But before strategy, mocks, or percentile maths, there’s one gate you must cross: Eligibility. If you’re unsure whether you can apply, this guide breaks down the JEE Main eligibility criteria 2026 session 2.
What Is JEE Main Session 2?
JEE Main is conducted twice a year by NTA.
- Session 1: January
- Session 2: April
The April session allows students to:
- Improve January scores
- Appear for the first time
- Reduce pressure with a second chance
But eligibility rules stay strict. And they matter.
JEE Main Eligibility Criteria 2026 Session 2: Qualifying Year
Let’s start with the most decisive rule: passing year. To meet the JEE Main eligibility criteria 2026 session 2, you must be in one of these categories:
- Passed Class 12 in 2024
- Passed Class 12 in 2025 (droppers)
- Appearing for Class 12 in 2026
If you passed Class 12 in 2023 or earlier, you are not eligible. This qualifying-year rule is fixed by the NTA and cannot be relaxed. This rule is officially known as the JEE Main Qualifying Year criterion.
Subject Requirements (Paper-Wise Eligibility)
The JEE Main 2026 eligibility criteria also depend on which paper you apply for.
Paper 1 – B.E./B.Tech
Mandatory subjects in Class 12:
- Physics
- Mathematics
- One of: Chemistry / Biology / Biotechnology / Technical Vocational
Paper 2A – B.Arch
Mandatory subjects:
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
Paper 2B – B.Planning
Mandatory subject:
- Mathematics
Choose the paper carefully. Subject mismatch = rejection.
Minimum Marks vs Admission Rules: Clear the Confusion
This is where students panic. Don’t.
To appear for the exam
There is no minimum percentage requirement. A pass in Class 12 is enough.
For admission to top institutes
Here the rules change.
For NIT/IIIT Admission Eligibility, you must have:
- 75% aggregate (General / OBC-NCL / EWS)
- 65% aggregate (SC / ST / PwD)
OR qualify through the Top 20 Percentile Rule of your board.
Note: The JEE Main top 20 percentile criteria requires Class 12 students to be in the top 20% of their specific board’s examinees. This can be alongside or instead of the 75% aggregate mark rule (65% for SC/ST) to qualify for NITs/IIITs/GFTIs. These percentile cutoffs are set by JoSAA annually. They vary by board (like CBSE, ISC, or state boards) and category. They are released as specific marks. The candidates will be needing a certificate from their board if their board isn’t listed or for verification.
This distinction is a core part of the JEE Main eligibility criteria 2026 session 2 and is often misunderstood.
JEE Main 2026 Age Limit: Is There Any?
Short answer: No.
There is no age restriction. The JEE Main 2026 Age Limit does not exist. If you meet the qualifying year rule, age won’t stop you.
Number of Attempts for JEE Main
You are allowed to appear:
- For three consecutive years after passing Class 12
- Twice each year (January + April)
That means the Number of attempts for JEE Main is six in total. Session 2 is often used to improve ranks and smart students use it well.
State Code of Eligibility: Small Detail, Big Impact
Your State Code of Eligibility depends on:
- The state where you passed Class 12
Not your birthplace. Not your permanent address.
Choose this carefully during form filling.
JEE Main Registration for April Session
All registrations are handled online through NTA JEE Main Registration.
Key points:
- JEE Main Registration Window for Session 2 opens after JEE Main Session 1
- Apply only on jeemain.nta.nic.in (Official Website)
No offline forms. No shortcuts.
JEE Main April 2026 Exam Dates (Expected)
As per official planning:
- Exam window: April 2 to April 9, 2026
These are the tentative JEE Main April 2026 Exam Dates and may vary slightly by paper and shift.
Why JEE Main Eligibility Criteria 2026 Session 2 Matters More Than You Think
Missing eligibility doesn’t just cancel an attempt. It can cancel:
- Counselling
- Seat allotment
- Institute admission
Understanding the JEE Main eligibility criteria 2026 session 2 early helps you:
- Avoid form rejection
- Plan boards + JEE smartly
- Target the right colleges
Eligibility is not a formality. It’s the foundation.
How Aakash Helps Students Prepare for JEE Main Session 2
At Aakash, preparation is never guesswork. Students are guided with:
- Eligibility-aware counselling
- Session-wise preparation plans
- Exam-pattern-aligned mock tests
- Deep analysis to improve January scores for April
- Focused mentoring on weak topics
The goal isn’t just to appear. It’s to convert attempts into ranks.
FAQs: JEE Main Eligibility Criteria 2026 Session 2
Q1. Can I apply for JEE Main 2026 April attempt if I missed January?
Yes. Session 2 is open even if you didn’t appear in Session 1.
Q2. Is the JEE Main eligibility criteria 2026 session 2 different from Session 1?
No. Eligibility rules remain the same for both sessions.
Q3. Does the 75% rule apply to writing the exam?
No. It applies only during admissions to NITs, IIITs, and CFTIs.
Q4. How many attempts can I make in one year?
Two attempts as there are two sessions: January and April.
Q5. Where can I check official updates?
All official notifications are released on jeemain.nta.nic.in.
