as well.
The Smart candiates will use the pattern to plan their time, prioritize topics and balance accuracy along with speed.
Using Exam Pattern for Smarter JEE Main Preparation
| Strategy Area | Data-Based Insight | Smart Preparation Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Weightage per Subject | Each subject (Physics, Chemistry, Math) = 100 marks | Allocate equal study hours; don’t over-focus on one subject. |
| Question Type Mix | 60 MCQs + 15 Numerical Questions | Practice MCQs for accuracy and NVQs for conceptual clarity. |
| Negative Marking Impact | 1 wrong MCQ = loss of 5 marks (4 + 1 penalty) | Attempt only those MCQs you’re 70–80% sure about. |
| Time Management | 180 minutes = 2.4 min per question (approx.) | Divide time: 60 min per subject + 15 min buffer for review. |
| Numerical Section | No negative marking | Attempt all numerical questions, without any risk of marks deduction. |
| Exam Simulation | 2 shifts × 3 hrs each (in CBT mode) | Practice full-length online mocks to improve screen speed. |
| Consistency Factor | 75 total questions (fixed format since 2021) | Use previous year papers to analyze recurring question patterns. |
JEE Main 2026 Syllabus: What Should You Focus On?
If you are focusing on JEE Main Syllabus 2026, you should now that no major changes are there in JEE Main Syllabus.
- The NTA has kept the JEE Main Syllabus same as 2025, including the revised format for NCERT Class 11 & 12.
- The JEE Main Syllabus will test your understanding for fundamental concepts of Physics, chemistry and mathematics for paper-1, and Aptitude, Drawing, and Planning topics for Paper 2A and 2B.
You can check the JEE Main official syllabus from the link given below:
Also Read
Ques. Which Paper Should I Choose — B.Arch or B.Planning?
Ans. Your choice will depend upon your career interest, B.Arch for architecture and design, B.Planning for city and regional planning. Both requires different skills and focuses on exam pattern.
| Course | Core Focus | Key Sections | Skill Type | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| B.Arch (Paper 2A) | Architecture & Design | Math, Aptitude, Drawing | Creative + Analytical | Students with drawing skills |
| B.Planning (Paper 2B) | Urban & City Planning | Math, Aptitude, Planning | Analytical + Logical | Students with planning interest |
Ques. Can I Appear for Both Paper 1 and Paper 2 in the Same Session?
Ans. Yes, you can appear in both paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech) and paper 2 (B.Arch/B.Planning) in the same sessions.
Whereas, you have to select this option, while filling the JEE Main Application form 2026 and pay the required fees.
| Paper Combination | Permitted in Same Session | Additional Fee Required | Total Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 + Paper 2A | Yes | Yes | 3 hrs (CBT) + 1 hr (Drawing) |
| Paper 1 + Paper 2B | Yes | Yes | 3 hrs (Combined CBT) |
| Paper 2A + 2B | Yes | Yes | 3 hrs each (Same Day/Slot) |
How Is the Difficulty Level Different Across Paper 1, 2A, and 2B?
Ans. The JEE Main difficulty level will different for each 3 papers due to their focus areas as technical creative and analytical skills. The JEE Main Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech) is more conceptual based, whereas Paper 2A and 2B requires visual and spatial understanding.
| Paper | Course | Main Skill Tested | Difficulty Level | Ideal Preparation Focus |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | B.E./B.Tech | Conceptual problem-solving | Moderate–High | NCERT + Practice PYQs |
| Paper 2A | B.Arch | Creativity & Drawing | Moderate | Sketching + Aptitude |
| Paper 2B | B.Planning | Analytical reasoning | Easy–Moderate | Logical + Quantitative Ability |
JEE Main Previous Year Question Papers
Here are the JEE Main previous years' question papers in PDF to download. The candidates can assess the pre- and post-pandemic pattern of the JEE Main exam.
| Year | Question Paper PDF |
|---|---|
| 2023 | JEE Main 2023 Question Paper PDF |
| 2022 | JEE Main 2022 Question Paper PDF |
| 2021 | JEE Main 2021 Question Paper PDF |
| 2020 | JEE Main 2020 Question Paper PDF |
| 2019 | JEE Main 2019 Question Paper PDF |
| 2018 | JEE Main 2018 Question Paper PDF |
| 2017 | JEE Main 2017 Question Paper PDF |
| 2016 | JEE Main 2016 Question Paper PDF |
JEE Main 2025 Session 1 Question Papers with Solution PDF
| JEE Main 2025 Exam Date | JEE Main 2025 Question Paper | JEE Main 2025 Solution PDF |
|---|---|---|
| JEE Main 2025 Jan 22 Shift 1 Question Paper | Download PDF | Check Solutions |
| JEE Main 2025 Jan 22 Shift 2 Question Paper | Download PDF | Check Solutions |
| JEE Main 2025 Jan 23 Shift 1 Question Paper | Download PDF | Check Solutions |
| JEE Main 2025 Jan 23 Shift 2 Question Paper | Download PDF | Check Solutions |
| JEE Main 2025 Jan 24 Shift 1 Question Paper | Download PDF | Check Solutions |
| JEE Main 2025 Jan 24 Shift 2 Question Paper | Download PDF | Check Solutions |
| JEE Main 2025 Jan 28 Shift 1 Question Paper | Download PDF | Check Solutions |
| JEE Main 2025 Jan 28 Shift 2 Question Paper | Download PDF | Check Solutions |
| JEE Main 2025 Jan 29 Shift 1 Question Paper | Download PDF | Check Solutions |
| JEE Main 2025 Jan 29 Shift 2 Question Paper | Download PDF | Check Solutions |
| JEE Main 2025 Jan 30 Shift 1 B.Arch Question Paper | Download PDF | Check Solutions |
JEE Main 2025 Session 2 Question Papers with Solution PDF
| JEE Main 2025 Paper/ Subject | JEE Main 2025 Question Paper | JEE Main 2025 Solution PDF |
|---|---|---|
| JEE Main 2025 April 2 Shift 1 Question Paper | Download PDF | Check Solutions |
| JEE Main 2025 April 2 Shift 2 Question Paper | Download PDF | Check Solutions |
| JEE Main 2025 April 3 Shift 1 Question Paper | Download PDF | Check Solutions |
| JEE Main 2025 April 3 Shift 2 Question Paper | Download PDF | Check Solutions |
| JEE Main 2025 April 4 Shift 1 Question Paper | Download PDF | Check Solutions |
| JEE Main 2025 April 4 Shift 2 Question Paper | Download PDF | Check Solutions |
| JEE Main 2025 April 7 Shift 1 Question Paper | Download PDF | Check Solutions |
| JEE Main 2025 April 7 Shift 2 Question Paper | Download PDF | Check Solutions |
| JEE Main 2025 April 8 Shift 2 Question Paper | Download PDF | Check Solutions |
| JEE Main 2025 April 9 B.Arch Question Paper | Download PDF | Check Solutions |
| JEE Main 2025 April 9 B.Planning Question Paper | Download PDF | Check Solutions |
| JEE Main 2025 April 9 B.Arch & B.Planning Question Paper | Download PDF | Check Solutions |
Also Read
JEE Main Previous Year Question PaperJEE Main PYQs- Download Most Asked JEE Main PYPs
JEE Main Exam Pattern Previous Years Analysis (2025-2022)
The JEE Main Exam pattern from 2026 to 2020 shows a significant change throughout the years.
- In JEE Main 2020, the NVQ-type questions were introduced, where candidates had the option to attempt 5 questions out of 10 NVQs with no negative marking.
- JEE Main 2021 - 2024 followed the same pattern as 2020 (post-pandemic pattern).
- However, in JEE Main 2025, the NTA removed Section B, where all 5 NVQs were compulsory to attempt, with negative marking introduced for them, aligning with the MCQ marking scheme (+4 for correct, -1 for wrong).
- The JEE Main 2026 is expected to follow the same exam pattern as JEE Main 2025, with 75 questions from Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM), including 20 MCQs and 5 compulsory NVQs, all marked +4 / -1.
| Year | Total Marks | Total Questions | Subjects | MCQs/NVQs | Marking Scheme |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 (Expected) | 300 | 75 (25 × 3) | PCM | 20 MCQs + 5 NVQs (5 compulsory) | +4 / –1 for all questions |
| 2025 | 300 | 75 (25 × 3) | PCM | 20 MCQs + 5 NVQs (no choice, all 5 mandatory) | +4 / –1 for both MCQs & NVQs |
| 2024 | 300 | 90 (30 × 3) | PCM | 20 MCQs + 10 NVQs (attempt 5) | +4 / –1 (MCQ only); NVQs: no negative marking |
| 2023 | 300 | 90 (30 × 3) | PCM | 20 MCQs + 10 NVQs (attempt 5) | +4 / –1 (MCQ only); NVQs: no negative marking |
| 2022 | 300 | 90 (30 × 3) | PCM | 20 MCQs + 10 NVQs (attempt 5) | +4 / –1 (MCQ only); NVQs: no negative marking |
| 2021 | 300 | 90 (30 × 3) | PCM | 20 MCQs + 10 NVQs (attempt 5) | +4 / –1 (MCQ only); NVQs: no negative marking |
| 2020 | 300 | 75 (25 × 3) | PCM | 20 MCQs + 5 NVQs (optional: 5 out of 10) | +4 / –1 (MCQ only); NVQs: no negative marking |
JEE Main Exam Pattern FAQs
Ques. Is JEE Mains of 300 or 360 marks?
