JEE Main 2026 is more than an exam it is the first step towards joining the prestigious engineering institutes of India. In JEE Main 2026, candidates can appear for the exam twice a year. The first session will occur in January 2026 and the second in April 2026.
Understanding the main components of JEE Main 2026 Attempts and how they affect engineering admissions is essential for success. Below is a detailed breakdown of the most important elements:
- Conducting body: The National Testing Agency (NTA) continues to conduct the exam allowing candidates to appear in both sessions and choose the best scores for final ranking.
- Eligibility Criteria: The 75% admissions requirement for JEE Main 2026 has been removed as it can directly affect the student's qualifications for the exam.
- Affiliated Institutions: More than 30 NITs, 25 IITs, and many GFTIs accept JEE main scores making it one of the largest gateways to quality engineering education in India.
In JEE MAIN candidates can attempt 6 times in 3 consecutive years and candidates who will appear for Class 12 or who have passed in the last 2 years are eligible to appear in JEE Main.
Latest Updates for JEE MAIN 2026:
- JEE Main 2026: City Intimation Slip(Live Updates)
- How Many Students Will Appear for JEE Main 2026
- Good Score in JEE Main 2026
- JEE Main 2026 Attempts
1.1 How many Attempts are allowed in JEE Main 2026?
1.2 Comparison of JEE Main 2026 Session 1 vs Session 2
1.3 Also Check:
- Advantages of 2 Attempts for JEE Main 2026
- JEE Main Attempt Trends Past 3-Year Analysis (2024-2022)
3.1 Category-Wise: Attempts and Past Year Analysis for JEE Main (2024-2022)
- Good Score for JEE Main 2026
4.1 Is Scoring 150 Easy in the January Attempt for JEE Main 2026?
- Eligibility Criteria for JEE Main 2026
- Affiliated Colleges of JEE Main 2026
- Validity of JEE Main Score
7.1 How to Improve Your JEE Main Score in the Last Few Months?
7.2 One-Month JEE Main Preparation Timetable
JEE Main 2026 Attempts
JEE Main 2026 provides candidates with many opportunities to boost their scores, providing flexibility to improve efficiency in the endeavor. The National Testing Agency (NTA) has set out specific attempt criteria to ensure that all qualified applicants have a fair chance. These attempts are designed to help students learn from their mistakes and work toward better results.
How many Attempts are allowed in JEE Main 2026?
For JEE Main 2026, candidates must appear for the exam twice in January (Session 1) and once in April (Session 2). This flexibility helps students improve their scores and perform better in future attempts.
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Attempts Per Year | 2 (January and April sessions) |
| Total Attempts Allowed | 6 (over three consecutive years) |
| Eligible Year of Class 12 | Candidates who passed Class 12 in 2023, 2024, or appearing in 2026 can attempt. |
Comparison of JEE Main 2026 Session 1 vs Session 2
Two sessions of JEE Main 2026 give candidates flexibility to improve their scores. Both sessions were conducted in computer-based testing (CBT) mode, with similar procedures but different timings. Below is a quick comparison:
| Aspect | Session 1: January 2026 | Session 2: April 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | The first opportunity to appear for the exam. | A second chance to improve January scores. |
| Mode of Examination | Computer-Based Test (CBT) | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Application Period | October–November 2024 | January–February 2026 |
| Admit Card Availability | 3 days before the exam | 3 days before the exam |
| Exam Dates | 22nd–29th January 2026 | 1st–8th April 2026 |
| Result Declaration | Early February 2026 | Mid-April 2026 |
| Answer Key and Challenges | Released post-exam for objections | Released post-exam for objections |
Also Check:
Advantages of 2 Attempts for JEE Main 2026
The double attempt system for JEE Main 2026 offers a unique advantage to students. It gives you the flexibility to improve your scores and increase your chances of getting a good rank. Having applicants take the exam in January and April gives them a great opportunity to research and focus on their weaknesses as well as their strengths.
Below is a comparison between the advantages of both the attempts of JEE Main:
| Aspect | First Attempt (January) | Second Attempt (April) |
|---|---|---|
| Opportunity to Improve Scores | 60-70% of candidates typically score lower due to lack of revision or nervousness. | 80-90% of candidates improve by 5-15% due to better preparation and strategic revision. |
| Strategic Revision Opportunity | The initial attempt identifies gaps, leading to an improvement rate of 10-15% for those revising effectively. | Focused revision leads to improvement rates of 15-20% in weak areas such as specific topics in Physics, Math, or Chemistry. |
| Impact on Ranking and JEE Advanced Qualification | Initial performance determines whether a candidate can qualify for JEE Advanced. | 40-50% of students improve their rank by 500-2000 positions between the two attempts, helping them qualify for JEE Advanced or gain admission to better colleges. |
| Expected Number of Candidates | Approximately 9-10 lakh candidates are expected in January 2026. | Approximately 8-9 lakh candidates are expected in April 2026. |
JEE Main Attempt Trends Past 3-Year Analysis (2024-2022)
The JEE Main exam is one of the most competitive exams in India And understanding its past trends can help test takers evaluate their preparation strategies. NTA is conducting JEE Main from 2020 onwards, giving students two opportunities to improve their scores.
