Official NTA Update
JEE Main 2026
Session 1: January · Session 2: April
NTA Rolls Out Major Permanent Changes for JEE Main 2026
The National Testing Agency has implemented sweeping updates across security, exam structure, centre allocation and eligibility rules for both JEE Main 2026 sessions. Here is everything that changed — and what it means for your preparation.
Security upgrades
Structure changes
Centre allocation
Eligibility rules
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Section 1
Enhanced Security & Registration Changes
Mandatory Live Photo Capture
Pre-existing passport photos are no longer accepted during online registration. Candidates must capture a live photo using a webcam or by scanning a QR code with their phone at the time of registration.
APAAR ID Integration
The Academic Bank of Credits (APAAR) ID is now integrated into the registration system to securely link a candidate's academic records to their JEE profile.
Biometric Integrity at Exam Centres
Enhanced digital frisking, AI-driven CCTV surveillance , and mandatory advanced biometric check-ins are now active at all exam venues. Non-Aadhaar-verified candidates must arrive at least 1 hour early for additional verification.
Action required: Ensure your Aadhaar is verified and linked well before registration opens. Non-verified candidates face longer queues and strict additional checks at the venue.
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Section 2
Core Exam Structure & Tool Upgrades
Strictly 75 Mandatory Questions
Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech) is locked at exactly 75 questions — 25 each for Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. This is now a permanent structure, not a session-specific decision.
No Choice in Section B — All 5 Are Compulsory
The historic option to attempt "5 out of 10" numerical questions in Section B is permanently removed. Section B now contains exactly 5 numerical questions per subject and all 5 must be answered. There is no skip option.
On-Screen Calculator — New Feature
For the first time, a basic virtual on-screen calculator is available during the exam. It supports addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, percentages, and square roots for numerical response items.
All-Inclusive Negative Marking
An incorrect answer in any section — including Section B numerical response items — now results in a –1 mark deduction . Previously, Section B carried no negative marking. This changes the risk calculus for numerical questions entirely.
Strategy shift: With negative marking on Section B and no choice of questions, wild guessing on numericals is now costly. Accuracy and concept depth matter more than ever — prioritise understanding over speed in your mock practice.
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Section 3
Centre Allocation & Eligibility Adjustments
Expanded Centre Network
The NTA has integrated 32 new local exam centres while retiring 4 older facilities. The expansion is aimed at reducing regional travel burden, particularly for candidates in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.
Tie-Breaking Rules Completely Revised
Age and application timestamp factors have been fully eliminated as tie-breakers. Ties are now resolved using strict subject-wise performance metrics — for example, Mathematics percentile rank is prioritised. This is a significant change for candidates in close-rank situations.
Note for tied candidates: Subject-level performance now determines rank in tie situations. Consistent accuracy across all three subjects — not just your strong ones — has become a rank-determining factor at the margin.
What this means for your preparation
Numericals just got harder to avoid No optional Section B questions + negative marking means you must be fully prepared on all 5 numericals per subject. No blanking allowed.
Aadhaar verification is now critical Non-verified candidates face extra queues and earlier arrival requirements. Sort your Aadhaar linkage before registration opens.
Mathematics accuracy is a rank variable The new tie-breaking system prioritises Mathematics percentile. Weak maths can now cost you rank even if your aggregate is competitive.
Practice with the on-screen calculator Don't assume mental maths will be faster. Practise using the virtual calculator in mock environments before exam day to avoid time loss.
Practice under the new rules before the exam does.
EduBlast Testbee mocks are updated for the JEE Main 2026 structure — 75 mandatory questions, Section B negative marking, and on-screen calculator included.
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