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JEE Main 2026 Exam Pattern for BE/BTech has been released by the National Testing Agency (NTA) through the official information brochure. Paper 1 (BE/BTech) consists of 75 questions carrying 300 marks. The exam tests candidates on Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics from Class 11 and 12 NCERT syllabus. JEE Main Session 1 is scheduled from January 21 to 30, 2026, while Session 2 will be held from April 1 to 10, 2026. Understanding the JEE Main 2026 exam pattern helps candidates plan their preparation strategy effectively.
Table of Contents
JEE Main B.E./B.Tech Exam Pattern 2026: Latest Changes, Marking Scheme, Total Marks and Syllabus
The JEE Main 2026 exam pattern remains unchanged from the 2025 pattern. NTA introduced significant modifications in 2025 by returning to the pre-pandemic format. The optional questions in Section B have been permanently removed. All 5 numerical value questions in Section B are now compulsory for each subject. The marking scheme applies negative marking to both MCQs and numerical value questions.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | JEE Main 2026 Paper 1 (BE/BTech) |
| Conducting Body | National Testing Agency (NTA) |
| Exam Mode | Computer Based Test (CBT) |
| Exam Duration | 3 Hours (4 Hours for PwD candidates) |
| Total Questions | 75 Questions |
| Total Marks | 300 Marks |
| Subjects | Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics |
| Questions per Subject | 25 Questions |
| Section A (MCQs) | 20 Questions per subject |
| Section B (Numerical) | 5 Questions per subject (All compulsory) |
| Language Options | 13 Languages including English and Hindi |
| Number of Sessions | 2 (January and April) |
How Many Questions Are There in JEE Mains 2026?
JEE Main 2026 Paper 1 (BE/BTech) contains a total of 75 questions. Each of the three subjects—Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics—has 25 questions. These questions are divided into two sections. Section A contains 20 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) from each subject. Section B contains 5 Numerical Value Questions (NVQs) from each subject. All questions in both sections are compulsory with no optional questions available.
| Subject | Section A (MCQs) | Section B (NVQs) | Total Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physics | 20 | 5 | 25 |
| Chemistry | 20 | 5 | 25 |
| Mathematics | 20 | 5 | 25 |
| Total | 60 | 15 | 75 |
Is JEE Mains of 300 or 360 Marks?
JEE Main 2026 Paper 1 (BE/BTech) is of 300 marks. The confusion about 360 marks stems from the old exam pattern used before 2020. Earlier, the exam had 30 questions per subject totaling 90 questions with 360 marks. Since 2020, NTA reduced the total questions to 75 and total marks to 300. Each correct answer awards 4 marks. The maximum achievable score is 300 marks when all 75 questions are answered correctly.
JEE Main Total Marks
The subject-wise marks distribution in JEE Main 2026 BE/BTech paper allocates equal weightage to all three subjects. Each subject carries 100 marks. Section A contributes 80 marks per subject (20 MCQs × 4 marks). Section B contributes 20 marks per subject (5 NVQs × 4 marks).
| Subject | Section A Marks | Section B Marks | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physics | 80 | 20 | 100 |
| Chemistry | 80 | 20 | 100 |
| Mathematics | 80 | 20 | 100 |
| Total | 240 | 60 | 300 |
JEE Main 2026 Exam Pattern for BE/BTech: Type of Questions
JEE Main 2026 features two types of questions in Paper 1. Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) have four options with only one correct answer. Numerical Value Questions (NVQs) require candidates to enter a numerical answer without any options provided. Both question types test conceptual understanding and problem-solving abilities.
Section A: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
Each MCQ presents four options labeled A, B, C, and D. Only one option is correct. Candidates must select the correct answer by clicking on the corresponding option. These questions test theoretical concepts and formula-based calculations.
Section B: Numerical Value Questions (NVQs)
Numerical value questions require candidates to calculate and enter the answer using the virtual keyboard. The answer is typically a numerical value that may include decimals. These questions test calculation skills and problem-solving accuracy.