Ans. For JEE Main (B.E/B.Tech), the total marks are 300 marks, consisting of 75 questions (25 each in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics), with each question worth 4 marks, and a deduction of 1 mark for each incorrect answer
| Exam/Component | Total Marks | Qs per Subject | Marking Scheme |
|---|---|---|---|
| JEE Main – Paper 1 | 300 | 25 (20 MCQs + 5 NVQs) | +4 / –1 |
| JEE Main – Paper 2A / 2B | 400 | 77 (Arch), 100 (Planning) | +4 / –1 (except Drawing) |
| JEE Advanced (2 papers) | 360 | — | Subjective, Tougher |
Ques. What is the pass mark in JEE Main?
Ans. In JEE Main, there are no fixed “pass marks” in terms of percentage or marks to take the JEE Main exam, but the candidates need a qualifying cutoff percentile for the JEE Main Counselling and for JEE Advanced.
JEE Main 2025 Qualifying Cut-Off (for JEE Advanced eligibility)
| Category | Cut-Off Percentile |
|---|---|
| General (UR) | 93.1023 |
| Gen-EWS | 80.3830 |
| OBC‑NCL | 79.4314 |
| SC | 61.1527 |
| ST | 47.9026 |
| UR‑PwD | ~0.0079 |
Ques. How much marks is 75 in JEE Mains?
Ans. According to the JEE Main 2020 marks vs percentile, scoring 75 out of 300 marks is expected to get a percentile ranging between 84 and 91, based on the difficulty of shift and the normalization process.
Percentile Around 75 Marks:
- Range: ~84.6 to 91.8 percentile
- Typical percentile estimate: ~87 to 90 percentile
75 marks in JEE Main are relatively below average, placing students ahead of roughly 75-90% of candidates but not competitive for top institutes like IITs, NITs, or IIITs.
Top Colleges with 75 Marks in JEE Main
| College Name | Location | Type | Courses Offered | Expected Cutoff (Percentile) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maharishi Markandeshwar University | Ambala, Haryana | Private | CSE, ECE, Civil, Mech | 70–85 |
| SAGE University | Indore, MP | Private | CSE, IT, Civil | 70–80 |
| Arya College of Engineering | Jaipur, Rajasthan | Private | ECE, CSE, Mech, Civil | 70–80 |
| Symbiosis Institute of Technology | Indore, MP | Private | CSE, IT, ECE | 75–85 |
| GITAM (Deemed to be University) | Visakhapatnam/Hyderabad | Private | B.Tech (all major branches) | 75–85 |
| Quantum University | Roorkee, Uttarakhand | Private | CSE, ECE, Mech | 70–80 |
| NIT Hamirpur (Home State Quota only) | Himachal Pradesh | Government | Bio-Tech, Material Science | ~90+ (Rank ~1 Lakh) |
| NIT Meghalaya (HS/ST quota possibilities) | Shillong, Meghalaya | Government | EEE, Civil (HS quota) | ~88–90+ |
| NIT Goa (HS quota) | Goa | Government | Mechanical, Mining | ~88–91+ |
Ques. Is JEE Mains of 300 marks?
Ans. Maximum marks are different for each paper of JEE Main 2026. For BE/BTech paper, the maximum marks are 300. For JEE Main BArch, the total marks are 308, and for JEE Main B.Planning, the total marks are 400.
| JEE Main Paper | JEE Main Total Questions | Marks for Each Question | JEE Main Total Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| BE/BTech (Paper 1) | 75 | 4 | 300 |
| BArch (Paper 2A) | 77 | 4 | 308 |
| BPlan (Paper 2B) | 100 | 4 | 400 |
Ques. Are there 75 questions in the JEE Mains?
Ans. Yes, for the JEE Main BE/BTech paper, the total number of questions is 75. However, for papers like BArch and BPlan, the total questions asked in JEE Main 2026 is 77 and 100, respectively.
| JEE Main Paper | JEE Main Total Questions |
|---|---|
| BE/BTech (Paper 1) | 75 |
| BArch (Paper 2A) | 77 |
| BPlan (Paper 2B) | 100 |
Ques. What is paper 1 and paper 2 in JEE Mains?
Ans. Paper 1 and Paper 2 indicate different papers for different courses. Paper 1 in JEE Main 2026 is conducted for BE/B.Tech programs offered by various participating institutes. However, Paper 2 is divided into two papers, including Paper 2A and Paper 2B with Paper 2A for BArch courses and Paper 2B for B Plan programs.
| JEE Main Papers | JEE Main Courses |
|---|---|
| JEE Main Paper 1 | BE/BTech |
| JEE Main Paper 2A | BArch |
| JEE Main Paper 2B | BPlan |
Ques. What is the paper pattern of JEE Mains?
Ans. NTA releases the JEE Main paper pattern on the official website at jeemain.nta.nic.in. As per the JEE Main exam pattern published by NTA, there will be a total of 75 marks in JEE Main Paper 1 BE/B.Tech, 77 questions in JEE Main Paper 2 A BArch, and 100 questions in Paper 2 B B Planning.
- JEE Main exam pattern for Paper 1 BE/BTech indicates the exam to be conducted for a total of 300 marks, with 100 marks (25 questions) each from Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
- JEE Main exam pattern for Paper 2 BArch indicates the exam to be conducted for a total of 400 marks, with 25 questions from Mathematics, 50 questions from Aptitude, and 2 questions from Drawing.
- JEE Main exam pattern for Paper 1 BPlan indicates the exam to be conducted for a total of 400 marks with 25 questions from Mathematics, 50 questions from Aptitude, and 25 questions from Planning.
- For each MCQ and Numerical Value-Based question, 4 marks will be awarded, and -1 mark will be deducted for each incorrect answer.
- Drawing questions asked in JEE Main Paper 2A BArch will carry a total of 100 marks, with 50 marks in each question.
Ques. Is JEE Mains paper hard?
Ans. Yes, JEE Main paper is considered among the difficult examinations conducted across the country. JEE Main qu
Syllabus
JEE Main Syllabus shows how Class 11 and 12 topics connect, which chapters carry more weightage, and where your strengths and weaknesses lie. The JEE Main Syllabus is like getting a roadmap before starting a long, unpredictable journey of JEE Mains. NTA has released the official JEE Main Syllabus for January and April 2026 online at jeemain.nta.nic.in. The JEE Main 2026 syllabus includes concepts from Classes 11 and 12 in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. NTA has not made any changes to the JEE 2026 syllabus. So you can follow the previous year's JEE Main syllabus for preparation.
- JEE syllabus for Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech) consists of Physics, Mathematics and Chemistry topics from the Class 11 and 12 NCERT.
- JEE Main exam syllabus of Paper 2A for Architecture (BArch) includes topics of Mathematics, General Aptitude, and Drawing
- Paper 2B (BPlan) of the JEE Main syllabus includes Mathematics, General Aptitude, and Planning topics.
One student once shared that the JEE Main syllabus felt like a “mirror” — it showed what I knew, what I didn’t, and how much I had grown by the time the mock tests rolled in. Another said, “The more I read the syllabus, the less lost I felt.” It is expected that nearly 17 lakh students will appear for JEE Mains in 2026. With the increase in the number of students, the JEE Main cut-off is also expected to increase from last year.
Also Read:
Where can I download the JEE Main Syllabus 2026 PDF?
You can download the JEE Main syllabus PDF from the official website. You can use the links below for JEE Main Syllabus 2026 PDF download for Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, B.Arch and B.Planning.
| Subject | JEE Main 2026 Syllabus PDF |
|---|---|
| Physics | Download PDF |
| Chemistry | Download PDF |
| Mathematics | Download PDF |
| B.Arch | Download PDF |
| B.Planning | Download PDF |
Table of Contents
- Where can I download the JEE Main Syllabus 2026 PDF?
- JEE Main Syllabus 2026 for Paper 1 (BE/B.Tech)
- JEE Main Syllabus 2026 for Paper 1 FAQ
- JEE Main Syllabus for Paper 2 (B.Arch and B.Plan)
- What are the Important Topics and Questions Asked in JEE Main from 2020 to 2025?
- JEE Main Syllabus 2026: Chapter Wise Weightage
- JEE Main Exam Pattern 2026
- JEE Main Exam Pattern FAQs
- JEE Main 2-Month Crash Plan
- NCERT Books for JEE Mains
- JEE Main vs JEE Advanced Syllabus Comparison
- Top Hacks from JEE Toppers
What are the changes in JEE Main Syllabus 2026?
NTA has not made any changes for JEE Mains 2026 syllabus. A few changes were made in the syllabus in 2024 by removing several topics from Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. The deleted topics from the JEE Mains syllabus are
- Mathematics: Mathematical Induction and Mathematical Reasoning units have been removed.
- Physics: In Physics, the Communication Device unit has been removed from the syllabus.
- Chemistry: Surface Chemistry, States of Matter, General Principles and Processes of Isolation of Metals, s-block elements, Hydrogen, Environmental Chemistry, Alcohol, Phenol, and Ether, and Polymers chapters have been removed.
Also Read:
- Is a calculator allowed in JEE Mains?
