JEE Main 2026 January 21 Shift 2: Important Update and Mandatory Guidelines
JEE Main Jan 21 Shift 2 starts at 3 PM. Gate closes strictly at 2:30 PM. Mandatory: Printed Admit Card, Original ID, and 2 photos. Dress code: No shoes (wear slippers), no metal/jewelry. Aadhaar must be unlocked for biometrics. Drop rough sheets in the box before leaving to ensure evaluation.
The National Testing Agency (NTA) has issued a critical update for all candidates appearing for the JEE Main 2026 Shift 2 session today. To ensure entry and avoid disqualification, candidates must adhere to the following timing, documentation, and dress code protocols.
Shift 2 Exam Schedule and Timings
The afternoon session follows a rigid timeline. The NTA has strictly instructed center coordinators that no candidate shall be permitted entry after the gate closing time.
| JEE Main 2026 : Shift 2 Schedule and Timings | |
| Event | Time |
| Reporting Time at Center | 1:00 PM |
| Biometric Registration and Document Verification | 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM |
| Entry Gate Closing Time | 2:30 PM Sharp |
| Instructions by Invigilators | 2:30 PM to 2:50 PM |
| Candidate Login to Read Instructions | 2:50 PM |
| Examination Start Time | 3:00 PM |
| Examination End Time | 6:00 PM |
Mandatory Document Checklist
You must present the following documents in physical form at the security checkpoint. Digital copies, screenshots, or photocopies of ID proofs will not be accepted.
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Printed Admit Card: Downloaded from the official NTA website. The self-declaration (undertaking) must be filled in, but the signature must be done only in the presence of the invigilator.
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Original Photo ID Proof: A valid government-issued ID such as an Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Passport, or Voter ID.
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Passport Size Photographs: At least two additional photographs (identical to the one uploaded in the application) to be pasted on the attendance sheet.
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Aadhaar Biometric Status: Ensure your Aadhaar biometric is unlocked. If biometrics fail, entry may be delayed or denied.
Official Dress Code for Shift 2
Highly sensitive metal detectors are in use at all centers. Following the dress code is essential to pass through frisking without delays.
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Footwear: Wear slippers or sandals with thin soles. Shoes with thick soles and closed footwear are strictly prohibited.
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Clothing: Wear simple, light-colored clothes with half sleeves. Avoid garments with large buttons, zippers, or multiple pockets.
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Jewelry and Accessories: All metallic items, including rings, earrings, nose pins, bracelets, and chains, must be removed.
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Religious Articles: Sikh candidates are permitted to wear a Kara and Kirpan but must report by 1:00 PM for manual verification.
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Female Candidates: It is recommended to avoid underwired bras and metallic hair accessories to ensure a smooth frisking process.