Flash Update: JEE Main 2026 Dates Out!
Session 1 expected: Jan 21 – Jan 30 | Session 2 expected: Apr 01 – Apr 10.
Understanding JEE Main 2026
JEE Main is the premier nationwide computer-based engineering exam conducted by the **National Testing Agency (NTA)**. It serves as the gateway to undergraduate programs (B.E./B.Tech/B.Arch/B.Planning) at NITs, IIITs, and CFTIs. More importantly, it is the qualifying step for **JEE Advanced**, leading to the prestigious IITs.
Important Dates: 2026 Cycle
| Events | Session 1 (Tentative) | Session 2 (Tentative) |
|---|---|---|
| Applications | Oct 31 – Nov 27, 2025 | February 2026 |
| Admit Cards | 3 days before exam | 3 days before exam |
| Exam Dates | Jan 21 – Jan 30, 2026 | Apr 01 – Apr 10, 2026 |
| Results | By Feb 12, 2026 | April 2026 |
Exam Pattern & Marking Scheme
Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech)
- Physics (MCQ + Numerical) 25 Qs
- Chemistry (MCQ + Numerical) 25 Qs
- Mathematics (MCQ + Numerical) 25 Qs
- Total Marks 300
Marking System
Correct Answer
+4 Marks
Incorrect Answer
-1 Mark
Historical Cut-offs (Percentile)
| Category | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 |
|---|---|---|---|
| General | 93.10 | 93.23 | 90.77 |
| EWS | 80.38 | 81.32 | 75.62 |
| OBC-NCL | 79.43 | 79.67 | 73.61 |
| SC | 61.15 | 46.69 | 51.97 |
Eligibility Summary
Nationality
Indian Citizens, NRIs, PIOs, OCIs eligible.
Qualification
Passed 10+2 in 2024, 2025 or appearing 2026.
Subjects
Physics & Maths mandatory for B.E/B.Tech.
JEE Main Marks vs Ranks (Expected)
99%ile180 - 200 Marks
98%ile160 - 180 Marks
95%ile130 - 140 Marks
90%ile90 - 95 Marks
8-Step Winning Preparation Strategy
- Master the JEE Main Paper Pattern & Syllabus.
- Focus on Topic-wise weightage (High-yield areas first).
- Use NCERT as the foundation for Chemistry.
- Build a week-wise revision schedule.
- Avoid common distractions & social media fatigue.
- Never skip periodic revisions.
- Perform regular self-evaluations with timed tests.
- Maintain a positive, engineering-focused mindset.