- Deleted Syllabus for JEE Mains 2026 Maths
- Check the JEE Main Previous Years Question Papers
JEE Main Syllabus 2026 for Paper 1 (BE/B.Tech)
If you are opting for BE or B.Tech, you can follow the JEE Main syllabus for Class 11 and Class 12 below:
JEE Main Syllabus: Class 11 Chapters
| Physics | Chemistry | Maths |
|---|---|---|
| Laws of Motion | Structure of an Atom | Sets |
| Thermodynamics | Chemical Bonding and Molecular Structure | Conic Sections |
Also Read:
- JEE Main 2026 Syllabus Easy Chapters
- High Weightage JEE Physics Chapters
- High Weightage Chapters for JEE Mains 2026 Maths
JEE Main Syllabus: Class 12 Chapters
JEE Main Syllabus 2026 for Paper 1 FAQ
Ques: How do I prepare for the Drawing Test in JEE Main 2026?
To prepare for the Drawing Test, practice sketching simple 3D shapes, perspectives, and real-life scenes. Focus on:
- Drawing geometrical shapes.
- Sketching architectural designs, such as floor plans and elevations.
- Improving freehand sketching skills.
Ques: What are the best ways to improve my time management for JEE Main 2026?
It is the most common problem faced by aspirants of any examination. Some of the methods that students used and found useful.
- Always try to solve each problem in 3–4 minutes.
- Always work on a set of minimum 10 questions in a sitting and try to solve that set in 30 to 40 minutes.
- Study for one hour with full dedication. Then take a 10-minute break to do something that heals you deeply.
- Decide on your goals for a week. Extend your limits to achieve your weekly goals.
Ques: Is 98% good in JEE Mains?
Yes, 98% is a very good score in JEE Mains. Candidates securing the 98th percentile have a strong chance of getting admission into NIT Rourkela. A percentile of more than 90 is considered a good percentile for admission into NITs.
Also Read:
- JEE Main 2026 Physics Syllabus Easy Chapters
- High Weightage Chapters for JEE Mains 2026 Chemistry
- Top 6 Easy Chemistry Chapters for JEE Main with Important Formulae
JEE Main Syllabus for Paper 2 (B.Arch and B.Plan)
Candidates can check here the JEE Main Paper 2 Syllabus for BArch and B.Plan courses. The JEE Main syllabus 2026 for BArch and B.Plan is provided here.
JEE Main Paper 2 Syllabus for BArch
| Subjects | Topics |
|---|---|
| Mathematics | Sets, Relations and Functions, Complex Numbers and Quadratic Equations, Matrices and Determinants, Permutations and Combinations, Mathematical Inductions, Binomial Theorem and its Simple Applications, Sequence and Series, Limits, Continuity and Differentiability, Integral Calculus, Differential Equations, Coordinate Geometry, Three-dimensional Geometry, Vector Algebra, Statistics and Probability, Trigonometry, Mathematical Reasoning |
| General Aptitude | Awareness of persons, Buildings, and Materials: Objects, Texture related to Architecture and build environment. Visualising three-dimensional objects from two-dimensional drawings. Visualizing. Different sides of three-dimensional objects. Analytical Reasoning Mental Ability (Visual. Numerical and Verbal) |
| Three-dimensional perception: Understanding and appreciation of scale and proportions of objects, building forms and elements, colour texture harmony and contrast Design and drawing of geometrical or abstract shapes and patterns in pencil. Transformation of forms both 2D and 3D union, subtraction rotation, development of surfaces and volumes, Generation of Plan, elevations and 3D views of objects, Creating two-dimensional and three-dimensional compositions using given shapes and forms. | |
| Drawing | Sketching of scenes and activities from memory of urbanscape (public space, market, festivals, street scenes, monuments, recreational spaces, etc), landscape (riverfronts. Jungle. Gardens, trees. Plants, etc.) and rural life. |
JEE Main Syllabus Paper 2B (B.Plan)
| Subjects | Topics |
|---|---|
| Mathematics | Sets, Relations and Functions, Complex Numbers and Quadratic Equations, Matrices and Determinants, Permutations and Combinations, Mathematical Inductions, Binomial Theorem and its Simple Applications, Sequence and Series, Limits, Continuity and Differentiability, Integral Calculus, Differential Equations, Coordinate Geometry, Three-dimensional Geometry, Vector Algebra, Statistics and Probability, Trigonometry, Mathematical Reasoning |
| General Aptitude | Awareness of persons, Buildings, and Materials: Objects, Textures related to Architecture and building environment Visualising three-dimensional objects from two-dimensional drawings. Visualizing. Different sides of three-dimensional objects. Analytical Reasoning Mental Ability (Visual. Numerical and Verbal) |
| Three-dimensional- perception: Understanding and appreciation of scale and proportions of objects, building forms and elements, colour texture harmony and contrast Design and drawing of geometrical or abstract shapes and patterns in pencil. Transformation of forms both 2D and 3D union, subtraction rotation, development of surfaces and volumes, Generation of plans, elevations and 3D views of objects, Creating two-dimensional and three-dimensional compositions using given shapes and forms. | |
| Planning | General Awareness: General knowledge questions and knowledge about prominent cities, development issues, government programs, etc. |
| Social Science: The idea of nationalism, nationalism in India, pre-modern world, 19th-century global economy, colonialism, and colonial cities, industrialization, resources, and development, types of resources, agriculture, water, mineral resources, industries, national economy; Human Settlements | |
| Power-sharing, federalism, political parties, democracy, the constitution of India | |
| Economic development- economic sectors, globalization, the concept of development, poverty; Population structure, social exclusion, and inequality, urbanization, rural development, colonial cities, | |
| Thinking Skills: Comprehension (unseen passage); map reading skills, scale, distance, direction, area, etc.; critical reasoning; understanding of charts, graphs, and tables; basic concepts of statistics and quantitative reasoning. |
Ques: Is B.Arch JEE easy?
Ans: The level of difficulty of JEE Main Paper-2 (B. Arch) was Easy to Moderate as per feedback from students.
- Mathematics was Easy to Moderate level.
- A few students reported that the numerical-based section had a few lengthy questions involving calculations.
Ques: What is a good score in JEE BArch?
Ans: A score above 250 to 300 is considered good for JEE B. Arch, typically achieving a percentile of 98.5 to 99.9+. This can help you secure admission into top institutions like SPAs and NITs. A score in the 220-250 range is also competitive, with a 97-98.5 percentile, offering a strong chance for premier NITs and good state universities. The "good" score depends on your target institution, category, and the year's cutoffs.
Ques: Is JEE Main 2026 Paper 2 syllabus reduced or updated from 2025?
Ans: No changes have been made in JEE Main 2026 Paper 2 syllabus.
- Mathematics follows 2025 (post-2024 reductions)
- Aptitude, Drawing, and Planning sections remain unchanged
- NTA confirmed: No further updates for 2026.
Is it possible to complete the whole JEE Main Syllabus before the exam?
Yes, it is definitely possible to complete the syllabus if you start preparing early. However, if you are unable to complete, do not worry.
As per Quora user: JEE contains a huge amount of content to study. So it is very difficult for an individual to cover the whole syllabus, and you don't even need to cover the whole syllabus to get a good rank.
Another user said: Syllabus completion upto 80% gives you damn high confidence…
You can also check How can one efficiently complete the entire JEE Main syllabus?
JEE Main Syllabus 2026: Chapter Wise Weightage
You must be aware of how many questions you can get in JEE Main from each chapter. We have provided the important topics above and the expected number of questions or JEE main chapter-wise weightage below.
Physics Chapter-Wise Weightage for JEE Main 2026
This analysis from preparation forums emphasizes high-weightage topics like Current Electricity and Ray Optics for focused revision.
| Chapter Name | Expected Questions | Most Expected Questions (Based on PYQ Trends 2020–2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Current Electricity | 3 | Kirchhoff’s laws in complex circuits, Wheatstone bridge balancing, RC circuit charging/discharging |
| Magnetic Effect of Current and Magnetism | 2 | Force on current-carrying wire in magnetic field, magnetic moment of loop, solenoid field |
| Alternating Current | 2 | Phasor diagram of LCR series, average & RMS power, resonance frequency |
| Kinetic Theory of Gases & Thermodynamics | 2 | RMS speed vs temperature, Carnot engine efficiency, adiabatic process work |
| Kinematics | 2 | Projectile on inclined plane, relative velocity in river-boat problems |
| Work, Energy, and Power | 2 | Variable force work calculation, spring-block energy conservation |
| Laws of Motion | 2 | Pseudo force in non-inertial frame, friction on double incline |
| Centre of Mass | 2 | Collision with variable mass (rocket), COM of irregular lamina |
| Rotational Dynamics | 2 | Torque due to couple, rolling without slipping on an incline |
| Modern Physics | 2 | de-Broglie wavelength, binding energy per nucleon graph |
| Wave Optics | 2 | YDSE fringe width with glass slab, diffraction minima condition |
| Electrostatics | 1 | Electric field due to charged ring on axis, Gauss law flux |
| Capacitors | 1 | Dielectric insertion energy change, series-parallel combo |
| Simple Harmonic Motion | 1 | Damped oscillation time period, angular frequency of spring combo |
| Sound Waves | 1 | Open vs closed pipe resonance, Doppler with moving source & observer |
| Elasticity | 1 | Poisson’s ratio relation, stress-strain curve interpretation |
| Error in Measurement | 1 | Percentage error in density, vernier caliper least count |
| Circular Motion | 1 | Minimum speed at top of vertical circle, banking angle |
| Electromagnetic Waves | 1 | Poynting vector, EM wave energy density ratio |
| Semiconductors | 1 | Half-wave rectifier output, logic gate truth table |
| Communication Systems | 1 | Modulation index, bandwidth of AM/FM, satellite communication |
Chemistry Chapter-Wise Weightage for JEE Main 2026
Compiled from student discussions on previous papers, this table highlights Organic Chemistry and Coordination Compounds as must-revise areas.
