The JEE Main 2026 Session 2 Registration has started today, on 1st February 2026 and will be open till 25th February 2026 on the official website, jeemain.nta.nic.in, you can complete the registration, form filling and fee payment in the given duration.
The New candidates, along with the candidates who already appeared in session 1, are eligible. Session 1 candidates can log in with their credentials and pay the Session 2 fees directly.
- The Registration fee is Rs. 1000 for general candidates, Rs. 800 for OBC-NCL and Rs. 500 for SC/ST & PwD Candidates.
- To complete the JEE Main Registration Process, you have to upload a clear photo, a signature, and a category certificate.
In JEE Main 2026 Session 1, 14.5 lakh candidates have registered, the highest ever and in Session 2, more than 15 lakh candidates are expected to register.
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Key Summary
In this Article, we have discussed about JEE Main Registration for Session 2, including the Expected Dates, Documents Required & Fees.
- The JEE Main Session 2 can be a strategic second attempt for the candidates, as around 40 to 45% toppers use Session 2 to improve their percentile.
- The Rejections in JEE Main Session 2 can be because of category, Pwd or paper selection issues.
- The JEE Main Session 2 also aligns with board exams and other entrances; the major metro city slots are filled more easily.
- In JEE Main Session 2, more than 80% candidates score 95+ percentile.
- In 2026, NTA implemented major changes such as live photo capture, Aadhaar-based e-KYC, mandatory scanned ID proof, APAAR ID entry, and introduced 33 new exam cities.
- JEE Main Registration is mandatory for admission into 31 NITs, 25 IIITs, 28 GFTIs, and other state/private engineering institutes
JEE Main 2026 Registration Dates
The JEE Main Session 2 Registration is a shorter and more competitive admission cycle, as it is a final opportunity for candidates to improve their scores before the final rank calculation and JoSAA Counselling. The NTA is expected to open the session 2 registration on 1st february 2026.
JEE Main 2026 Session 2 Registration Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Session 2 Registration Start | 1st February 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 25th February 2026 |
| Application Correction Window | February–March 2026 |
| City Intimation Slip Release | March 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | 3–5 days before the exam |
| JEE Main Session 2 Exam Dates | April 2–9, 2026 |
Source: JEE Main Information Brochure
Ques. Is there a separate registration timeline for fresh candidates and Session 1 applicants?
Ans. In JEE Main, there is no separate registration window for fresh candidates and Session 1 candidates in JEE Main Session 2.
JEE Main Registration Timeline (Session 2)
| Candidate Type | Registration Method | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh candidates | New registration | Same Session 2 window |
| Session 1 candidates | Log in with existing credentials |
Ques. How long is the application correction window for Session 2?
Ans. The Correction window for JEE Main Session 2 will open for 2-3 days after the registration window closes.
JEE Main Session 2 Correction Window
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Mode | Online only |
| Duration | 2–3 days |
| Opens | After Session 2 registration closes |
| Extension | Not extended |
Ques. Is NTA providing a centre near the permanent address?
Ans. Yes, NTA prioritises centres near your permanent address.
- For JEE Main 2026, centres are allotted based on your Aadhaar-linked permanent address or present address.
- You can select up to 4 preferred cities during the application form, but they must be in the same state as your address.
Check:
JEE Main 2026 Session 2 Registration Process
The JEE Main Session 2 Registration is mainly for the repeat candidates, as a large number of candidates appear for this session to improve their January scores.
- The JEE Main Registration process is completely online, where NTA uses a single candidate process to apply for both sessions.
- For the Session 2 Registrations, the session 1 candidates can log in using their existing credentials and new candidates must do a fresh registration.
- The Candidates have to upload a live photograph along with a scanned signature as per the NTA Guidelines.
How to Apply for JEE Main 2026?
To know about the complete registration process for JEE Main, you can watch this video by @collegedunia for the full step-by-step registration process of JEE Main Session 2.
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JEE Main 2026 Session 2 Registration Fees
The JEE Main Application fee for session 2 should be paid separately for the candidates who have already appeared in session 1. As per the analysis, more than 60% session 2 candidates are repeat candidates, and the delayed fee payment is the top reason for the incomplete application process.
