JEE-MAIN

Apr 1, 2026

16 min read

NTA JEE Main Official

JEE (Main) 2026 Session 2: Your Ultimate Guide to Exam Dates, Security & Key Updates!

Overview

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has released a crucial Press Release regarding the Joint Entrance Examination (Main) 2026 Session 2, scheduled for April 2026. This announcement is vital for all aspirants preparing to secure admission into premier engineering and architecture institutions across India.

Key Highlights

Examination Dates: JEE (Main) 2026 Session 2 will be conducted on 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 April 2026.
Scale of Examination: Approximately 11.23 lakh candidates are expected to appear across 566 centres in 304 cities nationwide and 14 cities outside India.
Mode of Exam: The examination will be held in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode.
Enhanced Security: Robust cybersecurity measures, AI-based face comparison, OTP-based Aadhaar e-KYC, and live photograph verification are in place.
New Online Portal: A newly developed online portal offers enhanced accuracy, security, and ease of use for applicants.
Admit Card Release: Admit cards for April 2nd and 4th exams were released on March 29th, 2026; for others, on April 1st, 2026.
Examination Centre & Date Revisions: NTA accommodated requests related to conflicts in the Middle East, Easter celebrations, and clashes with Class XII Board exams.

Unpacking the JEE (Main) 2026 Session 2 Press Release

This press release from the NTA on April 01, 2026, serves as a comprehensive update for candidates gearing up for JEE (Main) 2026 Session 2. It meticulously outlines the logistical and security arrangements put in place to ensure a fair and transparent examination process.

The examination is slated to take place over multiple days in April 2026, accommodating a massive number of candidates vying for a coveted spot in engineering and architecture programs. The NTA's commitment to leveraging technology for a seamless exam experience is evident through its innovative measures.

Advancements in the Online Portal: A Leap Towards Security and Convenience

Recognizing the importance of a secure and user-friendly application process, the National Informatics Centre (NIC) has developed an advanced online portal for JEE (Main) 2026. This portal introduces several cutting-edge features designed to bolster security, enhance data accuracy, and simplify the application experience for candidates.

Key features of this new online portal include:

AI-based face comparison: A technological stride to ensure the authenticity of candidates.
OTP-based Aadhaar e-KYC authentication: Streamlining the verification process with Aadhaar.
Live photograph comparison: Verifying the candidate's live photograph against their Aadhaar/Digi Locker photograph.
Uploaded photograph verification: Cross-referencing the uploaded photo with a live capture for enhanced security.
Automatic PwD/PwBD details fetching: Simplifying the process for candidates with disabilities by fetching details directly from the UDID portal.
Restricted City Choices: To ensure regional relevance and prevent misuse, candidates' city choices for examination centres are restricted to their present and permanent address states.

Ensuring a Secure and Dignified Examination Environment

The NTA leaves no stone unturned when it comes to maintaining the integrity and security of the JEE (Main) examination. A vast network of Central Government agencies, State and District representatives, examination functionaries, and flying squads collaborate tirelessly to ensure a safe and secure testing environment.

Frisking of Candidates

All candidates will undergo a manual frisking process at the examination centres. Separate, dignified frisking enclosures are provided for female candidates, ensuring a smooth and respectful procedure.

Seat and Console Allocation

On the day of the exam, candidates must report well before the gate closing time. After frisking, Aadhaar authentication and live photograph capture will be conducted. Each candidate will then be assigned a specific seat and console by the exam conducting agency, emphasizing the need to occupy designated seats well in advance of the exam start time.

Advanced Security Measures

To further reinforce examination security, NTA will install jammers and CCTV cameras in all centres. AI-based video analytics from a centralized command and control room will continuously monitor the centres, deterring any unfair practices.

Why JEE (Main) is a Great Opportunity: Your Gateway to Engineering Excellence

JEE (Main) is not just an exam; it's a pivotal stepping stone towards a fulfilling career in engineering and architecture. Successfully clearing JEE (Main) opens doors to prestigious National Institutes of Technology (NITs), Indian Institutes of Information Technology (IIITs), and other Centrally Funded Technical Institutions (CFTIs).

