-
Call Now
1800-102-2727
agra,ahmedabad,ajmer,akola,aligarh,ambala,amravati,amritsar,aurangabad,ayodhya,bangalore,bareilly,bathinda,bhagalpur,bhilai,bhiwani,bhopal,bhubaneswar,bikaner,bilaspur,bokaro,chandigarh,chennai,coimbatore,cuttack,dehradun,delhi ncr,dhanbad,dibrugarh,durgapur,faridabad,ferozpur,gandhinagar,gaya,ghaziabad,goa,gorakhpur,greater noida,gurugram,guwahati,gwalior,haldwani,haridwar,hisar,hyderabad,indore,jabalpur,jaipur,jalandhar,jammu,jamshedpur,jhansi,jodhpur,jorhat,kaithal,kanpur,karimnagar,karnal,kashipur,khammam,kharagpur,kochi,kolhapur,kolkata,kota,kottayam,kozhikode,kurnool,kurukshetra,latur,lucknow,ludhiana,madurai,mangaluru,mathura,meerut,moradabad,mumbai,muzaffarpur,mysore,nagpur,nanded,narnaul,nashik,nellore,noida,palwal,panchkula,panipat,pathankot,patiala,patna,prayagraj,puducherry,pune,raipur,rajahmundry,ranchi,rewa,rewari,rohtak,rudrapur,saharanpur,salem,secunderabad,silchar,siliguri,sirsa,solapur,sri-ganganagar,srinagar,surat,thrissur,tinsukia,tiruchirapalli,tirupati,trivandrum,udaipur,udhampur,ujjain,vadodara,vapi,varanasi,vellore,vijayawada,visakhapatnam,warangal,yamuna-nagar
JEE Main Exam Pattern 2026
Your complete, verified guide to the JEE Main 2026 paper pattern marking scheme, section-wise question distribution, total marks, and the latest updates for Session 1 and Session 2.
📢
Latest Update (March 2026): NTA has officially confirmed JEE Main 2026 Session 2 dates as April 2–8, 2026. The exam pattern remains identical to Session 1. All 75 questions in Paper 1 are compulsory there are no optional questions.
JEE Main Exam Pattern 2026 Quick Overview
Exam Name
JEE Main 2026
Conducting Body
NTA (National Testing Agency)
Mode of Exam
Online Computer-Based Test (CBT)
Total Questions (Paper 1)
75 (All Compulsory)
Total Marks (Paper 1)
300 Marks
Exam Duration
3 Hours (180 Minutes)
Subjects
Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics
Negative Marking
1 per wrong answer (MCQ & Numerical)
Languages Available
13 (including Hindi & English)
Session 1 Dates
Jan 21 29, 2026 ✔ Completed
Session 2 Dates
Apr 2–8, 2026 🔜 Upcoming
Official Website
jeemain.nta.nic.in
What is JEE Main Exam Pattern 2026?
The JEE Main exam pattern 2026 defines the complete structure of the Joint Entrance Examination – Main, conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). It covers the number of questions, total marks, subjects, sections, exam duration, marking scheme, and mode of the exam. Understanding the NTA JEE Main pattern thoroughly is the most critical first step for every aspirant targeting IITs, NITs, IIITs, or Government-Funded Technical Institutes (GFTIs).
JEE Main 2026 is held in two sessions January (Session 1) and April (Session 2). Both sessions follow the exact same JEE Main paper pattern. If a candidate appears in both sessions, the higher NTA Score is considered for final merit and All India Rank (AIR) calculation.
Key Fact: As per the current JEE Main 2026 paper pattern, there are no optional questions in Paper 1. All 75 questions across Section A and Section B for all three subjects are compulsory. This rule has been in effect since 2025 and continues in 2026.
JEE Main is conducted for three separate papers:
- Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech) Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics 300 Marks
- Paper 2A (B.Arch) Mathematics, Aptitude Test, Drawing 400 Marks
- Paper 2B (B.Plan) Mathematics, Aptitude Test, Planning 400 Marks
Latest Changes in JEE Main 2026 Exam Pattern
NTA has officially confirmed that the JEE Main 2026 exam pattern carries no new major structural revisions from 2025. However, aspirants must take note of the key changes that are currently in effect:
Important Change (Effective since 2025, continuing in 2026): Section B no longer offers optional questions. Previously, students had to attempt any 5 questions out of 10 in Section B per subject. From 2025 onwards, all 5 questions in Section B are compulsory for every subject.