JEE Main 2026 Session 2 Application Fee (Expected)
| Category | Application Fee (₹) |
|---|---|
| General (Male) | 1000 |
| General (Female) | 800 |
| OBC-NCL / EWS | 800 |
| SC / ST / PwD | 500 |
| Transgender | 500 |
Source: JEE Main Information Brochure
Ques. What is the step-by-step process to register for JEE Main Session 2?
Ans. The JEE Main Session 2 Registration Process is completely online, and the profile is maintained by NTA. The Candidates have to complete all the steps for registration, which are:
- Visit the official website jeemain.nta.nic.in and click on JEE Main Session 2 Registration.
- Log in if you are a session 1 candidate and complete the new registration, if a new candidate.
- Fill in the personal, academic and contact details & upload a live photograph along with the signature.
- Select your paper type, city preference & pay the application fee online.
Ques. Can Session 1 candidates use their existing credentials for Session 2 registration?
Ans. Yes, candidates who have appeared in JEE Main Session 1 can use their existing application number and password to apply for Session 2. They are not required to register again.
JEE Main Session 1 vs Session 2 Login Process
| Candidate Type | Login Requirement |
|---|---|
| Session 1 appeared to be for candidates | Use existing credentials |
| Fresh candidates | New registration required |
Ques. I passed Class 12 in 2023—am I eligible for JEE Main 2026? NTA says 2024/2025/appearing 2026 only. As a two-year dropper, can I still apply, or is this my last chance?
Ans. No, you are not eligible for JEE Main 2026, as NTA requires passing Class 12 (or equivalent) in 2024, 2025, or appearing in 2026; 2023 passers are excluded.
As a two-year dropper (2023 pass, now 2025), this aligns with the 3 attempts, but it is limiting the passing year rule.
- This is your last chance, but due to the year passing, you are not eligible.
- Your options are: Reappear for Class 12 in 2026to qualify as “appearing”, or you can consider state exams like BITSAT, VITEEE for engineering.
JEE Main Registration Statistics: Session 1 & Session 2
To understand the competition level of JEE Main, you should know about the JEE Main Session 1 vs Session 2 registration statistics.
As per the previous year's statistics, in april session, major registered candidates are repeat candidates who have already appeared in session 1 to improve their percentiles.
JEE Main Registration & Appearance Statistics (Session 1 vs Session 2)
- In JEE Main Session-1, January, around 15 to 25% higher registrations are expected there as compared to Session 2.
- The JEE Main Session 2 is more competitive, as 60 to 65% of the candidates are repeaters, making a high percentile jump.
- As per the attendance rate, 90% of the registered candidates appear for the exam.
| Year | Session | Registered Candidates | Appeared Candidates |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 (Expected) | Session 1 (Jan) | 14,50,000 | 13,80,000 |
| Session 2 (Apr) | 11,50,000 | 11,00,000 | |
| 2025 | Session 1 (Jan) | 13,78,000 | 13,00,273 |
| Session 2 (Apr) | 10,61,840 | 9,92,350 | |
| 2024 | Session 1 (Jan) | 12,21,624 | 11,70,048 |
| Session 2 (Apr) | 11,79,569 | 10,67,959 | |
| 2023 | Session 1 (Jan) | 8,60,064 | 8,23,967 |
| Session 2 (Apr) | 9,31,334 | 8,83,367 |
Check: JEE Main vs JEE Advanced
Ques. What is the average attendance rate for Session 2 compared to Session 1?
Ans. The JEE Main Session 2 can be less than Session1, but it remains high. The January session sees more registrations due to fresh attempts, but in april session, more serious and prepared candidates appear for the exam.
JEE Main Average Attendance Trend
| Session | Registered Candidates | Appeared Candidates | Attendance Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Session 1 (Jan) | Higher | Slightly higher | 93–95% |
| Session 2 (Apr) | Lower | Lower | 90–93% |
Ques. Is the competition tougher in Session 2 compared to Session 1?
Ans. Yes, Session 2 is generally considered tougher as per the percentile, even if the difficulty is the same. This is a larger number of repeated and better-prepared candidates.
