The National Testing Agency (NTA) has announced important changes for students applying for the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main 2026. These new rules affect how students will register and fill out their online application forms. Students planning to take the JEE Main exam in 2026 must understand these updates carefully to avoid any problems.
Key changes include the introduction of a mandatory live photo upload and specific requirements for other documents. The NTA has also made it clear that there will be no chance to correct uploaded documents later, so accuracy is very important from the start.
How to Apply for JEE Main 2026: Step-by-Step Guide
The application process for JEE Main 2026 is divided into three main steps:
- Registration
- Filling the Application Form
- Fee Payment
1. Registration Form
First, all students need to register on the official JEE Main website. During this step, you will create a unique Application Number. You will also set up a password and choose a security question for future logins. This Application Number will be important and will work for both exam sessions of JEE Main 2026.
2. Filling the Application Form
After registering, students can log in using their Application Number and the password they created. This is where you will fill in all your detailed information.
- You need to enter your personal details, like your name, father's name, mother's name, and contact information.
- You will also provide your academic details, such as your school and qualification information.
- Students must choose their preferred exam cities where they wish to take the test.
- A major new step is uploading your documents and a **live photograph**.
Mandatory Live Photograph Upload
For the first time, NTA requires a **live photograph**. This means you cannot upload an old photo. You must capture your picture directly using a webcam on your computer or a mobile phone camera. To use a mobile phone, you can scan a QR code provided on the application portal. Ensure your face is clearly visible, without a mask, and the background is white.
Required Documents and Their Specifications
Students must upload specific documents in the correct format and size. It is vital to check these details before uploading.
| Document | Format | Size |
| Recent passport-size photograph (80% face visible, no mask, white background) | JPG/JPEG | 10-200 kb |
| Signature | JPG/JPEG | 10-100 kb |
| Class 10 Certificate/Marksheet | 50-300 kb | |
| Identity Proof (if not using Aadhaar/DigiLocker) | JPG/JPEG | 10-200 kb |
| PwD/UDID Certificate (if applicable) | 50-300 kb |
The NTA has stated clearly that there will be **no correction window** for uploaded documents or photographs. If you upload incorrect or tampered documents, it will be treated as Unfair Means (UFM) and could lead to strict action. Therefore, double-check all uploads carefully.
Students are also advised to ensure their Aadhaar details are updated. This includes your photo, name, date of birth, gender, and address. Keeping your Aadhaar details current can help avoid any issues during the application process.
3. Fee Payment
The final step is to pay the examination fee. This must be done online using options like Credit Card, Debit Card, Net Banking, or UPI. Please note that processing charges and Goods and Services Tax (GST) will be added to the fee and must be paid by the student.
Once your payment is successful, you must download and save the **Confirmation Page**. This page is proof that you have successfully submitted your application for JEE Main 2026.
Key Highlights of the New Guidelines
- A **live photograph upload** is now mandatory.
- **Aadhaar verification** is highly recommended to prevent any mismatches in details.
- There will be **no correction window** for any documents or photos once uploaded.
- For students with disabilities, PwD details will be **automatically checked** and verified using the UDID portal.
Students should read the official NTA guidelines thoroughly before starting their application to ensure they follow all new requirements correctly.