Beyond admission, the rigorous preparation for JEE (Main) equips students with critical problem-solving skills, a strong foundation in science and mathematics, and resilience—qualities essential for success in any technical field. It's an opportunity to join a community of innovators and contribute to nation-building through technology and design. Your dedication now will shape a bright future for you.

Addressing Candidate Concerns: Rescheduling and Centre Changes

The NTA has demonstrated remarkable responsiveness to candidate feedback and specific challenges. Revisions have been made to examination centres and dates based on various representations:

Aspirants in the Middle East: Requests for centre changes due to ongoing conflicts in the region were considered, and centres were revised accordingly.
Exam Rescheduling Due to Easter Celebrations: Candidates who requested rescheduling via email due to the Easter celebration on April 5th, 2026, have been accommodated.
Clash with Other Examinations: To prevent clashes with Class XII Board exams, NTA coordinated with CBSE. An input field for CBSE registration/roll numbers was added to JEE (Main) 2026 Session 1 & 2 application forms to facilitate conflict-free scheduling. Further requests for date changes due to other exams were also considered and accommodated. These proactive measures underscore NTA's commitment to fairness and convenience for all aspirants.

Important Dates

Event	Date
NTA Public Notice for PwD/PwBD certificate format	02 Jan, 2026
Admit Card Release for Exams on April 2 & 4	29 Mar, 2026
Candidate Advisory & Instructions Release for JEE (Main) 2026 Session 2	31 Mar, 2026
Press Release Date	01 Apr, 2026
Admit Card Release for Balance Candidates (excluding April 2 & 4)	01 Apr, 2026
JEE (Main) 2026 Session 2 Examination Date	02 Apr, 2026
JEE (Main) 2026 Session 2 Examination Date	04 Apr, 2026
JEE (Main) 2026 Session 2 Examination Date (includes Easter Day)	05 Apr, 2026
JEE (Main) 2026 Session 2 Examination Date	06 Apr, 2026
JEE (Main) 2026 Session 2 Examination Date	07 Apr, 2026
JEE (Main) 2026 Session 2 Examination Date	08 Apr, 2026

Syllabus Highlights

The JEE (Main) 2026 Session 2 examination will follow specific guidelines and a detailed marking scheme. Here are the crucial highlights and important instructions for all candidates:

General Exam Conduct Instructions & Advisory

Candidate Advisory Release: The NTA released detailed candidate advisory and instructions for the conduct of JEE (Main) 2026 Session 2 on 31 March 2026. It is imperative for all aspirants to review these thoroughly.
Advance Centre Visit: Candidates are strongly advised to visit their Examination Centre in advance. This familiarization with the location and means of transport will help ensure timely arrival on the Test day.
Aadhaar Biometric Verification: Candidates who did not register through Aadhaar (or chose non-Aadhaar authentication) must report at least one hour before the gate closing time on exam day to complete their biometrics recording at the centre.
Reporting Time Adherence: Arrive at the test venue by the reporting time mentioned on your Admit Card. Entry will be strictly prohibited beyond the gate closing time.
Strict No Unfair Means Policy: Examination centres are under CCTV surveillance and equipped with Jammers. Any candidate found indulging in unfair practices will face strict action.
Rough Work: Blank A4 sheets will be provided for rough work. Candidates must write their name and Roll Number on top of each sheet and drop them in the designated drop box before leaving. Failure to do so may lead to non-evaluation of answers.
Admit Card Submission: The duly filled-in Admit Card must be dropped in the designated Dropbox when exiting the examination hall. Non-compliance may result in non-evaluation.
Computer-Based Examination: Familiarize yourself with computer-based testing. Ensure the question paper on screen matches your opted subject/medium. Report any discrepancy to the Invigilator immediately.

