Patna: The National Testing Agency (NTA) has opened applications for the JEE Main 2026, introducing new measures to streamline the exam process and prevent irregularities. Students can submit their applications until November 27.
For the upcoming examination, the NTA has implemented recommendations from the Dr K Radhakrishnan Committee on Examination Reforms. One key change allows candidates to select an exam centre in their preferred city. Applicants will be asked to provide both permanent and current addresses, with a list of cities generated from this information. Candidates can then select up to four cities of their choice.
The move is intended to reduce errors and minimise long-distance travel, while the number of exam centres has been increased from 299 to 323 to accommodate candidates more conveniently.
Photographs and verification
For the first time, students must upload a live photograph in addition to a scanned copy of a recent image. This follows previous concerns that outdated photos led to errors during verification. The new system will check photographs twice to ensure authenticity. Candidates must submit a colour photograph showing at least 80% of their face. Multiple application submissions will trigger action, and students are urged to enter email IDs and mobile numbers accurately.
E-KYC introduced
The NTA has also introduced electronic Know Your Customer (e-KYC) verification. This digital authentication uses Aadhaar details, including name, date of birth, and photograph, via the UIDAI’s Central Identities Data Repository (CIDR). Guardians’ names, not included in Aadhaar, must be provided in the application form.
Exam schedule
JEE Main 2026 will be conducted in two stages. The first stage will take place from January 21 to 30, with results expected by February 12. Registration for the second stage opens in the last week of January, with the examination scheduled between April 1 and 10. Final results, based on both stages, will be released by April 20.
The exams will be held in computer-based test (CBT) mode, with two daily shifts: 9am to 12pm and 3pm to 6pm.
