JEE Main Session 2 Result Out on 20 April
The JEE Main 2026 Session 2 result was declared on 20 April 2026 at 6:00 PM on the official portal (jeemain.nta.nic.in). Candidates can access their scorecards using their Application Number and Date of Birth or Password.
The result includes the NTA percentile score, All India Rank (AIR), category rank, and eligibility status for JEE Advanced 2026. NTA has also sent scorecards to candidates’ registered email IDs.
JEE Main is conducted in two sessions, and the best score from both sessions is used to prepare the final AIR. This ensures that students get a second chance to improve their performance.
The Session 2 Paper 1 exam was held on April 2, 4, 5, 6, and 8, 2026. Results for Paper 2A (B.Arch) and Paper 2B (B.Planning) are expected in the last week of April 2026.
Counselling for admissions through JoSAA will begin on 2 June 2026.
JEE Main Session 2 Exam Date
The National Testing Agency released a structured schedule for both sessions. Here is a clear breakdown:
| Paper | Session 1 Dates | Session 2 Dates |
| Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech) | Jan 21, 22, 23, 24, 28, 2026 | Apr 2, 4, 5, 6, 8, 2026 |
| Paper 2A & 2B (B.Arch/B.Plan) | Jan 29, 2026 | Apr 7, 2026 |
JEE Main 2026 Highlights
This table captures all key details in one place:
| Particulars | Details |
| Conducting Body | National Testing Agency (NTA) |
| Official Website | jeemain.nta.nic.in |
| Mode of Exam | CBT (Online); Drawing test offline for B.Arch |
| Sessions in 2026 | 2 — January and April |
| Papers | Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech), Paper 2A (B.Arch), Paper 2B (B.Planning) |
| Unique Candidates Registered | 16,04,854 |
| Unique Candidates Appeared | 15,38,474 |
| Session 1 Registered / Appeared | 13,55,293 / 13,04,653 |
| Session 2 Registered / Appeared | 11,10,904 / 10,34,330 |
| Qualified for JEE Advanced 2026 | 2,50,182 |
| Languages | 13 (English, Hindi + 11 regional) |
| Marking Scheme | +4 correct, –1 wrong, 0 unattempted |
| JoSAA Counselling Start | 2 June 2026 |
What is JEE Main 2026?
JEE Main is a national-level engineering entrance exam conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). It is the primary gateway for admission to NITs, IIITs, and other centrally funded technical institutes (CFTIs) across India.
It also acts as the qualifying exam for JEE Advanced, which is required for admission into the IITs.
The exam is held twice a year, usually in January and April. Students can attempt both sessions, and only the best score is considered for ranking.
In 2026, more than 16 lakh students registered, making it one of the most competitive exams in the country.
JEE Main 2026 Eligibility Criteria
JEE Main keeps its eligibility rules relatively flexible compared to JEE Advanced. The conditions mainly revolve around your Class 12 timeline, subject combination, and how many times you’ve already appeared for the exam.
Academic Requirements & Subjects
Your eligibility depends on when you completed Class 12. You can appear for JEE Main in the year you pass your board exams and for the next two years after that. This creates a three-year window. For example, a student who passed in 2024 remains eligible through 2026, while someone who finished Class 12 earlier falls outside this window.
For the B.E./B.Tech paper, your Class 12 must include Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. These subjects are non-negotiable because the exam is built entirely around them.
Attempts, Age Limit & IIT Restriction
JEE Main does not impose an upper age limit. As long as you fall within the valid attempt window, you can apply.
You can take the exam over three consecutive years, with two sessions each year, giving you up to six attempts in total.
The rules become stricter when it comes to JEE Advanced. Only those who qualify JEE Main can appear, and that too for two consecutive years with a maximum of two attempts. If you have already secured admission in an IIT, you cannot appear for JEE Advanced again, although JEE Main itself does not enforce the same restriction.
Class 12 Marks for JoSAA Counselling
Getting a JEE Main rank is only one part of the process. For admission through JoSAA, you must either score at least 75% marks in Class 12 or be placed in the top 20 percentile of your board.