JEE Main 2026 Marking Scheme for BE/BTech
The JEE Main 2026 marking scheme applies to both MCQs and Numerical Value Questions. Correct answers receive +4 marks. Incorrect answers result in -1 mark deduction. Unattempted questions receive zero marks. This marking scheme makes accuracy crucial for achieving a high score.
| Response Type | Section A (MCQs) | Section B (NVQs) |
|---|---|---|
| Correct Answer | +4 Marks | +4 Marks |
| Incorrect Answer | -1 Mark | -1 Mark |
| Unattempted | 0 Marks | 0 Marks |
| Multiple Response (MCQs) | -1 Mark | Not Applicable |
JEE Main Exam Pattern for BE/BTech: Marks Distribution
Understanding the marks distribution helps candidates allocate time effectively during the exam. Each subject carries equal weightage of 100 marks. The distribution between theoretical and numerical questions tests both conceptual understanding and calculation abilities.
| Section | Questions per Subject | Marks per Question | Maximum Marks per Subject | Total Maximum Marks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Section A (MCQs) | 20 | +4 | 80 | 240 |
| Section B (NVQs) | 5 | +4 | 20 | 60 |
| Total | 25 | - | 100 | 300 |
JEE Main Exam Pattern for BE/BTech: Syllabus and Weightage
JEE Main 2026 syllabus covers topics from Class 11 and 12 NCERT curriculum. NTA has aligned the syllabus with the revised NCERT books. The syllabus reduction of 12-18% across subjects makes focused preparation essential. High-weightage chapters contribute over 50% of questions in each subject.
JEE Main Physics: Chapter-Wise Weightage
Physics section tests both conceptual understanding and numerical application. Mechanics, Modern Physics, and Electrostatics consistently carry high weightage. These topics together contribute approximately 50% of Physics questions.
| Chapter/Topic | Expected Questions | Approximate Weightage |
|---|---|---|
| Current Electricity | 3-4 | 12-16% |
| Modern Physics | 3-4 | 12-16% |
| Electrostatics | 2-3 | 8-12% |
| Laws of Motion | 2-3 | 8-12% |
| Optics (Ray and Wave) | 2-3 | 8-12% |
| Electromagnetic Induction | 2 | 8% |
| Thermodynamics | 2 | 8% |
| Kinematics | 1-2 | 4-8% |
| Work, Energy, Power | 1-2 | 4-8% |
| Rotational Motion | 1-2 | 4-8% |
| Magnetism | 1-2 | 4-8% |
| Waves and Oscillations | 1-2 | 4-8% |
| Semiconductors | 1 | 4% |
JEE Main Chemistry: Chapter-Wise Weightage
Chemistry is often considered the most scoring subject in JEE Main. Questions are divided among Physical Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Inorganic Chemistry. NCERT-based questions make this section highly scoring for well-prepared candidates.
| Chapter/Topic | Expected Questions | Approximate Weightage |
|---|---|---|
| Coordination Compounds | 2-3 | 8-12% |
| Chemical Bonding | 2-3 | 8-12% |
| Organic Chemistry Basics (GOC) | 2-3 | 8-12% |
| Thermodynamics | 2 | 8% |
| Aldehydes, Ketones, Carboxylic Acids | 2 | 8% |
| p-Block Elements | 2 | 8% |
| d-Block and f-Block Elements | 2 | 8% |
| Electrochemistry | 1-2 | 4-8% |
| Chemical Equilibrium | 1-2 | 4-8% |
| Solutions | 1-2 | 4-8% |
| Alcohols, Phenols, Ethers | 1-2 | 4-8% |
| Hydrocarbons | 1-2 | 4-8% |
| Periodic Table | 1 | 4% |
| Amines | 1 | 4% |
| Biomolecules | 1 | 4% |
JEE Main Mathematics: Chapter-Wise Weightage
Mathematics carries equal marks but is often considered the most challenging section. Calculus and Algebra together contribute nearly 65-70% of the Mathematics paper. Strong problem-solving skills and regular practice are essential for this section.
