• Engineering and Architecture
  • Management and Business Administration
  • Medicine and Allied Sciences
  • Law
  • Animation and Design
  • Media, Mass Communication and Journalism
  • Finance & Accounts
  • Computer Application and IT
  • Pharmacy
  • Hospitality and Tourism
  • Competition
  • School
  • Study Abroad
  • Arts, Commerce & Sciences
  • Learn
  • Online Courses and Certifications
Should I drop 1 Year for JEE Main 2026? Check Study Plan for Repeaters

Should I drop 1 Year for JEE Main 2026? Check Study Plan for Repeaters

#JEE Main
K Guna SahitiUpdated on 26 Nov 2025, 11:49 AM IST

Should I drop 1 Year for JEE Main - Many engineering aspirants often wonder if they should drop one year to attempt JEE Main exam can refer to this article to gain an understanding. It is understood that JEE Main is one of the most sought-after entrance examinations in India. So, candidates often feel the need to take as much time as possible preparing for the JEE Main exam. However, aspirants are advised to weigh their options regarding the JEE Main before reaching any conclusion. NTA will conduct JEE Main 2026 in two sessions, one in January and the second in April 2026. The JEE Main 2026 exam dates are January 21 to 31, while the session 2 will be from April 2 to 9, 2026. With careful planning, candidates will have enough time to prepare for JEE Main as well as class 12th board exams. This page deals with the burning question, “Should I drop 1 year for JEE 2026?”. Students can find the answers to all their queries here.

Should I drop 1 Year for JEE Main 2026? Check Study Plan for Repeaters
Should I drop 1 Year for JEE Main

Is the drop year worthwhile for JEE Main 2026?

While taking a drop for JEE Main can provide an opportunity to improve your score and get admission to a better college, it also poses certain challenges, such as the pressure to perform better in the next attempt and the gap year, which may have an impact on the candidate's career path. Recruiters might find this gap year to be a disadvantage. In this article, we will take a closer look at the advantages and disadvantages of taking a drop for JEE Main to help you make a well-informed decision.

Also Check:

Appeared in JEE Main all sessions and haven't scored that well?

Most students choose to drop one year because they do not have a good rank to get into the top IITs, NITs or IITS. However, it may not be the ideal solution. Well, dropping one year is a waste of 12 months that could be used to pursue B.Tech in colleges other than NITs and IIITs or the IITs. There are plenty of good institutes and universities that take students through JEE Main and have a good ranking. It's better to apply for admission to these and complete your undergraduate as JEE Main marks or rank won't matter after admission.

There is also the option of applying for the JEE Main exam alongside the B.Tech first year and join a top college. Candidates should try for a good performance in their under graduation such that they stand a better chance of placements and higher education. Here are some colleges and universities that consider JEE Main scores.

Amity University-Noida B.Tech Admissions 2026

Among top 100 Universities Globally in the Times Higher Education (THE) Interdisciplinary Science Rankings 2026

Apply
UPES B.Tech Admissions 2026

Ranked #43 among Engineering colleges in India by NIRF | Highest Package 1.3 CR , 100% Placements

Apply

With so many options, it's best not to take a drop. Instead, it's wise to complete B.Tech and try for an M.Tech or an MBA seat in one of the IITs or NITs.

Know more about:

Should I drop 1 year for JEE Main as I have not appeared for JEE Main at all?

Candidates can opt for colleges that do not require a JEE Main score for admission. The admission can be conducted either using the candidate's 12th scores or the entrance exam of the university itself. Not all colleges and universities require JEE Main scores. Candidates can always opt for these institutes instead. Some examples of this would be

  • Sastra University also takes class 12 marks.

  • Tamilnadu offers a few seats to other state students on the basis of class 12 marks

  • Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Punjab state take through class 12 marks and 15% of the seats are for outside-state students.

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

Statistics from previous years have shown that taking a drop is not an advisable idea as the number of students who have successfully cracked JEE Main after taking a drop of 1 year is less than 5%. The reason is fatigue on account of studying the same thing all over again and carrying the additional stress of having to do or die. So it's advisable to look for good options and build a good career rather than wasting one year.

In spite of all this, if candidates still wish to take a drop of one year for JEE Main, then the decision should be taken after careful consideration and consultation with parents and teachers.

Recommended eBooks

Related eBooks & Sample Papers

JEE Main 2026 Class 12th Chemistry Notes

2957+ Downloads

JEE Mains 2026 Class 12th Maths Notes

253+ Downloads

Should I drop 1 year for JEE Main after 12th because of Board Exams?

Actually, studying for both class 12 boards and JEE Main is possible, leading to good results. Most students who write JEE Main are in this category and therefore, candidates can easily crack the exam if the planning is preparation is perfect. Many students do prepare for class 12 and JEE Main together as the topics and syllabus are pretty much the same.

