JEE Main 2026: Complete Guide - Registration, Dates & Key Updates

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially opened registrations for JEE Main 2026 Session 1, marking the beginning of the most crucial phase for engineering aspirants across India. Registration for JEE(Main) – 2026 Session-1 is now LIVE, and this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to ace your application and preparation.

Important Dates for JEE Main 2026

Session 1 (January 2026)

• Registration Start Date: October 2025 (Already Started)
• Last Date to Apply: November 27, 2025 (up to 9 PM)
• Exam Dates: January 21 to January 30, 2026
• Results Declaration: February 12, 2026

Session 2 (April 2026)

• Registration: Expected in late January 2026
• Exam Dates: April 2 to 9, 2026 (Revised from April 1-10)

What's New in JEE Main 2026?

1. Virtual Calculator Feature: The NTA has introduced a virtual calculator to perform basic calculation during the computer-based test (CBT). This is a significant addition for students, though physical calculators remain prohibited in the exam hall.

2. Aadhaar Auto-Fill Feature: NTA has introduced a feature that allows candidates to fetch their details directly from the Aadhar card while filling out the JEE Mains 2026 application form. This simplifies the registration process and reduces manual data entry errors.

3. No Age Limit: There is no age limit to apply for JEE Main 2026, opening doors for candidates of all ages to pursue their engineering dreams.

4. No Minimum Percentage Requirement: Candidates do not require 75 percent marks in class 12 to appear in JEE Main 2026, making the exam more accessible to all students.

Eligibility Criteria

Educational Qualification

• Passed Class 12 (10+2) or equivalent exam in 2024 or 2025
• Must have studied Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as compulsory subjects
• Currently appearing students in Class 12 are also eligible

Number of Attempts: Candidates can appear in both Session 1 and Session 2, and the best score will be considered for final ranking.

Registration Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Document Preparation

Before starting your registration, ensure you have:

• Aadhaar Card: Updated with correct name, date of birth (matching Class 10 certificate), latest photograph, address, and father's name
• UDID Card: For Persons with Disabilities (if applicable)
• Category Certificate: Valid EWS/SC/ST/OBC-NCL certificate (if applicable)
• Class 10 & 12 Certificates
• Recent Photograph: Color or black and white, without sunglasses or caps
• Signature: On white paper, as per specifications

Step 2: Online Registration

• Visit the official website: jeemain.nta.nic.in
• Click on "JEE Main 2026 Application Form"
• Register as a "New Candidate"
• Fill in your Aadhaar number for auto-fill
• Complete all sections carefully
• Upload required documents
• Pay the application fee
• Submit and save the confirmation page

Important Advisory

The NTA has clarified that only one application should be submitted in the JEE Mains 2026 session 1. Strict action will be taken against candidates who have filled more than one application form.

Application Fee Structure

The fee varies based on category and gender:

• General/OBC-NCL Male: Approximately ₹1000 per session
• SC/ST/PwD/Female Candidates: Approximately ₹500 per session
• Payment Mode: Online only (Net Banking/Credit Card/Debit Card/UPI)

Exam Pattern Overview

Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech)

• Mode: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
• Sections: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics
• Duration: 3 hours
• Marking Scheme: +4 for correct answers, -1 for incorrect answers
• Optional Questions: Candidates are not required to attempt all questions

Paper 2A (B.Arch)

• Mathematics and Aptitude Test: Online mode
• Drawing Test: Pen and paper mode

Paper 2B (B.Planning): Completely online mode

Exam Centers

Candidates can select up to 4 preferred exam cities during registration. NTA makes every effort to allot centers based on availability. The number of exam centres for JEE Main 2026 has increased by 32, providing more options for students.

Critical Reminders

Aadhaar-Certificate Matching Issue

• The NTA is extremely strict about data matching. Details entered from the 10th marksheet must match with Aadhaar data, especially the father's name. If there's a mismatch:
• An option will be provided during application to resolve the issue
• Best solution: Get Aadhaar corrected at a permanent Aadhaar Seva Kendra using your 10th marksheet

Admit Card

• Released 3-4 days before the exam
• Available online only at jeemain.nta.nic.in
• Must carry physical copy along with valid Photo ID to exam center

Why JEE Main Matters: JEE Main serves as:

• Admission Gateway: For B.E./B.Tech programs at NITs, IIITs, and other Centrally Funded Technical Institutions (CFTIs)
• Qualifying Exam: Students seeking admission in IITs should obtain a minimum qualifying mark in JEE Advanced 2026
• State-Level Admissions: Many state engineering colleges accept JEE Main scores

Your Immediate Action Plan

• This Week: Start your online application immediatelyVerify all Aadhaar details match your certificatesGather all required documentsTake photographs and signature as per specifications
• This Month: Complete and submit application before November 27Pay application feeSave confirmation and application numberBegin structured preparation with updated syllabus
• Before Exam: Download admit card when releasedIdentify exam center locationReview exam day guidelinesKeep Photo ID ready

Conclusion

JEE Main 2026 registration is now open, and time is of the essence. With the new Aadhaar auto-fill feature and virtual calculator, NTA has made significant improvements to enhance the candidate experience. Don't wait until the last moment—start your application today and embark on your journey toward India's premier engineering institutions.For the latest updates and official notifications, bookmark the official website: jeemain.nta.nic.inNeed help with JEE Main preparation strategies? Stay tuned to www.kalrashukla.digital for more expert guidance, study tips, and exam insights!Contact NTA Helpdesk:

• Website: jeemain.nta.nic.in
• For queries and support regarding JEE Main 2026

Disclaimer: This information is based on the official NTA notifications available as of November 2025. Please refer to the official website for the most current information.