Let's look at data from the past three years to analyze its trends:
- Applicants: Approximately 10-12 Lakh people apply for the exam every year, with a slight increase in participation from 2024 to 2022.
- Session Dates: The January session is generally held in the first month of the year and the April session in the second quarter.
- Number of Attempts: Two attempts are made every year (January and April) to improve applicants' scores.
| Year | Session 1 (January) | Session 2 (April) | Total Candidates Appeared | Exam Dates | Total Attempts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 22nd Jan - 29th Jan | 1st Apr - 8th Apr | Approx. 10-12 Lakh | January: 22-29 Jan, April: 1-8 Apr | 2 |
| 2023 | 24th Jan - 31st Jan | 6th Apr - 12th Apr | Approx. 10-11 Lakh | January: 24-31 Jan, April: 6-12 Apr | 2 |
| 2022 | 16th Mar - 21st Mar | 24th May - 29th May | Approx. 9-10 Lakh | March: 16-21 Mar, May: 24-29 May | 2 |
Category-Wise: Attempts and Past Year Analysis for JEE Main (2024-2022)
The number of tries by category and data from the previous year depending on the number of applicants from each category are broken down below:
- Consistency in Participation: During the past three years, the percentage share of candidates within all categories remains constant, but the General category still holds a large share, at around 53-55%.
- OBC (NCL): OBC (NCL) remained a consistent percentage at around 27-28% of total candidates.
- SC/ST and PwD Categories: The participation rates for the SC/ST (15%) and PwD (1%) categories are stable.
- EWS Candidates: The EWS category has consistently maintained a 4% representation in the applicant pool.
| Category | Total Attempts Allowed | 2024 (Candidates Appeared) | 2023 (Candidates Appeared) | 2022 (Candidates Appeared) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General | 2 Attempts | 6,05,000 (53%) | 5,90,000 (55%) | 6,10,000 (54%) |
| OBC (NCL) | 2 Attempts | 3,10,000 (27%) | 2,95,000 (28%) | 3,00,000 (27%) |
| SC/ST | 2 Attempts | 1,60,000 (15%) | 1,50,000 (14%) | 1,55,000 (15%) |
| PwD | 2 Attempts | 12,000 (1%) | 11,000 (1%) | 13,000 (1%) |
| EWS | 2 Attempts | 45,000 (4%) | 42,000 (4%) | 44,000 (4%) |
Good Score for JEE Main 2026
The concept of a "good score" in JEE Main 2026 varies depending on a person's goals, the difficulty level of the exam, and the specific institution to which they wish to apply. A good score is usually the qualifying score for applicants to JEE Advanced (for IITs ) or top NITs, IIITs, or other engineering colleges.
- 200+ (Excellent): Candidates in this category tend to be in the top 1-2% of all JEE Main applicants, making them eligible for admission to prestigious IITs and top NITs.
- 150-199 (Good to Excellent): Students who score high in this range generally are in the top 10-15% and are eligible for admission to NITs, IITs, and some of the top private engineering colleges.
- 130-149 (Above Average): Applicants with scores between 130-149 may be in the top 25-30% and are expected to gain admission into mid-tier engineering colleges and some NITs.
- 100-129 points (average): These applicants rank in the top 40-50% and may gain admission to a tier 3 college or private engineering institute.
- Less than 100 (needs improvement): Applicants in this range fall into the lower 50% and are unlikely to gain admission to a top college.
| Score Range | Performance Level | Percentage of Correct Answers | Possible College/Institutions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 200+ | Excellent | 80% and above | IITs, Top NITs, IIITs |
| 150-199 | Good to Very Good | 60-79% | NITs, IIITs, Other Reputed Engineering Colleges |
| 130-149 | Above Average | 52-59% | Tier 2 Engineering Colleges, Some NITs |
| 100-129 | Average | 40-51% | Tier 3 Colleges, Private Engineering Colleges |
| Below 100 | Needs Improvement | Below 40% | Limited Options |
Is Scoring 150 Easy in the January Attempt for JEE Main 2026?
Many candidates can score 150+ marks to appear for JEE Main 2026 in January. But it depends on factors such as your level of preparation, Understanding of the curriculum Exam strategy, etc.
