The National Testing Agency (NTA) follows strict guidelines to ensure the fair and smooth conduct of JEE Main examinations. One of the most important yet often overlooked aspects is the JEE Main 2026 dress code. Candidates who do not follow the prescribed dress code may face delays during frisking or even denial of entry at the examination centre.
To avoid last-minute confusion and stress, students appearing for JEE Main 2026 must clearly understand the dress code rules for male and female candidates, along with prohibited accessories and items.
This article explains the JEE Main 2026 dress code in a simple and student-friendly manner, helping candidates prepare confidently for exam day.
Why Is There a Dress Code for JEE Main 2026?
The dress code is implemented to:
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Maintain exam integrity and fairness
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Prevent the use of unfair means
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Ensure quick and hassle-free security checks
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Avoid concealment of prohibited items
Following the dress code helps students enter the exam hall smoothly without unnecessary checks or delays.
General Guidelines on JEE Main 2026 Dress Code
Before looking at gender-specific rules, candidates must follow these general dress code instructions:
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Wear simple, comfortable clothing
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Avoid full-sleeve or layered outfits
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Clothes should not have large buttons, badges, or pockets
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Footwear should be simple and easy to inspect
Candidates are advised to dress light and minimal, keeping comfort and compliance in mind.
JEE Main 2026 Dress Code for Male Candidates
Male candidates must strictly follow the prescribed clothing guidelines to avoid any issues at the examination centre.
Allowed Dress Code for Male Candidates
| Clothing Item | Guidelines |
|---|---|
| Shirts / T-shirts | Half-sleeve only, simple design |
| Trousers | Regular fit, without large pockets |
| Jeans | Allowed if plain and simple |
| Footwear | Slippers or sandals (low sole) |
Not Allowed for Male Candidates
| Prohibited Items |
|---|
| Full-sleeve shirts or jackets |
| Clothes with large buttons or zips |
| Shoes with thick soles |
| Caps, scarves, or mufflers |
JEE Main 2026 Dress Code for Female Candidates
Female candidates are advised to choose simple attire that allows smooth frisking and complies with NTA rules.
Allowed Dress Code for Female Candidates
| Clothing Item | Guidelines |
|---|---|
| Tops / Kurtis | Half-sleeve, light fabric |
| Bottom Wear | Simple trousers, leggings |
| Footwear | Slippers or sandals (no heels) |
Not Allowed for Female Candidates
| Prohibited Items |
|---|
| Full-sleeve clothing |
| Heavy embroidery or layers |
| Shoes, boots, or heels |
| Large hair accessories |
Dress Code for Religious or Cultural Attire
NTA allows religious or customary attire under specific conditions:
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Candidates wearing religious attire must report early to allow proper frisking
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Such candidates should reach the exam centre at least 1 hour before reporting time
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Necessary verification will be done by security staff
Students are advised to inform authorities in advance if possible.
Footwear Rules for JEE Main 2026
Footwear plays a crucial role during security checks.
Allowed Footwear
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Slippers
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Sandals with low soles
Not Allowed Footwear
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Shoes
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Boots
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High-heeled footwear
Wearing prohibited footwear may require candidates to remove them outside the exam hall, causing inconvenience.
Accessories and Items Strictly Prohibited
Apart from clothing, NTA has also restricted certain accessories and personal items.
Prohibited Accessories and Items
| Category | Items |
|---|---|
| Electronic Items | Mobile phones, smartwatches |
| Accessories | Rings, bracelets, chains |
| Stationery | Calculators, digital pens |
| Others | Wallets, handbags, goggles |
Candidates should carry only essential documents to the exam centre.
Documents Allowed at the Exam Centre
Students must ensure they carry the required documents along with proper dress compliance.
Mandatory Documents
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JEE Main 2026 Admit Card
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Valid Photo ID Proof
Failure to carry these documents may result in disqualification, irrespective of dress code compliance.
Important Tips to Avoid Dress Code Issues
To ensure a smooth exam day experience, students should follow these practical tips:
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Wear simple cotton clothes
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Avoid layered or fashionable outfits
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Remove accessories at home
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Reach the exam centre early
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Follow instructions given by exam officials
Planning your outfit one day before the exam helps reduce unnecessary stress.
Common Mistakes Students Make
Many candidates face issues due to avoidable mistakes:
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Wearing shoes instead of slippers
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Carrying accessories unknowingly
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Wearing full-sleeve clothing
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Ignoring reporting time
Avoiding these mistakes ensures hassle-free entry into the exam hall.
Why Following JEE Main Dress Code Is Important
Ignoring the dress code can lead to:
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Delay during frisking
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Additional checking
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Stress before the exam
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In extreme cases, denial of entry
Following the dress code ensures that students can focus entirely on their exam performance.
Final Checklist Before Leaving Home
| Checkpoint | Status |
|---|---|
| Simple half-sleeve clothing | ✔ |
| Slippers or sandals | ✔ |
| No accessories | ✔ |
| Admit card and ID proof | ✔ |
The JEE Main 2026 dress code is designed to maintain fairness, security, and efficiency during the examination. Both male and female candidates must follow the simple clothing guidelines, avoid prohibited items, and report on time to ensure a smooth entry process.
By adhering strictly to the prescribed dress code, students can avoid unnecessary stress and focus on what truly matters—performing their best in JEE Main 2026.
JEE Main Dress Code 2026 FAQs
Q1. What is the official dress code for JEE Main 2026?
The National Testing Agency (NTA) has prescribed a simple dress code for JEE Main 2026. Candidates must wear light, comfortable clothing with minimal layers and avoid accessories or items that could cause security concerns at the exam centre.
Q2. Are jeans allowed in JEE Main 2026?
Yes, plain jeans without large pockets, chains, or metallic embellishments are generally allowed. However, candidates are advised to wear simple trousers or lower garments to avoid unnecessary frisking or delays during entry.
Q3. Can female candidates wear traditional attire in JEE Main 2026?
Female candidates should avoid heavy traditional attire such as sarees, lehengas, or dresses with embroidery. Light, simple clothing like salwar-kameez or trousers with a top is recommended. Dupattas should preferably be avoided.
Q4. Are shoes permitted inside the JEE Main examination hall?
No, shoes are not permitted. Candidates must wear slippers or sandals with low heels. Footwear with thick soles or metallic parts is strictly prohibited as per NTA exam day guidelines.
Q5. What happens if a candidate does not follow the JEE Main dress code?
If a candidate fails to follow the prescribed dress code, they may face additional security checks or, in extreme cases, be denied entry to the examination hall. Following the dress code ensures smooth entry and avoids last-minute stress.
