JEE Main 2026 Session 1 Live: Reporting Time, Dress Code & Exam Instructions

The JEE Main 2026 Session 1 exam is underway, and along with ongoing live coverage of shift-wise papers, candidates must be aware of essential exam reporting times, dress code norms, and day-of-exam instructions issued by the National Testing Agency (NTA) to ensure a smooth and compliant examination experience.

Reporting Time and Shift Schedule

According to the official guidelines for Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech) in Session 1:

• Shift 1 runs from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, with candidates required to report between 7:00 AM and 8:30 AM.
• Shift 2 is scheduled from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, and reporting must be between 1:00 PM and 2:30 PM.
• Last entry before gate closure is 8:30 AM for Shift 1 and 2:30 PM for Shift 2; no candidate will be allowed after these times.

Candidates are advised to arrive at least 1–2 hours early to clear document verification, biometric attendance, and frisking without last-minute rush.

Dress Code for JEE Main 2026

While there is no strict uniform, the NTA recommends a simple and comfortable attire to facilitate smooth entry and security checks:

For Male Candidates:

• Avoid clothes with metal buttons, zippers, or large accessories.
• Do not wear head coverings such as caps or mufflers inside the exam hall.
• Jeans, t-shirts, and shirts without metal parts are permitted; comfortable footwear is advised.
• Jewellery or ornaments such as rings, bracelets, or watches are prohibited.

For Female Candidates:

• Avoid scarves, dupattas, jewellery (earrings, nose pins, chains) and clothing with metallic items.
• Light and comfortable clothes like jeans or plain outfits are recommended.
• Avoid footwear with thick soles or heels; slippers or sandals with thin soles are preferred.

Simple, light-coloured clothes help reduce time spent in security checks and ensure compliance with exam policies.

What to Carry and What’s Prohibited?

Candidates must bring the following mandatory items to the exam centre:

• Printed JEE Main 2026 admit card — without it, entry will be denied.
• Valid original photo ID proof (Aadhaar, passport, voter ID, etc.).
• Passport-size photograph (if specified in admit instructions).
• PwD certificate (if applicable).

Items strictly not allowed inside the centre include:

• Mobile phones, smart watches, calculators or any electronic gadgets.
• Study materials, notebooks, printed papers, handbags or purses.
• Metallic accessories, belts, jewellery, pens with metal clips.

Following these guidelines reduces the risk of entry delays and ensures candidates don’t face disqualification due to prohibited items.

Other Important Instructions

• Biometric verification (thumb impression or face capture) and frisking will be conducted upon entry.
• Candidates must sit only at their allotted computer station during the exam.
• Cooperation with invigilators and staff throughout the process is mandatory.
• Candidates should be familiar with the exam centre location a day before to avoid travel delays.

As JEE Main 2026 Session 1 continues across dates, these reporting time, dress code, and exam hall instructions are essential for all test-takers to follow for a smooth, compliant examination experience.