The National Testing Agency (NTA) has made an important announcement about the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main 2026. On November 2, 2026 , the NTA confirmed that students will not be allowed to use any calculator during the exam. This rule applies to both physical calculators and any on-screen virtual calculators.
This clarification comes after some confusion. Earlier, on October 31 , the NTA had released the JEE Main 2026 information brochure. This brochure mistakenly mentioned that an on-screen calculator would be available for candidates taking the computer-based test (CBT). It also said that an 'accessibility mode' would be available.
However, the NTA has now stated that mentioning a virtual calculator in the brochure was a printing mistake. They explained that this feature belongs to a general test platform used for various exams, but it is not meant for JEE Main. So, for JEE Main 2026, there will be no calculator facility at all.
No Calculators Allowed in JEE Main 2026 Exam
According to the official notice from NTA, using a calculator in any form is completely forbidden for JEE Main 2026. This means that all students taking the exam will have to do all calculations manually. They cannot rely on any electronic device or software to help with math problems.
This update is crucial for all students preparing for the exam. It means they must strengthen their calculation skills without using any tools. Solving problems accurately and quickly by hand will be very important for scoring well in the exam.
Revised Information Bulletin Released
To fix the error and provide correct information, the NTA has uploaded a new, updated Information Bulletin for JEE Main 2026. This revised version is now available on the NTA's official website.
The NTA has advised all candidates to download and refer to this new bulletin. It contains the most accurate and latest details about the exam, including all rules and guidelines. Checking this updated document will help students avoid any misunderstandings.
The NTA also expressed its regret for the confusion caused by the first version of the bulletin. They apologized for any trouble or inconvenience this mistake may have caused to the students who are preparing for this important examination.
What This Means for Students
For students preparing for JEE Main 2026, this announcement has clear implications:
- Manual Calculations: You must practice solving mathematical and physics problems using only your brain and pen and paper.
- Mental Math: Improve your mental math skills to quickly solve simple calculations.
- Speed and Accuracy: Focus on increasing both your speed and accuracy in calculations without relying on any external tools.
- Mock Tests: When taking mock tests, make sure you do not use any calculator. This will help you get used to the real exam conditions.
The Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main is one of the most competitive exams in India. It is taken by lakhs of students every year who wish to get admission into top engineering colleges like the National Institutes of Technology (NITs), Indian Institutes of Information Technology (IIITs), and other Government Funded Technical Institutes (GFTIs). Being well-prepared for all exam rules, especially regarding calculations, is a key part of success.
Students should visit the NTA official website regularly for any further updates and to download the latest information bulletin. This will ensure they have all the correct details needed for their JEE Main 2026 preparation.