| Chapter Name | Expected Questions | Most Expected Questions (Based on PYQ Trends 2020–2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Transition Elements & Coordination Compounds | 3 | CFSE in octahedral complexes, geometrical & optical isomerism, IUPAC naming |
| Periodic Table | 3 | IE trend exception (N vs O), acidic nature of oxides across period |
| Atomic Structure | 2 | Bohr model radius/velocity, quantum number forbidden transitions |
| Chemical Bonding | 2 | Hybridization in IF₇/PCl₅, dipole moment of cis-trans isomers |
| Chemical and Ionic Equilibrium | 2 | Buffer pH calculation, Ksp & common ion effect |
| Solid-State and Surface Chemistry | 2 | Schottky/Frenkel defect, Langmuir adsorption isotherm |
| Nuclear & Environmental Chemistry | 2 | Radioactive decay series, ozone depletion mechanism |
| Thermodynamics & the Gaseous State | 2 | ΔH from bond energy, real gas deviation (compressibility) |
| Mole Concept | 1 | Limiting reagent yield, POAC method |
| Redox Reactions | 1 | Equivalent weight in disproportionation, n-factor |
| Electrochemistry | 1 | Nernst equation for a concentration cell, conductivity vs concentration |
| Chemical Kinetics | 1 | Order from half-life data, Arrhenius plot |
| Solution & Colligative Properties | 1 | Van’t Hoff factor for association/dissociation |
| General Organic Chemistry | 1 | Hyperconjugation count, carbonation stability order |
| Stereochemistry | 1 | Meso compound identification, R/S configuration |
| Hydrocarbon | 1 | Ozonolysis product, anti-Markovnikov addition |
| Alkyl Halides | 1 | SN1 vs SN2, E1 vs E2 product prediction |
| Carboxylic Acids & Their Derivatives | 1 | Decarboxylation (soda lime), HVZ reaction |
| Carbohydrates, Amino-Acids, and Polymers | 1 | Glycosidic linkage, zwitterion pH |
| Aromatic Compounds | 1 | Directing effect in disubstituted benzene, Birch reduction |
Mathematics Chapter-Wise Weightage for JEE Main 2026
Based on student-tracked trends from 2025 sessions, you must focus on 3D Geometry and Calculus for 30–40% coverage. Students also suggest solving 50 PYQs per chapter for these high-yield topics.
| Chapter Name | Expected Questions | Most Expected Questions (Based on PYQ Trends 2020–2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Sequences & Series | 2 | Sum of GP with r<1, AM-GP inequality application |
| Straight Lines | 2 | Image of point w.r.t. line, area of triangle by coordinates |
| 3-D Geometry | 2 | Shortest distance between skew lines, plane from 3 points |
| Determinants | 2 | System of equations using Cramer’s rule, area using det |
| Sets | 1 | Venn diagram word problem, power set count |
| Permutations & Combinations | 1 | Circular arrangement with restrictions |
| Probability | 1 | Conditional probability with cards/dice, Bayes’ theorem |
| Complex Numbers | 1 | Locus of z (argument condition), square root of complex |
| Binomial Theorem | 1 | Coefficient of xⁿ in expansion, rational exponent |
| Limits | 1 | 0/0 form using L’Hôpital, sandwich theorem |
| Differentiability | 1 | Continuity check at point, intermediate value theorem |
| Indefinite Integration | 1 | Integration by parts (LIATE), trigonometric substitution |
| Definite Integration | 1 | Property ∫₀ᵃ f(x)dx = ∫₀ᵃ f(a-x)dx, area bounded |
| Differential Equations | 1 | Variable separable, linear DE (IF method) |
| Height & Distance | 1 | Angle of elevation from top/bottom, two ships problem |
| Trigonometric Equations | 1 | General solution in [0, 2π), tan(3θ) type |
| The Area under the Curve | 1 | Area between parabola and line, parametric form |
| Quadratic Equations | 1 | Condition for common roots, equation from roots |
| Vectors | 1 | [a b c] scalar triple product, coplanarity |
| Tangents and Normals | 1 | Equation of tangent from external point, angle with curve |
| Maxima and Minima | 1 | Word problem (max volume, min distance) |
| Statistics | 1 | Standard deviation from grouped data, regression coefficient |
| Parabola | 1 | Parametric point, chord with given midpoint |
| Ellipse | 1 | Auxiliary circle, director circle equation |
| Hyperbola | 1 | Asymptote equation, conjugate hyperbola |
Also Check:
List of top Questions asked in JEE Main
Check JEE Mains PYQ Chapter wise
What are the Important Topics and Questions Asked in JEE Main from 2020 to 2025?
The JEE Main important topics provided here are based on the analysis of the past year's JEE Main question papers released by the NTA. You can also check and download JEE Main Previous Years Question Papers here.
JEE Main Chapter-wise PYQ Trend (2020–2024)
| Subject | Chapter | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | Trend | Prep Priority |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Physics | Thermodynamics | 2 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 3 | Rising | High |
| Chemistry | Coordination Compounds | 1 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 3 | Rising | Very High |
| Math | Vectors & 3D | 2 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 4 | High | Critical |
| Physics | Semiconductors | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | Growing | Medium-High |
| Chemistry | Biomolecules | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 1 | Stable | Low |
Also Read:
- JEE Main PYQs on Thermodynamics
- JEE Main PYQs on Coordination Compounds
- 3D Geometry - JEE Main Previous Year Questions with Solutions
- Vector Algebra JEE Mains Previous Year Questions
- JEE Main PYQs on Semiconductor Electronics
- JEE Main PYQs on Biomolecules
- JEE Main PYQs on Isomerism in Coordination Compounds
JEE Main Exam Pattern 2026
You will get 3 hours to complete the test. According to the JEE exam pattern:
- Each question is worth 4 marks.
- There will be a negative marking of 1 mark for each incorrect answer.
- The marking scheme for Papers 2A and 2B is similar to Paper 1, except for the drawing questions in Paper 2A.
The JEE Main exam pattern will give you an idea of how many questions you need to answer within the specified time.
| Paper | Course | Subjects | Total Questions | Total Marks | Question Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | B.E./B.Tech | Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics | 75 (25 per subject) | 300 | 20 MCQs + 5 NVQs per subject |
| Paper 2A | B.Arch | Mathematics, Aptitude, Drawing | 77 | 400 | MCQs + Numerical + Drawing |
| Paper 2B | B.Planning | Mathematics, Aptitude, Planning | 100 | 400 | MCQs + Numerical |
Ques. Is it possible to get 200+/300 in JEE MAINS by preparing only the 12th class syllabus?
Ans: No, definitely not. JEE papers (mains) consist of nearly 40–45% class 11 syllabus and 55–60% class 12 syllabus. By calculation, 60% = 216 marks. The only way you can get 200+ is by answering almost 60% correctly, which I think is not that easy.
Ques. How do I revise my JEE Mains syllabus in the one-week gap between the boards and the Mains, assuming that I have a 60% understanding of my class 12 syllabus?
Ans: I think you can prepare for JEE and revise with your board exams also, because questions in JEE Mains are completely taken from NCERT books. You can complete your 12th syllabus within the exam days themselves. But that requires a determination that goes for the whole month.
Ques. What is the best way to complete the whole JEE Mains syllabus in just 4 months?
Ans: If you are a fresher or haven't completed your Class 11, it's very hard to complete the JEE Mains syllabus in 4 months. JEE Mains is not an exam that can be prepared for in 4 months; at least you need 6 months minimum to complete your syllabus.
- According to me, first of all, u have to complete those chapters which are of very high weightage in JEE Mains
- Most importantly, daily try to learn inorganic chemistry as it will come as bonus marks in the mains.
Also Check:
JEE Main 2026 B. Arch Exam Pattern
JEE Main 2026 B. Planning Exam Pattern
JEE Main B.E./B.Tech Exam Pattern 2026
JEE Main 2-Month Crash Plan
If you are a school student and do not get much time to prepare, you must follow a timetable to manage your studies for JEE Main preparation. Adjust based on energy levels; include 1-hour mock tests thrice weekly.
