The subject-wise guidelines for JEE Main 2026 have been released by the National Testing Agency ahead of the start of Session 1 examinations. Candidates are required to carefully read the instructions related to their selected paper and subjects to avoid errors during the exam. The guidelines align with the official information bulletin and outline section-wise instructions, question formats, and marking rules applicable to different JEE Main papers.
JEE Main 2026 Session 1 Exam Dates and Timings
JEE Main 2026 Session 1 will be conducted on multiple dates in two shifts each day. Candidates must strictly follow the reporting and exam timings mentioned on their admit cards.
- Session 1 exam dates: 21 January to 24 January 2026
- Paper 1 (BE/BTech) Shift 1: 09:00 AM to 12:00 PM
- Paper 1 (BE/BTech) Shift 2: 03:00 PM to 06:00 PM
Candidates must download the admit card from the official website and verify exam date, shift, and centre details in advance.
JEE Main 2026 Guidelines for Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics
For candidates appearing in Paper 1 (BE/BTech), the examination is divided into Section A and Section B for each subject. Before attempting the paper, candidates must understand the structure and response method.
Section A (Maximum Marks: 80):This section contains 20 multiple-choice questions per subject, with four options each. Only one option is correct. Responses will be evaluated as per the official marking scheme, and candidates must use the constants provided in the questions for calculations.
Section B (Maximum Marks: 20):Section B consists of five numerical answer type questions per subject, all of which are compulsory. Answers must be entered as numerical values using the on-screen virtual keypad and rounded off to the nearest integer.
JEE Main 2026 Aptitude Test Instructions
Candidates appearing for papers that include the Aptitude Test must note that this section contains 50 multiple-choice questions. Each question has four options, with only one correct answer. The section evaluates analytical ability, reasoning, and design aptitude where applicable.
JEE Main 2026 Drawing Test Guidelines for BArch Paper
Candidates opting for the BArch paper must strictly follow drawing-related instructions.
- The drawing test consists of two compulsory questions
- Answers must be drawn only on the provided drawing sheet
- No supplementary sheets will be issued
- Candidates must carry drawing tools such as pencils, colour pencils, crayons, eraser, and geometry box
- Use of watercolours, poster colours, or acrylic colours is prohibited
- No personal details or identifying marks should be written on the drawing sheet
The drawing sheet must be submitted to the invigilator before leaving the exam hall.
JEE Main 2026 Planning-Based Objective Questions
The planning-based section includes 25 multiple-choice questions. Each question carries four options with one correct answer. Certain questions assessing thinking skills may be provided only in English, irrespective of the chosen language medium.
JEE Main 2026 Marking Scheme
The marking scheme applicable to Session 1 is as follows:
- Correct answer: 4 marks
- Incorrect answer: Minus 1 mark
- Unanswered or marked for review: No marks
Candidates are advised to follow all subject-specific guidelines carefully to ensure accurate responses and avoid penalties during JEE Main 2026 Session 1.