Engineering aspirants across India will be closely watching the JEE Mains 2026 registration window as the gateway to top NITs, IIITs, and state engineering colleges. The NTA has officially announced that JEE Main 2026 will be conducted in two sessions — Session 1 in January 2026 and Session 2 in April 2026. Alongside registration dates, critical updates include expanded exam centres, Aadhaar-name matching, and a strict no-calculator policy. The Times of India+2The Economic Times+2
This article outlines what you need to know before applying.
Important Dates & Registration Window
- Registration Start (Session 1): October/November 2025. Reports indicate that Lite NK will likely go live end of October 2025. The Times of India+2Shiksha+2
- Exam Dates: Session 1 – 21 to 30 January 2026; Session 2 – 1 to 10 April 2026. The Times of India+1
- Official website:
jeemain.nta.nic.in. jeemain.nta.nic.in
How to Register for JEE Mains 2026
- Visit the official portal: jeemain.nta.nic.in and click on “Registration”. Shiksha
- Create a new candidate profile using your email and mobile number.
- Fill out the application form: personal details, academic history, exam city preferences (up to four). Navbharat Times
- Upload the scanned photograph and signature as per specifications. Careers360 Engineering
- Pay the application fee online using available payment modes.
- Print the confirmation page and keep the login credentials safe.
Key Changes & Updates for 2026
- Aadhaar-name mismatch: NTA has introduced options to link or correct names in Aadhaar/certificates to avoid registration delay. Maharashtra Times
- No calculators allowed: Use of any physical or scientific calculator is strictly prohibited in JEE Mains 2026. PW Live+1
- Expanded exam centres: The NTA plans to add more centres across states to ease access. The Economic Times
Eligibility & Fee Details
- Candidates who have passed or are appearing in Class 12 (2024/2025) with Physics & Mathematics compulsory, along with Chemistry/Biology/Technical Vocational subject. Careers360 Engineering
- Fee range: The Earlier general category fee was ~₹1,000; for 2026, categories and fees are expected to be announced in the information bulletin. Careers360 Engineering
Tips for Applicants Before Submission
- Ensure your Aadhaar, date of birth, name, nd other personal details match exactly your certificates.
- Select preferred cities early — you may get any of the four based on availability.
- Review uploaded documents carefully; mismatches can lead to form rejection.
- Save a copy of the filled form and transaction receipt.
- Track official announcements regularly — don’t wait untilthee the last minute.
Exam Pattern & Sessions at a Glance
- JEE Main Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech) will be completely CBT mode.
- Paper 2A (B.Arch) – Maths + Aptitude in CBT; Drawing part offline.
- Paper 2B (B.Planning) – Fully CBT. telanganatoday.com+1
Conclusion
The JEE Mains 2026 registration marks a critical milestone for engineering aspirants. With session dates announced and registration opening soon, students must act early, verify credentials, and stay alert for official updates. A meticulous application process and early preparation can make a significant difference.
FAQs
- When will JEE Mains 2026 registration begin?
It will likely begin in October/November 2025 (Session 1). The Times of India+1 - What are the JEE Mains 2026 exam dates?
Session 1: 21-30 Jan 2026; Session 2: 1-10 Apr 2026. The Times of India - Can a candidate use a calculator in JEE Mains 2026?
No, calculators are not allowed. PW Live - Where to apply for JEE Mains 2026?
On the official website jeemain.nta.nic.in. jeemain.nta.nic.in - What is the fee for registration?
Will be announced; previous year general category male ~₹1,000. Careers360 Engineering - Can I apply for both sessions at once?
Yes, students may apply for both session 1 and session 2. origineducare.com - Which subjects are compulsory for eligibility?
Physics & Mathematics plus one of Chemistry/Biology/Technical Vocational. Careers360 Engineering - What if my Aadhaar name differs from the certificate?
NTA has provided options to update/match names to avoid issues. Maharashtra Times - How many city preferences can I choose?
Up to four exam cities may be chosen. Navbharat Times - When will the admit card for JEE Mains 2026 be released?
Likely second week of January 2026 for session 1
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