This complete JEE Main 2026 advisory explains exam day instructions, reporting time, admit card rules, documents required, dress code, and do’s & don’ts so students can appear confidently without any confusion.
Read This Before You Go for JEE Main 2026
If you are appearing for JEE Main 2026 January attempt on 21, 22, 23, 24, 28, or 29 January, this blog is extremely important for you. Just a short time ago, the latest official advisory and instructions were released.
This guide explains everything step by step, in very simple English, so that you do not face any problem at the examination center. If you read this fully, you will not need to read the PDF separately.
Visit the official website- jeemain.nta.nic.in
January Attempt of JEE Main 2026 Is Important
The January attempt is very important because:
- On lower marks, students can get a better percentile
- You get two chances (January + April)
- Final rank is made using the best of two attempts
- It helps in college planning and counselling strategy
Do not worry if the paper feels easy, tough, or moderate. Your goal is to score maximum marks in your shift.
Admit Card Status & Exam Date
- Students whose exam is on 28 or 29 January and have not received the admit card yet: Do not panic, it will be released soon.
- Carefully check on your admit card:
- Exam date
- Exam shift
- Reporting time
- Gate closing time
- Exam center address
If you miss your date or shift, the exam is missed completely.
Reporting Time & Gate Closing Time (Very Important)
- Morning Shift
- Gate closes at 8:30 AM
- Best time to reach: 7:30 – 8:00 AM
- Evening Shift
- Gate closes at 2:30 PM
- Best time to reach: 1:30 – 2:00 PM
No entry is allowed after gate closing time.
Exam Center Location Check
- Always check your exam center on Google Maps
- If the location is confusing, ask parents to check once
- If possible, visit the area one day before
Going with a parent is recommended (not compulsory). It gives confidence and support.
Aadhaar vs Non-Aadhaar Candidates
If you registered using Aadhaar
- Carry only the first page of admit card
- Biometric verification is faster
If you did NOT register using Aadhaar
- Carry first page + fourth page of admit card
- Reach at least 1 hour early
- Biometric details will be taken at center
Same rule applies if registration was done via DigiLocker, PAN, or Driving License.
Documents You Must Carry
Carry all documents in original form:
- Admit Card (Color printout)
- One passport-size photograph (same as application form)
- Two extra passport-size photographs (recommended)
- Valid photo ID proof
- Aadhaar / PAN / Driving License (same as used in application)
- Two ball point pens
- Transparent water bottle
- PwD certificate (if applicable)
Mobile photos or photocopies of ID are not accepted
Photo Mismatch Candidates
If you received an email from National Testing Agency regarding photo mismatch:
- Carry the signed PDF certificate
- It must be signed by school principal or gazetted officer
- This rule applies only to affected students, not everyone
Exam Day Formalities
- Attendance sheet filling
- Signature
- Left-hand thumb impression
- Biometric verification
- CCTV and AI surveillance in exam hall
Any unfair activity can lead to disqualification.
Exam Pattern (Quick Overview)
- Total Questions: 75
- MCQs: 60
- Numerical (Integer type): 15
- Marking Scheme: +4 for correct, -1 for wrong
Rough Sheets & Exit Rules
- Rough sheets (A4 size) will be provided
- Write name and roll number on first sheet
- Ask for extra sheets if needed
- Submit admit card and rough sheets before leaving
Items NOT Allowed Inside Exam Hall
- Bags, purses, geometry box
- Books, notes, papers
- Mobile phone, smartwatch, calculator
- Food packets, chocolates, candy
- Earphones, microphones, pager
Diabetic students may carry fruits like banana or apple (no packed food)
Special Instructions
- Sikh students can wear Kara and Kirpan
- B.Arch / B.Planning students (29 Jan):
- Pencil, eraser, color pencils allowed
- Water colors NOT allowed
Dress Code Guidelines
- Wear simple and comfortable clothes
- Avoid large buttons, heavy embroidery, or fashion wear
- Sweaters and normal winter wear are allowed
- Girls can wear simple kurti or regular clothes
Dress like you go to school or coaching.
FAQs – JEE Main 2026 Exam Day
Q1. What if I reach after gate closing time?
You will not be allowed entry, even by 1 minute.
Q2. Is black & white admit card allowed?
No. Always carry color printout.
Q3. Can I carry mobile inside exam center?
No. Mobiles are strictly prohibited.
Q4. Is water bottle allowed?
Yes, only transparent bottle.
Q5. What if details on ID and admit card slightly differ?
Carry one extra supporting ID.
Q6. Is parent entry allowed inside center?
No, but parents can wait outside.