JEE Main Session 1 vs Session 2
| Factor | Session 1 | Session 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh candidates | Higher | Lower |
| Repeat candidates | Lower | Much higher |
| Percentile jump difficulty | Moderate | High |
| Score vs percentile tightness | Relatively flexible | More compressed |
JEE Main 2026 Registration Major Changes
The Major changes in JEE Main 2026 Registrations are:
- Aadhaar e-KYC: Auto-fetches personal details from UIDAI; applicants must match Aadhaar with school records; users reported form lock issues and city allotment tied to Aadhaar address.
- Live Photo Capture: Mandatory browser-based live photo during registration; applicants should use a device with a working camera; introduced as an anti-fraud feature.
- Scanned ID Upload: Compulsory upload of scanned Aadhaar/passport/ID; applicants must scan in advance; tied to e-KYC glitches as reported by students.
- Mandatory UDID for PwD: PwD candidates must upload UDID + updated medical certificate; applicants should prepare documents early; UDID portal downtime caused panic.
- Class 11 Registration Number: Required to avoid board verification clashes; applicants should obtain it from school beforehand; user complaints forced schools to share IDs.
- Updated Fee Structure: New fee slab, for male ₹1000, female ₹800, OBC/EWS male ₹900, SC/ST/PwD ₹500; applicants must ensure correct category proof; certificate update reminders trending.
- More Test Cities Added: 33 new cities added; applicants can choose 4 preferences, but may be reassigned; widely praised for better accessibility.
- New Form Sections: Added APAAR ID and additional disability details; applicants must fill in carefully, as the correction window may not allow edits; overlaps with UDID issues discussed online.
Who Can Apply for JEE Main Session 2?
The JEE Main Eligibility Criteria for Session 2 is the same as Session 1, but the april attempt is mainly for the repeat candidates and those looking for score improvement.
The NTA allows the eligible candidates to appear in both sessions of the same year; the best percentile will be considered for ranking.
JEE Main 2026 Session 2: Eligibility Criteria
| Eligibility Parameter | Requirement for Session 2 |
|---|---|
| Age Limit | No age limit for appearing in JEE Main |
| Class 12 Passing Year | Passed/appearing in 2024, 2025, or 2026 |
| Qualifying Exam | Class 12 or equivalent from a recognised board |
| Mandatory Subjects (B.E./B.Tech) | Physics & Mathematics + one of Chemistry / Biology / Biotechnology / Technical Vocational |
| Mandatory Subjects (B.Arch) | Physics, Chemistry & Mathematics |
| Mandatory Subjects (B.Planning) | Mathematics |
| Number of Attempts | 3 consecutive years maximum |
| Sessions Allowed per Year | Up to 2 sessions (Jan & Apr) |
| Minimum Class 12 Percentage | Not required for registration |
| 75% Criteria | Applicable only at the JoSAA admission stage, not during registration |
| Nationality | Indian, NRI, OCI, PIO & Foreign nationals |
Also, Check: JEE Main Eligibility
Ques. Can candidates who missed Session 1 directly apply for Session 2?
Ans. The Candidates who did not appear or register for Session1 can directly apply for JEE Main Session 2.
The NTA offers different opportunities for candidates in the form of a separate application, which allows fresh registration in JEE Main Session 2.
| Aspect | Session 2 Rule |
|---|---|
| Missed Session 1 | Can apply directly |
| New registration allowed | Yes |
| Same application portal | jeemain.nta.ac.in |
| Credentials required | Fresh registration details |
| Attempts counted | Session 2 counted as a separate attempt |
Ques. Are there any age limits for Session 2 registration?
Ans. No, there is no upper age limit to appear for JEE Main Session 2. The NTA does not have any age restrictions for either session.
| Criteria | Session 2 Requirement |
|---|---|
| Minimum age | Not specified |
| Maximum age | No upper limit |
| Year of passing Class 12 | As per current eligibility rules |
| Attempts allowed | Up to 3 consecutive years |
What All Do You Need Before Filling JEE Main Session 2 Form?
To complete the JEE Main Registration Process, candidates have to upload the required documents.
- The NTA follows strict upload and verification rules, along with minor issues like blurred images and incorrect certificates.
- The Candidates from session 1 are not required to upload the documents again unless there is a correction in the same.
