JEE Main 2026: Latest Updates as Session 1 Approaches

NTA Finalizes January Session with Revised Dates and Key Releases

On January 10, 2026, the National Testing Agency (NTA) shared important updates for JEE Main 2026, India’s leading engineering entrance exam. With Session 1 starting in just a few days, candidates should quickly complete all pre-exam steps.

NTA Adjusts Exam Schedule for Session 1

The NTA slightly changed the JEE Main 2026 Session 1 dates. The exam will now run from January 21 to January 29, 2026 instead of extending to January 30.

• Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech): January 21, 22, 23, 24, and 28, 2026 (two shifts daily: 9 AM–12 PM and 3 PM–6 PM)
• Paper 2A (B.Arch), Paper 2B (B.Planning), and combined papers: January 29, 2026

This change gives candidates a clearer timeline for preparation and travel.

Advance City Intimation Slip Now Available

On January 8, 2026, NTA released the Advance City Intimation Slip for Session 1 on jeemain.nta.nic.in. This document tells candidates their allotted exam city (not the exact centre or admit card).

To download it, candidates log in using their application number, password/date of birth, and CAPTCHA. The early release helps students arrange accommodation and travel quickly.

Admit Card Release Expected Very Soon

NTA will release the JEE Main 2026 Session 1 admit card in the next few days — most likely between January 17–18, 2026, or 3–4 days before each candidate’s exam date. The admit card shows the exact exam centre, shift timing, and important instructions.

Candidates should check jeemain.nta.nic.in regularly for the download link.

Session 2 Schedule

Students who want to improve their scores can appear in Session 2, which runs from April 2 to April 9, 2026. NTA will open registration for Session 2 later — probably in late January or February 2026.

Key Reminders and Advisories

• NTA clarified rules about virtual calculator use and photo/identity mismatches during registration.
• Candidates facing photo verification issues or using non-Aadhaar ID must submit attested certificates by January 15, 2026.
• The syllabus and exam pattern remain unchanged — they follow NCERT Class 11–12 topics for Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (Paper 1), plus Aptitude and Drawing/Planning for Paper 2.

Exam Day Essentials

NTA will conduct all papers in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode across hundreds of cities in India and selected international centres. The agency continues to ensure fair centre allocation, especially for PwD candidates.

With lakhs of students aiming for NITs, IIITs, GFTIs, and JEE Advanced eligibility, regularly visiting the official website jeemain.nta.nic.in remains essential.

Best of luck to all JEE Main 2026 aspirants! Stay updated through the official portal.