JEE Main 2026 Session 1 is currently underway across India. The National Testing Agency is conducting the examination from 21 January 2026 to 29 January 2026 in multiple shifts. Over 13.6 lakh candidates are appearing for the engineering entrance test this year.
As the exam progresses, candidates are keen to understand how their raw marks may convert into percentile and All India Rank before the official results are announced.
JEE Main 2026 Current Exam Status
The Session 1 examination is being held in computer-based mode. Admit cards have already been issued, and candidates are appearing for the exam shift-wise. The JEE Main 2026 Session 1 result is expected to be announced within 2–3 weeks after the last exam date, likely between mid-February and March 2026.
How JEE Main 2026 Marks Convert to Percentile and Rank?
The National Testing Agency follows a normalization process due to multiple shifts. Percentiles are calculated based on relative performance within each shift rather than raw marks alone.
Two candidates scoring the same marks in different shifts may receive different percentiles. The final All India Rank (AIR) is prepared using normalized percentiles, not raw scores. This makes predictive trends important for early assessment.
Expected JEE Main 2026 Marks vs Percentile and Rank
Based on previous years’ data and expert projections, the following table provides a realistic estimate for candidates scoring between 90 and 98 percentile. Before reviewing the table, candidates should note that these figures are indicative and may vary slightly after official normalization.
Percentile Range | Estimated Marks (Out of 300) | Approx. Rank Range |
98.9+ | 188–191 | 12,000 – 13,200 |
98.8+ | 186–188 | 13,201 – 14,400 |
98.7+ | 183–186 | 14,401 – 15,600 |
98.5+ | 178–183 | 15,601 – 18,000 |
98.3+ | 174–178 | 18,001 – 20,400 |
98.0+ | 170–174 | 20,401 – 23,000 |
97.5–97.9 | 158–170 | 23,001 – 31,200 |
96.0–97.4 | 140–158 | 31,200 – 48,000 |
95.0–95.9 | 130–140 | 48,000 – 60,000 |
90.0–94.9 | 98–130 | 60,000 – 1,20,000 |
Why This JEE Main 2026 Rank Estimation Is Useful?
This expected marks vs rank analysis helps candidates assess their chances for NITs, IIITs, and GFTIs. It also allows students to benchmark performance and decide whether to focus on counselling preparation or improve scores in Session 2.
Strategy Insights Based on 2026 Trends
Candidates targeting 98+ percentile usually require around 175+ marks, offering strong chances for top NIT branches. Scores between 140 and 165 marks generally fall in the 95–97 percentile range, suitable for good NIT and IIIT options. Marks between 98 and 123 are often sufficient for state quota colleges and several GFTIs.
Due to normalization, even a 5–10 mark difference can significantly impact percentile, especially in the 95–99 range. Candidates are advised to wait for the official scorecards for final confirmation.