The National Testing Agency (NTA) has delayed the release of exact exam dates and city allotment slips for the JEE Main Session 1 exam 2026. This has caused concern among the 14.5 lakh students who have registered for the exam this year. The JEE Main Session 1 exams are scheduled to take place between January 21 and January 30, 2026. Students typically receive their specific exam dates and city details much earlier to plan their travel and stay. This year, the process is behind schedule.
Delay in Important Dates
Each year, NTA usually releases the exact exam dates for JEE Main in the first few days of January. For example, last year, the dates for Session 1 were announced on January 2. However, today, January 7, 2026, the exact dates are still not available. The official information booklet also stated that the city intimation slip would be released in the first week of January. This deadline has now passed without the slips being issued. Students are worried about last-minute problems because of this delay.
Here is a quick look at the expected timeline:
| Event | Expected Date | Current Status |
| Exact Exam Dates Announced | Early January 2026 | Delayed |
| City Intimation Slip Release | First week of January 2026 | Delayed |
| Exam Period | January 21-30, 2026 | Confirmed |
Why is There a Delay?
One main reason for the delay could be a photo verification process. NTA asked some candidates to submit a photo verification certificate. These are students who used identity proofs other than an Aadhaar Card when they applied. NTA found that the live photographs taken during the application did not match the photos available with UIDAI (the authority for Aadhaar).
These candidates must upload their photo verification certificate by January 15, 2026. This special verification step might be holding up the announcement of exam dates and city intimation slips for all students.
What to Expect Next
Even though the city slips are not yet available, NTA generated the login link to download the city intimation slip on January 6, 2026. This means that the city slips could be released very soon. Students should keep checking the official website, jeemain.nta.nic.in, for the latest updates.
City Intimation Slip
- The city intimation slip will tell you your exam date and the city where your exam centre is located.
- This slip helps you make travel and accommodation plans.
Admit Card
- The JEE Main 2026 admit card will be released about 3 to 4 days before your actual exam date.
- This card will have important details like your exam shift, reporting time at the centre, and rules to follow on the exam day.
Important Advice for Students
With the exam period nearing, students must stay calm and continue their studies. Avoid relying on unofficial news. Always check the official NTA JEE Main website, jeemain.nta.nic.in, for accurate and confirmed updates regarding your exam dates and city allotment. Keep your application number and password ready to download your city slip and admit card as soon as they are released.
