JEE Main Exam Dates 2026 (Released) Session 1 & 2: Check Date, Timing, Exam Schedule, Shift Timings, Admit Card and More

JEE Main Exam Dates 2026 Session 1 & 2 

The National Testing Agency (NTA) conducts JEE Main twice a year in two separate sessions (January and April) to provide candidates with multiple opportunities to improve their scores for admission to B.E./B.Tech, B.Arch, and B.Planning programs in NITs, IIITs, and other participating institutions. The better of the two session scores is considered for ranking and counseling (via JoSAA).

Session 1 (January) has already been successfully conducted and its results declared. Candidates who appeared in Session 1 can still opt for Session 2 (April) to attempt improvement, as registration for Session 2 closed in late February 2026.

Focus on Session 2 (April 2026) – Upcoming Session

Since the December/January session (Session 1) is over, the upcoming and relevant session for most candidates now is Session 2, scheduled from April 2 to April 9, 2026. This session is fully computer-based (CBT) for Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech) and partially for Paper 2A/2B, conducted in multiple shifts over these dates. The exact date, shift, and center for each candidate are mentioned on their admit card (released a few days before the exam, expected in late March/early April 2026).

Key Highlights for Session 2

Candidates are advised to download their admit card well in advance, verify details, and reach the exam center as per the reporting time mentioned (usually 30–60 minutes early). The NTA follows strict guidelines for PwD candidates, including extra time and scribe facilities.

JEE Main 2026 Exam Dates – Session 1 & 2 Overview

JEE Main Exam Date and Time 2026

The JEE Main 2026 exam is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) in two sessions — Session 1 (January) and Session 2 (April) — to give candidates multiple attempts and the chance to improve their scores. The final NTA percentile and All India Rank are based on the better performance across the two sessions (for candidates who appear in both).

The exam is held in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode (except the Drawing section of B.Arch, which is pen-and-paper in some cases). It runs over multiple days in two shifts daily:

• Shift 1 (Morning Shift): 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM (IST) — Reporting time usually 30–60 minutes early.
• Shift 2 (Afternoon Shift): 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM (IST) — Reporting time usually 30–60 minutes early.

Duration:

• Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech): 3 hours
• Paper 2A (B.Arch) / Paper 2B (B.Planning): 3 hours
• Combined (if attempting both Paper 2A & 2B): Adjusted timing as per NTA rules

Candidates receive their specific exam date, shift, and center details via the admit card (released 3–7 days before the allotted exam date) and can check the exam city intimation slip (already released for Session 2 in early March 2026).

Complete Exam Timeline for JEE Main 2026 – Both Sessions

Additional Notes:

• The exact subject-wise/paper allocation (e.g., which days for Physics/Chemistry/Maths dominant shifts) is mentioned only on the individual admit card.
• No major changes to the schedule are reported post-January; the April window is confirmed as April 2–9, 2026 across reliable sources aligned with NTA updates.
• For your personalized date, shift, and center, download the admit card from jeemain.nta.nic.in using your application number and password.

JEE Main Timings

The JEE Main 2026 exam is conducted in two shifts daily across multiple exam days to manage the large number of candidates efficiently. These timings are standardized by the National Testing Agency (NTA) and remain consistent for both Session 1 (January – completed) and Session 2 (April – upcoming). The exam is primarily in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode, with strict adherence to reporting and entry rules.

Standard Shift Timings for JEE Main 2026:

• Shift 1 (Morning Shift): 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM (IST)
• For Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech) and single Paper 2A/2B: 3 hours (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM).
• For combined Paper 2A & 2B (B.Arch + B.Planning): Extended to 3 hours 30 minutes (9:00 AM – 12:30 PM).
• Reporting/Entry Time: Candidates must arrive by 7:30 AM – 8:30 AM (as specified on admit card) for security checks, biometric verification, frisking, and seating. Gates typically close around 8:30–8:45 AM. Late entry is not permitted.
• Shift 2 (Afternoon/Evening Shift): 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM (IST)
• For Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech) and single Paper 2A/2B: 3 hours (3:00 PM – 6:00 PM).
• For combined Paper 2A & 2B: Extended to 3 hours 30 minutes (3:00 PM – 6:30 PM).
• Reporting/Entry Time: Candidates must arrive by 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM (as per admit card). Gates usually close around 2:30–2:45 PM. No entry after start time.

