
The JEE Main 2026 Session 1 is currently going on and will continue till 30th January 2026. While months of study decide your knowledge level, your exam-day discipline, punctuality, and adherence to NTA guidelines play an important role in protecting your score. To help you stay ahead, a curated list of Do’s and Don’ts are given here based on the latest NTA guidelines.
The entry process is rigorous. Missing the window means missing the exam.
Report Early: Arrive at the center at least 60–90 minutes before the gate closing time.
Shift 1 (9 AM): Report by 7:30 AM.
Shift 2 (3 PM): Report by 1:30 PM.
Aadhaar Verification: If you didn't register with Aadhaar, reach the center at least 1 hour earlier for mandatory biometric and physical verification.
Locate Your Center: If possible, visit the exam venue a day before to understand the commute and avoid last-minute navigation panic.
No Late Entry: Gate closing times are absolute. Even a 1-minute delay can result in denial of entry.
No Change of Center: You must only report to the center mentioned on your JEE Main 2026 Admit Card.
Carry only essentials like the admit card and photo ID, as all electronic gadgets, accessories, and prohibited items are strictly banned at the exam centre.
Valid Photo ID: Original government ID (Aadhaar, PAN, Voter ID, Passport). Photocopies or mobile images are strictly rejected.
Self-Declaration Form: Duly filled out, with your photo pasted and left-hand thumb impression done before reaching the center. (Sign only in front of the invigilator).
Transparent Ballpoint Pen: Black or blue. Opaque pens are not allowed.
Transparent Water Bottle: Label-free and completely clear.
Electronics: No smartwatches, calculators, Bluetooth, or even switched-off mobile phones.
Stationery: No geometry boxes, log tables, or personal rough paper. NTA provides rough sheets.
Personal Items: Avoid wallets, handbags, and belts with large metal buckles.
Food: Strictly prohibited, unless you are a diabetic candidate (allowed: fruits like bananas/apples and sugar tablets).
To speed up frisking, NTA recommends a specific "light" dress code.
| Dress Code | ||
| Category | Do’s (Allowed) | Don’ts (Avoid) |
| Clothes | Half-sleeve T-shirts, light kurtis, simple jeans/trousers. | Full sleeves, hoodies, large buttons, heavy embroidery, or many pockets. |
| Footwear | Slippers or sandals with thin soles. | Shoes, boots, or any footwear with thick soles/heels. |
| Accessories | Simple plastic hair ties. | Jewelry (rings, chains, earrings), metallic pins, or belts. |
Note for Religious Attire: If you wear religious headgear or specific attire, report 30 minutes earlier than the standard time for thorough frisking.
Verify Your Terminal: Ensure your name and photo are displayed correctly on the screen.
Check the Hardware: Test the mouse immediately. If it sticks or lags, ask for a replacement before the timer starts.
Mark for Review: Use this feature for questions where you are 70% sure. It helps you stay focused on the "easy wins" first.
Submit the Admit Card: You must drop your admit card and rough sheets in the designated box after the exam. Failure to do so can lead to non-evaluation of your result.
No Communication: Avoid even looking at other screens. CCTV and Jammers are active, and "unfair means" leads to a multi-year ban.
Don't Rush Round 1: Avoid the "ego-trap." If a question is taking more than 2 minutes, move on. Secure your marks in Chemistry and Physics first.
Don't forget the Numerical Keypad: For Section B (Numerical Value Questions), use the on-screen virtual keypad only.
Do: Get at least 7–8 hours of sleep. A fatigued brain cannot recall formulas accurately.
Don't: Start a new chapter today. Focus only on your formula sheets and short notes.
Do: Eat a light, home-cooked meal. Avoid heavy or "street" food that could cause discomfort.