The JEE Main 2026 introduces key changes in exam pattern and eligibility. This article covers official updates, important dates, and expert strategies for aspirants to maximize their scores.
New Delhi, Feb 16, 2026 — The National Testing Agency (NTA) has announced significant updates for the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main 2026, India’s premier engineering entrance exam, sparking widespread discussion among students, parents, and educators.
The JEE Main is a gateway to prestigious engineering institutes like the IITs, NITs, and IIITs. With over 1.5 million aspirants annually, any change in the exam pattern or eligibility criteria has far-reaching consequences, according to The Times of India.
Key Changes in JEE Main 2026
The NTA has revised the exam pattern for JEE Main 2026. Notably, the number of attempts has been reduced from four to two per year, a move aimed at streamlining the process and reducing exam stress, as reported by The Economic Times.
Additionally, the eligibility criteria now require candidates to have scored at least 75% in their Class 12 board exams, reinstating a rule that was relaxed during the pandemic years, according to the official NTA notification.
Exam Schedule and Important Dates
The first session of JEE Main 2026 is scheduled for April 5-12, while the second session will be held from June 1-8. Registration for the first session opens on February 20 and closes on March 15, as per the NTA website.
Admit cards will be released one week before each session. Results for the first session are expected by April 20, and for the second session by June 15, according to the NTA’s official timeline.
Changes in Exam Pattern
The revised pattern includes 90 questions (30 each in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics), out of which students must attempt 75. Each subject will have 20 single-choice and 10 numerical value questions, with negative marking applicable.
The duration remains three hours, but the difficulty level is expected to be slightly higher, with more application-based questions, as stated by leading coaching institutes like FIITJEE and Allen.
Expert Preparation Tips for JEE Main 2026
Experts recommend a strategic approach to preparation. "Focus on NCERT textbooks for concept clarity, then move to advanced problems," says Ramesh Batla, senior faculty at Resonance Eduventures.
Time management is crucial. Aspirants should allocate fixed hours daily to each subject and regularly attempt mock tests under timed conditions, as suggested by Aakash Institute.
Revision plays a pivotal role. Experts advise maintaining concise notes, revising formulas, and solving previous years’ papers to identify weak areas, according to Careers360.
Digital Resources and Online Support
The NTA has launched a new online portal offering free mock tests, video lectures, and doubt-clearing sessions. Students can access these resources at nta.ac.in, making high-quality preparation accessible nationwide.
Several edtech platforms, including BYJU’S and Unacademy, have updated their JEE Main courses to reflect the new pattern, offering adaptive practice modules and live doubt-solving, as reported by The Hindu.
Student Reactions and Concerns
The reduction in the number of attempts has received mixed reactions. While some students appreciate the reduced pressure, others worry about fewer chances to improve their scores, as highlighted in a survey by India Today.
Many parents and teachers have welcomed the reinstatement of the 75% board marks criterion, viewing it as a step toward academic rigor. However, some express concern for students from boards with stricter marking schemes.
Impact on Coaching Industry
Coaching centers are rapidly revising their curricula and test series to align with the new exam pattern. Demand for personalized mentoring and one-on-one doubt sessions has surged, according to The Economic Times.
Some institutes are offering crash courses focusing on high-weightage topics and quick revision, aiming to help students adapt to the compressed exam schedule.
What’s Next for Aspirants?
Experts urge students to stay updated with official notifications and avoid misinformation. Regularly checking the NTA website and subscribing to credible education portals is recommended.
With less than two months to the first session, aspirants are advised to follow a disciplined routine, focus on concept clarity, and leverage online resources for last-mile preparation.
Sources
Information in this article is sourced from the National Testing Agency (NTA), The Times of India, The Economic Times, Careers360, The Hindu, India Today, and official coaching institute advisories.
Sources: Information sourced from National Testing Agency, The Times of India, The Economic Times, Careers360, and leading coaching institutes.