Documents Required for JEE Main 2026 Session 2 Registration
| Document | Purpose | Key Specifications / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Passport-size Photograph | Identity verification | Recent, clear, preferably white background; live photo upload required |
| Signature | Application authentication | Scanned signature in black/blue ink on white paper |
| Class 10 Marksheet / Certificate | Date of birth verification | Must match the details entered in the application |
| Class 12 Marksheet / Certificate | Academic eligibility | Required if already passed; appearing candidates can skip upload |
| Category Certificate (if applicable) | Reservation benefits | SC/ST/OBC-NCL/EWS certificate in the prescribed format |
| PwD Certificate (if applicable) | Disability reservation | Issued by a competent medical authority |
| Photo ID Proof | Identity confirmation | Aadhaar Card, Passport, Voter ID, or PAN Card |
| Active Mobile Number & Email ID | Official communication | Used for OTP, login, and NTA alerts |
JEE Main Registration: Application Form Correction Window
The JEE Main Registration Correction window for session 2 will be provided once by the candidates to allow them to edit the specific details they have submitted in the application form.
CUET Session 2 Correction Window
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Who Can Use It | Candidates who successfully submitted the CUET application form |
| Correction Window Mode | Online only (no offline requests accepted) |
| When It Opens | Usually, after the registration window closes |
| Duration | 2–3 days (short, non-extendable) |
| Official Website | cuet.nta.nic.in |
| Fee for Corrections | Applicable only ifthe category/subject change increases the fee |
Fields That Can Usually Be Corrected
| Editable Fields | Remarks |
|---|---|
| Candidate Name | Minor spelling corrections allowed |
| Category / Sub-category | Fee difference may apply |
| Gender | Editable |
| Date of Birth | Must match the Class 10 certificate |
| Exam City Preferences | Allowed before final allotment |
| Subject / Test Paper Selection | Editable within eligibility rules |
| Photograph & Signature | Re-upload permitted if rejected |
JEE Main Admit Card vs City Slip: What Comes First for JEE Main Session 2 & Why It Matters?
For the JEE Main Session 2, NTA will release 2 separate documents before the exam: the city intimation slip and the admit card. The Purpose of both documents is different, and they are released separately.
JEE Main 2026 Session 2: City Intimation Slip & Admit Card
| Aspect | City Intimation Slip | Admit Card |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Informs the allotted exam city | Confirms exam centre, date, shift & roll number |
| Release Timeline | Around 7–10 days before the exam | 3–5 days before the exam |
| Contains Centre Address? | No | Yes |
| Mandatory on Exam Day? | No | Yes (compulsory) |
| Official Website | jeemain.nta.nic.in | |
| Download Requirement | Log in with the application number & DOB | |
Check:
FAQs for JEE Main Registration 2026
Ques. Which payment modes are accepted for the Session 2 application fee?
Ans. The JEE Main Session 2 Application fee should be paid online.
- The NTA does not accept offline payment or cash transactions.
- The NTA accepts the UPI, Debit card, credit card and net banking for payment.
Ques. During registration, should names be written in all caps as per the 10th marksheet? How to avoid rejection?
Ans. Enter exactly as in your Class 10 marksheet – match spelling, order, capitalisation. If it’s all in caps (e.g., ROHAN), use all caps; if title case (e.g., Rohan), then use that.
The NTA verifies against the uploaded Class 10 certificate—no specific "all caps" rule, but discrepancies lead to rejection.
Ques. Do I have to register again for Athe pril session if I registered for Jan but didn't appear?
Ans. Yes, you must apply separately for session 2 of JEE Main, as the sessions are independent; your session 1 registration does not auto-enrol you in session 2.
Ques. What is the right time to register for JEE Mains? Does registration time affect shift/date?
Ans. Register ASAP – now is ideal (open till Nov 27, 2025, for Session 1).
- Session 1 Window: Oct 31 – Nov 27, 2025 (form by 9 PM; fee by 11:50 PM IST).
- Why early? Avoids last-minute glitches (e.g., Aadhaar/photo issues), gives time for corrections (late Nov), and ensures eligibility. No advantage to delaying.
Ques. How many repeat candidates appear in Session 2 every year?
Ans. Around 60% of the candidates in Session 2 are repeaters, who have already appeared in January and are attempting to improve their percentile.
Repeat Candidate Share in Session 2
| Year Trend | Repeat Candidates in Session 2 |
|---|---|
| Average share | 60–65% |
| Fresh candidates | 35–40% |
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