JEE Main 2026 Complete Guide
JEE Main 2026 is one of the most prestigious engineering entrance examinations in India, conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the exam, from important dates to preparation strategies.
Quick Overview
- Conducting Body: National Testing Agency (NTA)
- Exam Level: National Level
- Frequency: Twice a Year
- Exam Mode: Computer Based Test (CBT)
Important Dates 2026
| Event | Session 1 | Session 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Application Start | October 31, 2025 | February 2026 |
| Application End | November 27, 2025 | March 2026 |
| Exam Dates | January 21-30, 2026 | April 1-10, 2026 |
| Result Declaration | February 12, 2026 | April 20, 2026 |
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
- Qualified 10+2 or equivalent in 2024, 2025 or appearing in 2026
- Physics, Chemistry & Mathematics as main subjects
- Minimum 75% marks (65% for SC/ST) in qualifying exam
Age Limit
- No age limit for appearing in JEE Main
- Candidates must satisfy age criteria of institutes
Number of Attempts
- Maximum 3 attempts in consecutive years
- Can appear in both sessions
Exam Pattern 2026
Paper 1: B.E./B.Tech
- Subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics
- Total Questions: 75 (25 each subject)
- Type: 20 MCQs + 5 Numerical per subject
- Duration: 3 Hours
- Total Marks: 300
- Marking Scheme: +4 correct, -1 wrong
Paper 2A: B.Arch
- Subjects: Maths, Aptitude, Drawing
- Total Questions: 77
- Duration: 3 Hours
- Total Marks: 400
Paper 2B: B.Planning
- Subjects: Maths, Aptitude, Planning
- Total Questions: 100
- Duration: 3 Hours
- Total Marks: 400
Syllabus Highlights
Physics
- Mechanics & Laws of Motion
- Electrostatics & Current Electricity
- Magnetism & EMI
- Optics & Modern Physics
- Thermodynamics & Kinetic Theory
- Oscillations & Waves
Chemistry
- Physical: Equilibrium, Kinetics, Thermodynamics
- Organic: Reaction mechanisms, Biomolecules
- Inorganic: Coordination compounds, p-block
- Electrochemistry & Redox Reactions
- Chemical Bonding & Periodic Properties
Mathematics
- Calculus: Integration, Differentiation
- Algebra: Quadratic, Matrices, Determinants
- Coordinate Geometry
- Trigonometry & Vectors
- Probability & Statistics
- Complex Numbers
Preparation Strategy
Foundation Phase (Months 1-3)
- Complete NCERT thoroughly for all subjects
- Focus on understanding basic concepts
- Solve 30-40 practice problems daily
- Create formula sheets and revision notes
Intensive Practice (Months 4-6)
- Solve previous 5 years' question papers
- Take 2-3 mock tests per week
- Identify and work on weak areas
- Focus on high-weightage topics
Final Revision (Last Month)
- Revise all formulas and key concepts
- Take full-length mock tests regularly
- Practice time management
- Stay calm and maintain confidence
Pro Tips from Toppers
- Time Management: Divide equal time among all three subjects. Don't neglect any subject.
- Practice Regularly: Consistency is key. Solve problems daily rather than cramming.
- Mock Tests: Analyze your performance after each test and work on weaknesses.
- Stay Healthy: Proper sleep (7-8 hours) and nutrition are crucial for peak performance.
- Quality Resources: Focus on NCERT and standard books. Don't use too many resources.
- Stay Positive: Maintain a positive mindset. Believe in yourself and your preparation.
Previous Year Cut-offs
| Category | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 |
|---|---|---|---|
| General | 93.10 | 93.23 | 90.77 |
| OBC-NCL | 80.38 | 79.67 | 75.62 |
| SC | 61.15 | 46.69 | 51.97 |
| ST | 47.90 | 60.09 | 37.23 |
| EWS | 79.43 | 81.32 | 73.61 |
Note: Cut-off percentiles are for qualifying JEE Advanced. Admission to NITs/IIITs requires higher scores.
Conclusion
Success in JEE Main 2026 requires consistent effort, strategic preparation, and unwavering dedication. Start early, follow a structured study plan, and practice regularly. Remember, every topper was once a beginner who never gave up!
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