JEE Main Admit Card 2026: Release Date, City Intimation Slip, Download Steps & Exam Day Guidelines

JEE Main 2026 Session 1, scheduled from January 21 to 30, will see the National Testing Agency release key documents in stages, beginning with the City Intimation Slip in the second week of January (expected January 10–14) to help candidates plan travel, followed by the final Admit Card about three days before the exam, which is mandatory for entry.

The city slip only mentions the exam date and city, while the admit card includes the roll number, exact center address, shift timings, reporting time, and exam instructions, along with a Self-Declaration Undertaking that must be partially filled at home and signed only in the exam hall. Candidates must download documents from jeemain.nta.nic.in, verify details carefully, and follow strict exam-day protocols, including punctual reporting, adherence to dress code, and avoidance of prohibited items.

The exam is a CBT covering Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics with negative marking, and after the exam, NTA will release response sheets, answer keys, results, and shortlist the top 2.5 lakh candidates for JEE Advanced 2026.

JEE Main Admit Card 2026: Complete Guide to Release Date, City Intimation & Exam Day Protocol

The countdown has begun. With the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main 2026 Session 1 scheduled for late January, the National Testing Agency (NTA) is in the final stages of releasing the crucial documents. For aspirants targeting the top engineering institutes in India (IITs, NITs, and IIITs), missing an update now is not an option.

This extensive guide covers everything from the City Intimation Slip to the Self-Declaration Undertaking, ensuring you are fully prepared for the big day.

Critical Dates Timeline: JEE Main 2026 (Session 1)

Stay ahead of the competition by marking these confirmed and tentative dates on your calendar.

Note: The NTA often releases admit cards in phases based on the exam date. If your friend gets theirs and you don’t, do not panic; yours will be released closer to your specific shift.

City Intimation Slip vs. Admit Card: What’s the Difference?

Many candidates confuse these two documents. Here is the distinction:

1. Advanced City Intimation Slip

• Purpose: To inform you of the city where your exam center is located.
• Why? To help candidates make travel and accommodation arrangements in advance.
• Contains: Exam Date and City of Examination only.
• Admittance: This document cannot be used to enter the exam hall.

2. Final JEE Main Admit Card

• Purpose: The official entry ticket to the exam center.
• Contains: Roll Number, Exact Center Address, Shift Timing, Reporting Time, and Important Instructions.
• Admittance: Mandatory for entry.

Comprehensive Guide: How to Download & Troubleshoot

Accessing the NTA server during peak times can be tricky. Follow this protocol for a smooth download.

Step-by-Step Download Process

1. Navigate: Visit the official URL jeemain.nta.nic.in.
2. Select Server: Often, NTA provides “Link 1” and “Link 2” to manage traffic. Click either.
3. Authenticate:
   • Application Number: (Found in your confirmation email).
   • Date of Birth: (Select from the dropdown).
   • Security Pin: (Case sensitive).
4. Undertaking: You may be asked to check boxes regarding your health status (COVID-19 protocols).
5. Download: Click “Download Admit Card”.
6. Verify: Check the barcode and photograph clarity.

Common Troubleshooting Issues

• “Invalid Credentials”: Double-check your Date of Birth format. Reset your password using the email verification option if needed.
• Image Discrepancy: If your photo is blurry or the signature is missing, send an email immediately to jeemain@nta.ac.in with your Application Number and proof of payment.
• Server Timeout: Clear your browser cache or try accessing the site during off-peak hours (late night or early morning).

The Self-Declaration Form (Undertaking)

Attached to the first page of your admit card is a Self-Declaration Form. This is a safety protocol introduced post-pandemic and is still in use to ensure hygiene standards.

• What to fill at home: Your Left-Hand Thumb Impression and Parent’s Signature.
• What to leave BLANK: The Candidate’s Signature. You must sign this only in the presence of the Invigilator inside the exam hall. Signing it beforehand may invalidate your candidature.

Exam Day Schedule: Shift Timings

Punctuality is strictly enforced. The gates usually close 30 minutes before the exam starts.

Dress Code & Prohibited Items

The NTA enforces a strict dress code to prevent malpractice.

Dos (Wear):

• Simple clothes with half-sleeves.
• Slippers or sandals with low heels.
• Face mask (often provided at the center, but carry one just in case).

Don’ts (Avoid):

• Shoes/Boots: Closed footwear is generally not permitted.
• Jewelry: No earrings, necklaces, bangles, or metallic items.
• Clothing: Avoid garments with large buttons or multiple pockets.
• Electronic Devices: Mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators, and Bluetooth devices are strictly banned.