Important Documents / Items to Carry on Exam Day

Admit Card: A clear, preferably colour printout of your Admit Card on A4 size paper, downloaded from the NTA Website.
Passport Photographs: At least two passport-size photographs. One (same as uploaded in the online application form) must be pasted on the Attendance Sheet at the Centre.
Valid Photo ID Proof (ORIGINAL): A valid Photo ID Proof as uploaded in your online application form. Photocopies or mobile images are strictly NOT accepted.
Identity Verification Note: No candidate will be allowed to enter without identity verification.
Photograph Mismatch Certificate: If your live photograph doesn't match your Aadhaar/uploaded photo, you must carry the requisite certificate in original, duly signed/attested by the Principal/Head Master or a Class-I Gazetted Officer (e.g., Tehsildar, Revenue Officer, SDM, DM, or Indian Embassy for NRI candidates) as per the format shared in your registered email ID and NTA Public Notice dated 02 January 2026.

Provisions for Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwD/PwBD)

PwD/PwBD Certificate: If claiming relaxation under this category, carry your PwD/PwBD certificate/UDID card issued by the Competent Authority. Report early for facilitation.
Scribe Facility: A scribe will be provided if a candidate has a physical limitation requiring one to write the exam on their behalf, certified in the prescribed format by a CMO/Civil Surgeon/Medical Superintendent of a government healthcare institution. This facility is also extended to persons with benchmark disabilities (blindness, locomotor disability-BA, cerebral palsy) if desired.
Scribe Option: The facility of a Scribe is only available if you opted for it in the online Application Form of JEE (Main) - 2026.
Compensatory Time: Eligible PwD candidates with a physical limitation to write will be allowed compensatory time of 20 minutes per hour of the examination.
Aadhaar Biometric Authentication: PwD candidates, like all others, must ensure their Aadhaar biometric authentication is not locked to facilitate a smooth verification process.

Prohibited and Permitted Items

Prohibited Items: Instrument/Geometry/Pencil box, Handbag, Purse, any paper/stationery/textual material, eatables and water (loose or packed), mobile phone/earphone/microphone/pager, calculator, DocuPen, Slide Rules, Log Tables, Camera, Tape Recorder, any type of watch (including electronic watches with calculator facilities), metallic items, or electronic gadgets/devices. No provision for safekeeping of valuables.
Permitted Items for Diabetic Students: Sugar tablets/fruits (like bananas/apples/oranges) and transparent water bottles. Packed foods like chocolates/candy/sandwiches are not allowed.
Sikh Candidates: Permitted to wear religious articles like "KARA" and "KIRPAN."

Subject-Specific Instructions & Marking Scheme (Annexure 1)

PHYSICS/CHEMISTRY/MATHEMATICS - SECTION A (Maximum Marks: 80)

Questions: Twenty (20) questions per subject.
Format: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) with four options; ONLY ONE is correct.
Marking Scheme:
- Correct answer: Four Marks (+4)
- Unanswered/Marked for Review (without selecting any option): No Mark (0)
- Incorrect answer: Minus One Mark (-1)
Calculations: Candidates are advised to use given constants for calculations.

PHYSICS/CHEMISTRY/MATHEMATICS - SECTION B (Maximum Marks: 20)

Questions: Five (5) questions per subject, all compulsory.
Format: Numerical value answers, to be entered using the onscreen virtual numeric keypad.
Marking Scheme:
- Correct integer value: Four Marks (+4)
- Unanswered/Marked for Review (without filling any numerical value): No Mark (0)
- Incorrect answer: Minus One Mark (-1)
Rounding: Answers should be rounded off to the nearest integer.

APTITUDE TEST (Maximum Marks: 200)

Questions: Fifty (50) questions.
Format: MCQs with four options; ONLY ONE is correct.
Marking Scheme:
- Correct answer: Four Marks (+4)
- Unanswered/Marked for review (without selecting any option): No Mark (0)
- Incorrect answer/Multiple Answer: Minus One Mark (-1)
Calculations: Use given constants for calculations.

