JEE Main Exam Pattern 2026 (Released) - New Paper Pattern, Total Marks, No. of Questions

JEE Main Exam Pattern 2026 (Released) - New Paper Pattern, Total Marks, No. of Questions

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Team Careers360Updated on 03 Nov 2025, 12:09 PM IST
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JEE Main Exam Pattern 2026 - NTA has released the JEE Main 2026 exam pattern on the official website, jeemain.nta.nic.in. Students can check the NTA JEE Main 2026 exam pattern on this page. The JEE Main exam for B.E/B. Tech will consist of 75 questions covering Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics. Each section will consist of 25 mandatory questions: 20 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and 5 numerical value questions (NVQs). The JEE Main 2026 exam will be held from January 21 to 30, 2026, while Phase 2 is scheduled for April 2 to 9, 2026. The authority will conduct the JEE Main entrance exam in online mode only.
Also Read: JEE Main 2026 registration | JEE Main Syllabus

LiveJEE Main 2026 Registration LIVE: NTA publishes FAQs for BTech entrance exam; apply on jeemain.nta.nic.inNov 21, 2025 | 1:23 PM IST

Candidates can apply for the NTA JEE Main 2026 session 1 exam on the official website, jeemain.nta.nic.in. NTA has published the FAQs for the exams. A few JEE Main 2025 FAQs is as follows. 

FAQs

Answers

Can candidates correct or change their particulars, including the city of the exam centre, in the online application form?

NTA will not be responsible for any incorrect details in the application form. NTA will provide a one-time correction facility for selected fields will be provided.

Can candidates appear in only 1 session, or do they have to appear in both sessions?

Candidates can appear in both sessions if they wish. If candidates appear in both sessions, the best of their JEE Main 2026 NTA scores will be considered for the preparation of the merit list and ranking.

Do candidates have to fill a separate application form for each session?

Yes, candidates will have to apply for each session. The application date for session 1 will be announced later.

Will calculators be allowed during the exam?

The use of calculators in any form is not permitted in the JEE Main exam.

If a candidate does not receive an admit card, whom should the candidate contact

Candidates are informed that Admit Cards will not be sent by post. They must download their admit card from the NTA official website once a public notice announcing its availability is issued.

Can a candidate change the exam city or centre after the allotment?

The allotted examination Centre cannot be changed, in any case.

JEE Main 2026 exam dates won't be postponed; NTA answers students’ top FAQs

Read More

This Story also Contains

  1. NTA JEE Main Exam Pattern 2026 (Paper 1 & 2)
  2. Exam Pattern of JEE Main 2026 Paper 2 (B.Arch & B.Plan)
  3. NTA JEE Mains Paper Pattern 2026: Types of questions
  4. NTA JEE Main 2026 Exam Pattern: Subject Wise Distribution of Marks
  5. JEE Main 2026 Marking Scheme for BE/BTech & BArch/BPlan
  6. JEE Main 2026 Syllabus
  7. JEE Main 2026 Sample Papers
JEE Main Exam Pattern 2026 (Released) - New Paper Pattern, Total Marks, No. of Questions
NTA JEE Mains Exam Pattern 2026

The JEE Mains 2026 exam pattern PDF provides details on the marking scheme, exam duration, mode, and question types. The JEE exam pattern differs for paper 1 (BE/BTech) and paper 2 (BArch/BPlan). Candidates can check the detailed JEE Main exam pattern, JEE Mains total marks, syllabus and more.

NTA JEE Main Exam Pattern 2026 (Paper 1 & 2)

This year, the exam pattern of JEE Main 2026 is same as that of last year. In 2025, the authority had shifted the JEE Main exam pattern to pre-pandemic format. Candidates preparing for the NTA JEE Main January Session must be aware of the JEE Main 2026 paper pattern. The exam pattern outlines key details, including test duration, marking scheme, subjects, total marks and more. The exam will feature 75 questions for 300 marks, with each subject consisting of 20 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and 5 numerical value questions (NVQs). Each paper is three hours long.

Candidates must attempt all questions in both sections, and negative marking is applicable in Section A for incorrect answers. In Section B, candidates are required to answer all 5 NVT questions. The JEE Mains 2026 exam pattern provides insights into the number of questions, total marks, sections, negative marking, and passing criteria. More detailed information about the JEE Mains 2026 paper pattern can be found in the table below.

