The National Testing Agency (NTA) has significantly increased the number of exam cities for JEE Main 2026, aiming to make the prestigious examination more accessible to students nationwide. By adding more centers in smaller towns and remote regions, candidates will now find it easier to secure a test location closer to their homes, thereby reducing travel burdens during the crucial exam period.
In addition to this expansion, the NTA has officially released the comprehensive JEE Main 2026 syllabus and confirmed the detailed exam pattern for both Paper 1 and Paper 2. Aspiring students for engineering, architecture, or planning courses can find all the essential syllabus details on the official website, jeemain.nta.nic.in. The registration window for the upcoming January session is currently open and will remain so until November 27, 2025, providing ample time for careful application submission.
More Test Cities for Broader Access
For the 2026 examination cycle, the NTA has expanded the total number of test cities to 323. This strategic move ensures a wider reach for students from diverse geographical backgrounds. It is anticipated to alleviate common travel and accommodation challenges faced by candidates, fostering a more equitable environment for accessing this national-level competitive exam.
January Session Application Window
The registration period for the January session commenced on October 31, 2025. Students are required to complete both the online application form and the fee payment by the deadline of November 27, 2025. All applicants are strongly advised to meticulously review their personal information, particularly their chosen test cities, before finalizing their submission.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for JEE Main 2026
To register for JEE Main 2026, candidates should visit the official website, jeemain.nta.nic.in. Below is a simplified application process:
- Navigate to the official website and click on the registration link for the JEE Main 2026 January Session.
- Complete the registration by providing essential details such as your name, email ID, and mobile number, then create a secure password. A unique application number will be issued upon successful registration.
- Proceed to fill out the online application form. This involves entering personal data, academic qualifications, category information, and selecting your preferred test cities in order of priority.
- Upload all necessary documents, including a recent passport-size photograph, your signature, and any applicable category or Persons with Disabilities (PwD) certificates, ensuring they adhere to the specified format and size guidelines.
- Pay the required application fee through available online payment methods, which include debit card, credit card, net banking, or UPI. The fee structure varies based on gender, category, and the number of papers chosen.
- After successful payment, download the confirmation page and retain a copy for your records. It is also recommended to save a copy of the completed application form.
Students should consistently monitor their registered email addresses and the official website for important updates, including announcements regarding correction window dates and final exam center allocations.
JEE Main 2026 Examination Dates
The January session of JEE Main 2026 is scheduled to take place from January 21 to January 30, 2026. The NTA is expected to release detailed information regarding exam cities during the first week of January. Furthermore, the results for Session 1 are tentatively scheduled to be announced by February 12, 2026.