Here is a summary of the main factors that go into getting more than 150 exam points.:
| Factor | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Sectional Performance for 150+ | To score 150+, aim for 40-45 marks in Physics, 50-55 in Chemistry, and 50-55 in Mathematics. Focus on each subject's key areas. |
| Difficulty Level of Questions | 30-35% of the questions are easy, helping you score quickly. 40-50% are medium difficulty, requiring in-depth preparation. The rest are difficult, testing your advanced understanding. |
| Time Management | Allocate 1 hour per section for Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Proper time distribution is essential to manage all sections efficiently. |
Eligibility Criteria for JEE Main 2026
The eligibility criteria for JEE Main 2026 ensures that candidates have the right education, age, and qualifications to sit the exam. Applicants need to meet these requirements to avoid disqualification or problems during the admissions process. A detailed explanation of the eligibility conditions is below:
| Eligibility Criterion | Details |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Indian nationals, OCI (Overseas Citizens of India), and PIO (Persons of Indian Origin) are eligible. |
| Age Limit | Candidates should be born on or after 1st October 2000. Relaxation of 5 years for SC/ST/PwD candidates (born on or after 1st October 1995). |
| Educational Qualification | Candidates must have passed or are appearing for the Class 12 exam or its equivalent from a recognized board. |
| Qualifying Subjects | Candidates must have studied Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics in their Class 12 (or equivalent) to be eligible. |
| Number of Attempts | A candidate can attempt JEE Main up to 6 times over three consecutive years. |
| Minimum Percentage | No minimum percentage is required to appear for JEE Main, but candidates must fulfill the eligibility criteria for specific institutes. |
| Year of Appearance | Candidates appearing for Class 12 exams in 2026 or who have passed the Class 12 exam in 2023 or 2024 are eligible. |
Affiliated Colleges of JEE Main 2026
JEE Main serves as the gateway to India's most prestigious engineering institutes. The exam is the means of admission to National Institutes of Technology (NITs), Indian Institutes of Technology (IIITs), and other government-funded technical institutes (GFTIs) besides these. Many private engineering colleges in the state also accept JEE Main scores for admission to undergraduate courses.
Below is a detailed overview of the organizations involved in JEE Main:
| Category of Institution | Number of Institutes | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| National Institutes of Technology (NITs) | 31 | Premier engineering institutions offering diverse courses; admissions are based on JEE Main ranks. |
| Indian Institutes of Information Technology (IIITs) | 26 | Known for IT and computer science courses, these institutes focus on technology-oriented education. |
| Government-Funded Technical Institutions (GFTIs) | 28 | Includes top institutions like BIT Mesra, Assam University, and others funded by the government. |
| State Engineering Colleges | Varies by state | Many state-run colleges, such as in Haryana and Madhya Pradesh, accept JEE Main scores for admission. |
| Private Engineering Colleges | 100+ | Leading private institutions like Shiv Nadar University and UPES Dehradun also use JEE Main scores. |
Validity of JEE Main Score
The validity of the JEE main score determines how long the score will remain useful for admission to an undergraduate engineering program. This is an important part that applicants need to understand as it will affect the timeline for applying to institutions like NITs, IITs, and other participating colleges.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Validity Period | The score is valid for one year from the exam date (i.e., for the 2026-2026 academic year). |
| JEE Advanced Eligibility | The score is valid for JEE Advanced 2026, but only for the same academic year. |
| Multiple Attempts | Candidates can use their best scores from both the January and April sessions. |
| Admission to Institutes | The score is valid for admissions to NITs, IITs, IIITs, and other participating colleges during the 2026-2026 academic year. |
| Expiry of Score | The score is invalid for future years and cannot be used for admission beyond the 2026-2026 academic year. |
How to Improve Your JEE Main Score in the Last Few Months?
As the JEE Main exam approaches, many students may feel like time is running out but with a focused approach, Strategic revision, and efficient time management you can still improve your score. In the past few months, Candidates should focus on strengthening their weak points, Improving exam management strategies, and maximizing the impact of the correction.
One-Month JEE Main Preparation Timetable
| Week | Key Focus |
|---|---|
| Week 1 | Revise key concepts (Physics, Chemistry, Math) |
| Daily revision of formulas and theorems | |
| Begin strengthening problem-solving skills | |
| Week 2 | Take mock tests regularly to assess time management |
| Practice solving within time limits | |
| Focus on high-weightage topics (Mechanics, Organic Chemistry, Algebra) | |
| Week 3 | Continue strengthening problem-solving (Calculus, complex Chemistry reactions) |
| Take more mock tests and review performance | |
| Revise formulas under timed conditions | |
| Week 4 | Final revision of all key topics and formulas |
| Prioritize health (sleep, nutrition, stress management) | |
| Final mock tests with a focused review of weak areas |
*The article might have information for the previous academic years, which will be updated soon subject to the notification issued by the University/College.
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