JEE Main 2026 Session 1 Exam: Reporting Time, Dress Code, Entry Rules, What to Carry
JEE Main 2026 Session 1 begins on January 21. Gates for Shift 1 close at 8:30 AM sharp. Shoes and jewellery are not allowed. Candidates must carry a color printout of the admit card and a valid original photo ID. Biometric verification is mandatory, so avoid mehndi/henna on fingers, and reach the exam centre early to complete security checks smoothly.
The wait is over for millions of engineering aspirants as the National Testing Agency (NTA) commences the JEE Main 2026 Session 1 on January 21, 2026. With rigorous security protocols in place, even a small oversight in your attire or documentation could lead to a stressful start or, in extreme cases, denial of entry.
To help you stay focused on your paper and not the paperwork, we have compiled the ultimate exam-day guide based on the latest NTA notifications.
1. Timing is Everything- Reporting & Gate Closing
The NTA follows a "Zero Tolerance" policy for late arrivals. If the gate closes, it stays closed.
| Reporting & Gate Closing | ||
| Event | Shift 1 (Morning) | Shift 2 (Afternoon) |
| Exam Timings | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM | 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM |
| Reporting Time | 7:00 AM – 8:30 AM | 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM |
| Gate Closing Time | 8:30 AM Sharp | 2:30 PM Sharp |
Pro Tip: Aim to reach the center by 7:30 AM (Shift 1) or 1:30 PM (Shift 2) to account for traffic and the multi-layered biometric verification process.
Dress Code: What to Wear to Avoid Delays
The goal of the dress code is to ensure a quick security check. Metallic items are your biggest enemy at the frisking booth.
For Male Candidates
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Allowed: Simple T-shirts (half sleeves preferred), light trousers, or plain jeans.
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Footwear: Slippers or sandals with thin soles.
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Banned: Full-sleeve shirts, hoodies, clothes with large buttons, cargo pants with many pockets, and shoes/sneakers.
For Female Candidates
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Allowed: Salwar-kameez, leggings, or simple tops and jeans. Hair should be tied with a simple rubber band.
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Footwear: Flat sandals or slippers.
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Banned: Jewelry (earrings, nose pins, rings, bracelets, anklets), dupattas, scarves, and clothes with heavy embroidery or metallic buttons. Heels and thick-soled shoes are strictly prohibited.
The "Must-Carry" Document Checklist
Before you leave the house, double-check your bag for these five items:
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Admit Card: A clear, color printout on A4 paper.
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Self-Declaration (Undertaking): Downloaded with the Admit Card, filled in advance (except for the signature, which must be done in front of the invigilator).
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Original Photo ID: Aadhaar Card (with photo), PAN Card, Passport, or Voter ID. Note: Scanned copies or photos on mobile phones are NOT valid.
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Passport Size Photo: At least one spare (identical to the one on the application) to be pasted on the attendance sheet.
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Transparent Ballpoint Pen: While some centers provide pens, it is safer to carry your own transparent one.
Prohibited Items (Leave These in Your Bag/Car)
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Electronics: Mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators, or Bluetooth devices (even if switched off).
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Stationery: Geometry boxes, notebooks, or loose papers.
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Personal Items: Wallets, handbags, belts, and caps.
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Food: Only diabetic candidates are allowed to carry sugar tablets or fruits (like bananas/apples) in a transparent pouch with prior medical certification.
Inside the Hall: Computer-Based Test (CBT) Rules
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Rough Work: You will be provided with 6 blank A4 sheets. Write your name and roll number at the top of each. You must drop these in the designated box before exiting.
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Biometrics: Your photo and thumbprints will be taken. Do not apply mehndi or ink on your fingers, as it may hinder the scanner.
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West Bengal Update: If you are an aspirant from West Bengal, note that the January 23 exam has been rescheduled due to Saraswati Puja. Check your revised admit card for the new date.