The National Testing Agency (NTA) has confirmed that calculators, both physical and virtual, are not allowed in the JEE Main 2026 exam. This clear rule follows an earlier confusion. The JEE Main 2026 brochure first mentioned that virtual calculators would be permitted. However, NTA quickly released a notice, calling it a 'typographic error'. A revised brochure now states no calculators of any kind are permitted for JEE Main.
This clarification has started a wide discussion among engineering students. Many students hold different opinions on whether calculators should be part of national entrance exams like JEE Main and JEE Advanced. To understand these views, Shiksha.com conducted a poll among students.
Students' Views on Calculators in JEE Exams
The poll asked students, "Should calculators be allowed in JEE Main and JEE Advanced?" The results show divided opinions. Here is what students said:
| Student Opinion | Percentage of Students |
| Calculators allowed only in JEE Advanced | 34% |
| Calculators allowed in both JEE Main and Advanced | 25% |
| Only virtual calculators allowed in both exams | 13% |
| Calculators allowed only for numerical questions | 7% |
| Calculators not allowed in any JEE exam | 21% |
The poll found that 34% of students believe calculators should only be used in JEE Advanced. Another large group, 25% , thinks calculators should be allowed in both JEE Main and JEE Advanced. A smaller group, 13% , suggested that only virtual calculators should be permitted in both exams. Also, 7% of students felt calculators could be allowed only for numerical questions.
Notably, 21% of students firmly said that calculators should not be allowed in either JEE Main or JEE Advanced. This indicates a strong belief among some that the exams should test basic calculation skills without any help.
Why Students Have Different Opinions
Students also explained their reasons. Sujit Karmakar , an aspirant, opposed allowing calculators. He argued it would reduce competition. He worried students would just memorise formulas instead of practicing complex calculations. He felt this could stop students from developing strong thinking skills.
In contrast, students like Bharathi Kaipu and Gunjan supported using calculators. Their support suggests many students find them practical. The overall feeling is that while many want calculators, especially in JEE Advanced, a significant number worry about negative effects. These concerns include exams becoming too hard, exam quality going down, or students' calculation skills weakening.
Important Dates for JEE Main 2026 Exams
Here are the key dates for JEE Main 2026:
- Registration for JEE Main 2026 Session 1 has closed.
- NTA will release the city intimation slip in the first week of January .
- JEE Main 2026 Session 1 exams will run from January 21 to January 30 .
- JEE Main 2026 Session 2 exams are scheduled for April 2 to April 9 .
Students must check the official website, jeemain.nta.nic.in, for all updates.