Preparation Related:

Tips to crack JEE Main

Here are a few tips to crack the JEE Main in the first attempt while preparing for the board exam.

  • Segregate the JEE Main syllabus into common for class 12 and JEE Main.

  • Study for both, practice the exercises after the chapter is done.

  • Solve previous years question papers and use NCERT books to cement your concepts and fundamentals.

  • Revision is crucial. While practising with the JEE Main mock tests, study and brush up the subjects simultaneously.

Amrita University B.Tech 2026

Recognized as Institute of Eminence by Govt. of India | NAAC ‘A++’ Grade | Upto 75% Scholarships | Application Deadline: 15th Jan

Apply
Jain University B.Tech Admissions 2026

100% Placement Record | Highest CTC 54 LPA | NAAC A++ Accredited | Ranked #62 in India by NIRF Ranking 2025 | JEE & JET Scores Accepted

Apply
JEE Main Syllabus: Subjects & Chapters
Select your preferred subject to view the chapters
Articles
Related Stories
|
Upcoming Engineering Exams
Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science Engineering Entrance Examination
Ongoing Dates
HITSEEE Application Date

5 Nov'25 - 22 Apr'26 (Online)

Sikkim Manipal Institute of Technology Online Test
Ongoing Dates
SMIT Online Test Application Date

15 Nov'25 - 12 Apr'26 (Online)

SNU Scholastic Aptitude Test
Ongoing Dates
SNUSAT Application Date

19 Nov'25 - 31 Mar'26 (Online)

Certifications By Top Providers
Computer Fundamentals
Via Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya, Indore
Introduction to Biostatistics
Via Indian Institute of Technology Bombay
Certificate Program in Machine Learning and AI with Python
Via Indian Institute of Technology Bombay
Programming Basics
Via Indian Institute of Technology Bombay
C-Based VLSI Design
Via Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati
B.Tech Engineering Technology
Via Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani
Udemy
 1525 courses
Swayam
 817 courses
NPTEL
 773 courses
Coursera
 697 courses
Edx
 608 courses
Explore Top Universities Across Globe
Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta
North Avenue, Atlanta, Georgia 30332
University of Nottingham, Nottingham
University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD
Texas A and M University, College Station
400 Bizzell St College Station, Texas 77843
University College London, London
Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT
Michigan Technological University, Houghton
1400 Townsend Drive, Houghton, Michigan 49931-1295
University of Strathclyde, Glasgow
16 Richmond St, Glasgow G1 1XQ

Popular Courses and Specializations

Popular Degrees

Popular Branches

List of colleges accepting JEE Main

Questions related to JEE Main

On Question asked by student community

Have a question related to JEE Main ?
Jee mains 2025 and previous years questions and explanation of answers and some important topics

Jee mains 2025 Previous Year Most Important Topics and Question answer avialble in the Carrers360 website u check it i give u link - https://engineering.careers360.com/articles/jee-main-question-papers it is help u to Preparation of Jee mains 2025 Some important topics

Read Complete Answer
N
Nitin Pant
24 Dec'25
Is it possible to prepare both neet and jee entrances exam ?

Good Morning, Aspirant,

Preparing for both NEET and JEE entrance exams at the same time would be challenging but possible. AS physics and chemistry are both subjects common to both exams. Students need to balance math and biology. A proper timetable can help you manage time and prepare for the exam without stress. You can register for the mock test for JEE students, conducted by Creers360. Giving a mock test can help you analyse your in-depth performance. The last date of registration on 8th January. The link to the mock test is attached herewith.


Read Complete Answer
S
SUANGANA ROY
24 Dec'25
Is it possible to prepare both neet and jee entrances exam ?

Hello Aspirant

Preparing for both NEET and JEE together is possible, but honestly, very tough.
The syllabus is huge. NEET needs strong Biology, and JEE needs strong Math.
Both exams have very different styles and expectations.
Only students with very strong basics and high discipline can manage both well.

If you are an average student, it’s better to choose one exam and focus fully on it. These are my honest advise to you, you can prepare for one exam and crack that exam, the future opportunities are many in JEE and NEET.

Read Complete Answer
S
SEJAL JAIN
24 Dec'25
Will it create a problem in Josaa counselling if my 12th LC caste and JEE registered caste is different?? I belong to OBC category in Karnataka state, it is not mentioned in central so I had to make EWS certificate for JEE.

Hello

Yes, it creates a problem if you're 12th LC(state OBC) and JEE(Central OBC/EWS) categories differ.

JoSAA requires a central OBC-NCL certificate for OBC reservation; since Karnataka OBC isn't central, you will be treated as general, or you can use a Declaration for OBC-to-General conversions from during counseling, but switching to EWS needs you to have applied as EWS initially. Your EWS certificate works if you meet the income criteria, but yes the important  thing is Central OBC list for OBC, not state list.

