If you are appearing for JEE Main 2026, make sure to follow the JEE Main Exam Day guidelines properly, including what to carry, what to wear, and the instructions to be followed on the exam day.

  • You should reach the centre before the time mentioned on the admit card to complete the frisking & verification; late entry will not be allowed.
  • You should carry a printed copy of the JEE Main Admit Card, along with an original Photo ID Proof and a passport-size photograph.
  • Your identity will be verified through fingerprint and facial recognition. So, the personal details on the admit card and ID Proof should match.

The Restricted items, like mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators, bags, wallets, books, and personal stationery, are not allowed at the exam center.

The JEE Main 2026 Session-1 Exam is being conducted on 21, 22, 23, 24, and 28th January for Paper 1 and on 29th January for Papers 2A and 2B.

JEE Main guidelines

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What are the JEE Main 2026 Exam Guidelines?

The JEE Main Exam Guidelines are released by NTA for the proper conduct of the JEE Main Exam, including the document verification, security check, and exit procedure.

The Exam Day guidelines will ensure proper and fair conduct of the exam at all exam centres.

JEE Main 2026 Exam Guidelines

Guideline Category What Candidates Must Follow
Reporting Time Reach the exam centre as per the reporting time mentioned on the admit card; late entry after the gate closing is not allowed
Mandatory Documents Printed JEE Main 2026 admit card, original photo ID proof, passport-size photograph (matching application)
Biometric Verification Fingerprint and facial authentication is compulsory before entry into the exam hall
Dress Code Light clothing without metal parts; no belts, jewellery, watches, caps; prefer open sandals or slippers
Allowed Items Admit card, ID proof, photograph, transparent pen and rough sheets are provided at the center.
Restricted Items Mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators, bags, wallets, books, and personal stationery
Special Provisions Diabetic candidates may carry sugar tablets/fruits; Paper 2 candidates can bring approved drawing tools
During the Exam Sit only at the allotted seat, follow the invigilator's instructions, and maintain silence and discipline
Exit Rules Candidates are not allowed to leave the exam hall before the exam concludes

JEE Main 2026 Exam Dates

The NTA has released the JEE Main 2026 Exam for both Session 1 and Session 2. The NTA has also released the JEE Main Admit Card and city intimation slips for candidates.

Event Date
Admit Card Release (Session 1) January 17, 2026
JEE Main 2026 Exam – Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech) Jan 21, 22, 23, 24 & 28, 2026
JEE Main 2026 Exam – Paper 2 (B.Arch/B.Planning) Jan 29, 2026
City Intimation Slip Release Early Jan 2026
Result Declaration (Expected) By Feb 12, 2026

Check: JEE Main Exam Dates 2026

JEE Main 2026 Exam Timings

The JEE Main 2026 Session 1 is conducted on different dates in 2 shifts: Morning & Afternoon. The JEE Main Admit Card includes the timings of the exam shift, reporting time and deadline of entry for each candidate.

JEE Main Shift-Wise Exam Timings

Paper Session/Shift Exam Timing (IST)
Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech) Morning Shift (Session 1 & 2) 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Afternoon Shift (Session 1 & 2) 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Paper 2A (B.Arch) Single Shift (Both Sessions) 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Paper 2B (B.Plan) Single Shift (Both Sessions) 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Paper 2A + 2B Combined Paper 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM

JEE Main Exam-Day Guidelines: What Should You Carry and What Must You Strictly Avoid?

As per the JEE Main Exam Guidelines, certain items are allowed to be carried, and certain items are prohibited for the candidates, to conduct the exam smoothly.

Things to Carry on JEE Main Exam Day

Item Details
JEE Main Admit Card (Printed) Mandatory for entry; must be a clear A4-size printout
Valid Photo ID (Original) Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Passport, Voter ID, or Driving Licence
Passport-Size Photograph Should match the photo uploaded in the application form
Self-Declaration (if applicable) Duly filled and signed as per the admit card instructions
PwD Certificate (if applicable) Required for availing exam-related accommodations
Diabetic Essentials (if applicable) Sugar tablets, whole fruits, and a transparent water bottle

Things to Avoid on JEE Main Exam Day

Restricted Item Reason / Rule
Mobile Phones & Smart Devices Electronic gadgets are strictly banned inside the exam hall
Calculators & Bluetooth Devices No computational or communication devices allowed
Bags, Wallets & Purses No storage facility is provided at most centres
Books, Notes & Papers Any written or printed material is prohibited
Personal Stationery Pens, pencils, erasers, or rulers are not allowed
Metal Accessories & Jewellery Rings, chains, belts, and watches can delay frisking
Packed Food Items Not permitted except for approved medical reasons

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JEE Main 2026 Exam Day Guidelines - For Diabetic Candidates

The JEE Main exam day guidelines for diabetic candidates are a little different from other candidates. NTA has allowed diabetic candidates to carry eatables in the exam hall. Eatables like sugar tablets/ fruits (like bananas/apples/oranges) are allowed inside the exam hall for candidates having diabetes.

Candidates are not allowed to carry packed food like chocolate/candy/sandwich in the exam hall, whether he/she is diabetic or not.

