Quick Summary: This blog explains the JEE Main 2026 exam day guidelines so students do not face problems at the centre. As per the blog, on the JEE Main 2026 exam day, students must reach the centre early and enter before the gate closes. Carrying the admit card and a valid photo ID is compulsory. Simple clothes are only permitted, and no electronic gadgets are allowed. The candidates are required to sit at the assigned seat and adhere to the instructions of the invigilators inside the hall. The rough work needs to be done in the given sheets only. Adherence to these regulations will prevent any disqualification and will assist students to take (take with a grain of salt idiom synonym) the exam calmly and confidently.
JEE Main 2026 Exam Day Guidelines – Before appearing for the exam, candidates should carefully check the JEE Main Exam Day Guidelines 2026 to avoid any confusion on the test day. All-important exam day instructions and guidelines are clearly mentioned on the JEE Main admit card, which every student must read properly. On the JEE Main 2026 exam day, candidates must carry the JEE hall ticket, a valid photo ID proof, and a filled self-declaration form to the exam centre.
As per the JEE Main exam day guidelines, details related to the dress code, required documents, and basic rules are clearly stated for students. The JEE Main 2026 exam will be conducted from January 21 to 30, 2026, while Session 2 is scheduled between April 2 and 9, 2026. The exam will take place in two shifts, from 9 AM to 12 PM and from 3 PM to 6 PM, at various centres in India and abroad.
The JEE Main admit card for Session 1 is now available online. Students can download their NTA JEE Mains hall ticket 2026 from the official website (idioms website) jeemain.nta.nic.in using their application number, password or date of birth. The admit card contains all JEE Main Exam Instructions 2026 that must be followed on the exam day. The JEE Main exam day guidelines also explain exam timing, JEE Main 2026 dress code, restricted items, identification rules, and basic exam rules. The JEE Main exam will be conducted in online mode only.
Read More:
- JEE Main Exam Centre List 2026 (OUT)
- JEE Main Exam Hall Instructions 2026 – Check The Points You Must Know
JEE Main 2026 Exam Dates
The NTA has announced the JEE Main 2026 exam dates for both Session 1 and Session 2. Candidates can also download their JEE Main admit card and city intimation slip from the official website.
| Exam Activity | Scheduled Timeline |
| Release of JEE Main Admit Card (Session 1) | 17 January 2026 |
| JEE Main 2026 Paper 1 Examination (B.E./B.Tech) | 21, 22, 23, 24 & 28 January 2026 |
| JEE Main 2026 Paper 2 Examination (B.Arch / B.Planning) | 29 January 2026 |
| Availability of City Allotment Slip | First week of January 2026 |
| Announcement of JEE Main 2026 Result (Tentative) | On or before 12 February 2026 |
JEE Main Exam Instructions 2026: Check IIT JEE Main exam timings
Students can check the timings for different exam shifts online. Detailed information is available in the JEE Main Exam Instructions 2026 PDF at jeemain.nta.nic.in.
Exam Timings for JEE Main 2026
| Stage of Examination | Shift 1 (Morning Session) | Shift 2 (Afternoon Session) |
| Exam duration | 9 AM to 12 PM | 3 PM to 6 PM |
| Allowed entry time (race against time phrase meaning) at the exam centre | 7:30 AM to 8:30 AM | 2 PM to 2:30 PM |
| Instructions by the invigilator | 8:30 AM to 8:50 AM | 2:30 PM to 2:50 PM |
| Candidate login for reading instructions | 8:50 AM | 2:50 PM |
| Exam commencement time | 9 AM | 3 PM |
Check Out: JEE Main Exam Time 2026: Exam Day Shift Timing & Paper Schedule
JEE Main 2026 Exam Day Guidelines
Below are the important JEE Main 2026 exam day guidelines that every student must follow:
- Candidates should reach the JEE Main Exam Centre 2026 at least one hour before the exam and must not leave until the paper finishes.
- No student will be allowed to enter after gate closing time, and leaving the centre before the exam ends is not allowed.
- Examinees wearing special clothing for religious reasons should arrive early to complete proper checking and mandatory frisking.
- Every candidate must carry the NTA JEE Mains hall ticket 2026, address proof, and all other required documents. Anyone without the JEE hall ticket will not be allowed to sit for the exam.
- Candidates must fill the self-declaration form, paste their passport-sized photograph, and put their left-hand thumb impression in the space provided before reaching the JEE Main Exam Centre 2026.
- Students need to follow the JEE Main rules and regulations 2026 strictly as instructed by the centre superintendent or invigilators.
- Social distancing should be maintained as per the JEE Main exam day guidelines.
- Candidates should take their seats immediately after the exam hall opens. They can log in and read the instructions before starting the JEE Main 2026 exam.
- A pen/pencil and rough sheet will be given in the exam hall. Candidates must write their name and roll number on the sheet and return it to the invigilator after the exam.
- Students must fill all required details on the attendance sheet, sign, and paste their photograph in the assigned space.
