The National Testing Agency (NTA) is gearing up to unveil the answer key for the JEE Main 2026 Session 2, a critical step for the over 11 lakh candidates who participated in this year's examination. The computer-based tests took place from April 2 to April 8, 2026, and students are eagerly awaiting the provisional answer key, which is expected to be released on April 11, 2026.
The JEE Main examination comprises two primary papers: Paper 1 for B.E./B.Tech and Paper 2 for B.Arch./B.Planning. The participation statistics are noteworthy:
| Paper Type | Registered Candidates | International Candidates | Attendance Percentage | Aadhaar Authentication |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech) | 11.06 lakh | 4,229 | 93% | 97% |
| Paper 2 (B.Arch./B.Planning) | 54,953 | 270 | 73% | 97% |
Application Process and Admit Card Distribution
The application window for the JEE Main 2026 Session 2 opened on February 1 and closed on February 25, 2026. Due to requests from candidates, an additional application phase was conducted on March 12 and 13, 2026. The admit cards were issued in two batches, with the first batch released on March 29, 2026, and the second batch on April 1, 2026.
Examination Management and Emergency Protocols
The NTA demonstrated exceptional management of the examination process, employing advanced technology and collaborating with governmental bodies at both national and state levels. This year, special attention was given to international candidates, particularly those in the Middle East who faced disruptions. The Indian missions provided assistance to help these candidates reschedule their examinations and change locations as necessary.
On April 5, 2026, a power interruption at the Riyadh examination center led to the rescheduling of tests to April 6 and 8, 2026. Additionally, examinations in Manipur proceeded as scheduled despite internet restrictions, and timings were coordinated with the CBSE to avoid conflicts with Class XII examinations.
Upcoming Key Dates and Results Announcement
The question papers for all shifts were made publicly available on April 9, 2026. Candidates can expect the provisional answer key for Paper 1, along with recorded answers, to be released on April 11, 2026. Following this, a challenge window will open, allowing candidates to contest any discrepancies in the answer key for a fee of INR 200 per question.
The final results are anticipated to be announced on April 20, 2026, based on the best performance of candidates across both sessions. All important announcements will be made available on the NTA's official website, and candidates are encouraged to stay updated with any notifications.
Stakeholder Engagement and Acknowledgments
The NTA expressed gratitude to various stakeholders, including state governments, district administrations, law enforcement agencies, examination personnel, and technology partners, for their cooperation in conducting the examination smoothly. The agency also acknowledged the candidates' adherence to examination protocols, which contributed to a successful examination environment both domestically and internationally.
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