JEE Main 2026 Dress Code

The National Testing Agency has decided a dress code for the JEE Main exam. The dress codes are decided to ensure a fair and smooth exam process. The following guidelines must be followed by the candidates regarding the JEE Main 2026 dress code:

  • Candidates should wear light and comfortable clothing that does have large buttons, badges, or thick fabrics.
  • Sleeveless and transparent clothing are not allowed to be worn in the exam hall.
  • Light, Comfortable Clothing: Wear light and comfortable clothing that does not have large buttons, badges, or thick fabrics.
  • No Sleeveless or Transparent Clothing: Sleeveless or transparent clothing is not allowed.
  • Full-Sleeve T-Shirts/Shirts: If worn, they should be thin and lightweight.
  • Avoid Shoes: Wear simple sandals or slippers without thick soles. Shoes with large heels, platforms, or belts should be avoided.
  • Jewelry and Accessories: No jewelry or metallic accessories (such as rings, necklaces, bracelets, earrings, etc.) are allowed inside the examination hall.
  • Watches: Electronic watches, smartwatches, and any other electronic devices are strictly prohibited.
  • Caps/Hats: Candidates should not wear caps or hats during the examination.
  • Face Masks: Candidates are required to wear face masks as per safety protocols.

Document Required at the JEE Main Exam Center 2026

Candidates should carry the required documents on the JEE Main exam day to avoid any last-minute hassle. The most common reason for candidates being denied entry into the exam hall is due to incorrect documents. The following documents should be carried by the candidates at the JEE Main 2026 exam center:

Required Document Details
JEE Main Admit Card Download the admit card from the official NTA website. Ensure all details, such as your name, photograph, exam center, and timing, are accurate and visible. Carry a printed copy (preferably in color) in good condition.
Valid ID Proof Bring a government-issued ID such as an Aadhaar Card, Passport, Voter ID, or other acceptable ID. Ensure that the ID matches the details provided during registration.
Passport-Sized Photograph Carry at least two copies of the same photograph used during the application process. These may be required for verification or to be affixed to attendance sheets.
Self-Declaration Form If required by health guidelines, download and fill out a self-declaration form regarding your health and travel history. Prepare this form in advance to avoid last-minute issues.
PwD/PwBD Certificate Candidates claiming relaxation under the PwD/PwBD category must bring a certificate issued by an authorized medical officer or as per annexures provided in the Information Bulletin. For those with physical limitations requiring assistance during the exam, a valid certificate must be provided for verification purposes.

Check JEE Main 2026 Exam Centres

Will rough worksheets be provided during the exam?

Yes, all calculations/writing work is to be done only in the Rough Sheet provided at the Test Centre in the Examination Room/Hall, and on the completion of the test, candidates must hand over the Rough Sheets to the Invigilator on duty in the Room/Hall.

Unfair Means Practices and Breach of Examination Rules

There are various actions that are considered unfair means of practice during the JEE Main exam. Strict actions are taken against the candidates engaging in these activities.

The table below describes the unfair means practices and breach of examination rules.

Unfair Means Practices
  • Owning any prohibited item or article, including stationery, communication devices, eatables, ornaments, or any material related to the examination.
  • Using someone else to write the examination (impersonation) or preparing material for copying.
  • Breaching examination rules or failing to follow any directions issued by NTA in connection with the JEE (Main) - 2026 examination.
  • Assisting or receiving assistance from others, directly or indirectly, during the examination.
  • Communicating or attempting to communicate with anyone other than the Examination Staff during the exam.
  • Threatening examination officials or other candidates.
  • Using or attempting to use any undesirable method during the examination.
  • Manipulation or fabrication of online documents like Admit Card, Self-Declaration, scorecard, certificates, etc.
  • Forcefully entering or exiting the Examination Centre/Hall.
  • Using or attempting to use any electronic device after entering the Examination Centre.
  • Affixing/uploading incorrect or morphed photographs/signatures on the Application Form/Admit Card.
  • Creating obstacles that interfere with the smooth and fair conduct of the examination.
  • Not attempting the question paper for long intervals.
  • Fidgeting, looking around, or behaving suspiciously.
  • In possession of bits of paper or unauthorized written material.
  • Any other actions declared as Unfair Means by NTA.
  • Candidates with more than one Application Number or multiple SCORE CARDS will be treated as UFM, even if found at a later stage.
  • Any offense is punishable under the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024.

Important Note:

  • If a candidate engages in any of the listed unfair practices during, before, or after the examination, they will be deemed to have violated the rules and will be booked under the Unfair Means (U.F.M.) case.
  • Such candidates may face a debarment of up to 3 years from future exams.
  • The candidate will be liable for criminal action and/or any other actions deemed necessary.
  • The result of JEE (Main) - 2026 for candidates involved in unfair practices will be canceled and will not be declared.
  • Results will also be canceled for candidates who appear at a center other than the one officially allotted to them.
  • Candidates found allowing someone else to write the exam on their behalf will have their results canceled.
  • Any candidate who appears in the same session more than once will have their candidature canceled.
  • No appeals or requests for reconsideration will be entertained.

JEE Main Exam Day Guidelines FAQ’s

Question 1. Can we wear a watch in the JEE Main exam?

Answer- Yes, wearing simple watches is allowed in the JEE Main exam center. However, electronic watches are strictly prohibited inside the exam hall.

Question 2. Which pen is allowed in JEE Main?

Answer- Candidates are allowed to carry a ballpoint pen, either blue or black, to the JEE Main exam center.

Question 3. Are water bottles allowed in JEE Main?

Answer- Yes, candidates can carry water bottles to the exam center, but the bottle should be completely transparent without any labels or markings.

Question 4. Can we carry money in JEE Main?

Answer- Yes, carrying money to the JEE Main exam center is allowed, but it is not recommended unless it is absolutely necessary for an emergency.

Question 5. Are jeans allowed in the JEE Main exam?

Answer- Yes, simple jeans are allowed in the JEE Main exam center. However, candidates should avoid wearing tight jeans, ripped jeans, or jeans with multiple pockets as per the dress code guidelines.