For candidates from SC, ST, and PwD categories, the minimum required marks are 65%.
JEE Main Exam Pattern
The exam pattern remains consistent across both sessions. The 2026 pattern continues the removal of optional questions, which means every question must be attempted.
JEE Main 2026 Exam Pattern for B.E./B.Tech (Paper 1)
| Attribute | Details |
| Mode | CBT (Online only) |
| Subjects | Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics |
| Total Questions | 75 |
| Section A per subject | 20 MCQs |
| Section B per subject | 5 Numerical Value Questions |
| Total Marks | 300 |
| Duration | 3 hours (4 hours for PwD) |
| Marking | +4 correct / –1 wrong / 0 unattempted |
All 75 questions are compulsory. Numerical questions require answers via an on-screen keypad, and negative marking applies here as well.
JEE Main 2026 Exam Pattern for B.Arch (Paper 2A)
| Attribute | Details |
| Mode | CBT + Offline Drawing |
| Total Questions | 77 |
| Total Marks | 400 |
| Duration | 3 hours |
| Part I | Mathematics |
| Part II | Aptitude Test — 50 MCQs |
| Part III | Drawing Test — 2 questions |
JEE Main 2026 Exam Pattern for B.Planning (Paper 2B)
| Attribute | Details |
| Mode | CBT (Online) |
| Total Questions | 100 |
| Total Marks | 400 |
| Duration | 3 hours |
| Part I | Mathematics |
| Part II | Aptitude Test — 50 MCQs |
| Part III | Planning-Based Questions — 25 MCQs |
| Marking | +4 correct / –1 wrong / 0 unattempted |
JEE Main 2026 Syllabus
The JEE Main 2026 syllabus remains closely based on the NCERT curriculum of Classes 11 and 12, so there are no major structural surprises. The focus is still on clarity of concepts and the ability to apply them in exam conditions. Below is a concise, topic-linked overview so you know exactly what falls under each subject.
Mathematics Syllabus
Mathematics covers a wide range of scoring yet practice-intensive areas. Key topics include:
- Sets, Relations, and Functions
- Complex Numbers and Quadratic Equations
- Matrices and Determinants
- Permutations, Combinations, and Binomial Theorem
- Sequences and Series
- Limits, Continuity, and Differentiability
- Integral Calculus and Differential Equations
- Coordinate Geometry (2D) and Three-Dimensional Geometry
- Vector Algebra
- Statistics and Probability
- Trigonometry
These topics demand consistent problem-solving practice, especially for improving speed and accuracy.
Physics Syllabus
Physics combines conceptual theory with application and basic experimental understanding. Important units include:
- Units and Measurements
- Kinematics and Laws of Motion
- Work, Energy, and Power
- Rotational Motion and Gravitation
- Thermodynamics and Kinetic Theory
- Oscillations and Waves
- Electrostatics and Current Electricity
- Magnetic Effects of Current and Magnetism
- Electromagnetic Induction and Alternating Current
- Optics (Ray and Wave Optics)
- Modern Physics (Atoms, Nuclei, Dual Nature)
- Experimental skills (use of basic lab instruments and observations)
A strong grip on fundamentals is essential here, as questions often test real understanding rather than memorization.
Chemistry Syllabus
Chemistry is divided into three parts, each with a different approach:
- Physical Chemistry: Atomic Structure, Thermodynamics, Equilibrium, Solutions, Electrochemistry, Chemical Kinetics
- Inorganic Chemistry: Periodic Table, Chemical Bonding, p-block, d- and f-block Elements, Coordination Compounds
- Organic Chemistry: General Organic Chemistry (GOC), Hydrocarbons, Functional Groups, Biomolecules, Polymers
- Practical Chemistry: Basic laboratory techniques, qualitative analysis, and common preparations
Balancing numerical practice (Physical), conceptual clarity (Organic), and revision (Inorganic) is key.