Additional Guidelines on Timings:

• PwD Candidates: Eligible candidates receive an extra 1 hour (total 4 hours for 3-hour papers or 4 hours 30 minutes for extended ones), with scribe assistance if required. Timings are adjusted accordingly on the admit card.
• Exam Day Process:
• Reach early for document verification (admit card + photo ID like Aadhaar/Passport).
• No electronic devices, study material, watches (except simple analog), or prohibited items allowed.
• Instructions displayed on screen; invigilators provide guidance before the exam starts (usually 15–20 minutes prior for login and reading rules).
• Consistency Across Sessions: These timings applied to Session 1 (January 21–29, 2026) and are confirmed for Session 2 (April 2–9, 2026). Your specific paper, date, and shift are printed on the admit card.
• Time Zone: All timings are in Indian Standard Time (IST). No changes reported for 2026.

JEE Main 2026 Shift Timings Table

Is JEE Mains conducted twice a year?

Yes, JEE Main is conducted twice a year by the National Testing Agency (NTA). This has been the standard practice since 2019 (with a temporary exception in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, when it was held four times). For JEE Main 2026, the exam follows the established biannual format with two distinct sessions:

• Session 1: Held in January 2026 (completed from January 21 to January 29, 2026).
• Session 2: Held in April 2026 (upcoming, scheduled from April 2 to April 9, 2026).

This two-session structure applies to all papers: Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech), Paper 2A (B.Arch), and Paper 2B (B.Planning). Candidates can appear in one session, both sessions, or just the second one if they missed the first. The better (higher) NTA score/percentile from the two attempts is considered for the final All India Rank (AIR), percentile ranking, and eligibility for JoSAA counseling (for NITs, IIITs, GFTIs) or JEE Advanced qualification (for IITs).

Why JEE Main is Held Twice a Year: Key Benefits

• Multiple Attempts Reduce Pressure: Candidates get a second chance to improve their performance without waiting a full year.
• Best Score Counts: The higher score across sessions boosts chances for better ranks and admissions.
• Flexibility for Aspirants: Those facing issues (health, preparation delays, or board exam clashes) in Session 1 can focus on Session 2.
• Normalization for Fairness: Scores are normalized across shifts and sessions to ensure equity.
• Alignment with Academic Calendar: Sessions are spaced to allow time for improvement and avoid major conflicts with Class 12 board exams.

Quick Facts for JEE Main 2026

• Frequency: Twice a year (January and April sessions).
• Maximum Attempts: Candidates can attempt JEE Main up to 6 times over 3 consecutive years (2 attempts per year).
• Current Status (as of March 5, 2026): Session 1 is over (results declared); Session 2 registration is closed, city intimation slips released, and admit cards are being issued 3–7 days before your allotted date.
• No Change in Frequency: Unlike a brief 2021 experiment with four sessions, NTA has consistently maintained two sessions since 2022, and this continues for 2026.

JEE Main 2026 Registration Dates

The National Testing Agency (NTA) opens JEE Main 2026 registration separately for each session on the official website jeemain.nta.nic.in. Candidates must complete the online application process, including filling personal/educational details, uploading documents (photo, signature, etc.), and paying the application fee. The registration is mandatory for appearing in the respective session's exam, and candidates can apply for one or both sessions (the better score counts for final ranking).

As of March 5, 2026, Session 1 (January) registration is closed (completed in late 2025), while Session 2 (April) registration has also closed (ended February 25, 2026). No late registrations are allowed—candidates who missed it cannot appear in that session.

JEE Main Session 1 (January 2026) Registration

Registration for Session 1 (January exam window: January 21–29, 2026) opened in late October 2025 and closed in late November 2025. The process was fully online via the NTA portal.

JEE Main 2026 Session 1 Registration Dates Table

JEE Main Session 2 (April 2026) Registration

Registration for Session 2 (April exam window: April 2–9, 2026) started on February 1, 2026, and closed on February 25, 2026. Candidates (including those who appeared in Session 1 for improvement) had to register afresh or update details and pay fees separately.

JEE Main 2026 Session 2 Registration Dates Table

Important Notes

• The registration process requires Aadhaar authentication (or other ID proofs), accurate details to avoid mismatches, and payment via online modes (debit/credit card, net banking, UPI).
• Fees vary by category (General, OBC, SC/ST, PwD, etc.) and gender (boys/girls), with no refunds.
• Always use the official NTA website (jeemain.nta.nic.in) for applications—avoid third-party sites.
• Since both sessions' registrations are now closed, candidates should monitor the portal for admit cards (Session 2 expected late March/early April 2026), city intimation (already released), and exam updates.