Hope it helps you, in case of any doubts you can directly drop your query or you can visit to Careers360.com

Read Complete Answer
S
SEJAL JAIN
23 Dec'25
Is in jee mains 95 and above percentile good and can we get good nits

Hello,

Yes, in JEE Mains, 95 percentile and above is good, and you can get admission in mid to upper-tier NITs. Here is the list of some NITs where you can get admission.

1. NIT Agartala

2. NIT Raipur

3. NIT Durgapur

4. NIT Puducherry

Thank you.

Read Complete Answer
S
SUANGANA ROY
21 Dec'25
View all

B.Tech/B.Arch Admissions OPEN

Amity University-Noida B.Tech Admissions 2026
Apply

Among top 100 Universities Globally in the Times Higher Education (THE) Interdisciplinary Science Rankings 2026

VIT - VITEEE 2026
Apply

National level exam conducted by VIT University, Vellore | Ranked #16 by NIRF for Engg. | NAAC A++ Accredited

Amrita University B.Tech 2026
Apply

Recognized as Institute of Eminence by Govt. of India | NAAC ‘A++’ Grade | Upto 75% Scholarships | Application Deadline: 15th Jan

UPES B.Tech Admissions 2026
Apply

Ranked #43 among Engineering colleges in India by NIRF | Highest Package 1.3 CR , 100% Placements

Jain University B.Tech Admissions 2026
Apply

100% Placement Record | Highest CTC 54 LPA | NAAC A++ Accredited | Ranked #62 in India by NIRF Ranking 2025 | JEE & JET Scores Accepted

M. S. Ramaiah University B.Tech Admissions 2026
Apply

NAAC A+ & NBA Accredited | QS I-Gauge Gold rated University | Highest CTC 52 LPA | 300+ Companies | Avail Scholarships Application Deadline: 28th Feb’26

View all Application Forms

JEE Main Notifications

Latest updates

Explore Career Options

By Industry
Flight Attendant

A flight attendant ensures passenger safety and comfort during flights. Key duties include conducting safety checks, assisting passengers, serving food and drinks, and managing emergencies. They must be well-trained in safety procedures and customer service. A high school diploma is typically required, followed by rigorous training to qualify for the role.

3 Jobs Available
Flight Engineer

A Flight Engineer monitors and operates an aircraft’s complex systems like engines, fuel, and hydraulics during flight, ensuring optimal performance and safety. They assist pilots with technical issues, conduct inspections, and maintain records. This role requires strong technical knowledge, problem-solving, and communication skills. Training usually involves a degree in aviation or aerospace engineering and specialised certification.

2 Jobs Available
Aircrew officer

An Aircrew Officer operates and navigates aircraft, ensuring safe flights and compliance with aviation regulations. Key duties include managing flight systems, conducting pre- and post-flight checks, and adhering to safety standards. The role typically requires working five days a week, with around 120 flight hours monthly. Employment may be contractual or permanent, depending on the airline.

2 Jobs Available
Aerospace Engineer

An aerospace engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems. They apply physics and engineering principles to improve aerospace technologies, often working in aviation, defence, or space sectors. Key tasks include designing components, conducting tests, and performing research. A bachelor’s degree is essential, with higher roles requiring advanced study. The role demands analytical skills, technical knowledge, precision, and effective communication.

2 Jobs Available
Air Hostess

An air hostess, or flight attendant, ensures passenger safety and comfort during flights. Responsibilities include safety demonstrations, serving meals, managing the cabin, handling emergencies, and post-flight reporting. The role demands strong communication skills, a calm demeanour, and a service-oriented attitude. It offers opportunities to travel and work in the dynamic aviation and hospitality industry.

2 Jobs Available
Aeronautical Engineer

An aeronautical engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains aircraft and related systems. They work on components like engines and wings, ensuring performance, safety, and efficiency. The role involves simulations, flight testing, research, and technological innovation to improve fuel efficiency and reduce noise. Aeronautical engineers collaborate with teams in aerospace companies, government agencies, or research institutions, requiring strong skills in physics, mathematics, and engineering principles.

2 Jobs Available
Safety Manager

A Safety Manager ensures workplace safety by developing policies, conducting training, assessing risks, and ensuring regulatory compliance. They investigate incidents, manage workers’ compensation, and handle emergency responses. Working across industries like construction and healthcare, they combine leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills to protect employees and maintain safe environments.

2 Jobs Available
Airline Pilot

An airline pilot operates aircraft to transport passengers and cargo safely. Responsibilities include pre-flight planning, in-flight operations, team collaboration, and post-flight duties. Pilots work in varying schedules and environments, often with overnight layovers. The demand for airline pilots is expected to grow, driven by retirements and industry expansion. The role requires specialized training and adaptability.

1 Jobs Available

Never miss JEE Main update

Get timely JEE Main updates directly to your inbox. Stay informed!