Warning: Most centers do not provide lockers or cloakrooms. Do not carry expensive items or bags to the center.

Quick Recap: JEE Main 2026 Exam Pattern (Paper 1)

Understanding the battlefield is key to winning the war.

• Mode: Computer Based Test (CBT).
• Subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics.
• Total Questions: 90 (30 per subject).
• Questions to Attempt: 75 (25 per subject).
  • Section A: 20 MCQs (All compulsory).
  • Section B: 10 Numerical Value Questions (Attempt any 5).
• Marking Scheme:
  • Correct Answer: +4 Marks
  • Incorrect Answer: -1 Mark (Negative Marking applies to both Section A and B).
  • Unanswered: 0 Marks.

What Happens After the Exam?

Once you finish your shift, the process continues:

1. Response Sheet: NTA releases your recorded responses within 3-5 days.
2. Provisional Answer Key: Released shortly after, allowing you to challenge any questions (usually for a fee of ₹200 per question).
3. Final Result: Based on the final answer key, your NTA Score (Percentile) will be declared.
4. JEE Advanced: Only the top 2.5 Lakh rank holders will qualify for the JEE Advanced 2026.

FAQs

When will the JEE Main 2026 Session 1 exam be conducted?
JEE Main 2026 Session 1 is scheduled to be held from January 21 to January 30, 2026.

When will the JEE Main 2026 city intimation slip be released?
The city intimation slip is expected to be released in the second week of January 2026, likely between January 10 and 14.

What is the purpose of the city intimation slip?
It informs candidates about the city of their exam center so they can plan travel and accommodation in advance.

Is the city intimation slip mandatory for exam entry?
No, it is not valid for entry into the exam hall.

When will the JEE Main 2026 admit card be released?
The admit card is expected in the third week of January 2026, usually about three days before the candidate’s exam date.

Can the admit card be released in phases?
Yes, NTA often releases admit cards phase-wise based on exam dates and shifts.

Where can I download the JEE Main 2026 admit card?
You can download it from the official website jeemain.nta.nic.in.

What details are required to download the admit card?
You need your application number, date of birth, and the security pin shown on the screen.

What details are mentioned on the JEE Main admit card?
It includes roll number, exam date, shift timing, reporting time, exam center address, and important instructions.

What should I do if my admit card shows incorrect details?
You should immediately contact NTA via email at jeemain@nta.ac.in with proof and your application details.

What is the self-declaration undertaking on the admit card?
It is a health and safety declaration form that must be carried to the exam center.

What should be filled at home on the self-declaration form?
You must fill in the left-hand thumb impression and parent’s signature at home.

When should the candidate sign the self-declaration form?
The candidate must sign it only in the presence of the invigilator inside the exam hall.

What happens if I sign the declaration form before reaching the center?
Signing it beforehand may lead to disqualification.

What are the reporting times for the morning shift?
Entry is allowed from 7:30 AM to 8:30 AM, with the exam starting at 9:00 AM.

What are the reporting times for the evening shift?
Entry is allowed from 2:00 PM to 2:30 PM, with the exam starting at 3:00 PM.

Is late entry allowed at the exam center?
No, gates usually close 30 minutes before the exam and late entry is not permitted.

What dress code should candidates follow for JEE Main 2026?
Candidates should wear simple clothes with half sleeves and slippers or sandals.

Are shoes allowed inside the exam center?
Closed footwear like shoes and boots is generally not allowed.

Are jewelry and accessories permitted?
No, jewelry, metallic items, and accessories are strictly prohibited.

Can I carry a mobile phone or smartwatch to the exam center?
No, electronic devices including mobiles, smartwatches, and calculators are banned.

Do exam centers provide lockers or cloakrooms?
Most centers do not provide storage facilities, so candidates should avoid carrying valuables.

What is the exam mode for JEE Main 2026 Paper 1?
The exam is conducted in Computer Based Test mode.

How many subjects are there in JEE Main Paper 1?
There are three subjects: Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.

How many questions are there in total?
There are 90 questions, out of which candidates must attempt 75.

Is there negative marking in JEE Main 2026?
Yes, one mark is deducted for each incorrect answer.

When will the response sheet be released?
NTA usually releases the response sheet within 3 to 5 days after the exam.

Can candidates challenge the answer key?
Yes, candidates can challenge the provisional answer key by paying a fee per question.

When will the JEE Main 2026 Session 1 result be declared?
The result is expected to be declared in mid-February 2026.

Who is eligible for JEE Advanced 2026?
Only the top 2.5 lakh rank holders in JEE Main 2026 will qualify for JEE Advanced.