“From Zero to Hero in 60 Days” – Shared by JEE 25’ Topper (AIR 892)
| Week | Focus Area | Key Topics | Daily Target | Insights & Hacks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | Physics – Mechanics | Kinematics, NLM, Work-Energy, Circular Motion | 3 hrs Physics + PYQs | Start with 1D motion → 2D → Energy; Solve Arihant 41-Yr PYQs daily |
| Week 2 | Physics – Mechanics + Electrostatics | Gravitation, SHM, Electrostatics (Capacitance later) | 3 hrs + 1 hr revision | Link SHM ↔ Circular Motion; Use HC Verma Vol 1 for concepts |
| Week 3 | Chemistry – Physical + Mole Concept | Mole Concept, Atomic Structure, Thermodynamics | 2.5 hrs Chem + formula sheet | Mole is King – 70% Physical Chem depends on it. Make 1-page mole map |
| Week 4 | Chemistry – Organic (Basics) + Inorganic | GOC, Hydrocarbons, Periodic Table, Chemical Bonding | 2.5 hrs + NCERT lines | NCERT is 90% Inorganic – Read line-by-line; GOC flowchart = 15 marks |
| Week 5 | Maths – Calculus Foundation | Limits, Continuity, Differentiation, Applications | 3 hrs + 1 hr PYQ | Differentiation = 8–10 marks; Solve RD Sharma Objective daily |
| Week 6 | Maths – Algebra + Coordinate | Quadratic, Sequences, Straight Lines, Circles | 3 hrs + graph practice | Coordinate = 6–8 marks; Draw 10 graphs daily |
| Week 7 | Full Revision + Mock Tests | 1 Full Syllabus Mock (3 hrs) + Analysis (2 hrs) | 1 Mock/day | Analyze wrong Qs → tag weak topics; Use Error Log Notebook |
| Week 8 | Final Sprint + Formula Marathon | Formula Revision + 2 Mocks + Weak Topic Drill | 2 Mocks + 2 hrs weak | Last 3 days = Formula Flashcards + Sleep 8 hrs |
Also Check: Top 10 Android Apps for JEE Main 2026 Preparation
NCERT Books for JEE Mains
You are always advised to start your JEE Mains preparation with class 11 and 12 NCERT Books. This will help you understand the basic concepts. Provided below are the links to download NCERT books for Physics, Chemistry, and Maths.
| Subject | Class | NCERT Book PDF | NCERT Solutions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physics | 12 | Download NCERT Book | Check NCERT Solutions |
| 11 | Download NCERT Book | Check NCERT Solutions | |
| Chemistry | 12 | Download NCERT Book | Check NCERT Solutions |
| 11 | Download NCERT Book | Check NCERT Solutions | |
| Maths | 12 | Download NCERT Book | Check NCERT Solutions |
| 11 | Download NCERT Book | Check NCERT Solutions |
Also Check:
Best Books JEE Mains Maths 2026
Best Books JEE Mains Physics 2026
Best Books JEE Mains Chemistry 2026
JEE Main vs JEE Advanced Syllabus Comparison
The JEE Main and JEE Advanced Syllabus overlap ~90%, but the JEE Advanced syllabus weights deeper topics. Some other key differences that can help you prepare for JEE Mains are:
| Topic Area | JEE Main | JEE Advanced | Key Differences |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Topics | ~60-65 across PCM (NCERT-based) | ~55-60, but more applications | JEE Advanced excludes some Main topics but adds complexity |
| Difficulty Focus | Formula-based, numerical | Conceptual, multi-concept problems | Your understanding of the topics is tested in JEE Advanced |
| Exclusive to JEE Main | Electronic Devices, Experimental Skills, Mathematical Induction (partial), full Organic named reactions | — | Removed in 2025: Polymers, Biomolecules, Everyday Chemistry, Communication Systems. |
| Exclusive to JEE Advanced | — | Thermal Physics (Carnot, radiation), Vectors (scalar triple), Electrochemistry (Kohlrausch), MO theory | Focus on conceptual rigor, multi-concept problems. |
| Common Core | Kinematics, Laws of Motion, Electrostatics, Optics, Basic Organic, Calculus, Coordinate Geometry | Same | Similar topics, but Advanced tests higher application & integration. |
Top Hacks from JEE Toppers
We have shared a few hacks from toppers that can help you improve your JEE Main scores.
| Hack | Shared By | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Try to solve 2020–2025 PYQs at least 5 times before appearing | AIR 89, 2024 | 50+ marks guaranteed |
| You must make a 'Silly Mistake Log' of your own. This will help to reduce the mistakes. | AIR 312, 2025 | Reduced negative marks by 20 |
| "Revise Organic Chemistry via reaction maps" | Quora User | Scored 90+ in Chemistry |
| Take mocks at 9 AM (exam time) at home. This will help to clear your mind and stay focused on the exam day. | Discord JEE Server | Helps build the exam-day rhythm |
Cut-offs
The JEE Main cutoff for 2026 will be released by the National Testing Agency (NTA), expectedly by April 2026, along with the JEE Main session 2 results.- jeemain.nta.nic.in
The JEE Main cutoff is the minimum percentile required to qualify for JEE Advanced and to be eligible for IITs, NITs, IIITs, and GFTIs via JoSSA Counselling.
- With over 13 lakh candidates appearing for the JEE Main 2026 session 1, competition has increased compared to the previous years when participation was around 12 lakh, as a result, the cutoff is expected to remain high.
- For JEE Main 2026, the expected cutoff percentile for the General category is likely to be between 93 to 95 percentile.
- For the EWS and OBC categories, candidates can expect the cutoff to fall in the range of 80 to 82 percentile.
- SC and ST category candidates can expect the cutoff to be around 60-63 and 47-50, respectively.
JEE Main 2025 Cutoff as released by NTA Officially.

Related Links:
- JEE Main 2026 Rank vs Percentile Predictor
- JEE Main 2026 Category-wise Cutoff
- JEE Main College-List Rank Wise
- List of Colleges Accepting Scores Between 75 to 90 percentile in JEE Main 2026
There are 15 lakh+ seats for B.Tech in different institutes, 24000+ in NITs , 9000+ in IIITs and 10000+ in GFTIs.

Source: Indian Express
Also Check:
FAQs:
Ques. How many marks are needed for under 10,000 rank in 2026?
Ans. For under 10,000 rank in JEE Main 2026, candidates need to score marks above 195 out of 300. For rank under 5000,candidates need to score between 200-230 out of 300.
Ques. Is the JEE Main 2026 cutoff higher than 2025?
Ans. In JEE Main 2026 paper level was moderate ,similar to that of 2025, but due to higher number of candidates as compared to previous years, cutoff is expected to increase slightly.
What is the JEE Main 2026 cutoff?
The JEE Main Cutoff will be calculated by using normalised percentile, not the raw marks, for balancing the difficulty among various shifts.
- In JEE Main Qualifying cutoff & Admission cutoff will be different.
- The qualifying percentile will be used for eligibility for JEE Advanced, whereas the JoSAA Closing ranks will decide the actual admission cutoff.
JoSSA Opening and Closing Ranks
| Rounds | IITs | NITs | IIITs | GFTIs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Round 1 | View PDF | View PDF | View PDF | View PDF |
| Round 2 | View PDF | View PDF | View PDF | View PDF |
| Round 3 | View PDF | View PDF | View PDF | View PDF |
| Round 4 | View PDF | View PDF | View PDF | View PDF |
| Round 5 | View PDF | View PDF | View PDF | View PDF |
| Round 6 | View PDF | View PDF | View PDF | View PDF |
*Above PDFs are directly taken from JoSSA’s official website, josaa.nic.in .
FAQs:
Ques. What is a good score in JEE Mains 2026?
Ans. A good JEE Main score is generally above 200 out of 300, with these marks you can expect your percentile between 98 to 99.9 and make easy entry to Top NITs,IIITs and GFTIs.For candidates with lower percentile than 95 there are plenty of options of GFTIs and State Government Colleges.
Ques.Can I get NIT at 95 percentile?
Ans. Yes, with 95 percentile in JEE Mains , you can get into Mid-tier and Newer NITs via JoSSA Counselling. For top branches you can target GFTIs and State Government Colleges with this percentile.
Ques. Is JEE Main 2026 Harder than 2025?
Ans. In 2025,JEE Main exam was moderate,leading to a general qualifying cutoff to 93.1.In the year 2026 session 1, JEE Main exam was of moderate difficulty but number of candidates are expected to be high so expected cutoff will be around 93.5 to 95 percentile.
Also Check:
JEE Main Cutoff 2026 category-wise for Top Colleges:
As per previous year analysis,the qualifying cutoff is expected to be high due to high competition as more than 14 lakh candidates are expected to appear in JEE Main 2026 session 1 & session 2 combined.
Using JoSSA counselling officially released data of previous years and @WeWonAcademy ,we have concluded that,
General Cutoff for JEE Main 2026 for Top Colleges
- The CS and IT branches of Top NITs and IIITs are expected to have a closing rank around 1500 to 5000, which requires a percentile between 99 and 99.7.
- For ECE and Electrical branches, the expected closing rank lies around 5000 to 28000,which requires a percentile between 96 and 98.8.
- For Civil,Mechanical and other core branches,the expected closing rank lies around 15000 to 70000,which requires a percentile between 92 and 96.8.
- Overall a percentile between 92 and 99.8 is a safe score for Top NITs and IIITs.
| Branch | Expected Closing Rank | Expected Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| CSE | 500-8000 | 98.8-99.9 |
| IT/AI/CSE Specializations | 2000-12000 | 98.0-99.5 |
| ECE | 5000-18000 | 97.0-98.8 |
| Electrical | 8000-28000 | 96.0-97.8 |
| Mechanical | 15000-45000 | 94.5-96.8 |
| Civil/Other lower branches | 30000-70000 | 92.0-95.4 |
OBC Cutoff for JEE Main 2026 for Top Colleges
- For CSE , OBC candidates can expect a closing rank between 4,000 and 18,000, which requires around 97 to 99th percentile.
- IT/AI and ECE Branches can extend up to 25 to 40k ranks, giving high admission chances for candidates scoring in the 94th to 98th percentile.
