JEE Main 2026: Session 2 Dates Changed, Registration Open for S1

The National Testing Agency (NTA), the body that conducts major entrance exams in India, has announced important updates for the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main 2026. These updates include a change in exam dates for Session 2 and new rules for the application process. JEE Main is a crucial exam for students aspiring to join top engineering colleges across India.

Currently, registration for JEE Main 2026 Session 1 has started. Students who wish to appear for the first session must complete their application by November 27, 2025 . It is important to apply before this deadline.

JEE Main 2026 Exam Dates Updated

The dates for JEE Main 2026 Session 2 have been changed by the NTA. Earlier, Session 2 was scheduled to take place from April 1 to April 10. Now, the exam for Session 2 will be held from April 2 to April 9, 2026 . Students should make a note of this revised schedule for their preparations.

There are no changes to the exam dates for JEE Main 2026 Session 1 . This session will be conducted as planned from January 21 to January 30, 2026 . The NTA holds the JEE Main exam in two sessions each year. This gives students two chances to get a good score for admission to B.E./B.Tech courses.

How to Apply for JEE Main 2026 Session 1

The application form for JEE Main 2026 Session 1 is now available. Students can apply online through the official JEE Main website: jeemain.nta.nic.in . The last date to submit the application form is November 27, 2025 . It is advised to complete the application process well before the closing date to avoid any technical problems.

Steps to Complete Your Online Application:

• Step 1: Visit the Official Website - Go to jeemain.nta.nic.in using a computer or laptop.
• Step 2: Start New Registration - Look for the link that says 'JEE Main 2026 Registration' or 'New Candidate Registration'. Click on it to start.
• Step 3: Fill Basic Details - Provide your name, parent's name, date of birth, mobile number, and email ID to create your account. You will get an application number.
• Step 4: Log In - Use your application number and the password you created to log in to the portal.
• Step 5: Fill the Application Form - Carefully fill in all the required information, including your educational details, preferred exam cities, and other personal information.
• Step 6: Upload Photographs - This year, you need to upload two types of photos: a live photograph taken using your webcam, and a scanned copy of your passport-size photograph. Make sure both are clear.
• Step 7: Upload Documents - Upload scanned copies of your signature, Class 10 marksheet, and any other necessary certificates (like identity proof or disability certificate) as per the new size rules mentioned below.
• Step 8: Pay Application Fee - Pay the exam fee online using a debit card, credit card, or net banking.
• Step 9: Review and Submit - Before final submission, check all the details you have entered. Make sure everything is correct.
• Step 10: Print Confirmation - After successful submission, download and print the confirmation page for your records.

New Changes in Application Process

For JEE Main 2026, the NTA has introduced new steps for uploading photographs to ensure better identification and security:

• Live Photograph Upload: Candidates must now take and upload a 'live photograph' directly through the application portal using a webcam on their computer or laptop. This photo is taken at the moment you are filling the form.
• Scanned Photograph Upload: In addition to the live photo, students will also need to upload a scanned image of their recent passport-size photograph. This is similar to previous years but now required alongside the live photo.

Updated Document Size Requirements

The NTA has also changed the required file sizes for scanned documents that need to be uploaded. Students must ensure their documents meet these specific sizes to avoid any issues with their application:

It is important to scan your documents clearly and adjust their file sizes accurately according to these new rules. Applications with incorrect document sizes might not be accepted.

Important Exam Day Details for JEE Main

Students preparing for JEE Main 2026 should be aware of these key points about the exam structure:

• The total duration of the JEE Main exam is 3 hours .
• The exam is conducted without any breaks. Students must enter the exam hall at the scheduled time and can only leave after the paper is completed.
• The exam will have a total of 75 questions . These questions are divided among three main subjects: Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
• Physical calculators are not allowed inside the exam centre. However, a virtual calculator will be provided and available on the computer screen for students to use during the exam.

Students are strongly advised to regularly visit the official JEE Main website, jeemain.nta.nic.in , for all the latest updates, detailed information, and official notices.