- The left thumb impression must be clear and not smudge on the attendance sheet.
- Candidates claiming PwD reservations must carry a PwD certificate and ID proof issued by the competent authority to the JEE Main Exam Centre 2026.
JEE Main Exam-Day Guidelines: What to Carry and What to Avoid
During the JEE Main 2026 exam, candidates can carry some things, but many items are strictly not allowed, as per the JEE Main Exam Guidelines 2026. Following these important exam day instructions and guidelines ensures the exam runs smoothly and avoids any last-minute problems.
Things to Carry on JEE Main Exam Day
| Category | What Candidates Need to Carry |
| Identity Proof | Any original government-issued ID such as Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, Voter ID, or Driving Licence |
| Admit Card | Hard copy of JEE Main admit card, clearly printed on A4 size paper for exam hall entry |
| Photograph | Recent passport-size photo identical to the one uploaded during the application process |
| PwD Documents (if required) | Valid PwD certificate to claim permitted exam facilities |
| Declaration Form (if applicable) | Completed and signed self-declaration as mentioned on the admit card |
| Medical Allowable (for diabetics) | Sugar tablets, whole fruits, and a transparent water bottle are allowed |
Check Out: JEE Main 2026 Aadhaar Update: How to Correct Aadhaar Name Mismatch
Things to Avoid on JEE Main Exam Day
| Category | Items Included | Exam Rule Explanation |
| Study Material | Books, notes, loose papers | Carrying any printed or handwritten material is strictly prohibited |
| Electronic Equipment | Mobile phones, smart gadgets | Use of electronic devices inside the exam centre is completely banned |
| Calculation & Connectivity Tools | Calculators, Bluetooth devices | Any device used for calculation or communication is not allowed |
| Personal Belongings | Bags, wallets, purses | Most exam centres do not offer storage facilities for personal items |
| Writing Accessories | Pens, pencils, erasers, rulers | Candidates must not bring their own stationery to the exam hall |
| Metallic Items | Jewellery, belts, watches, chains | Metal accessories may cause delays during security checks |
| Food Articles | Packed food items | Not permitted unless allowed due to valid medical conditions |
JEE Main 2026 Exam Day Guidelines – Diabetic Candidates
The JEE Main exam day guidelines are a bit different for diabetic students. NTA allows them to bring certain eatables like sugar tablets or fruits such as bananas, apples, or oranges into the JEE Main Exam Centre 2026.
Packed foods like chocolates, candies, or sandwiches are not allowed for any candidate, even if they are diabetic, according to the JEE Main Exam Instructions 2026.
JEE Main Exam Guidelines 2026: JEE Main 2026 Dress Code
The National Testing Agency has set a JEE Main 2026 dress code to ensure a fair and smooth JEE Main 2026 exam day. The applicants should obey the following rules within the exam hall:
- Dress lightly and casually without using thick fabric, large buttons and badges.
- Sleeveless or transparent clothing is not allowed at the JEE Main Exam Centre 2026.
- T-shirts or full sleeve shirts must be light and free to move about.
- Sandals or slippers are to be used, but not shoes with thick soles, heels, or platforms.
- Jewellery, rings, chains, bracelets, earrings, or any metallic accessories are prohibited as per JEE Main Exam Guidelines 2026.
- Any gadgets including electronic watches and smart watches are strictly forbidden.
- Do not wear caps or hats during the JEE Main 2026 exam.
Documents to Carry at the JEE Main Exam Center
On the JEE Main 2026 exam day, carrying the correct documents is very important. If any of the documents is misplaced, or the information on them is not correct, there is a chance that you will not be permitted to take the exam, which may create unnecessary stress.
- JEE Main admit card printed with a clear photo and signature.
- Original government ID such as Aadhaar, passport or voter ID.
- Two recent passport-size photographs which correspond to the application form.
- Self-declaration form, where necessary in line with the current health advisories.
- PwD/PwBD certificate of applicants with disabilities, where needed.
Unfair Means and Exam Rules
Strict supervision is followed to prevent unfair practices in the JEE Main 2026 exam. The NTA takes action against candidates breaking the rules. It is important to know what is considered unfair and what the penalties are.
- Bringing electronic devices, books, or notes is strictly forbidden.
- Sending someone else to take the exam (impersonation) results in cancellation of your result and a three-year ban.
- It is prohibited to speak to people or disrupt the atmosphere at the exam hall.
- Uploading of forged documents or edited photographs is considered UFM (Unfair Means).
- It is an offence to apply several times or to apply several scorecards.
Any breach of the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, could result in the cancellation of a result and prosecution. Candidates should follow important exam day instructions and guidelines, and JEE Main Exam Instructions 2026 to avoid any issues during the JEE Main 2026 exam.
JEE Main 2026 Guidelines on Admit Card
- Students must carefully check all the details on their JEE Main admit card 2026. If they find any mistakes in their name, paper, date of birth, gender, JEE Main Exam Centre 2026 name, city, state code of eligibility, or category, they should immediately inform the exam authorities.