- No optional questions All 75 questions in Paper 1 are compulsory (Section A: 20 + Section B: 5, per subject)
- Negative marking applies to Section B An incorrect numerical answer now carries a –1 penalty, just like MCQs
- No virtual calculator NTA has explicitly clarified that no virtual calculator is provided during the exam
- Facial Biometric Authentication Introduced at exam centres for enhanced identity verification and security
- Expanded exam city network Number of exam cities increased to 323 across India
- JEE Main 2026 syllabus remains aligned with NCERT Class 11 and Class 12 curriculum
JEE Main Paper 1 Pattern 2026 – B.E./B.Tech (Complete Table)
The following table presents the complete and NTA-verified JEE Main paper pattern 2026 for Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech). This pattern is applicable to both Session 1 (January) and Session 2 (April) equally:
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | JEE Main 2026 – Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech) |
| Conducting Authority | National Testing Agency (NTA) |
| Mode of Examination | Computer-Based Test (CBT) – Online |
| Subjects | Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics |
| Total Number of Questions | 75 (All Compulsory – No Optional) |
| Questions per Subject | 25 (Section A: 20 MCQs + Section B: 5 Numerical) |
| Total Marks | 300 (100 marks per subject) |
| Exam Duration | 3 Hours (180 Minutes) |
| Duration for PwD Candidates | 4 Hours (240 Minutes) |
| Correct Answer – MCQ (Section A) | +4 Marks |
| Incorrect Answer – MCQ (Section A) | –1 Mark (Negative Marking) |
| Correct Answer – Numerical (Section B) | +4 Marks |
| Incorrect Answer – Numerical (Section B) | –1 Mark (Negative Marking) |
| Unattempted Questions | 0 Marks (No Penalty) |
| Medium of Exam | 13 Languages (English, Hindi + 11 Regional Languages) |
| Optional Questions | None – All questions are compulsory |
| Session 1 Dates | January 21–29, 2026 (Completed) |
| Session 2 Dates | April 2–8, 2026 (Upcoming) |
Subject-wise Question & Marks Distribution JEE Main 2026
In the JEE Main 2026 paper pattern, Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics each carry equal weightage 25 questions and 100 marks per subject. The total for Paper 1 is 75 questions for 300 marks. There is no subject-wise optional provision.
Physics
Section A: 20 MCQs
Section B: 5 Numerical
Total: 25 Questions
100 marks
Chemistry
Section A: 20 MCQs
Section B: 5 Numerical
Total: 25 Questions
100 marks
Mathematics
Section A: 20 MCQs
Section B: 5 Numerical
Total: 25 Questions
100 marks
JEE Main 2026 – Subject-wise Distribution Table
| Subject | Section A (MCQ) | Section B (Numerical) | Total Questions | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Physics | 20 | 5 | 25 | 100 |
| Chemistry | 20 | 5 | 25 | 100 |
| Mathematics | 20 | 5 | 25 | 100 |
| Grand Total | 60 | 15 | 75 | 300 |
JEE Main Marking Scheme 2026 – Detailed Breakdown
A precise understanding of the JEE Main marking scheme 2026 is essential for building an effective exam strategy. Both Section A (MCQs) and Section B (Numerical) carry the same reward for correct answers and the same penalty for incorrect ones. Unattempted questions carry no penalty.
| Question Type | Correct Answer | Wrong Answer | Not Attempted | Optional? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Section A – MCQ (Single Correct, 4 Options) | +4 | –1 | 0 | Compulsory |
| Section B – Numerical Answer Type (NAT) | +4 | –1 | 0 | Compulsory |
| Paper 2A – Drawing Test | Evaluated by designated examiner | No negative marking | 0 | As per Paper 2A structure |
Critical Warning: The JEE Main negative marking rule now applies equally to Section B (Numerical). Many students previously attempted all numerical questions without caution, assuming no penalty. That is no longer the case. Only attempt Section B questions when you are confident in the computed answer.
Aakash Expert Strategy: Maintaining 75–80% accuracy across all 75 questions can yield a score of 220+ out of 300. Accuracy always outweighs speed. One wrong MCQ effectively costs 5 marks in opportunity (–1 deducted + 4 not earned). Strategic skipping of genuinely uncertain questions is often the wiser call.
