JEE Main 2026 January 22 exam was conducted by the National Testing Agency in two shifts across the country. The first shift was held from 9 AM to 12 PM, while the second shift took place from 3 PM to 6 PM. Based on initial student reactions, the overall difficulty level varied significantly between the two shifts.
Candidates who appeared for the evening session reported that the paper was more challenging compared to previous shifts conducted in the ongoing session.
JEE Main 2026 Jan 22 Shift 2 Difficulty Level
According to student feedback, JEE Main 2026 January 22 Shift 2 was the toughest paper so far in the January session. A large number of candidates found the Mathematics section extremely lengthy and difficult.
Students reported that they were unable to attempt more than 10 questions in Mathematics due to complex calculations and time-consuming problems. The section tested conceptual clarity as well as speed, making it difficult for average candidates to score comfortably.
Physics and Chemistry in Shift 2 were rated as moderate in difficulty. Physics included a mix of numerical and concept-based questions, while Chemistry was largely balanced, covering topics from physical and inorganic chemistry. However, the overall paper felt challenging mainly because of the demanding Mathematics section.
JEE Main 2026 Jan 22 Shift 1 Paper Review
The first shift of JEE Main 2026 on January 22 was rated easy to moderate by students. Candidates found the paper more manageable when compared to the second shift.
Physics in Shift 1 was described as moderate to difficult, with questions requiring strong conceptual understanding. Some numerical problems were slightly time-consuming but solvable with proper preparation.
Chemistry was rated moderate in difficulty. Students mentioned that the section included a fair mix of questions from organic, inorganic, and physical chemistry, with several direct questions that could be attempted quickly.
Overall, Shift 1 candidates felt that the paper was balanced and scoring, especially when compared to the tougher evening session.
JEE Main 2026 Session 1 Exam Schedule
The National Testing Agency is conducting the JEE Main 2026 Session 1 examination from 21 January 2026 to 29 January 2026. The exam is being held in multiple shifts to accommodate the large number of registered candidates.
With varying difficulty levels across shifts, candidates are advised to focus on normalisation factors while evaluating their performance. More detailed analysis and expected cut-off trends will become clear after the completion of all session 1 papers.