The National Testing Agency (NTA) prescribe certain general guidelines to be followed by candidates appearing for the JEE Main session 2 2026.
These guidelines ensure a fair and transparent examination process to uphold the integrity of the institution.
- JEE Main 2026 is a highly secure computer-based test which follows strict protocols, such as the requirement that candidates should reach the exam centre at least 2 hours before the exam time.
- Some items have been restricted to avoid malpractices and cheating, such as electronic devices, watches, Jewellery and calculators, etc.
- Diabetic candidates get some relaxation in the restricted items, as they can carry transparent water bottles, simple fruits and sugar/glucose tablets.
In 2025, biometric mismatches or Aadhar linkage issues caused entry problems for hundreds of candidates, creating stress and anxiety. Many candidates faced issues during entry because of unavailability of the signed self-declaration.
With 96.26% attendance in the 2026 JEE Main session 1, nearly ~10 lakh candidates are expected to appear in JEE Main 2026 session 2.
Related Articles:
- JEE Main session 2 Admit Card Live Updates
- JEE Main Self-Declaration Form
- JEE Main City Intimation Slip
Key Summary
- NTA has clarified that no virtual/on-screen calculator will be available, as the use of calculators is not permitted in any form.
- A rough sheet will be provided for calculations and writing work.
- Post-restroom frisking is mandatory for all to prevent hidden notes/devices.
- Candidates must undergo fingerprint and photo biometrics before attempting the paper.
- NTA will not be responsible for any kind of loss of items left outside the exam hall. Candidates should avoid carrying valuable items with them to the examination centre.
What are the JEE Main 2026 Session 2 Exam Day Guidelines?
The JEE Main Exam Day Guidelines are released by NTA for the proper conduct of the JEE Main Exam, including the document verification, security check, and exit procedure.
The Exam Day guidelines will ensure proper and fair conduct of the exam at all exam centres.
JEE Main 2026 Session 2 Exam Day Guidelines: Highlights
| Guideline Category | What Candidates Must Follow |
|---|---|
| Reporting Time | Reach the exam centre as per the reporting time mentioned on the admit card; late entry after the gate closing is not allowed |
| Mandatory Documents | Printed JEE Main 2026 admit card, original photo ID proof, passport-size photograph (matching application) |
| Biometric Verification | Fingerprint and facial authentication is compulsory before entry into the exam hall |
| Dress Code | Light clothing without metal parts; no belts, jewellery, watches, caps; prefer open sandals or slippers |
| Allowed Items | Admit card, ID proof, photograph, transparent pen and rough sheets are provided at the center. |
| Restricted Items | Mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators, bags, wallets, books, and personal stationery |
| Special Provisions | Diabetic candidates may carry sugar tablets/fruits; Paper 2 candidates can bring approved drawing tools |
| During the Exam | Sit only at the allotted seat, follow the invigilator's instructions, and maintain silence and discipline |
| Exit Rules | Candidates are not allowed to leave the exam hall before the exam concludes |
JEE Main 2026 Exam Dates
The NTA has released the JEE Main 2026 Session 2 Exam dates. The NTA has also released the JEE Main Admit Card and city intimation slips for candidates.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Admit Card Release (Session 2) | 29 March, 2026 (Out) |
| JEE Main 2026 Exam – Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech) | 02, 04, 05, 06, and 8th April 2026 |
| JEE Main 2026 Exam – Paper 2 (B.Arch/B.Planning) | 7th April, 2026 |
| City Intimation Slip Release | 21 March 2026 (Out) |
| Result Declaration (Expected) | By 20 April, 2026 |
Also Check: JEE Main Session 2 Exam Dates 2026
JEE Main 2026: Exam Timings
NTA will be conducting the JEE Main 2026 session 2 at different centres located in various cities throughout the country and 15 cities outside India.
The exam timings for session 2 are given below:
| Exam date | Paper | Shift timings |
|---|---|---|
| 02 and 04 April 2026 | Paper 1 (B.E./B. Tech) | First Shift (09:00 A.M. to 12:00 Noon) Second Shift (03:00 P.M. to 06:00 P.M.) |
| 05, 06, 07, and 08 April 2026 | Paper 1 (B.E./B. Tech)Paper 2A (B. Arch)Paper 2B (B. Planning) Paper 2A & 2B Both | First Shift (09:00 A.M. to 12:00 Noon) Second Shift (03:00 P.M. to 06:00/06.30 P.M.) |
Source: JEE Main Official Notice
Detailed Schedule of the Examination
Source: JEE Main Information Bulletin 2026
| Note: A compensatory time of 20 minutes for a one-hour examination will be given to those PwD/PwBD candidates who are eligible for scribe. |
JEE Main 2026: General Instructions
The general guidelines or instructions released by the NTA in the official information bulletin for JEE Main 2026 are given below:
- Students are advised to report to the exam centre well on time i.e 02 hours before the commencement of the exam.