DRAWING TEST (Maximum Marks: 100)

Questions: Two (02) questions, each carrying equal marks. Both must be attempted.
Execution: Attempt questions in the space provided on the Drawing Sheet. No supplementary sheets will be issued.
Material to Carry: Candidates must bring their own Geometry Box Set, Pencils, Erasers, and Colour Pencils or Crayons. Watercolours/poster colour/acrylic colours are not allowed.
Quality: Do neat and clean drawings.
Submission: Submit the Drawing Sheet to the Invigilator before leaving the Examination Hall.
Prohibition: Do not write Roll Number, Name, Centre address, Place of examination, or any special sign on any part of the Test Booklet.

PLANNING BASED OBJECTIVE TYPE QUESTIONS (Maximum Marks: 100)

Questions: Twenty-Five (25) questions.
Format: MCQs with four options; ONLY ONE is correct.
Marking Scheme:
- Correct answer: Four Marks (+4)
- Unanswered/Marked for review (without selecting any option): No Mark (0)
- Incorrect answer/Multiple answer: Minus One Mark (-1)
Calculations: Use given constants for calculations.
Language: Some questions assessing thinking skills may be in English only, in every language set.

Important Steps

While the application window for JEE (Main) 2026 Session 2 is likely closed given this press release is about exam conduct, understanding the NTA's new online portal features and exam day protocols is crucial for a smooth experience. Here's a detailed guide based on the latest NTA press release, focusing on your exam day journey and important registration details:

Your Essential Guide to JEE (Main) 2026 Session 2: Exam Day Instructions

Step 1: Verify Your Admit Card and Reporting Time

Ensure you have downloaded your Admit Card from the official NTA website: https://jeemain.nta.nic.in/. Admit cards for April 2nd and 4th exams were released on 29 March 2026, and for all other candidates on 01 April 2026. Print a clear, preferably colour copy on A4 size paper.
Note your designated reporting time and gate closing time meticulously. Punctual arrival is non-negotiable.

Step 2: Pre-Examination Centre Visit (Highly Recommended)

Visit your allotted Examination Centre a day or two before the exam. This will help you familiarize yourself with the location, identify the best routes, and estimate travel time, preventing any last-minute stress on exam day.

Step 3: Prepare Your Essential Documents

Admit Card: Your printed JEE (Main) 2026 Session 2 Admit Card.
Passport Photographs: Carry at least two passport-size photographs. These should be identical to the one uploaded during your online application. One photo needs to be pasted on the Attendance Sheet at the centre.
Original Photo ID Proof: A valid government-issued Photo ID (e.g., Aadhaar Card, Passport, PAN Card, Driving License, Voter ID) that was uploaded in your online application form. Photocopies or digital images on mobile phones will not be accepted.
PwD/PwBD Certificate (if applicable): If you are claiming relaxations under the PwD/PwBD category, bring the original certificate/UDID card issued by the Competent Authority. Report early for facilitation.
Photograph Mismatch Certificate (if applicable): If your live photograph did not match your Aadhaar/uploaded photo during application, carry the original requisite certificate, duly signed/attested by a Principal/Head Master or Class-I Gazetted Officer, as per the format in your registered email ID and NTA Public Notice dated 02 January 2026.

Step 4: Examination Day Protocols

Early Arrival: Arrive at the examination centre well before the gate closing time mentioned on your Admit Card. Latecomers will not be permitted entry.
Frisking and Biometrics: All candidates will undergo a manual frisking process by security personnel. Separate enclosures are available for female candidates. Following frisking, biometric attendance and Aadhaar authentication will be conducted. Candidates who registered without Aadhaar must report at least 1 hour early for manual biometric recording.
Photograph Capture: A live photograph of the candidate will be captured at the registration desk.
Seat and Console Allocation: After registration, you will be assigned a specific seat and computer console. Proceed directly to your assigned station and occupy your seat well in advance of the examination start time.
Attendance Sheet: During the examination, legibly fill in all required details on the attendance sheet, put your signature, and a clear, non-smudged Left-Hand Thumb Impression. Paste one passport-size photograph in the designated space.

