How to Apply for JEE Main 2026 – Complete Step-by-Step Guide

If you plan to appear for JEE Main 2026, understanding the application process is the first and most crucial step. JEE Main is the national-level entrance exam conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for admission into undergraduate engineering, architecture, and planning programs across India, including prestigious institutes like NITs, IIITs, and other centrally funded institutions.

This blog explains the important dates, eligibility criteria, step-by-step application procedure, documents required, and useful tips to ensure your registration goes smoothly.

Important Dates for JEE Main 2026

Registration for Session 1 started: 31 October 2025
Last date to apply (Session 1): 27 November 2025
Exam dates for Session 1: 21 – 30 January 2026
Session 2: Expected in April 2026 (dates to be confirmed)

Students can apply for one or both sessions, and the best score will be considered for ranking.

Eligibility Criteria

Before applying, make sure you fulfill the basic eligibility requirements:

Candidates must have passed Class 12 or be appearing in Class 12 in 2024, 2025, or 2026.
No age limit to appear for JEE Main.
For admission to NITs, IIITs, and GFTIs, candidates must either:
- Score at least 75% in Class 12 (65% for SC/ST), or
- Be in the top 20 percentile of their respective boards.

JEE Main is meant for admissions into:
- B.E./B.Tech
- B.Arch
- B.Planning

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How to Apply for JEE Main 2026 – Step-by-Step

Follow the steps below to successfully complete your registration:

1️⃣ Visit the Official Website

Go to the NTA portal for JEE Main:

jeemain.nta.ac.in

2️⃣ Register Yourself

Provide basic details like:

Name
Date of Birth
Email ID
Mobile Number

A unique application number will be generated.

3️⃣ Fill in the Application Form

Personal details
Educational information
Choice of exam cities
Selection of exam paper (Paper 1, Paper 2A, or Paper 2B)

4️⃣ Upload Required Documents

Upload scanned copies of:

Passport size photo
Signature
Class 10 marksheet
Class 12 marksheet (or appearing certificate)
Category certificate (if applicable)
PwD certificate (if applicable)

Ensure that the documents are clear and in the correct format.

5️⃣ Pay the Application Fee

Pay online through:

Credit/Debit card
Net banking
UPI

After successful payment, you will receive a confirmation.

6️⃣ Save Your Application

Download and print:

Application form
Payment receipt

Keep them for future reference.

Documents You Need Ready

Before applying, keep the following documents scanned and prepared:

Passport size photograph
Signature
Class 10 certificate/marksheet
Class 12 marksheet or hall ticket
Category certificate (SC/ST/OBC-NCL), if applicable
PwD certificate, if applicable
Aadhaar or other valid ID

NTA also advises candidates to update Aadhaar & certificates beforehand to avoid issues during registration.

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Important Tips for Students

Apply well before the last date to avoid website traffic and payment issues.
Ensure that all uploaded documents are clear and meet the required size and format.
Choose exam cities carefully.
Save your login details safely to download your admit card later.
Keep checking the official site for:
- Exam centre allotment
- Admit card release
Read the NTA Information Bulletin to understand:
- Exam pattern
- Marking scheme
- Syllabus
- Rules for the exam day

Final Thoughts

The JEE Main application process is straightforward if you follow the steps carefully and stay aware of deadlines. Once your application is complete, focus fully on preparation to boost your chances of achieving a strong score.

–Athul Thomas

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