- With the reservation benefits, the admission chances can increase, but still, for top branches 95+ percentile is required.
| Branch | Expected Closing Rank | Expected Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| CSE | 2000-15000 | 97.5-99.3 |
| IT/AI/CSE Specializations | 5000-20000 | 96.5-98.5 |
| ECE | 10000-35000 | 95-97.5 |
| Electrical | 18000-45000 | 93.5-96.0 |
| Mechanical | 30000-70000 | 91.0-94.0 |
| Civil/Other lower branches | 50000-110000 | 88.0-92.0 |
EWS Cutoff for JEE Main 2026 for Top Colleges
- For CS and IT branches in top NITs and IIITs,the closing ranks will be around 1500 to 15000, which requires a percentile above 97.0.
- Closing Ranks for lower branches can go up to 85000, which requires a percentile between 89 and 93.
| Branch | Expected Closing Rank | Expected Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| CSE | 1500-10000 | 98.5.5-99.6 |
| IT/AI/CSE Specializations | 3000-15000 | 97.5-99 |
| ECE | 7000-25000 | 96-98.5 |
| Electrical | 12000-35000 | 94.5-97.0 |
| Mechanical | 20000-55000 | 92.0-95.5 |
| Civil/Other lower branches | 35000-85000 | 89.0-93.0 |
SC Cutoff for JEE Main 2026 for Top Colleges
- For top branches, SC candidates can expect closing ranks up to 90000,which requires a percentile between 89 and 97.
- For lower branches,closing ranks can exceed up to 250000,which requires a percentile above 75.
| Branch | Expected Closing Rank | Expected Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| CSE | 10000-45000 | 94.0-97.0 |
| IT/AI/CSE Specializations | 20000-60000 | 92.0-95.0 |
| ECE | 35000-90000 | 89.0-93.0 |
| Electrical | 60000-120000 | 85.0-90.0 |
| Mechanical | 80000-160000 | 82.0-88.0 |
| Civil/Other lower branches | 120000-250000 | 75.0-85.0 |
ST Cutoff for JEE Main 2026 for Top Colleges
- For top branches, candidates need a rank between 25000 and 150000, which suggests the percentile between 80 and 95.
- For Civil and other core branches closing ranks can extend up to 500,000, making possibility for candidates with 70-80 percentile.
| Branch | Expected Closing Rank | Expected Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| CSE | 25000-80000 | 90.0-95.0 |
| IT/AI/CSE Specializations | 40000-100000 | 88.0-92.0 |
| ECE | 70000-150000 | 80.0-88.0 |
| Electrical | 100000-200000 | 75.0-85.0 |
| Mechanical | 150000-250000 | 70.0-80.0 |
| Civil/Other lower branches | 200000+ | 60.0-75.0 |
FAQs:
Ques. Are GFTIs(Government-Funded Technical Institutions) easier to get than NITs and IIITs?
Ans. Yes, GFTIs are easier to get than NITs and IIITs because of their low cutoffs.Candidates with percentile above 90 can target top GFTIs for best choice.
Ques. Which is the best among NIT,IIIT and GFTI?
Ans. Among NIT,IIIT and GFTIs, NITs hold the top position due to its amazing placements and reputation.IIITs are best for candidates targeting IT/AI based careers,as they are more learning oriented.
Check:
JEE Main Cutoff for Top NITs,IIITs and GFTIs
The JEE Main Cutoff for NITs,IIITs and GFTIs varies institute to institute depending on the seats available and number of candidates appearing for the exam.
The JEE Main Closing Ranks will represent the rank at which the candidates will be admitted last for each category,course and round.
JEE Main 2026 Expected Cutoff for NITs
- JEE Main Cutoff for NITs are high due to Limited Seats and High Demand.
- Candidates can take advantage of up to 40% in closing ranks with Home State Quota.
The table shows the JEE Main 2025 Last Round Closing Cutoff for Computer Science and Engineering across Categories at the top NITs.
| Institute | General(Closing Rank) | OBC(Closing Rank) | SC(Closing Rank) | ST(Closing Rank) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NIT Jalandhar | 16325 | 8919 | 3454 | 3795 |
| NIT Jaipur | 6013 | 1922 | 1369 | 358 |
| NIT Bhopal | 11415 | 4437 | 2905 | 1330 |
| NIT Allahabad | 6562 | 2599 | 1132 | 1280 |
| NIT Agartala | 75417 | - | 8718 | 10738 |
| NIT Arunachal Pradesh | 78084 | 35124 | 26592 | 18929 |
| NIT Calicut | 8428 | 2881 | 4674 | 655 |
| NIT Delhi | 10165 | 7180 | 2093 | 1301 |
| NIT Durgapur | 11587 | 7980 | 1562 | 2230 |
| NIT Goa | 16198 | 12567 | - | 1475 |
Source: JoSSA Official Website

JEE Main 2026 Expected Cutoff for IIITs
- The IIITs are preferred by the candidate mostly for Software and AIML-based careers.
- Seat intake in IIITs are comparatively low which increases its cutoff.
- With the increasing demand for IT Jobs,cutoffs for IIITs are increasing.
The table below shows the JEE Main 2025 Last Round Closing Cutoff for Computer Science and Engineering across Categories at top IIITs.
| Institute | General(Closing Rank) | OBC(Closing Rank) | SC(Closing Rank) | ST(Closing Rank) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IIITM Gwalior | 9527 | 3413 | 2092 | 933 |
| IIIT Nagpur | 29123 | 11280 | 7431 | 3785 |
| IIIT Pune | 21029 | 8439 | 5646 | 3128 |
| IIIT Ranchi | 38063 | 14896 | 9351 | 4536 |
| IIIT Chittoor | 26387 | 10575 | 7536 | 3530 |
| IIIT Kota | 27400 | 11048 | 7467 | 3310 |
| IIIT Bhagalpur | 44476 | 16641 | 10415 | 5187 |
| IIIT Bhopal | 27095 | 11401 | 7875 | 3928 |
| IIIT Guwahati | 22739 | 8583 | 5708 | 2799 |
| IIIT Manipur | 58080 | 19787 | 11300 | 5495 |
Source: JoSSA Counselling

JEE Main 2026 Expected Cutoff for GFTIs
- The GFTIs are more accessible than the NITs and IIITs. The Cutoff can vary as per the location, branch and its reputation.
- GFTIs are a great option for candidates looking for government-recognised institutions with lower cutoffs than NITs/IIITs.
| Top GFTIs | Expected Percentile Required (CSE,General) |
|---|---|
| BIT Mesra | 97.5 - 98.5 |
| PEC Chandigarh | 97.0 - 98.0 |
| IIEST Shibpur | 96.5 - 97.5 |
| Assam University | 94.0 - 96.0 |
FAQs:
Ques. How does competition affect the JEE Main cutoff?
Ans. Higher competition leads to higher cutoff in JEE Mains.For JEE Mains 2026,expected number of candidates are between 14 lakh to 15 lakh, which is higher as compared to previous years.
Ques. How many candidates appeared in JEE Main 2026?
Ans. A total of 13,04,653 candidates appeared for JEE Main Session 1 out of 13,55,293 registered candidates ,as per NTA Official Release. This makes JEE Main 2026 session 1 appearance one of the Highest ever.
You can check the JEE Main Cutoffs for NITs, IIITs and GFTIs, in the tables given below:
JEE Main Cutoff for NITs
JEE Main Cutoff for IIITs
JEE Main Cutoff for GFTIs
Also, Check:
Previous Year JEE Main Cutoff Trends
The Previous years JEE Main Qualifying cutoff will show the change in the competition level since the last few years.
- The General category cutoff has increased from 88.41 in 2022 to 93 in 2024, which shows high participation and better performance.
- Since 2024, the cutoff has been stable for all categories.
| Year | General | OBC | EWS | SC | ST | PwD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 93.10 | 80.06 | 79.43 | 60.09 | 46.70 | 0.001 |
| 2024 | 93.24 | 81.33 | 79.67 | 60.09 | 46.70 | 0.001 |
| 2023 | 90.78 | 75.62 | 73.61 | 51.98 | 37.23 | 0.001 |
| 2022 | 88.41 | 63.11 | 67.01 | 43.08 | 26.77 | 0.001 |
Source: jeemain.nta.nic.in
JEE Main 2026 Marks vs Percentile
The relation between JEE Main Marks and Percentile will help candidates understand their rank. As JEE Main exam is held in different shifts, NTA uses normalisation to determine candidate’s percentile.
- JEE Main Ranks are based on percentile not raw marks in the exam.
- Candidates are expected to have different percentiles on the same marks due to varied difficulty in different shifts.
| Marks Range (Out of 300) | Expected Percentile Range | Performance Band |
|---|---|---|
| 285-300 | 99.9-100 | Top Ranker (AIR <100) |
| 260-284 | 99.7-99.9 | Top 1000 candidates |
| 240-259 | 99.3-99.69 | Excellent |
| 220-239 | 98.8-99.29 | Very Strong |
| 200-219 | 98.0-98.79 | Strong |
| 180-199 | 96.5-97.99 | Above average |
| 160-179 | 94.0-96.49 | Competitive |
| 140-159 | 91.0-93.99 | Average |
| 120-139 | 87.0-90.99 | Below average |
| 100-119 | 80.0-86.99 | Low |
| Below 100 | Below 80 | Needs improvement |
FAQs:
Ques. JEE Main 2026 Marks vs Rank?
Ans. As per previous years data by NTA,Marks above 200 is expected to give rank under 5000, marks between 190-200, can rank between 5000-12000,marks in range of 170-180 can get rank around 15000 to 25000 and candidates with marks near 150 out of 300 can expect rank of around 40000.
