The National Testing Agency (NTA) conducts the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main every year for engineering aspirants across India. Lakhs of students appear for this highly competitive exam to secure admission in top engineering institutes such as the IITs, NITs, and IIITs. For the JEE Main 2026, Session 1 will be held from January 21 to 30, 2026, and Session 2 from April 1 to 10, 2026.
Before entering the exam hall, students must adhere to several important rules — one of the most crucial being the JEE Main 2026 Dress Code. The dress code ensures fairness, transparency, and security during the examination process.
Let’s go through the complete details of the JEE Main dress code 2026 for male and female candidates, including what to wear, what not to wear, and the official NTA guidelines.
Why JEE Main 2026 Dress Code Is Important
The NTA dress code for JEE Main 2026 is designed to maintain security, prevent malpractices, and ensure a smooth examination process. Each candidate must pass through a metal detector and frisking process before entering the exam hall.
To avoid any delay or disqualification, students must wear simple and light clothing without metallic items or accessories. Following the prescribed dress code not only helps students avoid unnecessary stress on exam day but also ensures compliance with NTA rules.
General JEE Main 2026 Dress Code Guidelines
According to the NTA, there is no official uniform for JEE Main, but students are expected to follow certain do’s and don’ts. Below are the general guidelines applicable to all candidates:
Do’s
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Wear light, comfortable clothes made of cotton or breathable fabric.
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Wear slippers, floaters, or sandals instead of shoes.
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Carry your admit card, photo ID, and a passport-size photograph.
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Cooperate during security frisking and verification.
Don’ts
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Avoid wearing shoes with thick soles or clothes with large buttons.
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Do not wear jewellery, watches, caps, or metallic items.
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Avoid clothes with metal zippers, badges, or decorative accessories.
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Do not carry mobile phones, calculators, or electronic devices inside the exam centre.
JEE Main Dress Code 2026 for Male Candidates
The JEE Main 2026 dress code for male candidates focuses on simplicity and comfort. Since frisking is mandatory, wearing metallic or heavy clothing may lead to unnecessary delays.
Here’s what male students should follow:
What to Wear (Allowed)
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Light and plain shirts or T-shirts without any pockets or decorations.
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Simple trousers or jeans without metal chains or zippers.
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Open footwear such as slippers, sandals, or floaters.
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Light cotton clothes suitable for the season.
What Not to Wear (Prohibited)
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Shoes with thick soles or sports shoes.
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Belts, caps, scarves, or mufflers.
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Clothes with metallic zippers, badges, or buttons.
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Any form of jewellery, including rings, chains, or bracelets.
Tip for Boys:
Wear half-sleeve shirts and comfortable trousers to pass the security checks easily. Avoid tight or layered clothing that may delay frisking.
JEE Main Dress Code 2026 for Female Candidates
The JEE Main 2026 dress code for female candidates is also designed to ensure security and comfort. NTA advises female students to wear simple and light-coloured clothes and avoid anything that contains metallic elements or embroidery.
What to Wear (Allowed)
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Simple salwar-kameez, jeans with T-shirt, or tops.
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Light and comfortable cotton fabric clothing.
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Flat sandals or slippers (avoid shoes).
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Hair should be tied simply, without metallic clips or pins.
What Not to Wear (Prohibited)
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Clothes with heavy embroidery or metallic designs.
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Dupatta, scarf, or stole (security may ask to remove these).
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Jewellery such as earrings, bangles, rings, anklets, or nose pins.
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Metallic hairpins, clips, or rubber bands. Use plastic ones instead.
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Shoes or heels with thick soles.
Tip for Girls:
Keep your attire as simple as possible. Avoid decorative items, heavy accessories, or extra layers of clothing. It’s best to wear slippers for a smooth security process.
Is Jeans Allowed in JEE Main 2026?
Yes, jeans are allowed in JEE Main 2026 for both boys and girls — but with a few restrictions.
Conditions for Wearing Jeans:
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Jeans must be plain, simple, and light in colour.
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Avoid jeans with metal zips, buttons, or decorative studs.
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Tight jeans are not recommended since candidates need to sit for three hours during the exam.
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Choose light denim or cotton jeans for comfort.
The key is to maintain comfort and simplicity so that the frisking process is quick and hassle-free.
JEE Main 2026 Dress Code: Footwear Guidelines
Footwear is an important part of the JEE Main dress code. According to the NTA, students should not wear shoes with thick soles or heels as they may contain metallic elements or create inconvenience during checking.
Allowed Footwear
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Slippers
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Floaters
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Flat sandals
Not Allowed Footwear
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Sports shoes
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Formal shoes
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High heels
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Boots or shoes with thick soles
Tip:
Opt for open footwear for faster security clearance. Avoid socks if possible, unless required for comfort or health reasons.