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Exam Pattern of JEE Main 2026 Paper 1 (B.E/B.Tech)

Particulars

Details

Exam Mode

Computer-based examination

JEE Main exam duration

3 hours

Language of Examination

English, Hindi, Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Marathi, Malayalam, Odisha, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu.

Type of Questions

  • Multiple choice questions (MCQs)

  • Questions with numerical values as answers

No. of Sections

There are three sections:

  • Mathematics

  • Physics

  • Chemistry

JEE Main Total questions (paper 1)

  • Mathematics: 25 (20+5) 5 Questions with answers as a numerical value. All 5 questions are compulsory.

  • Physics: 25 (20+5) 5 Questions with answers as a numerical value. All 5 questions are compulsory.

  • Chemistry: 25 (20+5) 5 Questions with answers as a numerical value. All 5 questions are compulsory.

Total: 75 Questions (25 questions each)

How many marks in JEE Main

300 Marks (100 marks for each section)

JEE Mains negative marking

MCQs: Four marks will be awarded for each correct answer and there will be a negative marking of one mark on each wrong answer.

Questions with numerical value answers: Candidates will be given four marks for each correct answer and there will be a negative marking of 1 mark for each wrong answer.

Exam Pattern of JEE Main 2026 Paper 2 (B.Arch & B.Plan)

Students interested in appearing for the B.Arch and B.Planning entrance exam can check the JEE Main revised exam pattern 2026 below. The JEE Main exam pattern changes include the removal of optional questions in section B, i.e., only 5 questions will be available in section B as opposed to the 10 optional questions previously, and all will be compulsory. The JEE Main 2026 Paper 2 will be held in online mode except for the Drawing section in B.Arch. Check the total questions, total marks, and marking scheme for paper 2. The following tables show the detailed JEE Main exam pattern 2026 for Paper 2.

JEE Main 2026 Exam Pattern Paper 2

Particulars

Details

Mode of Exam

Computer-based examination, except forthe Drawing section in B.Arch (Pen & Paper-based mode)

Language

English, Hindi, Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Marathi, Malayalam, Odia, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu.

Exam Duration

Three hours

No. of Sections

B.Arch (Paper 2A):

  • Part 1 - Mathematics

  • Part 2 - Aptitude test

  • Part 3 - Drawing test

B.Plan (Paper 2B):

  • Mathematics

  • Aptitude test

  • Planning tests (MCQs)

Type of Questions

B.Arch -

  • Mathematics: MCQs and questions with numerical value as answers

  • Aptitude- Multiple- choice questions

  • Drawing- Drawing aptitude

B.Planning-

  • Mathematics- MCQs, and questions with numerical value as answers

  • Aptitude- MCQs (Multiple choice questions)

  • Planning- MCQs (Multiple choice questions)

JEE Mains total questions

  • B.Arch: 75+2 (Drawing test) Questions

  • B.Plan: 100 Questions

Total Marks in JEE Mains 2026 paper 2A

400 Marks

JEE Mains Marking Scheme

  • MCQs: +4 marks for each correct answer and -1 mark for each wrong answer.

  • Questions with numerical value answers: +4 marks for each correct answer and -1 for each wrong answer.

  • Drawing Test: Two questions are evaluated out of 100 marks.

NTA JEE Mains Paper Pattern 2026: Types of questions

As per the IIT JEE exam pattern, each subject has two sections. Section A will be of Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs), and Section B will contain questions whose answers are to be filled in as a numerical value. The JEE Main revised exam pattern 2026 states that section B will comprise five compulsory questions. There will be no optional questions according to the JEE Mains 2026 exam pattern change. There will be negative markings for both Section A and Section B. For each question in Section B, a candidate has to enter the correct integer value of the answer using the mouse and the on-screen virtual numeric keypad designated to enter the answer. For Section B, the answer should be rounded off to the nearest integer.

Type of Questions Asked in JEE Mains

Paper

Subject

Types of questions

Paper 1: B.E./B.Tech.

Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry

  • Objective Type - Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

  • Numerical value questions

Paper 2A: B. Arch

Part-1- Mathematics

  • Objective Type - Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

  • Numerical value questions

Part-II: Aptitude Test

Objective Type - Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

Part III: Drawing Test

Questions to test drawing aptitude

Paper 2B: B.Plan

Part-I: Mathematics

  • Objective Type - Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

  • Numerical value questions

Part-II: Aptitude Test

Objective Type - Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs

Part-III: Planning-Based Questions

Objective Type - Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

NTA JEE Main 2026 Exam Pattern: Subject Wise Distribution of Marks

Along with the IIT exam pattern, the authorities have released the complete details about the JEE Mains total marks. Candidates must be aware of the JEE Main total marks. Candidates can check the details on the subject-wise distribution of marks for the JEE Main 2026 BE/BTech paper. The total marks for JEE Main Paper 1 is 300. The JEE Mains 2026 exam pattern includes key details such as test duration, marking scheme, subjects, total marks, and other relevant aspects.

JEE Mains Total Marks in Paper 1: Subject Wise Marks Distribution

Subjects

Section A

Section B

Marks

Maths

20

5

100

Physics

20

5

100

Chemistry

20

5

100

Total Marks of JEE Mains 2026

75

300

JEE Main BArch Exam Pattern 2026

Subjects

Number of Questions

Marks

Mathematics

25 (20+5*) 5 questions with answers as a numerical value have to be answered.

100

Aptitude

50

200

Drawing Test

2

100

JEE Exam Total Marks & Questions

77 Questions

400 Marks

JEE Main BPlan Exam Pattern 2026

Subjects

Number of Questions

Marks

Mathematics

25 (20+5*) 5 questions with answers as a numerical value have to be answered.

100

Aptitude

50

200

Planning Test

25

100

Total Marks in JEE Mains 2026 BArch & Questions

100 Questions

400 Marks

JEE Main Syllabus: Subjects & Chapters
Select your preferred subject to view the chapters

JEE Main 2026 Marking Scheme for BE/BTech & BArch/BPlan

The marking scheme for JEE Mains 2026 paper 1 and paper 2 is similar. JEE Main total mark is 400 for Paper 2. The total marks in JEE Mains 2026 paper 1 is 300. Each incorrect answer will lead to a deduction of 1 mark, and for each correct response, candidates will get +4 marks.

  • +4 marks for each correct answer and -1 for each wrong answer.

  • Drawing Test: Two questions are evaluated out of 100 marks. There is no negative marking in the drawing test.

JEE Main 2026: Preparation Tips & Study Plan
Download the JEE Main 2026 Preparation Tips PDF to boost your exam strategy. Get expert insights on managing study material, focusing on key topics and high-weightage chapters.
Download EBook

JEE Main 2026 Syllabus

National Testing Agency has released the JEE Main 2026 syllabus on the official website, jeemain.nta.nic.in. Students appearing for the entrance test must be aware of the JEE Mains paper pattern and syllabus. Knowledge of the JEE Main 2026 syllabus assists the students in preparing a proper study schedule and the important topics for the JEE entrance exam. Hence, it is a must for aspirants to have details of the syllabus and JEE Mains paper pattern.

Important JEE Main Topics

Physics

Chemistry

Mathematics

  • Simple Harmonic Motion

  • Rotational Motion

  • Thermodynamics

  • Electrostatics

  • Magnetism

  • Optics

  • Modern Physics

  • Kinetic energy


  • Electrochemistry

  • Coordination compound

  • Salt analysis

  • Ionic equilibrium

  • Thermodynamics & thermochemistry

  • Aldehydes and ketones

  • Aromatic hydrocarbons

  • Alkyl halides and aryl halides


  • Complex Number

  • Calculus

  • Vector & 3 D

  • Probability

  • Trigonometric Equation

  • Properties of Triangles

  • Quadratic Equation

  • Sequence and Series

  • Permutations and combination


JEE Main 2026 Sample Papers

Prepare for JEE Main 2026 with a valuable collection of sample papers. These practice tests are tailored to simulate the real exam experience, helping you hone your skills and boost your confidence. Solve JEE Main sample papers to assess your readiness and excel in the upcoming exam.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the new exam pattern for JEE Main 2026?
A:

The JEE Main 2026 exam pattern has been released online. This year as well, the optional questions in section B have been removed.

