What If You Reach Late To JEE Main Exam?

Candidates appearing for the JEE Main 2026 Session 2 exam, being held from April 2 to April 8, 2026, must strictly follow the reporting time guidelines set by the National Testing Agency (NTA). Entry to the examination hall is not permitted once the gate closing time has passed, making punctuality extremely important.

As today’s B.Arch exam is scheduled in the second shift, students should plan to reach the exam centre well in advance. Arriving early helps avoid last-minute delays due to traffic or security checks. Failing to report on time may result in missing the exam, so proper planning is essential to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.

Understanding JEE Main Gate Closing Time Rules

The National Testing Agency (NTA) follows strict rules for entry during the JEE Main April session. The exam is conducted in two shifts each day – morning and afternoon. Students must carefully follow the timing mentioned on their admit card. Entry inside the exam centre is not allowed after the gate closing time.

Important Gate Closing Timings

• Morning Shift Exam Start Time: 9:00 AM

• Morning Shift Gate Closing Time: 8:30 AM

• Afternoon Shift Exam Start Time: 3:00 PM

• Afternoon Shift Gate Closing Time: 2:30 PM

Important Rule

• The gates close 30 minutes before the exam starts.

• No late entry is allowed, even if you are late by 1 minute.

• Students should reach the centre well before the time to avoid any issues.

JEE Main Delay Entry Guidelines: How to Avoid Being Late

To avoid any trouble, every student should follow the JEE Main delay entry guidelines. Here are some simple steps to make sure a student reaches the centre on time for the April session:

• Check the Admit Card: The admit card tells the student the exact reporting time. Usually, students should arrive 1.5 to 2 hours before the exam starts.

• Visit the Centre Early: If possible, the student should visit the exam centre a day before the actual exam. This helps them know exactly where the centre is and how much time it takes to get there.

• Start Early: On the exam day, leave home much earlier than planned. Give extra time for traffic or rain.

• Keep Documents Ready: The student should keep their admit card and ID proof ready the night before. This saves time in the morning.

JEE Main 2026: Documents Required at Exam Centre 

To enter the JEE Main exam centre smoothly, students must carry all required documents. The National Testing Agency (NTA) has strict rules—missing any item can stop you from entering the exam hall.

Important Documents to Carry

• Admit Card

• Carry a clear printout on A4 paper

• Must include the Self-Declaration (Undertaking) form

• Fill the form properly (sign only when instructed at the centre)

• Passport-size Photograph

• Carry at least 2–3 extra photos

• The photo should be the same as the one uploaded in the application form

• It will be used on the attendance sheet

• Original Photo ID Proof

• Must be original and valid (not expired)

• Photocopies or mobile images are not accepted

• Accepted ID Proofs

• Aadhaar Card (preferred)

• PAN Card

• Voter ID

• Passport

• Driving License

• Ration Card with photo

• PwD Certificate (If Applicable)

• Required for students under the PwD category

• Must be original and issued by a competent authority

Important Exam Day Tips

• Reporting Time: Reach the centre at least 90 minutes before the exam starts to complete biometric verification and frisking.

• Dress Code: Wear light, comfortable, half-sleeve clothing. Avoid clothes with large buttons or many pockets.

• Footwear: Wear slippers or sandals with thin soles. Shoes with thick soles are not allowed.

• Religious Items: Sikh candidates are permitted to wear a Kara and Kirpan, but they should report early for mandatory manual screening.

Note: Rough sheets are provided inside the exam hall. Students must write their Name and Roll Number at the top of each sheet and drop them in the designated box before leaving the room.