JEE Main 2026 Session 1 Starts Tomorrow: Essential Checklist, Marking Scheme and Exam Day Rules

The National Testing Agency (NTA) is set to begin the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main 2026 Session 1 tomorrow, January 21, 2026. This high-stakes engineering entrance exam will be conducted in a computer-based format through January 24, 2026.

To ensure a smooth exam experience and avoid last-minute disqualification, candidates must adhere to the latest NTA guidelines regarding documentation and the updated marking scheme.

JEE Main 2026 Session 1 Exam Dates

The examination will be held on the following dates:

• January 21, 2026

• January 22, 2026

• January 23, 2026

• January 24, 2026

Mandatory Checklist: Items Required at the Exam Center

Candidates must carry the following documents to the examination hall. Failure to produce these will result in entry being denied:

• Downloaded Admit Card: A clear printout of the official NTA hall ticket.

• Passport Size Photographs: Two recent photos (matching the one uploaded in the application form).

• Valid Photo ID: Original government-issued identification (Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Passport, or Voter ID).

Official Marking Scheme for 2026

Success in JEE Main depends heavily on managing negative marking. The scheme for Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics is as follows:

Section A (20 Multiple Choice Questions)

• Correct Answer: Plus Four marks (+4)

• Incorrect Answer: Minus One mark (-1)

• Unanswered/Marked for Review: No mark (0)

Section B (5 Numerical Value Questions)

All five questions in this section are mandatory.

• Correct Answer: Plus Four marks (+4)

• Incorrect Answer: Minus One mark (-1)

• Unanswered/Marked for Review: No mark (0)

• Rounding Requirement: Answers must be rounded off to the nearest integer using the virtual numeric keypad provided on the screen.

B.Arch and B.Planning Guidelines

For students appearing for Architecture and Planning papers, the following rules apply:

Aptitude and Planning Sections

• Correct Answer: Plus Four marks (+4)

• Incorrect Answer: Minus One mark (-1)

• Unanswered: No mark (0)

Drawing Test (B.Arch Only)

• Format: Two questions to be attempted on the provided drawing sheet.

• Materials Allowed: Pencils, colored pencils, crayons, erasers, and geometry boxes.

• Prohibited Items: Watercolor, poster colors, and acrylic colors are strictly forbidden.

• Important Note: Do not write your roll number, name, or any identifying signs anywhere on the drawing sheet. All sheets must be submitted to the invigilator before leaving.