Q: What is the marking scheme of JEE Mains 2026?
A:

According to the JEE Main exam pattern, for MCQs, +4 marks for each correct answer is awarded and -1 marks will be deducted for the wrong answer.

Q: What is the distribution of sections and questions in JEE Main Paper 2 for B.Arch?
A:

As per the JEE Mains exam pattern for B.Arch, there will be three sections- Mathematics (25 questions), Aptitude (50 questions), and Drawing (2 questions). The JEE Main exam pattern changes state that there will be 5 compulsory numerical questions instead of 10 optional questions.

Q: What are numerical questions in JEE Main 2026 exam?
A:

As per the JEE Main 2026 exam pattern, numerical questions have a numerical value as an answer and these have to be generally accurate to the point of four decimals. Unlike multiple-choice questions, these answers need to be worked on and calculated by the candidates.

Q: Are there any samples of how numerical questions asked in JEE Main 2026?
A:

To get an overall idea of the exam, candidates must refer to the previous year JEE Main question paper, mock tests and sample papers. The Numerical questions have to be calculated by the aspirants and the value has to be entered in the space provided.

Q: What will be the number of sections in the JEE Main 2026 exam for Paper 1 (B.E/B.Tech)?
A:

There will be three sections in JEE Mains exam for Paper 1 (B.E/B.Tech) including Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry.

Q: Why was the optional question format discontinued?
A:

The optional format, introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, was discontinued following the WHO's end of the public health emergency on May 5, 2023, reverting to the original exam structure.

Q: What is the JEE Main total marks?
A:

The total marks for JEE Main 2026 paper 1 is 300 marks. The JEE Main total marks for paper 2 is 400 marks.

Q: How many questions in JEE Mains 2026?
A:

There are 75 questions in paper 1 and 77 questions in paper 2A (BArch) and 100 (BPlan).

Q: Is there negative marking in jee mains 2026?
A:

Yes, there will be negative marking of 1 mark for each wrong answer.

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Questions related to JEE Main

On Question asked by student community

Have a question related to JEE Main ?

Hello murali

No, your son is not eligible for OBC NCL for IIT JEE because you fall in the "creamy layer" occupational category, regardless of your current employment status or family income. Students whose family income is less than Rs. 8 lakhs annually and they are not belong to the "creamy layer".

Note -

  • Children of professionals like doctors, lawyers, and engineers, as well as government officials in Group A and Group B services, are generally considered in the "Creamy layer" category.
  • Your current unemployment does not change your occupational status. The eligibility is based on your profession, not your current job status.

Thank You

Hello,

You can fill the JEE Main form even if you are a private candidate

Write the name of the school/board from where you are appearing as a private candidate .
If your Class 12 admit card or registration slip shows a school/centre name, use that exactly.

If your board lists you as a “Private Candidate” under the board name , then write:

CBSE – Private Candidate
(or your board name – Private Candidate)

Use the pin code of the examination centre/school mentioned on your Class 12 private candidate admit card or registration details.

If your board does not give any school address and only shows the regional office address, then use the regional office address pin code given by your board.

Hope it helps !

Hello Aspirant

You should not leave the OBC-NCL certificate ID blank in the JEE Main form it can create problems later.

NTA wants the certificate details while filling the form, not just at counselling. If you can, apply for the OBC-NCL certificate immediately so you get the ID on time.

If you fail to submit the certificate during counselling, your category will shift to General. It’s safer to enter OBC-NCL only if you’re sure you’ll get the certificate before counselling.

Hope it will help you

Hello,

No, X-rays are not deleted for the JEE 2026 exams. X-rays are part of the electromagnetic spectrum, a topic that remains in the syllabus for both JEE Main and JEE Advanced. Here in this article you will find more about the JEE Main syllabus.

I hope it will clear your query!!

Of course Lakshmi, that's why we are here. As you mentioned, you didn't start preparation for JEE Mains Exam. Don't worry start TODAY. Because today is the best day to start.

Okay you can start with the previous years question papers which you can download by Clicking Here .

You also can browse the JEE Mains Syllabus by Clicking Here . These help you to know which will come in the exam.

If you need any strategical need -- Click Here . This will effectively help you to do more in less time