JEE Main Score Calculation – Worked Example
The table below demonstrates how the JEE Main marking scheme plays out in a realistic attempt scenario:
| Category | No. of Questions | Calculation | Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| MCQ – Correct | 45 out of 60 | 45 × (+4) | +180 |
| MCQ – Wrong | 10 | 10 × (–1) | –10 |
| MCQ – Not Attempted | 5 | 5 × 0 | 0 |
| Numerical – Correct | 12 out of 15 | 12 × (+4) | +48 |
| Numerical – Wrong | 2 | 2 × (–1) | –2 |
| Numerical – Not Attempted | 1 | 1 × 0 | 0 |
| Total Score | 75 Questions | — | 216 / 300 |
Section A vs Section B – Key Differences in JEE Main 2026 Pattern
In the JEE Main section-wise pattern 2026, every subject is divided into Section A and Section B. Each section has a distinct question type, answering method, and optimal strategy. Understanding this distinction is critical for effective time management during the exam.
| Feature | Section A (MCQ) | Section B (Numerical) |
|---|---|---|
| Question Type | Multiple Choice – 4 options, 1 correct | Numerical Answer Type – exact value required |
| Questions per Subject | 20 | 5 |
| Compulsory? | Yes – all 20 must be attempted | Yes – all 5 must be attempted |
| Marks – Correct | +4 | +4 |
| Negative Marking | –1 per wrong answer | –1 per wrong answer |
| How to Answer | Click on correct option (A / B / C / D) | Type the exact numerical value via on-screen keypad |
| Options Provided? | Yes (4 visible options) | No – candidate must calculate and type the answer |
| Elimination Technique | Applicable – can eliminate wrong options | Not applicable – requires exact computation |
| Recommended Strategy | Use elimination; mark for review if unsure | Attempt only when you can compute the exact answer confidently |
📌 Important Note: In Section B, candidates enter their answer using the on-screen virtual keypad as a numerical value, typically rounded to the nearest integer (unless the question specifies a different format). No physical or virtual calculator is permitted during the exam. Strong mental arithmetic and well-organised rough work are essential skills for Section B.
JEE Main Paper 2A (B.Arch) & Paper 2B (B.Plan) Pattern 2026
Candidates applying for Bachelor of Architecture or Bachelor of Planning programmes must appear in Paper 2A or Paper 2B respectively. The JEE Main 2026 paper pattern for these two papers is significantly different from Paper 1 in structure, duration, and total marks:
| Feature | Paper 2A (B.Arch) | Paper 2B (B.Plan) |
|---|---|---|
| Programme | Bachelor of Architecture | Bachelor of Planning |
| Total Questions | 77 | 100 |
| Total Marks | 400 | 400 |
| Exam Duration | 3.5 Hours (210 Minutes) | 3 Hours (180 Minutes) |
| Mathematics | 25 Questions (MCQ + Numerical) | 25 Questions (MCQ + Numerical) |
| Aptitude Test | 50 MCQ Questions | 50 MCQ Questions |
| Drawing Test | 2 Questions (Offline / Pen-and-Paper Mode) | Not Applicable |
| Planning Section | Not Applicable | 25 MCQ Questions |
| Exam Mode | Online CBT + Offline Drawing Section | Online CBT Only |
| Negative Marking | –1 for MCQs; No penalty for Drawing | –1 for MCQs |
🎨 Note for B.Arch Aspirants: The Drawing Test in Paper 2A is conducted in offline (pen-and-paper) mode and carries no negative marking. It assesses a candidate's ability to sketch, observe, and visualise spatial compositions and architectural forms. Candidates must carry their own drawing instruments to the exam centre as per NTA's prescribed list.
JEE Main Session 1 vs Session 2 Pattern Comparison 2026
Both sessions of JEE Main 2026 follow an identical exam pattern. The differences are limited to the dates, the timing relative to board exam preparation, and the strategic role each session plays in determining your final All India Rank (AIR).