Paper 2 (B.Arch & B.Plan) includes:
- Mathematics (same core topics as Paper 1)
- Aptitude Test: Logical reasoning, spatial visualization, and general awareness
- Drawing (B.Arch): Sketching, perspective, and design sense
- Planning (B.Plan): Basic knowledge of planning, maps, environment, and society
JEE Main Last 5-Year Cut-Off (2022–2026)
This cut-off refers to the minimum percentile required to qualify for JEE Advanced, not admission into NITs.
| Category | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 | 2026 |
| General (UR) | 88.4121383 | 90.7788642 | 93.2362181 | 93.1023262 | 93.4123549 |
| EWS | 63.1114141 | 75.6229025 | 81.3266634 | 82.4082726 | 82.4082726 |
| OBC-NCL | 67.0090297 | 74.3166557 | 80.3788534 | 80.0019548 | 80.9232583 |
| SC | 57.0284595 | 60.0970775 | 60.0970775 | 61.1527162 | 62.8462698 |
| ST | 45.3701397 | 48.0804695 | 46.6980811 | 47.9004841 | 49.6924917 |
| PwD | 0.0031029 | 0.0013527 | 0.0018118 | 0.0070699 | (lowest) |
The trend shows a steady rise in cut-offs, especially for the General category, which has crossed 93 percentile consistently since 2024. In 2026, it reached its highest level yet (93.41). OBC-NCL and SC/ST categories have also seen noticeable increases.
JEE Main Eligibility Criteria 2026
The National Testing Agency (NTA) has outlined the JEE Main 2026 eligibility criteria on its official website. Candidates must carefully check these conditions before applying. In general, students who have passed Class 12 in 2024 or 2025, or are appearing in 2026, are eligible to apply for the exam.
The eligibility criteria cover key factors such as educational qualification, required subjects, age limit, number of attempts, and nationality. There is no age limit for appearing in JEE Main, but candidates can attempt the exam for three consecutive years after passing Class 12.
To be eligible, candidates must have studied Physics and Mathematics, along with one additional subject like Chemistry/Biology/Technical Vocational subject in Class 12 or equivalent.
Overall, understanding these eligibility rules is important to avoid rejection during the application process and to ensure you meet all requirements set for JEE Main 2026.
JEE Main 2026 Eligibility - Overview
A quick overview of the key eligibility rules provides a clear snapshot of application eligibility and the number of attempts allowed for JEE Main 2026.
| Criteria | Details |
| Conducting Body | National Testing Agency (NTA) |
| Age Limit | No upper age limit |
| Qualifying Exam | Class 12 or equivalent |
| Eligible Passing Years | 2024, 2025, 2026 |
| Subjects Required | Physics, Mathematics + one (Chemistry/Biology/Technical) |
| Number of Attempts | 3 consecutive years |
| Sessions per Year | 2 (January & April) |
| Marks Requirement | No minimum marks for JEE Main (but required for admission) |
JEE Main Age Limit 2026
There is no upper or lower age limit for JEE Main 2026. Anyone who has passed Class 12 in 2024 or 2025, or is appearing in 2026, can apply, no matter their age. However, some institutes such as NITs, IIITs, and other colleges may have their own age rules for admission.
Nationality Criteria
Indian citizens, NRIs, OCIs, PIOs, and foreign nationals can apply for JEE Main. Nationality is not a restriction, but admission to institutes like NITs and IIITs may follow different quotas or schemes for international candidates.
No. of Attempts in JEE Main
The National Testing Agency (NTA) allows candidates to appear for JEE Main for three consecutive years, starting from the year they pass Class 12 or appear for the exam. Since JEE Main is conducted twice every year (January and April sessions), this allows a maximum of six attempts in total.
For example, if a student passes Class 12 in 2026, they can attempt JEE Main in 2026, 2027, and 2028, with two chances each year. There is no age limit, but candidates must meet the Class 12 eligibility year criteria to use all available attempts.
