The JEE Main 2026 Session 1 Final Answer Key has been officially released by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on the official website. The key reflects revisions made after reviewing student objections and will be used to prepare the final result. Candidates can now use it to estimate their probable scores ahead of the scorecard release.
JEE Main 2026: How to Calculate Your Score Using Official Answer Key & Response Sheet
With the JEE Main 2026 Final Answer Key now released, candidates can use it to estimate their probable scores. Apply the official marking scheme (+4 for each correct answer and −1 for each incorrect answer) while matching responses to calculate your expected score before the final result declaration.
Key Dates for JEE Main 2026 Session 1 Answer Key
The timeline for the JEE Main 2026 Session 1 has been fast-paced, ensuring students can transition quickly toward their Session 2 preparations or JEE Advanced. Following the conclusion of the exams held between January 21 and January 23, 2026, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has strictly adhered to the following schedule:
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Provisional Answer Key Release: Released within 48–72 hours after the final exam date. This allowed candidates to raise objections and challenge any discrepancies found in the initial responses.
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Objection Window: The window for submitting challenges typically remained open for 2–3 days, closing in the first week of February.
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Final Answer Key Release Date: February 16, 2026. The NTA published the definitive 10-page document today, confirming all corrected responses and "Dropped" questions.
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JEE Main Session 1 Result Declaration: Expected imminently (Late February 16 or February 17, 2026). Historically, scorecards are activated within 24 hours of the final answer key release.
Step-by-Step: How to Calculate Your Score
To calculate your score manually, you need two documents from the official jeemain.nta.nic.in portal: your Response Sheet (your recorded answers) and the Provisional Answer Key (the correct answers).
Marking Scheme
The NTA marking scheme applies to both MCQs and Numerical Value Questions (NVTs):
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Correct Answer: +4 marks
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Incorrect Answer: −1 mark
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Unattempted Question: 0 marks
Score Calculation Formula
After counting your correct and incorrect responses, calculate your score using the formula below:
Important Note: Negative marking applies to both Section A (MCQs) and Section B (Numerical Value Questions), so make sure to deduct marks for incorrect numerical answers as well.
Note: Negative marking now applies to both Section A (MCQs) and Section B (Numerical Value Questions). Be sure to deduct marks for errors in the numerical section as well!
How to Download Your Response Sheet
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Visit the official NTA JEE Main website.
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Click on the link "JEE Main 2026 Session 1 Response Sheet".
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Log in using your Application Number and Date of Birth/Password.
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Download the PDF and keep it open alongside the Answer Key.
How to Challenge the Answer Key
If you find a discrepancy in the official key, you can challenge it. NTA allows a 2-3 day window for objections: This data is tentative final clarity will out, once the official answer key is released
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Fee: ₹200 per question (non-refundable).
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Requirement: You must upload a PDF of supporting evidence (standard textbooks or academic sources).
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Outcome: If your challenge is accepted, the fee is usually refunded, and a Final Answer Key is released for everyone.
Marks vs. Percentile (Expected 2026)
Your raw score is just the beginning. The NTA will "normalize" these scores across shifts to produce a Percentile Score. Based on initial trends:
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99 Percentile: Typically requires a score of 180–190+ (depending on shift difficulty).
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90 Percentile (Qualifying cut-off): Usually sits around 75–90 marks for General candidates.
Important Instructions for Candidates
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The objection fee is non-refundable under any circumstances.
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Objections submitted after 11:50 PM on February 6, 2026, will not be considered.
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Challenges can be raised through online mode only.
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Candidates will not receive individual notifications regarding the acceptance or rejection of their objections.
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The final answer key will be released after all valid challenges are reviewed by subject experts.
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For queries related to JEE Main 2026, candidates may contact the NTA helpline at 011-40759000 or email jeemain@nta.ac.in.
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