The National Testing Agency (NTA) will release the JEE Main 2026 provisional answer key on 04 February 2026. Along with the answer key, candidates will also be able to access their recorded response sheet and question paper PDF through the official website – jeemain.nta.nic.in.
The answer key will help students estimate their probable scores and understand their chances of qualifying for JEE Advanced 2026.
JEE Main 2026 Answer Key Release Date and Objection Window
NTA has announced the official schedule for the provisional answer key and challenge window. Candidates must note the important dates related to Session 1 below. The key events for JEE Main 2026 Session 1 are as follows:
- Session 1 Exam Dates – 21 January to 29 January 2026
- Provisional Answer Key Release – 04 February 2026
- Answer Key Objection Window – 04 February to 05 February 2026
- JEE Main 2026 Result Declaration – By 12 February 2026
JEE Main 2026 Exam Conducted for Paper 1 and Paper 2
The JEE Main 2026 Session 1 exam for B.E/B.Tech was conducted on 21 January, 22 January, 23 January, 24 January, and 28 January 2026, in two shifts each day.
The Paper 2 exam for B.Arch and B.Planning was held on 29 January 2026 in the first shift.
How to Download JEE Main 2026 Answer Key and Response Sheet?
Candidates can download the provisional answer key, response sheet, and question paper PDF from the official portal. The steps to check the JEE Main answer key 2026 are given below:
- Visit the official website at jeemain.nta.nic.in
- Click on the link for JEE Main 2026 Answer Key for Session 1
- Log in using the application number and password
- The answer key PDF will appear on the screen
- Download and save it for reference
Candidates are advised to download all three documents to verify responses and raise objections if required.
How to Challenge JEE Main 2026 Provisional Answer Key?
NTA will allow candidates to challenge the provisional answer key if they find any discrepancies. The challenge window will remain open from 04 February to 05 February 2026. The process to raise objections includes:
- Log in to the candidate portal
- Select the question to be challenged
- Upload supporting proof or explanation
- Pay the prescribed challenge fee per question
- Submit the objection
The challenge fee is non-refundable, and objections without valid proof may be rejected. After reviewing challenges, NTA will publish the final answer key.
How to Calculate Expected Marks Using JEE Main Answer Key?
Candidates can calculate their estimated score using the official marking scheme:
- +4 marks for every correct answer
- -1 mark for every incorrect answer
- No negative marking for unattempted questions
- Numerical value questions have no negative marking
Total Score = (Correct Answers × 4) – (Incorrect Answers × 1)
Students should keep checking the official website for updates on the final answer key and result announcement.