JEE Main City Intimation Slip 2026

The JEE Main City Intimation Slip 2026 (also known as the Advance Examination City Allotment Slip) is issued by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for each session separately. It informs registered candidates about their allotted examination city (and often the tentative exam date/shift details) ahead of the actual exam. This helps with advance travel planning, accommodation booking, and logistics.

Combined JEE Main 2026 City Intimation Slip Details – Session 1 & Session 2

How to Download the City Intimation Slip:

1. Visit jeemain.nta.nic.in.
2. Click on the relevant link: "Advance Intimation for Allotment of Examination City" or "City Intimation Slip" (active for the session).
3. Enter your application number and password/date of birth.
4. View and download the PDF showing your allotted city (and date if included).
5. Print a copy for your records.

JEE Main Admit Card 2026

The JEE Main Admit Card 2026 (also known as the Hall Ticket) is a mandatory document issued by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for candidates to appear in the exam. It contains critical details such as your allotted exam date, shift, exam center address, reporting time, candidate's personal information (name, roll number/application number, photograph, signature), exam day guidelines, and instructions for entry.

Without a valid printed admit card and a government-issued photo ID (e.g., Aadhaar, Passport, Voter ID, etc.), entry to the exam hall is not permitted. The admit card is released separately for each session and is available for download only from the official website jeemain.nta.nic.in.

Steps to Download JEE Main 2026 Admit Card:

1. Visit the official website: jeemain.nta.nic.in.
2. Click on the link: "Download Admit Card for JEE (Main) 2026 – Session 2" (or similar; active when released).
3. Enter your Application Number and Password (or Date of Birth if password forgotten).
4. Solve the security captcha if prompted.
5. View and download the admit card (PDF format).
6. Verify all details (name, photo, signature, exam center, date, shift); report discrepancies immediately to NTA helpline.
7. Take clear printouts and keep safe.

JEE Main 2026 Admit Card Details – Session 1 & Session 2

JEE Main Answer Key 2026

The JEE Main Answer Key 2026 is released by the National Testing Agency (NTA) in two stages for each session: Provisional Answer Key (with candidate response sheets for challenges) and Final Answer Key (after reviewing objections). The provisional key allows candidates to challenge incorrect answers (with a fee per challenge), and the final key is used to calculate NTA scores/percentiles and results.

• Provisional Answer Key: Released shortly after the exam ends, along with the recorded response sheet (individual answers marked by the candidate).
• Final Answer Key: Published after the challenge window closes and NTA reviews valid objections; no further changes are made.
• Download from jeemain.nta.nic.in (provisional often requires login with application number/password; final key usually direct PDF on homepage).
• Challenge Process: Pay ₹200 per challenged question (non-refundable unless accepted); challenges via online portal only.
• For Session 2 (April 2–9, 2026), the provisional answer key is expected in the second/third week of April 2026 (typically 3–7 days after the last exam date), followed by a short challenge window, and final key shortly before results.

JEE Main Result Dates 2026

The JEE Main Result 2026 is declared by NTA on the official website jeemain.nta.nic.in, including the NTA Score (percentile), All India Rank (AIR), category rank, and qualifying status for JEE Advanced (for top 2.5 lakh candidates). Results are session-specific but the final rank considers the better score if both sessions attempted.

• Scorecard downloadable using application number and password/date of birth.
• No physical result; online only.
• Normalization applied across shifts/sessions for fairness.
• Session 2 results are expected in late April 2026 (typically 10–15 days after the exam ends, often by April 20–30).

How to Check JEE Main 2026 Result:

1. Visit jeemain.nta.nic.in.
2. Click on "JEE Main 2026 Result" or "View NTA Score" link.
3. Enter application number and password/date of birth.
4. Download/print scorecard (includes percentile, rank, etc.).

JEE Main 2026 Counselling Schedule (JoSAA)

The Joint Seat Allocation Authority (JoSAA) conducts the centralized counselling and seat allocation process for admissions to undergraduate programs in 23 IITs, 31 NITs, IIEST Shibpur, 26 IIITs, and 47 Other-Government Funded Technical Institutes (Other-GFTIs) — totaling over 120 institutes and around 50,000+ seats (exact numbers for 2026 will be confirmed via the official seat matrix on josaa.nic.in).