- If the candidates do not report before the closing time for any reason, they will not be permitted to appear in the examination.
- The candidates must show the admit card for admission into the examination hall.
- For any query regarding the computer-based test, the candidates may contact the helpline numbers given above.
- Those candidates who are unable to appear on the scheduled date/shift for any reason will not be provided any opportunity for a re-test.
- Candidates shall appear at their own cost at the examination centre.
- Under no circumstances should the choice of cities for the centre and shift provided in the admit card be changed.
- Candidates are advised to update their details on the Aadhar card for verification at the exam centre.
- Sikh candidates are permitted to wear their religious articles, i.e., Kara and Kirpan.
Will rough worksheets be provided during the exam?
Yes, all calculations/writing work is to be done only in the Rough Sheet provided at the Test Centre in the Examination Room/Hall, and on the completion of the test, candidates must hand over the Rough Sheets to the Invigilator on duty in the Room/Hall.
JEE Main 2026: Documents Required on Exam Day
Candidates must carry the following documents on the exam day at the test centre. Without these documents, candidates will not be allowed to appear for the examination.
- A hard copy of the admit card
- Self-declaration (Undertaking) downloaded from the NTA website, duly filled in.
- One passport-sized photograph (same as uploaded in the application form).
- Any one of the authorized photo IDs.
- PwD/PwBD certificate (if applicable)
- A simple transparent ball-point pen.
Source: JEE Main Information Bulletin 2026
Also Check: JEE Main 2026 Session 2 Exam Centres
JEE Main 2026: Dress Code
NTA does not prescribe a specific dress code for the JEE Main. However, to ensure a fair and transparent exam process, it prescribes certain general guidelines. Given below are the guidelines to be followed by the students regarding the JEE Main dress code 2026:
- Candidates should wear light and comfortable clothing that does not have large buttons, badges, or thick fabrics.
- Half-sleeve shirts or T-shirts are recommended to ensure a smooth check during entry.
- Sleeveless or transparent clothing is not allowed.
- Full-Sleeve T-Shirts/Shirts: If worn, they should be thin and lightweight.
- Avoid Shoes: Wear simple sandals or slippers without thick soles. Shoes with large heels, platforms, or belts should be avoided.
- Jewelry and Accessories: No jewelry or metallic accessories (such as rings, necklaces, bracelets, earrings, etc.) are allowed inside the examination hall.
- Watches: Electronic watches, smartwatches, and any other electronic devices are strictly prohibited.
- Caps/Hats: Candidates should not wear caps or hats during the examination.
- Face Masks: Candidates are required to wear face masks as per safety protocols.
JEE Main 2026: Admit Card Instructions
The e-admit card will be issued to the candidates through the NTA website jeemain.nta.nic.in, subject to fulfillment of the eligibility criteria and receipt of the application fee.
The candidate will have to appear in the exam on the date and shift/time allotted to them on their admit card.
In case a candidate is unable to download his/her admit card from the website, or in case of any discrepancy in the candidate's particulars, the candidate may approach the NTA Helpline:
| Helpline Number | 01169227700, 011-40759000 |
| Email ID | [email protected] |
- The admit card will not be sent by post.
- In no case will the duplicate admit card be issued at the exam centre for JEE Main 2026.
- The candidate must not mutilate or change any entry made in the admit card. Any intentional act of tampering with the admit card will be considered as UFM.
- No admit card will be issued to candidates whose applications are found to be incomplete or who do not fulfill the eligibility criteria.
- The mere issue of the admit card shall not necessarily mean acceptance of the eligibility for the exam.
- Candidates who do not possess a valid admit card and photo ID shall not be permitted to take the examination under any circumstances.
- Candidates are requested to retain both soft and hard copies of the admit card as the same will not be available after 31 July 2026.
