The National Testing Agency (NTA) has released new updates for JEE Main 2026. This national-level engineering entrance exam is conducted for admission into NITs, IIITs, and other centrally funded technical institutions. It also serves as the qualifying exam for JEE Advanced for IIT admissions.
For the year 2026, the NTA has introduced several updates — including more test cities, minor syllabus changes, and a revised schedule for Session 2.
More Test Cities Added for JEE Main 2026
To make the examination more accessible, NTA has expanded the number of test cities in India and abroad. The 2026 edition will be conducted in over 500 cities, with additional international centers in countries such as the UAE, Singapore, Nepal, and Saudi Arabia. This move ensures that students from smaller towns and Indian expatriates abroad can appear for the NTA JEE Main exam without extensive travel.
Complete Syllabus and Exam Pattern
The JEE Main 2026 syllabus remains largely aligned with the NCERT Class 11 and 12 syllabus. However, NTA has simplified certain chapters to reduce the overall load. The detailed exam structure is as follows:
- Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech): Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics
- Total Questions: 90 (Candidates need to attempt 75)
- Question Type: Multiple Choice & Numerical Value Type
- Duration: 3 hours
- Marking Scheme: +4 for correct answers, -1 for incorrect
In a major change, NTA has introduced an on-screen calculator for the first time. This means that while physical calculators are not allowed, students can use the built-in calculator available on the computer screen during the exam. So, in response to the common question, “Is calculator allowed in JEE Mains 2026?” — Yes, only the on-screen calculator provided by NTA is permitted.
Application Window for January Session
The JEE Main 2026 registration process for the January session began on November 1, 2025. The last date to apply is November 27, 2025. The NTA has advised candidates to fill out the form well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues. The correction window will open shortly after the registration period closes.
How to Apply for JEE Main 2026
Candidates can complete the JEE Main 2026 registration online by following the steps below:
- Visit the official NTA JEE website – jeemain.nta.nic.in
- Click on the link “JEE Main 2026 Registration”
- Register with a valid email ID and mobile number
- Fill out the online application form carefully with academic and personal details
- Upload your recent passport-size photograph and signature as per the guidelines
- Select your preferred exam cities
- Pay the examination fee using online payment options
- Download and print the confirmation page for future reference
Candidates are advised to double-check all details before submission. Any mismatch in name, date of birth, or academic information can lead to disqualification.
JEE Main 2026 Exam Dates
- Session 1 (January): January 24 to February 1, 2026
- Session 2 (April): April 6 to April 12, 2026 (Revised)
- Admit Card: To be released two weeks before each session
- Result Declaration: Within 10 days of exam completion
The Session 2 exam date was revised by NTA to avoid overlap with state board examinations and other competitive exams. The updated schedule provides better flexibility for students.
Official Website
All official updates, notices, and registration details are available only on the NTA’s official website:
https://jeemain.nta.nic.in
Disclaimer
This article is intended for informational purposes only. All information is sourced from official NTA releases and verified media reports. For the most accurate and updated details, candidates must visit the official website jeemain.nta.nic.in.
FAQs – JEE Main 2026
Q1. Is calculator allowed in JEE Mains 2026?
Physical calculators are not permitted. However, NTA will provide an on-screen calculator during the computer-based test for mathematical and numerical problems.
Q2. When will the JEE Main 2026 registration close?
The last date for JEE Main 2026 Session 1 registration is November 27, 2025. Session 2 registration will open in February 2026.
Q3. How many attempts can a student take in JEE Main 2026?
Students can appear in both sessions. The better of the two scores will be considered for final ranking and admission.
