JEE Main Exam Centres 2026: City List and Allocation Process Explained is an important aspect candidates must understand before appearing for the national-level engineering entrance examination. The examination authority conducts the test across a wide network of centres to ensure accessibility for candidates from different regions. Knowing how exam centres are allotted and what guidelines apply helps candidates prepare better for exam day logistics.
JEE Main 2026 Exam Centre Network Across India
The JEE Main 2026 examination will be conducted in hundreds of cities across India as well as select international locations. The exam centres are spread across metropolitan cities, state capitals, and major district headquarters. Candidates from rural and remote regions are also accommodated by assigning nearby cities wherever possible. This extensive network ensures fair access and reduces travel burden for aspirants appearing for the examination.
How JEE Main Exam Centres Are Allotted
The National Testing Agency (NTA) allocates exam centres based on preferences submitted during the application process. Candidates are required to select multiple exam city choices while filling the form. Centre allotment depends on several factors including candidate preference, availability of seats, and administrative feasibility. While efforts are made to allot the first-choice city, this is not guaranteed. Once allotted, the exam centre city cannot be changed under normal circumstances.
Exam Centre Details Mentioned on Admit Card
The exact exam centre address is mentioned only on the JEE Main 2026 admit card. Candidates should not rely solely on the city name mentioned during registration. The hall ticket provides the full address, reporting time, gate closing time and centre code. Candidates are advised to carefully read these details and plan their travel accordingly.
Guidelines for Exam Centre Entry and Reporting
Candidates must strictly follow the reporting schedule mentioned on the admit card. Late entry beyond the gate closing time is usually not permitted. Biometric verification and frisking procedures are conducted at the exam centre. Candidates should carry only permitted items such as the admit card, valid photo ID and required stationery. Prohibited items will not be allowed inside the examination premises.
International Exam Centres for JEE Main 2026
Apart from Indian cities, JEE Main 2026 is also conducted at select international exam centres. These centres cater to Indian nationals and overseas aspirants seeking admission to Indian engineering institutions. Candidates opting for international centres should carefully review local exam-day guidelines, reporting time differences and document requirements as mentioned on the admit card.
What to Do in Case of Exam Centre Issues?
If candidates face issues such as incorrect centre details or difficulty locating the venue, they should immediately contact official support channels provided by the examination authority. Candidates are advised to keep screenshots or printouts of communication related to centre allocation for reference. Any discrepancy should be reported well before the exam date to avoid last-minute complications.