- Candidates taking paper 2 (B.Arch part 3 drawing test) must also carry pencils, erasers, geometry box, and color pencils or crayons, as mentioned in the JEE Main Exam Day Guidelines 2026.
- If candidates are unable to download their JEE hall ticket, they should reach out to the officials at jeemain@nta.ac.in without delay.
- The JEE Main admit card 2026 will only be issued provisionally, depending on whether the candidate meets all eligibility criteria.
- Along with the NTA JEE Mains hall ticket 2026, aspirants must carry these items to the JEE Main 2026 exam centre, following COVID-19 safety rules:
- One original government photo ID (PAN card, Driving License, Voter ID, Passport, Aadhaar card with photo, E-Aadhaar, Ration Card, or Aadhaar enrolment number with photo).
- One passport-size photograph (same as uploaded in the JEE Main 2026 application) to paste on the attendance sheet at the centre.
- Self-declaration form downloaded from the NTA website, completely filled.
- Transparent ballpoint pen
- Personal hand sanitizer (50 ml)
- Transparent water bottle
- Mask and gloves
- Sugar tablets or whole fruits for candidates who are diabetic.
Final Words
Being ready for the JEE Main 2026 exam day is not only about studies. Carrying the right documents, following instructions carefully, and obeying important exam day instructions and guidelines will make the experience smooth and less stressful.
Students are advised to read all guidelines properly, plan their travel ahead, and reach the JEE Main Exam Centre 2026 on time. Following the JEE Main exam day guidelines and maintaining discipline will help candidates focus fully on the exam and boost their chances of performing well.
FAQs on JEE Main 2026 Exam Day Guidelines
Q: Can students carry a watch inside the JEE Main 2026 exam hall?
No, students cannot bring any type of watch analog, digital, or smartwatch into the JEE Main 2026 exam hall, as all electronic devices and metallic items are strictly banned to prevent cheating; wall clocks are available for keeping track of time.
Q: What things are not allowed at JEE Main 2026 exam centres?
At JEE Main 2026 exam centres, items like electronic devices (phones, smartwatches, calculators), study materials (books, notes, papers), bags or purses, food or drinks, pens or pencils, and most metallic jewellery or accessories are banned. Rough sheets and pens are provided inside the hall.
Q: When does the JEE Main 2026 exam start and end?
In JEE Main 2026, Paper (B.E)/B.Tech 1) is normally held between 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM (Shift 1) and 3.00 PM to 6:00 PM (Shift 2), whereas Paper (B.Arch)/B.Planning 1) is a single shift, so is conducted between 9:00 AM to 12.30pm. Always check your JEE hall ticket for exact timings.
Q: Has the JEE Main admit card for session 1 been released?
Yes, the NTA JEE Mains hall ticket 2026 for Session 1 was issued on January 17, 2026, for exams from January 21-24, while hall tickets for January 28-29 were released separately. All JEE Main admit cards can be downloaded from jeemain.nta.nic.in.
Q: How to get the JEE Mains exam city intimation slip?
To download the JEE Mains hall ticket 2026 city intimation slip, go to jeemain.nta.nic.in, click the city slip link, log in with your application number and password or date of birth, and save the PDF. This slip confirms your exam city and helps plan your travel before the main JEE Main admit card is issued. City intimation slip confirms the exam city, so that students can plan their travel on its basis till the admit card gets issued.
Q: Are calculators allowed in JEE Main or JEE Advanced?
No, calculators are not allowed in JEE Main 2026 exam or JEE Advanced, whether physical or on-screen. Applicants will be required to manually make all the calculations on the rough sheets provided to them, although previously there had been some confusion by a typo in the bulletin of NTA.
Q: Which pen is permitted in JEE Main?
Only a simple, transparent ballpoint pen (blue or black) is allowed in the JEE Main 2026 exam hall.
Q: Can students carry water bottles inside JEE Main?
Yes, student are allowed to carry transparent water bottles with them in the JEE Main 2026 exam hall.
Q: What documents must students carry on JEE Main 2026 exam day?
On JEE Main 2026 exam day, candidates must carry a printed JEE hall ticket, a valid original photo ID (Aadhaar, Passport, PAN), passport-size photos (same as uploaded), the self-declaration form, a transparent pen, and any required PwD certificate.
Q: What time should candidates reach the JEE Main 2026 exam centre?
Candidates should arrive at the JEE Main Exam Centre 2026 between 7:00 AM and 8:30 AM for the morning shift, and 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM for the afternoon shift. Entry closes 30 minutes before the exam, so early arrival is needed for security checks, frisking, and biometric verification.
Q: What is the JEE Main 2026 dress code for boys and girls?
For JEE Main 2026, both male and female students should wear simple, light, half-sleeved clothes without large buttons, deep pockets, or metal parts, along with open sandals or slippers. Avoid jewellery, belts, watches, scarves, caps, and thick-soled shoes as per JEE Main Exam Day Guidelines 2026.