JoSAA counselling is open to candidates who qualify through JEE Main 2026 (for NITs, IIITs, GFTIs) or JEE Advanced 2026 (for IITs and others). The process is fully online, involving registration, choice filling/locking, multiple rounds of seat allotment, seat acceptance (with fee payment), document verification, and reporting to the allotted institute.

Key Features of JoSAA 2026 Counselling:

• Rounds: Typically 6 rounds of seat allotment (plus mock allotments for practice).
• Seat Acceptance Fee: ₹35,000 for General/OBC-NCL/EWS; ₹15,000 for SC/ST/PwD (adjustable against first-semester fees; refundable in some cases if withdrawn early).
• Process Flow: Registration → Choice filling & locking → Mock allotments → Real seat allotments (round-wise) → Accept/freeze/float/withdraw → Online reporting & fee payment → Physical reporting to institute.
• Eligibility: Valid JEE Main 2026 rank (for non-IITs) or JEE Advanced 2026 qualification (for IITs); meet category-wise cutoffs and other criteria (e.g., age, attempts, 75% in Class 12 or top 20 percentile).
• After JoSAA: Remaining vacant seats go to CSAB Special Rounds (usually July/August 2026).
• As of March 5, 2026, the official JoSAA 2026 schedule has been released/announced aligned with JEE Advanced timelines. The process starts shortly after JEE Advanced 2026 results (expected June 1, 2026), with registration beginning June 2, 2026.

The entire process runs online via josaa.nic.in — candidates must monitor the site for notifications, business rules, seat matrix, opening/closing ranks (released round-wise), and any updates.

JoSAA 2026 Counselling Schedule (Tentative/Confirmed Key Dates)

Important Advice:

• Prepare documents early: Class 10/12 marksheets, category certificates (if applicable), JEE scorecard, photo ID, etc.
• Use mock allotments wisely to adjust choices strategically.
• For personalized updates, log in to the JoSAA portal post-registration.

This marks the final step after JEE Main/JEE Advanced—strategic choice filling is key to securing your dream institute! Good luck with your counselling process.

FAQs

1. Can I appear in both Session 1 and Session 2 of JEE Main 2026?

Yes, you can appear in both sessions. The NTA considers the higher NTA score/percentile from the two attempts for your final All India Rank and admission ranking. Many candidates use Session 2 to improve their performance after reviewing Session 1 results.

2. What happens if I miss Session 1? Can I still appear in Session 2?

Absolutely. Session 2 is independent, and you can register and appear only for it. Your Session 2 score will be used for ranking, counselling, and JEE Advanced eligibility. Missing Session 1 does not disqualify you from Session 2.

3. When will the JEE Main 2026 Session 2 admit card be released?

The admit card for Session 2 (April 2–9, 2026) is expected to be released in the last week of March 2026 (around March 28–29 onward), 3–4 days before your allotted exam date. Download it from jeemain.nta.nic.in using your application number and password.

4. Is the JEE Main exam pattern the same for both sessions in 2026?

Yes, the pattern remains consistent: 75 questions (25 per subject: 20 MCQs + 5 Numerical Value Questions), total 300 marks, with the same marking scheme (+4 correct, -1 incorrect for both sections). No changes between sessions.

5. How is the final rank decided if I appear in both sessions?

NTA calculates percentiles for each session separately using normalization. Your final NTA score is the better (higher) percentile from the two sessions. This single best score determines your All India Rank and eligibility for JoSAA counselling and JEE Advanced.

6. What should I do after downloading the city intimation slip for Session 2?

Use it to confirm your allotted exam city and date, then plan travel and accommodation early. It is not the admit card—wait for the admit card (released later) for the exact center address, shift timing, and reporting instructions.

7. When will the JEE Main 2026 results for Session 2 be declared?

The Session 2 results are expected in late April 2026 (typically 10–15 days after the last exam date on April 9), around April 20–30. The scorecard will show your NTA percentile, rank, and category rank on jeemain.nta.nic.in.

8. Is JoSAA counselling only after both sessions are over?

Yes, JoSAA counselling for 2026 starts after JEE Advanced results (around June 1, 2026), usually beginning June 2 with registration and choice filling. The final rank is based on the best score from JEE Main Session 1 or 2 (or JEE Advanced for IITs).