JEE Main 2026 Exam Dates (OUT): NTA announces schedule for both January and April session - check here

NTA JEE Main 2026

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has announced the examination schedule for the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main 2026. The notification outlines a two-session format for the upcoming academic year, providing a clear roadmap for students beginning their preparation.

In an effort to enhance accessibility and streamline the examination process, the NTA has also revealed key initiatives, including a significant expansion of examination cities and the integration of Aadhaar authentication to simplify form-filling.

JEE Main 2026: Key Dates and Session-Wise Breakdown

Sticking to its familiar pattern, JEE Main 2026 will be conducted in two sessions, offering multiple opportunities for candidates to improve their scores. Both sessions will be held in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode.

Session 1:

• Online Application Window: Commences from October 2025
• Examination Dates: Scheduled between January 21 and January 30, 2026

• Online Application Window: Opens in the last week of January 2026
• Examination Dates: To be held from April 1 to April 10, 2026

More Cities and Enhanced Candidate Support

Going beyond just the schedule, the NTA's notice highlights several candidate-centric measures designed to improve the overall examination experience.

Increased Examination Cities: To facilitate greater participation and reduce travel hardships for students, the NTA is actively increasing the number of cities serving as examination centers. This expansion is expected to make the exam more accessible to candidates from remote and rural areas.

Focus on Accessibility: The agency has assured that special attention is being given to meet the specific requirements of Persons with Disabilities (PwD) candidates, ensuring the examination environment is inclusive and equitable for all.

Streamlined Application Process with Aadhaar Integration

A major update in the application procedure for JEE Main 2026 involves the use of Aadhaar authentication. This initiative is aimed at minimizing errors and simplifying the initial form-filling stage for students.

Automated Data Fetching: The process will automatically pre-fill key details like the candidate’s name, date of birth, gender, and address directly from their Aadhaar database.

Resolution for Name Discrepancies: In a thoughtful move, the NTA has provided a solution for a common issue faced by students. If a candidate's name differs between their Aadhaar card and Class 10th certificate, they will be given an option to correct it during the online application process.

Note: The NTA clarifies that since Aadhaar does not record the names of parents or guardians, students must manually enter these details in the application form.

Reaffirming its commitment to a fair and transparent testing process, the NTA stated in its notice that it is implementing measures to ensure "accuracy of information at every level to strengthen transparency, trust, and honesty in the examination process."

Prospective candidates are advised to regularly monitor the official NTA JEE Main website (jeemain.nta.ac.in) for the release of the detailed information bulletin and to begin the application process as soon as the windows open.