The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially unveiled the much-anticipated exam schedule for JEE Main 2026. Aspiring engineers can mark their calendars: Session 1 will be held from January 21st to 30th, 2026, and Session 2 will follow from April 1st to 10th, 2026. Registration for the January session kicks off in October 2025, with the April session’s window opening in late January 2026.
As one of India’s most challenging entrance exams for admission to top engineering institutes like IITs, NITs, and IIITs, JEE Main continues to draw immense competition. To enhance accessibility, the NTA also plans to increase the number of exam centers and streamline the registration process using Aadhaar-linked verification.
Caption: Important dates announced for JEE Main 2026 January and April sessions.
JEE Main 2026: Detailed Schedule & Registration Insights
The first session of JEE Main 2026 is set to run for nine days, from January 21st to January 30th. The second session will then follow from April 1st to April 10th, 2026. Prospective candidates should note that the registration portal for Session 1 will activate in October 2025 on the official website. To apply, students will need their Aadhaar number, mobile number, and email ID for a smooth login experience. The registration window for Session 2 will open towards the end of January 2026, shortly after the first session’s results are announced. The NTA strongly recommends that all applicants meticulously cross-check their personal information to ensure it perfectly aligns with their Aadhaar details, preventing any verification issues. Admit cards are anticipated to be released approximately three days before each examination session.
Enhanced Accessibility: More Exam Centers & Support Services
In a significant step towards greater inclusivity, the NTA is expanding the network of JEE Main examination cities, both within India and internationally. This strategic move aims to comfortably accommodate the growing number of aspirants and alleviate the stress associated with travel. Students in remote areas, who previously encountered difficulties reaching test venues, are expected to benefit immensely from this expansion. Additionally, the NTA is committed to bolstering its digital support systems, including comprehensive mock test portals and accessible live registration helplines, to further assist candidates.
Understanding Paper 1: B.E./B.Tech Exam Pattern
Paper 1 is specifically designed for candidates aiming for admission into B.E./B.Tech programs at prestigious institutions like NITs, IIITs, and other esteemed engineering colleges. This paper comprises a total of 90 questions, evenly split with 30 questions each for Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Test-takers are required to attempt 75 questions from this set. The format includes both Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and numerical value questions. Each correct answer will be awarded 4 marks, while an incorrect response will incur a penalty of 1 mark. The examination duration is 3 hours. Eligibility criteria state that candidates must have successfully passed their Class 12 examinations in 2024 or be appearing for them in 2026, with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) as their core subjects.
Exploring Paper 2: B.Arch and B.Planning Exam Formats
For students interested in pursuing architecture or planning degrees, Paper 2 is the relevant examination. It is divided into two parts:
- Paper 2A (B.Arch): This section assesses candidates on Mathematics, Aptitude, and Drawing. Notably, the Drawing section is conducted in a traditional pen-and-paper format.
- Paper 2B (B.Planning): This paper consists of Mathematics, Aptitude, and Planning-related questions, all administered via Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode.
Both Paper 2A and Paper 2B are scored out of 400 marks, and candidates have the flexibility to choose either one or both papers based on their academic aspirations.