Source: JEE Main Official Notice
JEE Main 2026: Prohibited and Allowed Items
NTA has released the list of prohibited and allowed items along with the JEE Main official information bulletin 2026. The list of prohibited and allowed items is given below:
| Allowed Items | Prohibited Items |
|---|---|
| Admit card | Instruments |
| Valid Photo ID | Geometry or Pencil box |
| Passport-sized photo | Handbag |
| Simple transparent ball-point pen | Purse |
| Any kind of Paper/Stationery/ Textual material (printed or written material) | |
| Eatables and Water (loose or packed) | |
| Mobile Phone/ Earphone/ Microphone/ Pager | |
| Calculator | |
| Any metallic item or electronic gadgets/ devices | |
| Camera and Tape Recorder | |
| Electronic Watches with calculator facilities |
JEE Main 2026: Exam Hall Instructions
NTA has released certain exam hall instructions that the candidates should follow after entering the exam hall:
- Candidates should take their seats immediately after entering the Examination Hall.
- A seat indicating Roll Number will be allotted to each candidate. Candidates should find and sit in their allocated seats only.
- In case a candidate ventures to change his/her seat and does not sit on the allotted seat, the act will be considered as UFM, and he/she may face cancellation of candidature or debarment as per the relevant clause of UFM.
- The candidate should ensure that the Question Paper available on the computer is as per the subject opted for by the candidate. In case the subject of the question paper is other than the opted subject, the candidate should inform the invigilator.
JEE Main 2026:Unfair Means Practices
As per the official information bulletin published by NTA for JEE Main 2026, Unfair means practices refer to any activity that allows a candidate to gain an unfair advantage over other candidates.
It refers to actions by a candidate that violate Examination rules and compromise the integrity, fairness, or confidentiality of the Exam.
| Unfair Means Practices |
| Owning any prohibited item or article, including stationery, communication devices, eatables, ornaments, or any material related to the examination. |
| Using someone else to write the examination (impersonation) or preparing material for copying. |
| Breaching examination rules or failing to follow any directions issued by NTA in connection with the JEE (Main) - 2026 examination. |
| Assisting or receiving assistance from others, directly or indirectly, during the examination. |
| Communicating or attempting to communicate with anyone other than the Examination Staff during the exam. |
| Threatening examination officials or other candidates. |
| Using or attempting to use any undesirable method during the examination. |
| Manipulation or fabrication of online or physical documents like Admit Card, Self-Declaration, scorecard, certificates, etc. |
| Forcefully entering or exiting the Examination Centre/Hall. |
| Using or attempting to use any electronic device after entering the Examination Centre. |
| Affixing/uploading incorrect or morphed photographs/signatures on the Application Form/Admit Card. |
| Creating obstacles that interfere with the smooth and fair conduct of the examination. |
| Not attempting the question paper for long intervals. |
| Trying to hack the system, possession/use of USBs, cheating through screen recording, logging in with another person’s credentials or fake ID, etc. |
| Passing the rough paper with scribbling. |
| Fidgeting, looking around, or behaving suspiciously. |
| In possession of bits of paper or unauthorized written material. |
| Producing/uploading a manipulated Disability Certificate/ Medical Certificate or Documents. |
| Any other actions declared as Unfair Means by NTA. |
| Candidates with more than one Application Number or multiple SCORE CARDS will be treated as UFM, even if found at a later stage. |
| Any offence is punishable under the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024. |
During the examination process, if a candidate indulges in any of the above practices, he/she will be booked under the UFM. A committee will be constituted to review all UFM cases.
The candidate may be debarred for up to 3 years in the future and shall also be liable for criminal action and /or any other action as deemed fit by NTA.
The result of JEE Main 2026 of the candidates who indulge in Unfair Means Practices will be cancelled and will not be declared.
JEE Main 2026: FAQs
Ques. If I reach 10 minutes late due to a traffic jam, will I be allowed to enter the exam centre?
Ans. No, you will not be allowed to enter the exam centre as NTA has strict rules without any kind of relaxation given to anyone under any circumstances.
Ques. Can girls wear Hijab/patka/turban/Kara during the exam?
Ans. Yes, religious attires are permitted after thorough checking during the entry. Hence, these candidates should report 30 minutes early for sensitive frisking and to avoid any delays.
Ques. Do kara and kirpan allowed for sikh candidates?
Ans. Yes, NTA has specifically mentioned in the official brochure that kara and kirpan are allowed for sikh candidates.
Ques. Can I carry a black pen to the exam hall?
Ans. No, only a simple and transparent ball-point pen is allowed in the JEE Main 2026.
Ques. If I finish early, can I leave the examination hall before 3 hours?
Ans. No, every candidate must stay in the exam hall as leaving the exam hall is strictly prohibited.
Ques. What happens if my biometric fingerprint doesn’t match at the exam centre?
Ans. Usually, the candidates will be allowed provisional entry with later verification. However, in rare cases, it is to be reported to NTA for investigation.
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