Many engineering aspirants often wonder how many times they can appear for JEE Main 2026, as this plays a crucial role in planning their preparation strategy. According to the official guidelines by the NTA, JEE Main is conducted twice a year – once in January and once in April. Over a span of three consecutive years, a student can attempt the exam up to six times (two attempts per year). For those aiming for admission to NITs, IIITs, or IITs, understanding the number of attempts is essential. It is also important to note that there is no upper age limit for appearing in the JEE Main 2026 examination.
How Many Attempts Are Allowed for JEE Main 2026?
As per the eligibility criteria, candidates can appear for JEE Main up to six times over three consecutive years. This means students who have passed or are appearing for Class 12 within the last three years are eligible to apply. The NTA will conduct JEE Main 2026 in two sessions. Candidates taking the exam for the first time in 2026 will also be eligible to appear in 2027 and 2028. For general category students, the exam can be attempted across three different years, starting from the year they complete Class 12. To gain a clearer understanding of the attempt limits and their advantages, refer to the key points below.
Important Dates For JEE Main 2026
Candidates must be well aware of the important dates for both sessions. If eligible candidates can apply for JEE Main 2026 exam. NTA is expected to release JEE Main Exam Date and other important dates in November at the official website.
Important Dates for JEE Main 2026 Session 1
Candidates who are willing to participate in JEE Main 2026 Session 1 exam can check the important dates for JEE Main 2026 Session 1 in the table below. The exam is expected to be conducted in the last week of January 2026.
| Important Dates For JEE Main 2026 Session 1 | |
| Events | Dates |
| JEE Main 2026 Registration date session 1 | November 2025 |
| JEE Mains 2026 Registration last date | November 2025 |
| JEE Main 2026 Session 1 application form correction date | December 2025 |
| JEE Main Session 1 Exam Date 2026 | Last Week of January 2026 |
Important Dates for JEE Main 2026 Session 2
Candidates who are willing to participate in JEE Main 2026 Session 2 exam can check the important dates for JEE Main 2026 Session 2 in the table below. The exam is expected to be conducted in April 2026.
| Important Dates For JEE Main 2026 Session 2 | |
| Events | Dates |
| JEE Main 2026 Registration Date (Session 2) | Second week of February, 2026 |
| JEE Main April Registration 2026 last date | Last week of February 2026 |
| JEE Main form correction 2026 | First week of March 2026 |
| JEE Main session 2 exam date | First week of April 2026 |
JEE Main Application Form 2026
The National Testing Agency released the JEE Main application form . Candidates can apply online on the official website, @jeemain.nta.ac.in. The exam will be conducted in two sessions. The first session will be conducted in January and the second one in April month. Candidates must apply before the deadline.
How Many Attempts Are Allowed for General Category
Candidates in the general category are allowed a maximum of 3 attempts for the JEE Main 2026 exam . This is done to ensure fairness and opportunities for other categories to ensure that they get admission to top colleges across the country.
How Many Attempts Are Allowed for OBC
Candidates from Other Backward Classes can also attempt JEE Main for a maximum of three times. It is done to ensure that OBC candidates get equal opportunities to get admission to top colleges in India.
JEE Main 2026 Validity Of JEE Score
The JEE Main scorecard remains valid for the same year, meaning if candidates appear for the JEE Main 2026, they can apply for admission to different institutes or colleges for the year 2026 only. Candidates can check their results on the official website @ jeemain.nta.ac.in .
JEE Main Eligbility Criteria 2026
JEE Main Eligbility Criteria 2026 Candidates must be aware of the JEE Main Eligibility Criteria before applying for the exam. Candidates who satisfy all the eligibility criteria are only eligible to sit for the exam.
| JEE Main Eligibility Criteria 2026 | |
| Particulars | Details |
| Age limit | There is no age limit. |
| Qualifying Examination | Candidates must have passed 10+2 or equivalent examinations from a recognized board. |
| Year of Passing the Qualifying Examination | Candidates who have passed 10+2 or equivalent examinations in 2022, and 2025 or are appearing for it in 2025 will only be eligible for JEE Main 2025. |
| Number of Subjects in the Qualifying Examination | The candidates should have qualified in 5 subjects:LanguageMathematicsPhysicsChemistry/Biology/Biotechnology/Technical Vocational SubjectAny other subject |
| Admission Criteria for IITs, NITs, IIITs and CFTIs | For B.Tech/B.Arch/B.Plan admissions in IIITs, NITs and CFITsCandidates should have secured minimum 75% marks (65% for SC/ST category candidates) or should fall under the top 20 percentile of their respective boards.For B.Arch admission in institutes other than IIITs, NITs and CFITsCandidates should have scored 50% aggregate marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics in 10+2 or equivalent. |
JEE Main Preparation Tips 2026
Candidates who are preparing for JEE Main 2026 exam and want to secure a good score in the exam must follow a well-structured preparation plan. They can also refer to the below preparation tips.
- Understand the Syllabus: Students should familiarize themselves with the specific topics in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Prioritizing the areas that carry more weight in the exam will help them focus their efforts effectively.
- Make a Study Plan: Developing a structured study schedule that allocates time for each subject is essential for students. Sticking to their plan will ensure balanced preparation across all topics.
- Use Quality Resources: Students should select recommended textbooks, including NCERT and other standard materials. These resources provide clear explanations and essential practice to strengthen their understanding.
- Practice Regularly: Setting aside time daily to solve problems across all subjects is crucial. Consistent practice helps build confidence and improves problem-solving skills.
- Take Mock Tests: Scheduling regular mock tests will help students simulate the exam experience. This practice allows them to gauge their preparation and improve time management.
- Revise Frequently: Students should regularly review previously studied topics. Short revision sessions can reinforce their understanding and enhance retention of information.
- Clear Doubts Promptly: If students encounter difficulties, seeking help from teachers, classmates, or online resources is important. Addressing doubts quickly will prevent confusion later on.
- Stay Healthy: Maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and ensuring adequate sleep are essential for students. A healthy lifestyle supports better concentration and performance.
- Stay Positive: Cultivating a positive attitude towards preparation is vital for students. Confidence in their abilities can greatly enhance their performance during the exam.
- Limit Distractions: Choosing a quiet and comfortable study environment is important for students. Minimizing distractions like phones or TV will help improve focus during study sessions.
How Many Attempts Allowed for JEE Main 2026 FAQs
You can attempt JEE Main twice in a year (Session 1 & Session 2).
A candidate can appear in JEE Main for three consecutive years after passing Class 12.
Since the exam is conducted twice every year, this makes it a total of 6 attempts.
No, it is not mandatory. You can appear in either one session or both sessions.
However, appearing in both sessions improves your chances, as the best score out of the two is considered.
No, appearing in both sessions in the same year is considered one attempt.
Yes, candidates can choose to appear in only one session (either Session 1 or Session 2) based on their preference.
Droppers also get the same opportunity — 3 consecutive years (6 total attempts).
