JEE Main 2026 Registration Overview
The National Testing Agency (NTA) is set to commence the JEE Main 2026 registration process for Session 1 in October 2025 via the official website, jeemain.nta.nic.in. The exam will be conducted in two sessions: Session 1 in January 2026 and Session 2 in April 2026. The best score from either session will be considered for rankings and admissions to NITs, IIITs, and other institutions. A demo registration portal has already been activated on October 7, 2025, at demo.nta.nic.in, allowing candidates to practice form-filling and familiarize themselves with the process. Eligibility requires candidates to have passed Class 12 (or equivalent) in 2024, 2025, or appearing in 2026.
NTA has emphasized early preparation to avoid rejections, with a focus on updated documents and precise upload specifications. Below, we break down the new changes, important documents, image size guidelines, and NTA advisories.
Table of Contents
NEW Changes for JEE Main 2026 Registration
While core processes remain similar to previous years, NTA has introduced the following updates based on recent announcements:
- Demo Portal Activation: A practice link (demo.nta.nic.in) is now live for simulating the application form, including mandatory fields, document uploads, and fee payment previews. This is a proactive step to reduce errors during actual submission.
- Enhanced Document Verification: Stricter pre-registration checks for Aadhaar linkage, UDID (Unique Disability ID) for PwD candidates, and category certificates to prevent discrepancies during JoSAA counseling or admissions.
- Application Status Tracking: Immediate post-submission status checks available on the portal, with real-time alerts via email/SMS for issues like incomplete uploads.
- No Major Fee or Pattern Shifts Announced Yet: Fees and exam patterns (online mode, 3 hours duration) are expected to align with 2025, but details will be confirmed in the official brochure released alongside registration.
These changes aim to streamline the process for the expected lakhs of applicants.
Important Documents Required
Candidates must upload scanned copies of the following documents during registration. Prepare originals for verification at exam centers or counseling. Failure to meet format/size requirements will lead to rejection.
| Document | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Class 10 Mark Sheet/Certificate | Age proof and basic details verification | Mandatory for all; use as secondary ID if needed. |
| Class 12 Mark Sheet (or Admit Card if appearing) | Academic eligibility confirmation | For 2024/2025 passers; appearing students upload admit card. |
| Photograph | Identity and admit card generation | Recent color photo (see image guidelines below). |
| Signature | Authentication | Digital scan of handwritten signature (see guidelines below). |
| Aadhaar Card | Primary ID proof and biometric linkage | Mandatory; update details via UIDAI if expired/changed. |
| Category Certificate (SC/ST/OBC-NCL/EWS) | Reservation benefits | Issued by competent authority; valid for FY 2026; OBC-NCL must be non-creamy layer. |
| PwD/UDID Certificate | Disability quota eligibility | Issued by designated medical boards; update via swavlambancard.gov.in. |
| ID Proof (if no Aadhaar) | Alternative verification | Options: Passport, Voter ID, Driving License, PAN, School ID, or Bank Passbook with photo. |
Scan all documents in advance using a flatbed scanner for clarity. NTA recommends keeping digital copies ready in JPG format.
Image Size and Format Guidelines
Adhering to these specifications is crucial—non-compliant uploads will cause automatic rejection. Use tools like MS Paint or online compressors to resize files.
| Item | Format | File Size | Dimensions | Additional Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Photograph | JPG/JPEG | 10 KB – 200 KB | 3.5 cm x 4.5 cm (146 x 180 pixels) | Front-facing, color photo on white/light background; no cap/sunglasses; 80% face coverage; taken within 6 months. |
| Signature | JPG/JPEG | 4 KB – 30 KB | 3.5 cm x 1.5 cm (140 x 60 pixels) | Black/blue ink on white paper; clear and legible; no scanning distortions. |
| Category/PwD Certificates | JPG/JPEG | 50 KB – 500 KB | As per original document (fit to A4) | High-resolution scan; ensure text is readable; self-attested if required. |
- Upload Process: Use the “Upload” button in the form; preview before final submission.
- Common Pitfalls: Blurry images, wrong orientations, or exceeding size limits—always test via the demo portal.
NTA Advisory for Students
On September 29, 2025, NTA issued a public notice urging aspirants to update key documents well in advance to ensure seamless registration and avoid last-minute rejections. Key points:
- Update Aadhaar Immediately: Verify details on myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in; link mobile/email for OTP-based authentication. Mismatches (e.g., name/DOB) will block form submission.
- PwD Candidates: Renew UDID cards on swavlambancard.gov.in if expired; include 40%+ disability certification.
- Category Certificates: For EWS/SC/ST/OBC-NCL, obtain fresh certificates valid for 2026 from Tehsildar/District Magistrate. OBC-NCL must confirm non-creamy layer status post-June 1, 2025.
- General Tips:
- Register early in October to dodge server overloads.
- Use a stable internet connection and valid email/mobile (no shared credentials).
- Track application status post-submission; corrections (if allowed) will be in a limited window.
- For queries, contact NTA helpline (011-40759000) or email jeemain@nta.ac.in.
- Why This Matters: Many 2025 applications were rejected due to outdated docs, delaying admissions. Proactive updates prevent this for 2026.
For the latest brochure, fees (expected ~₹1,000 for general boys; varies by category/session), and exact dates, monitor jeemain.nta.nic.in. Start practicing on the demo link today—good luck with your preparation!
