Are you one of the many aspiring candidates seeking to understand the latest updates on the NTA JEE Main Session 1 Answer Key 2026? If so, you’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive guide provides detailed information about the answer key release, how to download it, how to challenge any discrepancies, important dates, and tips to calculate your probable scores accurately. Whether you’re a student, parent, or educator, this article aims to clarify all your doubts surrounding the JEE Main Session 1 examination held in January 2026.
NTA JEE Main Session 1 Answer Key 2026: Complete Overview
The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially released the provisional answer key for the JEE Main Session 1, held from 21st to 29th January 2026. This answer key is instrumental for candidates to cross-check their responses and estimate their scores before the final result is announced. The answer key is accessible via the official NTA portal and can be downloaded in PDF format. Along with the answer key, candidates can also view their recorded responses and participate in the objection process if they believe there are errors or inaccuracies.
Quick Facts
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Examination Dates | 21 to 29 January 2026 |
| Answer Key Release Date | 4 February 2026 |
| Objection Submission Deadline | 6 February 2026 (11:50 PM) |
| Final Answer Key | Mid February 2026 (Expected) |
| Result Declaration | Third Week of February 2026 (Expected) |
| Official Website | https://jeemain.nta.nic.in/ |
How to Download the JEE Main Session 1 Answer Key 2026
Downloading the answer key is a straightforward process if you follow these simple steps:
Step-by-Step Guide
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Visit the official NTA JEE Main website: https://jeemain.nta.nic.in/.
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Locate and click on the “Answer Key Challenge” or “Candidate Login” section on the homepage.
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Click on the link titled “JEE Main Session 1 Answer Key 2026”.
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Log in using your Application Number, Password, or Date of Birth as required.
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Your recorded responses and the provisional answer key will be displayed on-screen.
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Download the PDF file of the answer key and save it securely for future reference.
Direct Download Link
The answer key can also be directly accessed via this link:
Download JEE Main Session 1 Answer Key 2026 (PDF)
Understanding the Objection Process for the Answer Key
If you find any discrepancy or error in the provisional answer key, you are allowed to challenge it. The process is designed to be transparent and provides candidates an opportunity to ensure accuracy.
Steps to Raise an Objection
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Log in to your candidate portal on the official website: https://jeemain.nta.nic.in/.
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Navigate to the “Challenge/Objection” section.
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Select the question(s) you wish to challenge.
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Upload supporting documents or references if necessary, to substantiate your claim.
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Pay the non-refundable objection fee of ₹200 per question via the available payment options.
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Submit your objection before the deadline: 6 February 2026, 11:50 PM.
Important Notes
- Objections submitted after the deadline will not be considered.
- Processing of objections involves verification by exam authorities before the final answer key is released.
Key Dates for JEE Main Session 1 2026
Being aware of important dates ensures timely action on your part. Here’s a summary of the schedule:
Summary Table of Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Examination Conducted | 21 – 29 January 2026 |
| Provisional Answer Key Released | 4 February 2026 |
| Last Date to Raise Objections | 6 February 2026 (11:50 PM) |
| Final Answer Key Release (Expected) | Mid February 2026 |
| Result Declaration (Expected) | Third Week of February 2026 |
Calculating Your Estimated Score Using the Answer Key
Once you’ve downloaded the answer key, the next step is to estimate your probable score. Remember that the scoring pattern includes positive marking for correct answers and negative marking for wrong answers.
Score Calculation Formula
The formula for estimating your score is:
Total Score = (Number of Correct Answers × 4) – (Number of Wrong Answers × 1)
Marking Scheme Details
| Outcome | Marks Awarded |
|---|---|
| Correct Answer | +4 marks |
| Wrong Answer | -1 mark |
| Unattempted Question | 0 marks |
Additional Resources and Support
For further assistance, candidates can access official PDFs, sample papers, and mock tests to improve their preparation for future exams or review their performance. The NTA also provides a repository of previous years’ question papers, which can be invaluable for practice.
Official PDF Guidelines
You can view the official guidelines on how to challenge the answer key and other procedures in the PDF available at the official NTA portal. Access the detailed instructions here:
JEE Main 2026 Official Guidelines PDF
Conclusion
Staying informed about the answer key release, understanding how to challenge it, and accurately calculating your score are crucial steps in your JEE Main journey. The NTA ensures transparency and fairness in the examination process by providing the provisional answer key and an opportunity to raise objections. Be proactive, adhere to deadlines, and utilize available resources to maximize your performance. Good luck with your preparations and your upcoming results!