JEE Main 2026 is one of the most anticipated engineering entrance exams in India, offering students an incredible opportunity to gain admission into premier institutes like IITs, NITs, IIITs, and other GFTIs. As the registration process opens, it’s crucial for aspirants to understand all the key details, from important dates and eligibility criteria to syllabus and application procedures. This comprehensive guide aims to provide all the necessary information to help candidates navigate the JEE Main 2026 registration process smoothly and prepare effectively for the exam.
Overview of JEE Main 2026
Scheduled by the National Testing Agency (NTA), JEE Main 2026 will be conducted in two sessions — the first between January 21 and January 30, 2026, and the second in April 2026. The exam is a gateway for aspiring engineers to secure admissions into various top engineering colleges across India and abroad.
Key Highlights
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Registration Start Date | October 31, 2025 |
| Registration End Date | November 27, 2025 |
| Examination Dates | Session 1: January 21-30, 2026; Session 2: April 2-9, 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | 03-04 days before each exam session |
| Results Announcement | Session 1: By February 12, 2026; Session 2: By April 20, 2026 |
| Official Website | jeemain.nta.nic.in |
Important Dates for JEE Main 2026
Detailed Timeline
| Event | Session 1 (January) | Session 2 (April) |
|---|---|---|
| Online Application Start | October 31, 2025 | Last week of January 2026 (tentative) |
| Application Deadline | November 27, 2025, up to 09:00 P.M. | To be notified later |
| Application Fee Last Date | November 27, 2025, up to 11:50 P.M. | To be notified later |
| City Intimation Slip | First week of January 2026 (Tentative) | Second week of March 2026 (Tentative) |
| Admit Card Download | 03-04 days before the exam | 03-04 days before the exam |
| Examination Dates | January 21-30, 2026 | April 2-9, 2026 |
| Result Declaration | By February 12, 2026 | By April 20, 2026 |
Eligibility Criteria for JEE Main 2026
Educational Qualification
Candidates must have passed or be appearing for their Class 12 (or equivalent) examinations in 2024, 2025, or 2026. The qualifying criteria include having studied Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as core subjects.
Minimum Marks
To be eligible for admission into NITs, IIITs, and GFTIs, candidates must have secured at least 75% marks in Class 12 (65% for SC/ST candidates).
Age Limit
There is no age limit for appearing in JEE Main 2026, making it accessible to candidates irrespective of age, provided they meet the educational criteria.
Number of Attempts
Students are allowed a maximum of six attempts over three consecutive years. Both the January and April sessions are considered separate attempts, giving aspirants multiple opportunities.
Subject Combinations
Candidates must have Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics at the Class 12 level to be eligible.
Syllabus for JEE Main 2026
The syllabus is aligned with NCERT curriculum for Classes 11 and 12 and covers three major subjects: Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Keeping updated with the latest NTA notifications is advised for any modifications or additions.
Physics Highlights
- Units & Measurements
- Kinematics
- Laws of Motion
- Work, Energy, and Power
- Rotational Motion
- Gravitation
- Properties of Solids and Liquids
- Thermodynamics
- Kinetic Theory of Gases
- Oscillations and Waves
- Electrostatics
- Current Electricity
- Magnetism
- Electromagnetic Induction
- Alternating Currents
- Optics
- Dual Nature of Matter
- Atoms and Nuclei
- Electronic Devices
Chemistry Highlights
| Section | Topics |
|---|---|
| Physical Chemistry | Atomic Structure, Chemical Bonding, Thermodynamics, Solutions, Equilibrium, Redox Reactions, Electrochemistry, Kinetics |
| Inorganic Chemistry | Periodic Table, p/d/f-block Elements, Coordination Compounds |
| Organic Chemistry | Purification, Hydrocarbons, Organic Compounds with Halogens/Oxygen/Nitrogen, Biomolecules |
Mathematics Highlights
- Sets, Relations, and Functions
- Algebra
- Calculus
- Trigonometry
- Coordinate Geometry
- Vectors
- Statistics and Probability
- Matrices and Determinants
- Differential Equations
JEE Main 2026 Application Process
Applying for JEE Main 2026 involves several steps, which should be completed carefully to avoid errors. The application process is online and straightforward.
Step-by-step Application Guide
- Visit the official website: jeemain.nta.nic.in
- Register as a new user by entering your email and mobile number.
- Login with the credentials received after registration.
- Fill out the application form with accurate personal details, educational information, and preferred exam centers.
- Upload scanned images of your passport-sized photograph, signature, educational marksheet, and proof of identity.
- Pay the application fee through available modes like UPI, Debit Card, Credit Card, or Net Banking.
- Download and save the confirmation page for future reference.
Important Tips for Application
- Ensure all documents are clear and correctly scanned.
- Double-check personal details before submission.
- Complete the fee payment within the stipulated deadline.
- Keep a copy of the application form and fee receipt.
JEE Main 2026 Fee Structure
The fee varies based on the candidate’s category, gender, and whether the exam is taken in India or outside. The fee is non-refundable once paid.
Fee Details
| Category | Gender | In India (INR) | Outside India (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| General/OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) | Male | ₹1,000 | $50 USD |
| General/OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) | Female | ₹800 | $50 USD |
| SC/ST/PwD/Third Gender | Male/Female | ₹500 | $50 USD |
Payment Modes
Payments can be made via UPI, Debit Card, Credit Card, or Net Banking. Candidates should retain the payment receipt as proof of transaction.
Preparation Tips and Resources
Preparing for JEE Main 2026 requires focused study and strategic planning. Here are some tips and resources for aspirants:
Study Plan
- Understand the detailed syllabus and plan a timetable accordingly.
- Prioritize topics based on your strengths and weaknesses.
- Practice previous years’ question papers and mock tests regularly.
- Review mistakes and work on weak areas.
Recommended Resources
- Official JEE Main syllabus and sample papers published by NTA.
- Standard textbooks aligned with NCERT curriculum.
- Online coaching platforms and video tutorials.
- Previous years’ question papers and solution PDFs.
- Official JEE Main [Information Bulletin](https://cdnbbsr.s3waas.gov.in/s3f8e59f4b2fe7c5705bf878bbd494ccdf/uploads/2025/11/202511021649722475.pdf).
Official Links and Documentation
For detailed information and official notifications, candidates are encouraged to visit the following links:
- JEE Main Official Website: jeemain.nta.nic.in
- Registration Form PDF: Download Registration Form
- Information Bulletin PDF: Download Bulletin
- Application Portal: Apply Online
Conclusion
JEE Main 2026 presents an excellent opportunity for aspiring engineers to pursue their dreams of studying at top engineering institutes in India and abroad. Staying informed about important dates, understanding the eligibility criteria, and preparing thoroughly are key to success. By following the guidelines outlined here, candidates can navigate the registration process with confidence and focus on their preparation for a successful exam attempt.