JEE Advanced Number of Attempts Allowed
Candidates can appear for the JEE Advanced exam a maximum of two times in two consecutive years. This means a student gets only two chances within the eligibility window after completing Class 12 or its equivalent. For example, if a candidate appears for JEE Advanced in the first eligible year, they can attempt it once more in the following year. No candidate can appear for JEE Advanced more than two times. These two attempts must be in back-to-back years, as per the official eligibility rules that have remained the same over the years.
Marks Eligibility Criteria
For admission to top engineering institutes through JEE Main, candidates must also meet the Class 12 marks criteria set by the authorities at the time of admission (not for appearing in the exam). General category candidates are required to secure at least 75% marks in Class 12 or be in the top 20 percentile of their respective board exams. For candidates belonging to SC/ST categories, the minimum requirement is 65% marks in Class 12 or top 20 percentile.
It is important to note that this marks criterion is mainly applicable for admission into institutes such as NITs, IIITs, and CFTIs. A candidate can still appear for JEE Main even if they do not meet this percentage requirement, but admission will depend on fulfilling this condition at the time of counselling.
JEE Main Class 12 Subject Requirements
For JEE Main, the Class 12 subject combination varies depending on the course a candidate is applying for. The National Testing Agency (NTA) specifies different academic requirements for B.Tech, B.Arch, and B.Plan programmes to ensure students have the right foundational knowledge.
- For B.Tech (Paper 1): Candidates must have studied Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects, along with at least one additional subject such as Chemistry, Biology, or a Technical Vocational subject.
- For B.Arch (Paper 2A): Candidates should have completed Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) as core subjects.
- For B.Plan (Paper 2B): The key requirement is Mathematics in Class 12, along with passing the qualifying examination.
State Code of Eligibility for JEE Main
The State Code of Eligibility in JEE Main refers to the state from which a candidate has passed their Class 12 (or equivalent) examination. This code is important for seat allocation under the Home State and Other State quota in institutions like NITs, IIITs, and other CFTIs.
It is crucial to understand that the state code is not based on your place of birth, residence, or domicile. Instead, it depends strictly on the location of the board or institution from where you completed your qualifying exam.
For example, if a student studies and passes Class 12 from Delhi but lives in Bihar, their state code of eligibility will be Delhi.
In specific cases:
- NIOS candidates should select the state based on the location of their study centre.
- If a candidate passes Class 12 in one state and later appears for improvement in another, the original passing state will be considered.
- Students who complete Class 12 from Nepal or Bhutan must choose their state code based on the permanent address in their passport.
- OCI/PIO candidates who pass Class 12 from India follow the same rules as Indian students, while those studying abroad are generally considered under the Other State/All India quota.
Choosing the correct state code is essential, as it directly affects admission opportunities under different quotas.
| State | Code |
| Andhra Pradesh | AP |
| Arunachal Pradesh | AL |
| Assam | AM |
| Bihar | BR |
| Chhattisgarh | CG |
| Delhi/New Delhi | DL |
| Goa | GO |
| Gujarat | GJ |
| Haryana | HR |
| Himachal Pradesh | HP |
| Jammu & Kashmir | JK |
| Jharkhand | JH |
| Karnataka | KK |
| Kerala | KL |
| Madhya Pradesh | MP |
| Maharashtra | MR |
| Manipur | MN |
| Meghalaya | MG |
| Mizoram | MZ |
| Nagaland | NL |
| Odisha | OR |
| Punjab | PB |
| Rajasthan | RJ |
| Sikkim | SM |
| Tamil Nadu | TN |
| Telangana | TL |
| Tripura | TA |
| Uttar Pradesh | UP |
| Uttarakhand | UK |
| West Bengal | WBQ~1 |
| Union Territory | Code |
| Andaman & Nicobar Islands (UT) | AN |
| Chandigarh (UT) | CH |
| Dadra & Nagar Haveli (UT) | DN |
| Daman & Diu (UT) | DD |
| Lakshadweep (UT) | LD |
| Puducherry (UT) | PO |