| Chapter/Topic | Expected Questions | Approximate Weightage |
|---|---|---|
| Calculus (Limits, Continuity, Differentiation) | 4-5 | 16-20% |
| Integral Calculus | 3-4 | 12-16% |
| Coordinate Geometry | 3-4 | 12-16% |
| 3D Geometry and Vectors | 2-3 | 8-12% |
| Matrices and Determinants | 2-3 | 8-12% |
| Probability and Statistics | 2-3 | 8-12% |
| Sequence and Series | 1-2 | 4-8% |
| Complex Numbers | 1-2 | 4-8% |
| Quadratic Equations | 1-2 | 4-8% |
| Trigonometry | 1-2 | 4-8% |
| Binomial Theorem | 1 | 4% |
| Permutation and Combination | 1 | 4% |
| Mathematical Reasoning | 1 | 4% |
JEE Main Exam Pattern 2026 for BE/BTech: Previous Years' Papers
Practicing JEE Main previous year papers helps candidates understand the exam pattern and question trends. NTA often repeats concepts and question patterns. Regular practice with past papers improves time management and boosts confidence.
| Year | Session 1 Dates | Session 2 Dates | Total Questions | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | January 21-30 | April 1-10 | 75 | 300 |
| 2025 | January 22-30 | April 2-9 | 75 | 300 |
| 2024 | January 24-February 1 | April 4-15 | 75 | 300 |
| 2023 | January 24-31 | April 6-15 | 75 | 300 |
| 2022 | June 20-29 | July 25-30 | 75 | 300 |
JEE Main Previous Years' Papers PDF Download: 2018-2024
Previous year question papers are available on the official NTA website and various educational platforms. These papers include solutions prepared by subject experts. Candidates can download papers year-wise and shift-wise for comprehensive practice.
| Year | Sessions Available | Where to Download |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Session 1 and Session 2 | jeemain.nta.nic.in |
| 2023 | Session 1 and Session 2 | jeemain.nta.nic.in |
| 2022 | Session 1 and Session 2 | jeemain.nta.nic.in |
| 2021 | February, March, July, August | jeemain.nta.nic.in |
| 2020 | January and September | jeemain.nta.nic.in |
| 2019 | January and April | Educational Portals |
| 2018 | April (Online and Offline) | Educational Portals |
Documents Required for Admission
After qualifying JEE Main 2026, candidates need specific documents for the counselling and admission process. JoSAA conducts centralized counselling for NITs, IIITs, and GFTIs. State-level counselling bodies manage admissions to state engineering colleges.
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| JEE Main 2026 Scorecard | Proof of JEE Main qualification |
| Class 10 Mark Sheet | Date of birth verification |
| Class 12 Mark Sheet | Academic qualification proof |
| Category Certificate (if applicable) | SC/ST/OBC/EWS reservation |
| Domicile Certificate | State quota eligibility |
| Passport Size Photographs | Admission form and ID card |
| Aadhaar Card | Identity verification |
| Income Certificate (if applicable) | EWS and fee waiver eligibility |
| PwD Certificate (if applicable) | Disability category reservation |
| Migration Certificate | Transfer from previous institution |
Frequently Asked Questions
- JEE Main 2026 BE/BTech paper contains 75 questions in total. Each subject (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics) has 25 questions divided into Section A (20 MCQs) and Section B (5 Numerical Value Questions). All questions are compulsory with no optional questions available this year.
- JEE Main 2026 BE/BTech paper is of 300 marks. The 360 marks pattern was discontinued in 2020. Currently, 75 questions carry 4 marks each, making the maximum score 300.
- Yes, JEE Main 2026 applies negative marking to numerical value questions. Both MCQs and NVQs deduct 1 mark for incorrect answers. This change was introduced in 2025 and continues in 2026.
- Candidates can appear in both Session 1 (January) and Session 2 (April) of JEE Main 2026. NTA considers the better of the two scores for final ranking. There is no limit on attempts across years as long as eligibility criteria are met.
- To score above 250, focus on high-weightage chapters like Calculus, Modern Physics, and Organic Chemistry. Practice previous year papers regularly and aim for 70–80% accuracy. Smart question selection and avoiding guesswork are crucial.
- No, physical calculators are not allowed in JEE Main 2026. Candidates must perform calculations manually. However, a basic virtual calculator is provided on the exam interface during the computer-based test.
- Current Electricity, Modern Physics, and Electrostatics are the highest-weightage chapters. Together, they can fetch 30–40 marks. NCERT should be used for theory, along with daily numerical practice.
- NCERT is sufficient for Inorganic Chemistry and most theory-based questions. For Physical and Organic Chemistry, reference books like OP Tandon and Morrison Boyd help with problem-solving. Solving previous year questions is strongly recommended.
