JoSAA 2026 OBC-NCL Seats — ~17,339 Seats at 27% Reservation

OBC-NCL candidates have 27% reservation in JoSAA 2026. With a total of 67,323 seats (64,219 regular + 3,104 female supernumerary), approximately 17,339 regular seats fall in the OBC-NCL category. The total including supernumerary would be higher.

OBC-NCL cutoff ranks are significantly more relaxed than General category ranks. For example, in JEE Main, an OBC-NCL candidate's category rank is derived from the OBC-NCL rank list. The JoSAA allotment uses this category rank — OBC-NCL closing ranks are typically 2x–4x higher (numerically) than General closing ranks for the same program.

JoSAA reservations apply only to OBC-NCL (Non-Creamy Layer). OBC candidates from the Creamy Layer (family income above ₹8 lakh/year) are NOT eligible for OBC reservation and compete in the General category. Only a valid OBC-NCL certificate from a competent authority qualifies you for the 27% reservation.

Yes. The 27% OBC-NCL reservation applies uniformly at all JoSAA participating institutes — IITs, IISc, NITs, IIITs, and GFTIs. However, for PPP-model IIITs, the home state quota may further influence seat availability for OBC-NCL candidates.

Yes. Since OBC-NCL gets 27% of all seats, and total seats grew from 62,853 to 67,323 (+4,470), OBC-NCL candidates will have approximately 1,207 more seats available than in 2025 (27% of 4,470 ≈ 1,207 new OBC-NCL seats).

OBC-NCL candidates need: (1) OBC-NCL certificate in the central government format, (2) Certificate from a competent authority (SDM, Tehsildar, or equivalent), (3) The certificate must confirm 'Non-Creamy Layer' status, (4) It should be issued on or after April 1 of the admission year. Check the JoSAA documents page for the complete list.