Step 5: Inside the Examination Hall

Drawing Test Materials (for B.Arch. candidates): Bring your own Geometry Box Set, Pencils, Erasers, and Colour Pencils or Crayons. Watercolours are not allowed.
Rough Work Sheets: Utilize the A4 sheets provided for rough work. Crucially, write your name and Roll Number on each sheet and drop them in the designated drop box before leaving the hall. Failure to do so will result in non-evaluation.
Admit Card Submission: Before exiting the examination hall, you must drop your duly filled-in Admit Card into the designated Dropbox. Failure to do this may lead to non-evaluation of your answers.
Subject-Specific and General Instructions: Carefully read all Subject-Specific Instructions (Annexure 1) and General Instructions provided in the Question Paper and the Information Bulletin of JEE (Main) 2026. Adhere to them strictly.

Pro-Tip / Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don't ignore the reporting time: Being even a minute late can cost you your exam. Plan your commute meticulously.
Do not carry prohibited items: Avoid any metallic items, electronic gadgets, or unauthorized study materials. There's no facility for safekeeping valuables.
Ensure Aadhaar Biometric is UNLOCKED: If you registered with Aadhaar, double-check that your biometrics are not locked to prevent delays in verification on exam day.
Paste correct photograph: Use the exact same passport-size photograph for the attendance sheet as uploaded in your application form.
Don't forget to submit rough sheets and Admit Card: Many candidates overlook this in a hurry, leading to serious issues. Make it the last thing you do before leaving the examination hall.
Verify Question Paper: Always confirm that the question paper on your screen matches your opted subject/medium. Report discrepancies immediately to the invigilator.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the exact dates for JEE (Main) 2026 Session 2?

The JEE (Main) 2026 Session 2 examination will be conducted by the NTA on April 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8, 2026. Make sure to note your specific exam date from your admit card and plan accordingly.

When were the admit cards released for JEE (Main) 2026 Session 2?

Admit cards for candidates scheduled to appear on April 2nd and 4th, 2026, were released on March 29th, 2026. For all other candidates, admit cards were released on April 1st, 2026, and can be downloaded from the NTA website using your login credentials.

What new security features has the NTA implemented for JEE (Main) 2026?

The NTA has significantly enhanced security with features like AI-based face comparison, OTP-based Aadhaar e-KYC authentication, live photograph comparison with Aadhaar/Digi Locker images, and verification of uploaded photographs against live captures. Additionally, jammers and CCTV with AI-based video analytics will monitor all examination centres.

What measures were taken for candidates affected by clashes with other exams or regional issues?

The NTA proactively addressed requests from candidates in the Middle East by revising centres due to ongoing conflicts. They also accommodated rescheduling requests for candidates affected by Easter celebrations on April 5th, 2026, and coordinated with CBSE to avoid clashes with Class XII Board exams by adding an input field for CBSE roll numbers in the application form.

What documents are mandatory to carry on the day of the examination?

You must carry your downloaded Admit Card (colour printout preferred), at least two passport-size photographs (one to be pasted on the attendance sheet), and a valid original Photo ID Proof as uploaded in your application form. PwD/PwBD candidates must also carry their original certificate/UDID card.

What is the marking scheme for the objective sections (e.g., Physics/Chemistry/Mathematics Section A)?

For each correct answer, candidates will be awarded +4 marks. There will be a deduction of -1 mark for every incorrect answer. No marks will be awarded or deducted for unanswered questions or those marked for review without an option selected.

Official Notification

Always verify all details on the official government website before submitting your application.

Visit Official Website

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Event

Date

NTA Public Notice for PwD/PwBD certificate format

02 Jan, 2026

Admit Card Release for Exams on April 2 & 4

29 Mar, 2026

Candidate Advisory & Instructions Release for JEE (Main) 2026 Session 2

31 Mar, 2026

Press Release Date

01 Apr, 2026

Admit Card Release for Balance Candidates (excluding April 2 & 4)

01 Apr, 2026