JEE Main 2026 Exam Pattern – Paper 1 & Paper 2 Details
2026 record: 75 questions · 300 marks · 3 hours · CBT mode · +4 correct / −1 wrong (MCQ) · Two sessions (Jan & April 2026)
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JEE Main 2026 is over. The 2027 Information Bulletin was released on 24 October 2026 with the opening of Session 1 registration, which closes on 22 November 2026. Details on this page follow the 2026 bulletin and may differ for 2027; confirm on jeemain.nta.nic.in.
Understanding the JEE Main 2026 Pattern
JEE Main 2026 was conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) as a Computer Based Test (CBT) across two sessions: Session 1 in January 2026 and Session 2 in April 2026. Both sessions followed the same exam pattern, and NTA considered the better of a candidate's two NTA scores (percentile) for the final merit list used in JEE Advanced eligibility and JoSAA/CSAB counselling. JEE Main 2027 is reported to keep this two-session format; read the JEE Main 2027 exam pattern page and the 2027 information bulletin tracker.
Paper 1, intended for B.Tech/B.E. admissions, is structured around three equally weighted subjects — Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics — each contributing 25 questions and 100 marks, for a total of 300 marks across 75 questions in 3 hours. Within each subject, 20 questions are standard MCQs with four options and one correct answer, while 5 are Numerical Value Questions (NVQs) requiring a typed numeric answer rather than option selection. This mixed format tests both conceptual recall (MCQs) and precise calculation ability (NVQs), and understanding this split helps you allocate practice time appropriately — NVQs typically demand more careful, error-free calculation since there's no option to eliminate wrong choices.
Paper 2 exists in two variants for architecture and planning aspirants. Paper 2A (B.Arch) tests spatial and drawing ability alongside Mathematics and a general Aptitude section, uniquely including a pen-and-paper Drawing Test that cannot be completed on computer — candidates must carry their own geometry box and coloring materials as per the admit card instructions. Paper 2B (B.Planning) replaces the drawing component with planning-specific aptitude questions and is conducted fully in CBT mode. Candidates aiming for B.Arch/B.Planning programs at institutes like SPA Delhi and NITs offering these courses had to register specifically for Paper 2A or 2B (or both) in addition to or instead of Paper 1. For the next cycle, see the Paper 2 B.Arch and B.Planning registration guide.
Paper 1 (B.Tech / B.E.) – Key Facts
Mode
Computer Based Test (CBT)
Duration
3 Hours
Total Questions
75 (25 per subject)
Total Marks
300 marks
MCQ Marking
+4 correct, −1 wrong
NVQ Marking
+4 correct; wrong-answer rule: verify in NTA bulletin
Session 1
January–February 2026
Session 2
April 2026
Subject-wise Question Breakdown
Paper 2A & Paper 2B Details
Paper 2A – B.Arch
- • Mathematics: 100 marks (CBT)
- • Aptitude Test: 200 marks (CBT)
- • Drawing Test: 100 marks, 2 questions of 50 (pen & paper)
- • Total: 400 marks, 3 hours
Paper 2B – B.Planning
- • Mathematics: 100 marks (CBT)
- • Aptitude Test: 200 marks (CBT)
- • Planning: 100 marks (CBT)
- • Total: 400 marks, 3 hours, fully CBT
Why the Marking Scheme Matters for Strategy
The +4/-1 marking scheme for MCQs means that random guessing carries a small but real expected negative return — statistically, if you can eliminate even one or two of the four options with confidence, guessing among the remainder becomes worthwhile, but pure blind guessing across many questions tends to reduce your score over a full paper. For Numerical Value Questions, sources disagree on whether a wrong answer was penalised in 2026 (we could not verify this against the official bulletin), so check the NTA bulletin before assuming that attempting every NVQ is risk-free. Since all 15 NVQs are part of the paper, plan your time so the NVQs get careful, error-free calculation.
Correct Answer (MCQ or NVQ)
+4 marks awarded
Wrong Answer (MCQ only)
−1 mark deducted (negative marking)
Unattempted Question
0 marks (no penalty for skipping)
Wrong Answer (NVQ only)
0 or −1: sources conflict; verify in the official bulletin
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Frequently Asked Questions – JEE Main 2026 Exam Pattern
Common questions about JEE Main 2026 pattern, marking scheme, and paper structure
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Disclaimer
Exam pattern details are based on NTA 2025 information brochure. Verify the latest pattern at jeemain.nta.nic.in before the exam.