JEE Mains 2026 registration has started, but many students are facing difficulties with the new live photo capture and Aadhaar e-KYC system. The National Testing Agency (NTA) introduced these changes to make the application process smoother. However, for many, it has become a barrier.
Registration for the Session 1 exam began on October 31 . During the online application, students must take a live photo using their computer's camera. This photo is then automatically checked against the picture saved in their Aadhaar database to confirm their identity. If the live photo does not match the Aadhaar photo, the student cannot move forward with the application.
The Main Problem: Aadhaar Photo Mismatch
The core issue is a mismatch between the student's current appearance in the live photo and the photo on their Aadhaar card. This can happen if the Aadhaar photo is very old or if the student's appearance has changed significantly. When such a mismatch occurs, the online system stops the application process. Students are not given an easy option within the portal to fix this problem, leaving many worried and unable to complete their JEE Mains registration.
The Solution: Update Your Aadhaar Photo
For students facing this photo mismatch problem, there is currently only one main solution: they must update their photo on their Aadhaar card. This involves visiting an Aadhaar update centre. By getting a new, recent photo on their Aadhaar card, students can ensure that it matches their current appearance. Once the Aadhaar photo is updated, they should be able to complete the live photo capture step and fill out the JEE Mains application form successfully.
Other Important Changes for JEE Main 2026
Apart from the live photo capture and Aadhaar e-KYC, the NTA has made several other key changes for JEE Main 2026. These updates aim to improve fairness, transparency, and access for all candidates:
- Aadhaar e-KYC in Registration: This new system uses your Aadhaar details to verify your name, address, date of birth, and gender electronically. It helps confirm your identity quickly and accurately.
- Increased Exam Centres: The number of exam cities has been increased to 323 . This means more options for students to choose an exam center closer to their home.
- Aadhaar-Based Exam Centre Allotment: NTA will now decide your exam city based on the permanent or current address linked to your Aadhaar card. This change is meant to make the allocation of centers fairer and reduce travel for students.
- Assistive Digital Tools for PwD Candidates: Students with disabilities (PwD/PwBD) will now have better tools. The magnifier function in the computer-based test will zoom up to four times, and students can switch between normal and dark screen modes. This makes the exam more accessible and comfortable.
- No Calculator Allowed: Students should note that calculators are strictly not allowed in JEE Mains 2026. This rule has been clearly stated in the updated brochure.
- Mandatory Aadhaar and Digilocker Verification: To ensure proper identity verification, both Aadhaar and Digilocker verification are now compulsory during the registration process.
JEE Main 2026 Exam Dates
The JEE Main 2026 exam will be held in two sessions:
| Session 1 | January 21 to January 30 |
| Session 2 | April 2 to April 9 |
Students should check all details carefully and ensure their Aadhaar information is up-to-date to avoid problems during registration.