Ques. Marks required for 99 percentile in JEE Main 2026?
Ans. For 99 percentile, candidates need to score 190+ marks out of 300 in JEE Main 2026, though it slightly varies with shifts and normalisation,as per previous years data by NTA,200+ marks is a safe score for 99 percentile irrespective of shifts.
JEE Main 2026 Shift-wise Marks vs Percentile vs Rank
After analysing the difficulty level of each shift in JEE Main 2026 session 1, and @DivineJEE youtube video , we have concluded that the marks required for 99+ percentile is highest in 21 Jan Shift 1 , marks this shift as easiest ,whereas least in 21 Jan Shift 2, makes this shift most difficult among all shifts in session 1.
| Percentile | 21 Jan Shift 1 | 21 Jan Shift 2 | 22 Jan Shift 1 | 22 Jan Shift 2 | 23 Jan Shift 1 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 99.50+ | 200 | 190 | 193 | 200 | 198 |
| 99.00-99.49 | 190 | 175 | 177 | 185 | 183 |
| 98.00-98.99 | 172 | 154 | 158 | 165 | 162 |
| 97.00-97.99 | 155 | 138 | 142 | 148 | 145 |
| 96.00-96.99 | 142 | 125 | 128 | 133 | 131 |
| 95.00-95.99 | 132 | 114 | 117 | 120 | 119 |
| 94.00-94.99 | 124 | 105 | 107 | 110 | 109 |
| 93.00-93.99 | 115 | 98 | 99 | 102 | 102 |
| 92.00-92.99 | 108 | 93 | 93 | 96 | 96 |
| 91.00-91.99 | 103 | 88 | 89 | 92 | 93 |
| 90.00-90.99 | 99 | 85 | 86 | 90 | 89 |
Also, Check:
Related Articles:
FAQs
Ques. What is the Expected JEE Main 2026 cutoff for NIT admission forGeneral category?
Ans. For admissions into NITs , General category candidates should target at least 96.5+ percentile as the admission cutoffs are expected to increase due to high demands of NITs and low seat intake.
Ques. What is the JEE Main cutoff 2026 for PwD category UR-PwD?
Ans. For PwD candidates, in 2025 JEE Main cutoff was as low as 0.007 percentile . A total of 3950 PwD candidates qualified for JEE Advanced in 2025.
Ques. Has the JEE Main cutoff increased in 2026 compared to 2025 for General?
Ans. JEE Main 2026 Cutoffs are not released officially yet, but the cutoff is expected to be high as compared to previous years due to higher number of applicants. For general category , candidates can expect the qualifying cutoff to be around 93-95 percentile.
Results
The JEE Main 2026 Session 1 Result for paper 1 has been released on 16th February 2026, on the official website, jeemain.nta.nic.in. The JEE Main Result has been released in the form of a Scorecard PDF Form as per the revised marks and normalisation.
To check the result, you should log in by using the Application Number and password to download the scorecard PDF.
Along with the JEE Main Result, the NTA has also released the topper list, which includes the state-wise toppers, gender-wise toppers & list of candidates registered and appeared in the exam.
- According to the topper list, 12 candidates scored a perfect 100th percentile in the JEE Main 2026 Session 1 B.E./B.Tech Exam.
- The SHREYAS MISHRA from Delhi, NARENDRABABU GARI MAHITH from Andhra Pradesh & SHUBHAM KUMAR from Bihar are the top scorers for JEE Main 2026.
- The JEE Main Scorecard will include the overall and subject-wise NTA Percentiles, total marks, and qualifying status for JoSAA Counselling & Admissions.
- The Result will include the percentile scores, whereas the AIR and category ranks will be released after session 2.

Source: JEE Main Official Website
The Top 2.5 lakh candidates of different categories will qualify for JEE Advanced 2026.
Around 13,00,368 candidates appeared for JEE Main 2026 Session 1, with an attendance rate of 96.24%, competing for 45,000+ seats in NITs, IIITs and GFTIs by JoSAA counselling.
Check:
Key Summary
In this Article, we have discussed the JEE Main Result 2026, including the Scorecard & AIR.
- You will not get the JEE Main score card dispatched; you can download it only from the official website.
- No revaluation/rechecking of JEE Main 2026 results is allowed.
- All India Rank will be declared after conducting JEE Main 2026 Session 2.
- For NITs, IIITs, CFTIs, and SFIs, only the All India Rank will be considered for admissions.
- What is JEE Main Result 2026?
- JEE Main Result 2026 Date
- JEE Main Result Dates 2026
- How to Check JEE Main Result 2026
- JEE Main Result 2026: Score Card
- JEE Main Result 2026: Score Calculation
- JEE Main Result Statistics
-
- JEE Main Result 2026: Cutoff
- JEE Main Result 2026 FAQ
What is JEE Main Result 2026?
The JEE Main Result is the official performance record, which is issued by NTA, for calculating candidates' scores across different shifts, by using a percentile-based normalisation formula.
The JEE Main Result has been released on 16th February 2026, in the form of a scorecard, which is used not only for NIT, IIIT and GFTI admissions but also by several state and private universities that accept JEE Main scores for BTech admissions.
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam name | JEE Main 2026 |
| Conducting body | National Testing Agency (NTA) |
| Result mode | Online scorecard |
| Session 1 result date | By Feb 16, 2026 (Out) |
| Final combined result | April 2026 |
| Details in the result | Subject-wise percentile, overall percentile, and qualifying status |
| AIR availability | After Session 2 only |
| Login credentials | Application number + DOB/Password |
| Official website | jeemain.nta.nic.in |
| Used for | JEE Advanced eligibility & JoSAA admissions |
JEE Main Result 2026 Date
The JEE Main Result 2026 will be released by 12th February, including the subject-wise and overall percentile scores.
| Event | Date (Expected) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Final Answer Key Release | 16th Feb 2026 (Out) | Available on jeemain.nta.nic.in |
| Session 1 Result Declaration | Feb 16, 2026 (OUT) | Scorecard with subject-wise & overall percentiles |
| Session 2 Registration | Till Feb 25, 2026 | Candidates can register for an improvement attempt |
| Session 2 Exam | Apr 2–9, 2026 | Exam for candidates seeking better scores |
| Final Combined Result | Apr 20, 2026 | Includes AIR, category-wise cut-offs & JEE Advanced eligibility |
Source: JEE Main Information Bulletin
Ques. How long after the exam is the JEE Main answer key released?
Ans. The provisional answer key for the JEE Main exam is released approximately 3–4 days after the exam, followed by a 2–3 day objection window. The final answer key is then published shortly before the JEE Main result declaration.
Ques. How to check the JEE Main result if I forgot my password?
Ans. In case you forgot your password for JEE Main 2026, you can retrieve the password and check your result. You can follow the steps listed below to retrieve your password.
- On the login page, click on the “Forgot Password” link.
- Select one of the options available to reset your password.
- Reset your password and go to the login page again.
- Enter and submit your credentials, and the result will be displayed on the screen.
How to Check JEE Main Result 2026
As the JEE Main result is released, you can check your JEE Main result at jeemain.nta.nic.in. You can follow the steps listed below to check the JEE Main result 2026.
- Visit the official JEE Main 2026 website.
- On the official website, click on the JEE Main result link.
- A login page will open, and you must enter Application Number, Password, and Security Pin.
- Once you click on the Login tab, the JEE Main result will be displayed on the screen.
- You can take a printout of the JEE Main result for future reference.
JEE Main Result 2026: Score Card
NTA releases JEE Main result in the form of JEE Main scorecard. You can use the JEE Main scorecard document for admission to various NITs, IIITs, and GFTIs. Details mentioned on JEE Main scorecard are listed below.
- JEE Main scorecard includes your personal details, such as candidate name, application/roll number, state of eligibility, category, and nationality.
- It includes your JEE Main subject-wise scores and the total scores for Session 1 and Session 2.
- It also mentions your JEE Main rank based on your scores.

Ques. How many candidates appeared in JEE Main 2026 Session 1?
Ans. In JEE Main 2026 Session 1, the highest number of candidates appeared and registered for Session 1. With the help of the number of candidates who appeared, you can have an estimation of the competition level and percentile-to-rank trends for admissions.
| Particular | Data (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Candidates registered (Session 1) | 13.5 lakh |
| Candidates appeared | 13,00,368 |
| Attendance rate | 96.26% |
| Seats via JoSAA (NIT+IIIT+GFTI) | 45,000+ |
Ques. How to check category-wise cutoff in JEE Main 2026 results?
Ans. The JEE Main Category-wise cutoff will determine the eligibility for JEE Advanced 2026 and this will vary each year as per the difficulty level and candidate’s performance. It is released along with the final combined result after Session 2 on the EE Main 2026 result PDF/notice.
JEE Main Expected Cutoff (Advanced Eligibility)
| Category | Expected Percentile |
|---|---|
| General | 90–93 |
| OBC-NCL | 73–82 |
| EWS | 70–78 |
| SC | 45–55 |
| ST | 40–50 |
Ques. Can I use my JEE Main score card 2026 for admission in next academic year?
Ans. No, JEE Main score cards are valid only for admission in same academic session. You can not use JEE Main scorecard for admission to the next academic session.
JEE Main Result 2026: Score Calculation
JEE Main 2026 raw scores are calculated based on the JEE Main exam pattern. JEE Main raw score is converted into percentile scores after applying normalization.
