JEE Main Exam 2026: Check Exam Day Guidelines, Dress Code and Important Instructions

• JEE Main 2026 Session 1 begins January 21 with two shifts for BE/BTech papers
• Bring admit card, photo ID, and arrive early for biometric verification.
• Prohibited items include phones, smartwatches, calculators, jewellery, and bags

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The National Testing Agency (NTA) will begin the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main 2026 Session 1 from January 21. This national level entrance test is a key step for students seeking admission to engineering courses at IITs, NITs, IIITs and other technical institutions across India.

With a large number of candidates appearing for the exam, it is important for students to be aware of the exam day rules and instructions. To avoid last-minute problems, the NTA has issued clear guidelines related to reporting time, required documents, permitted and prohibited items, dress code and conduct inside the examination centre.

JEE Main 2026 exam schedule, shifts and reporting time

JEE Main 2026 Session 1 will be held over multiple days in two shifts for the BE and BTech paper.

• Morning shift: 9 am to 12 noon
• Afternoon shift: 3 pm to 6 pm

Candidates are advised to reach their allotted exam centre at least one to two hours before the start of the examination. The entry gates will close strictly at the time mentioned on the admit card. Late entry will not be permitted under any circumstances.

Documents and verification process

Students must carry the required documents to the exam centre. These include:

• A printed copy of the JEE Main 2026 admit card
• One valid original photo ID proof such as Aadhaar card, passport, voter ID, driving licence or school ID
• One passport size photograph
• Biometric verification will be conducted at the exam centre. This may include fingerprint or iris scanning. Candidates must cooperate with the examination staff during the verification process to ensure smooth entry.

Allowed and prohibited items inside the exam hall

Only a few items are allowed inside the examination hall. These include:

• JEE Main 2026 admit card
• Valid photo ID proof
• A transparent ballpoint pen
• PwD certificate, if applicable

Items that are strictly prohibited include mobile phones, smartwatches, earphones, calculators, bags, books, notes, loose papers, jewellery and any metallic accessories. Possession of any banned item may result in cancellation of candidature.

Dress code, behaviour rules, dos and don’ts

Candidates should wear simple and comfortable clothing. Clothes with metal parts, heavy jewellery, thick soled shoes or accessories that may cause issues during security checks should be avoided.

Dos:

• Read all instructions mentioned on the admit card carefully
• Reach the exam centre well in advance
• Carry only essential documents
• Remain calm and focused during the examination

Don’ts:

• Do not carry prohibited items
• Do not arrive late at the exam centre
• Do not use any unfair means

By following these guidelines, candidates can ensure a smooth and stress free JEE Main 2026 exam day and focus entirely on their performance.