Session 1 January 2026
- Dates: January 21–29, 2026 Completed
- Shifts: Morning (9:00 AM–12:00 PM) & Evening (3:00–6:00 PM)
- Exam Pattern: Identical to Session 2
- Result: Declared on NTA official website
- Score Validity: Best NTA Score of both sessions used for AIR
- Strategic Significance: First real benchmark; identifies areas needing improvement before Session 2
Session 2 April 2026
- Dates: April 2–8, 2026 Upcoming
- Shifts: As indicated on Admit Card (Morning & Evening)
- Exam Pattern: Exactly the same as Session 1
- Final AIR: Released after Session 2 results are declared
- Score Validity: Higher NTA Score of the two sessions used
- Strategic Significance: Last opportunity to improve NTA Score before final rank declaration
Expert Advice: Appearing in both sessions involves no disadvantage whatsoever. NTA uses only your best NTA Score for final rank calculation. If Session 1 went well, Session 2 is a confidence-building opportunity. If Session 1 did not meet your expectations, Session 2 is your most significant chance to correct that plan your preparation accordingly.
JEE Main Session 1 vs Session 2 – Comparative Table
| Parameter | Session 1 | Session 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Month | January | April |
| 2026 Dates | Jan 21–29, 2026 | Apr 2–8, 2026 |
| Exam Pattern | Same as Session 2 | Same as Session 1 |
| Total Questions | 75 (Compulsory) | 75 (Compulsory) |
| Total Marks | 300 | 300 |
| Marking Scheme | +4 / –1 | +4 / –1 |
| Score Used for Rank | Best NTA Score of both sessions | Best NTA Score of both sessions |
| Final AIR Released | After Session 2 results | After Session 2 results |
Frequently Asked Questions – JEE Main Exam Pattern 2026
How many questions are there in JEE Main 2026 Paper 1?
JEE Main 2026 Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech) has a total of 75 questions 25 each from Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Each subject contains 20 Multiple Choice Questions in Section A and 5 Numerical Value Questions in Section B. All 75 questions are compulsory; there are no optional questions.
What is the total marks for JEE Main 2026 Paper 1?
The total marks for JEE Main 2026 Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech) is 300 marks 100 marks each for Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Paper 2A (B.Arch) and Paper 2B (B.Plan) are each worth 400 marks.
What is the negative marking rule in JEE Main 2026?
For Section A (MCQs): a correct answer earns +4 marks and an incorrect answer deducts –1 mark. For Section B (Numerical): a correct answer earns +4 marks and an incorrect answer also deducts –1 mark. Questions that are left unattempted carry 0 marks there is no penalty for skipping a question.
What is the duration of JEE Main 2026 exam?
JEE Main 2026 Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech) has a duration of 3 hours (180 minutes). PwD (Persons with Disabilities) candidates are allotted 4 hours (240 minutes). Paper 2A (B.Arch) has a duration of 3.5 hours (210 minutes), while Paper 2B (B.Plan) is also 3 hours (180 minutes).
Are Section B questions optional in JEE Main 2026?
No, Section B questions are not optional. Previously, candidates could attempt any 5 questions out of 10 in Section B for each subject. This was changed in 2025 and continues in 2026 all 5 Numerical Value questions in Section B are now compulsory. All 75 questions in Paper 1 must be attempted.
Is JEE Main 2026 conducted online or offline?
JEE Main 2026 is conducted in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode, meaning it is entirely online. The sole exception is the Drawing section of Paper 2A (B.Arch), which is administered in pen-and-paper (offline) mode. All remaining papers and sections are conducted online.
In how many languages is JEE Main 2026 offered?
JEE Main 2026 is available in 13 languages: English, Hindi, Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Odia, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu. Candidates select their preferred language of examination at the time of filling the application form.
Which JEE Main 2026 session is more important – Session 1 or Session 2?
Both sessions are equally important. NTA uses the best NTA Score from the two sessions for the final All India Rank (AIR). The AIR is released after Session 2 results are declared. If a candidate appears in both sessions, the one with the higher NTA Score is used scores from the two sessions are not combined.
What percentile is needed for NIT admission through JEE Main 2026?
Generally, a percentile of 85–90+ is needed for NIT admission in less competitive branches. For top NITs and high-demand branches like Computer Science and Electronics, a percentile of 95+ is advisable. To qualify for JEE Advanced, the general category cutoff typically falls around 75+ percentile, though the exact cutoff is declared by NTA after each session.
How is the JEE Main 2026 pattern different from JEE Advanced?
The JEE Main paper pattern features 75 questions for 300 marks with a straightforward +4/–1 marking scheme. JEE Advanced has a far more complex structure with multiple question types single correct, multi-correct, integer-type, matching, and paragraph-based questions each carrying different marking rules. Additionally, JEE Advanced is conducted by the IITs, not NTA, and requires prior qualification through JEE Main.
Talk to Our Experts
Call Now
Let's Chat
Share