- After calculating raw scores, normalization is applied to ensure fairness across various JEE Main shifts.
- After the normalization process, JEE Main percentile scores are calculated based on which the JEE Main rank is decided.
JEE Main Raw Score Calculation
JEE Main raw score is calculated based on JEE Main marking scheme as discussed below.
- For each correct answer, you will get 4 marks.
- For each incorrect answer, you will get -1 mark deducted from your overall score.
- No negative marking is applicable for unattempted questions.

Source:@jeemain.nta.nic.in
Subject-wise JEE Main score calculation is mentioned in the table below.
| Section | Total Questions | Marks per Question | Negative Marking | Maximum Marks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Physics | 25 | +4 | –1 | 100 |
| Chemistry | 25 | +4 | –1 | 100 |
| Mathematics | 25 | +4 | –1 | 100 |
| Total | 75 | +4 | –1 | 300 |
Source:@jeemain.nta.nic.in
JEE Main Normalization and Percentile Calculation
NTA conducts JEE Main 2026 in different shifts of varying difficulty levels. Due to this, some candidates may end up attempting a relatively tougher set of questions as compared to other shifts. Such candidates are likely to get lower marks than other candidates.
- To ensure fairness across shifts of varying difficulty levels, a normalization procedure based on the percentile score will be applied.
- Raw score is converted into a percentile score ranging from 100 to 0, indicating Shift-wise relative performance of candidates.
- It indicates the percentage of candidates scoring scored EQUAL TO OR BELOW a particular candidate in that shift.
JEE Main 2026 percentile score is calculated using the following formula.
Percentile = 100 x M/N
Where
- “M” is Number of candidates appeared in the ‘Shift’ with a raw score EQUAL TO OR LESS than the candidate.
- “N" is the total number of candidates who appeared in the ‘Shift’.

Source:@jeemain.nta.nic.in
Also Check: Calculate Your Scores using Free Collegedunia JEE Main Score Calculator
Ques. Will JEE Main 2026 results show subject-wise percentiles?
Ans. Yes, JEE Main Scorecard will include the candidate’s performance across all subjects.
- This will help the candidate to identify their strengths and if they want to attempt Session 2 for improvement.
- Overall percentile is calculated from subject percentiles. The Colleges consider overall percentile/rank, not individual subjects.
Ques. Will JEE Main 2026 results include All India Rank (AIR) or only percentile?
Ans. The JEE Main Session 1 Result includes the percentile scores, the final rank will be released after both the sessions will be conducted. This will ensure fairness by considering the best attempt.
JEE Main Rank availability
| Result stage | Rank details |
|---|---|
| Session 1 result | Percentile only |
| Final result (April) | AIR + category rank |
| JEE Advanced eligibility | After final result |
JEE Main Result Statistics
JEE Main percentile scores depend on the number of candidates appearing for each shift of the examination. Result statistics for JEE Main 2026 are yet to be released. However, you can check JEE Main statistics from the table below.
| Particulars | Number of Candidates (2026) | Number of Candidates (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Total Number of Candidates Qualified | To be Updated | 2,50,236 |
| Number of Candidates Registered in Session 1 | To be Updated | 13,11,544 |
| Number of Candidates Appeared in Session 1 | To be Updated | 12,58,136 |
| Number of Candidates Registered in Session 2 | To be Updated | 10,61,840 |
| Number of Candidates Appeared in Session 2 | To be Updated | 9,92,350 |
| Number of Unique Registered Candidates | To be Updated | 15,39,848 |
| Number of Unique Appeared Candidates | To be Updated | 14,75,103 |

Check Here:Number of Students to Appear for JEE Main 2026
JEE Main Result 2026: Marks vs Percentile
“MathonGo” on youtube shared JEE Main marks vs percentile based on an analysis of past years marks vs percentile.
- 99 percentile score is likely to translate to around 148 to 200 marks.
- If you score between 127 and 177, your JEE Main percentile score is likely to be 98.
- 120 marks in JEE Main 2026 are likely to translate to around 97.5 percentile.
- 93 and 95 percentile scores in JEE Main 2026 are likely to be around 85-127 and 96-142 marks.

What is the expected safe score for 99 percentile in JEE Main?
“Vedantu JEE Made Ejee” tutor Harsh Sir shared an analysis for expected JEE Main safe score for 99 percentile. He performed his analysis considering the total number of candidates as 1444572.
As per Harsh Sir, this year, number of candidates is likely to be 1.5 lakh more than last year. He said, “higher number of candidates means the JEE Main cutoff will rise as the number of seats is fixed (around 2,50,000).”
| Year | Marks for 99 Percentile (2026) | Marks for 99 Percentile (2025) | Marks for 99 Percentile (2024) | Marks for 99 Percentile (2023) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall | 160-210 | 148-200 | 156-235 | 155-189 |
| Physics | 60-85 | 64-89 | 71-87 | 70-89 |
| Chemistry | 70-80 | 62-76 | 58-85 | 46-70 |
| Mathematics | 45-60 | 39-54 | 35-75 | 33-55 |
You can go through the table below to check the expected JEE Main safe score for various categories.
| Category | JEE Main Safe Score 2026 |
|---|---|
| General | Check Here |
| OBC | Check Here |
| ST | Check Here |
| PwD | Check Here |
Also Read:
Ques. What is the exact time for JEE Main Session 1 Result 2026 on Feb 12?
Ans. For JEE Main Result, NTA has confirmed the result date of 12th feb 2026, but the exact time is not released. Candidates should track the official website throughout the day.
| Event | Time (Tentative) |
|---|---|
| Final answer key | Before result |
| Result release date | Feb 12, 2026 |
| Expected time window | Anytime on result day |
| Scorecard download | After link activation |
Ques. What are the expected toppers’ marks and percentiles in JEE Main 2026?
Ans. The Score of JEE Main Toppers will show the exam difficulty and help estimate percentile-to-marks trends. In last few years, multiple candidates score a perfect percentile.
| Percentile | Expected Marks |
|---|---|
| 100 percentile | 285–300 |
| 99.9 percentile | 260–280 |
| 99.5 percentile | 230–250 |
| 99 percentile | 200–220 |
JEE Main Result 2026: Cutoff
JEE Main cutoff 2026 is released by NTA on the official website. Once released, you can check the JEE Main qualifying cutoff 2026 for each category and the total number of candidates who qualified the examination.
JEE Main Cutoff for NITs, and other participating institutes will be released by JoSAA after each round of counselling. “RankBoost - Shubham Kumar” has prepared an analysis of JEE Main 2026 category-wise cutoff on YouTube as discussed below.
- This year, JEE Main qualifying cutoff 2026 is likely to range from 94-100 for the general category.
- For EWS and OBC categories, JEE Main qualifying cutoff is likely to range from 81.5-90 and 80-85 percentile respectively.
- SC candidates can expect 61.5-70 percentile to be the JEE Main qualifying cutoff 2026
- For ST Candidates, the expected JEE Main cutoff 2026 is 48-65.
| Category | JEE Main Cutoff 2026 |
|---|---|
| General | 94-100 |
| EWS | 81.5-90 |
| OBC | 80-85 |
| SC | 61.5-70 |
| ST | 48-65 |
JEE Main Cutoff 2026 for NITs, IIITs, and GFTIs
You can go through the table below to check the JEE Main 2026 cutoff for NITs, IIITs and GFTIs.
| Institute Type | JEE Main Cutoff 2026 |
|---|---|
| NITs | Check Cutoff Here |
| IIITs | Check Cutoff Here |
| GFTIs | Check Cutoff Here |
Check:
JEE Main Result 2026 FAQs
Ques. What is the tie-breaking rule for JEE 2025?
Ans. In JEE Main 2025, if two or more candidates achieve the same overall JEE Main 2025 score, the tie-breaking policy will prioritize the candidates based on their performance in subjects like maths, physics, chemistry, followed by the accuracy rate.
- In JEE Main 2025, the NTA removed the Age and number of applications criteria as a tie breaker.
Ques. How many candidates appear for JEE Main 2026?
Ans. Number of JEE Main appeared candidates is yet to be released by NTA. However, it is around 1400000 as per Harsh Sir- Vedantu Tutor.
Ques. What was the last year JEE Main qualifying percentile?
Ans. As per the JEE Main statistics released by NTA, last year JEE Main qualifying marks for general category were 93.1023 percentile. For EWS and OBC, the qualifying percentile were 80.38 and 79.43 percentile respectively.
Ques. What is a safe score for JEE Main 2026?
Ans. A safe score in JEE Main 2026 is considered to be in the range of 170 - 180 marks, placing candidates in the 20,000 - 30,000 rank range with an 85 - 90 percentile. Candidates can apply to the following institutes with this score:
| Institute | Popular Branches | Previous Closing Rank (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| NIT Agartala | Computer Science and Engineering, Electronics | 22,000 - 25,000 |
| NIT Arunachal Pradesh | Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering | 24,000 - 28,000 |
| NIT Mizoram | Electrical Engineering, Computer Science | 26,000 - 30,000 |
| NIT Nagaland | Electronics and Communication, Civil Engineering | 23,000 - 27,000 |
| NIT Patna | Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering | 21,000 - 25,000 |
| IIIT Allahabad | Information Technology, Electronics | 18,000 - 22,000 |
| GFTI BIT Mesra | Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering | 23,000 - 27,000 |
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