JEE Main 2026 Dress Code: Jewellery, Accessories, and Metallic Items
The NTA has clearly stated that no metallic items should be carried or worn inside the examination hall. This applies to both male and female candidates.
Prohibited Items Include:
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Jewellery (rings, earrings, chains, bangles, anklets, etc.)
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Metal clips, pins, belts, and watches
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Wallets or purses
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Mobile phones, calculators, or any electronic gadgets
Carrying any of these prohibited items may result in cancellation of candidature or disqualification from the exam.
JEE Main 2026 Dress Code: Religious and Health Exceptions
NTA respects the religious and medical requirements of candidates. However, such students should report early to the exam centre to allow for additional security checks.
For Religious Dress:
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Students wearing traditional or religious attire (such as turbans, burqas, etc.) are allowed but will undergo thorough frisking.
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Inform the authorities at the centre gate before entering.
For Diabetic Candidates:
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Diabetic students are allowed to carry sugar tablets, fruits (like bananas, apples, or oranges), and transparent water bottles.
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Packaged food such as chocolates or sandwiches is not allowed.
JEE Main 2026 Exam Day Guidelines
Along with the JEE Main 2026 dress code, NTA has also issued detailed exam day guidelines to ensure smooth conduct of the exam.
Important Instructions:
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Reach the exam centre early – at least one hour before reporting time.
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Carry the following items only:
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JEE Main 2026 Admit Card
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One passport-size photograph (2.5 x 3.5 cm)
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A valid photo ID proof (Aadhaar, PAN, School ID, or any government ID)
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Do not bring any electronic gadgets, study materials, or bags.
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Frisking will be done before entry and after toilet breaks.
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Students must maintain discipline and follow invigilator instructions throughout the exam.
Documents to Carry for JEE Main 2026
| Required Document | Description |
|---|---|
| Admit Card | Printed copy downloaded from NTA website |
| Photo ID Proof | Aadhaar Card / PAN Card / School ID / Passport |
| Passport-size Photograph | Same as used in application form |
| PwD Certificate (if applicable) | For candidates with disabilities |
JEE Main 2026 Prohibited Items List
To maintain fairness, NTA prohibits several items from being carried into the exam centre.
| Category | Prohibited Items |
|---|---|
| Electronic Devices | Mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators, earphones, Bluetooth devices |
| Stationery | Textbooks, notes, log tables, geometry boxes |
| Accessories | Belts, wallets, handbags, caps, scarves, jewellery |
| Footwear | Shoes with thick soles, boots, high heels |
| Clothing | Heavy embroidery, metallic buttons, jackets with zips |
What to Wear & What Not to Wear in JEE Main 2026
| Category | Allowed | Not Allowed |
|---|---|---|
| Clothes | Light cotton shirts, simple jeans/salwar, plain tops | Clothes with metallic designs, large buttons, heavy embroidery |
| Footwear | Slippers, sandals, floaters | Shoes with thick soles, high heels |
| Jewellery | None | Rings, bangles, earrings, chains, watches |
| Accessories | Admit card, photo ID | Caps, mufflers, belts, scarves |
| Hair Accessories | Plastic clips, rubber bands | Metal clips, pins |
JEE Main 2026 Dress Code: Important Tips
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Dress comfortably and simply — no heavy or metallic items.
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Plain jeans and T-shirts are allowed for both boys and girls.
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Avoid shoes with thick soles and clothes with large buttons.
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Carry only essential documents — Admit Card, ID, and Photo.
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Reach early to avoid last-minute confusion.
Following these simple guidelines will help ensure a stress-free and fair exam experience.
The JEE Main 2026 Dress Code plays a vital role in ensuring fairness, transparency, and a hassle-free experience for all candidates. Dressing appropriately, following the NTA guidelines, and avoiding prohibited items can save time and stress on exam day. Stay focused, stay calm, and follow the instructions — your preparation deserves the best chance at success.
JEE Main 2026 Dress Code FAQs
Q1. Is there any specific uniform for JEE Main 2026?
Ans: No, NTA has not prescribed any uniform for JEE Main 2026. However, students must wear simple and light clothes as per the dress code guidelines.
Q2. Can I wear jeans for JEE Main 2026?
Ans: Yes, jeans are allowed in JEE Main 2026. Ensure they are plain and free from metallic zippers or decorative elements.
Q3. Are shoes allowed in JEE Main 2026?
Ans: No, shoes with thick soles or heels are not allowed. Candidates should wear slippers, sandals, or floaters instead.
Q4. Can girls wear earrings or bangles in JEE Main 2026?
Ans: No, jewellery such as earrings, bangles, or rings is strictly prohibited to ensure a fair and smooth frisking process.
Q5. What should diabetic students wear or carry for JEE Main 2026?
Ans: Diabetic candidates can wear normal light clothes and are permitted to carry sugar tablets, fruits, and a transparent water bottle inside the exam hall.
