The Joint Entrance Examination (Main) 2026 eligibility criteria specify how many times a candidate can attempt the exam and what academic requirements must be met before applying. These norms are set by the National Testing Agency (NTA) and are important for aspirants planning to appear in both Session 1 (January) and Session 2 (April) of JEE Main 2026.
JEE Main 2026 Attempt Limit
Candidates planning to take the JEE Main 2026 can appear for the exam twice a year — once in the January session and once in the April session. Across three consecutive years after their Class 12 completion, this allows up to six total attempts (two per year). This pattern is based on NTA’s attempt limit guideline for JEE Main. There is no separate age limit imposed by NTA for appearing in JEE Main itself. Aspirants of any age can apply as long as they satisfy the qualification requirements.
JEE Main 2026 Academic Qualifications and Year of Passing
To be eligible for JEE Main 2026, candidates must have passed the Class 12 or an equivalent examination from a recognised board. The years accepted typically include:
- 2024 pass out
- 2025 pass out
- Appearing in 2026
Students who passed Class 12 earlier than 2024 may not be eligible under the current attempt rules. There is no minimum percentage requirement to appear in JEE Main itself, though specific institutions such as NITs, IIITs, and CFTIs often set additional criteria like minimum board marks or top percentile-based cutoffs for admission purposes.
JEE Main 2026 Subject Requirements
For admission to undergraduate programmes through JEE Main:
- B.E./B.Tech: Candidates must have studied Physics and Mathematics, along with at least one of Chemistry, Biology, Biotechnology, or Technical Vocational subjects in Class 12.
- B.Arch: Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics are mandatory subjects.
- B.Planning: Mathematics is compulsory in Class 12.
Key Takeaways for JEE Mian Aspirants
- Candidates can attempt JEE Main up to six times over three consecutive years — two sessions per year.
- There is no age cap to register for the exam, but academic qualifications must be met.
- Class 12 passing year (2024, 2025, or appearing in 2026) is essential for eligibility.
- No minimum board mark percentage is required for the Main exam itself, though admissions may have separate criteria.
Candidates are advised to check the official information bulletin on the NTA website for final confirmation and release of the JEE Main 2026 eligibility brochure.