JEE Mains Registration Date 2026: Guide & Action Plan

For lakhs of aspiring engineers across India, the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main is the critical first step toward a coveted seat at a premier institution like an IIT, NIT, or IIIT. If you’re targeting the 2026 session, you know that preparation isn’t just about Physics, Chemistry, and Math—it’s also about staying ahead of the official schedule. The single most crucial date to mark on your calendar is the JEE Mains Registration Date 2026.

The National Testing Agency (NTA), the body responsible for conducting the exam, has made a crucial announcement that helps students plan better than ever. We’re breaking down the official notification, discussing previous years’ trends, and providing you with a definitive action plan to ensure a smooth, error-free application process. A single mistake on your form could cost you a session, so let’s get this right!

Official Announcement: JEE Mains Registration Date 2026

The NTA has officially released the schedule for the JEE Main 2026 examination, which will be held in two sessions to give students two opportunities to achieve their best score.

The registration and exam dates are crucial for your academic calendar:

Session 1 (January) Key Dates

The registration window for the first session typically opens much earlier, allowing sufficient time for candidates to complete the process. Based on the NTA’s recent advisory and past trends, here are the key anticipated dates for JEE Mains Registration Date 2026 Session 1:

• Registration Start Date: The online application is tentatively scheduled to begin in October 2025 (around the third week).
• Registration Last Date: Expected to close in December 2025.
• Exam Date: Tentatively scheduled from January 21 to January 30, 2026.

Session 2 (April) Key Dates

Session 2 registration is often an ‘opt-in’ process for those who have already applied for Session 1, or a ‘fresh’ application for new candidates.

• Registration Start Date: Expected to begin in the last week of January 2026, shortly after the first session concludes.
• Registration Last Date: Expected to close in March 2026.
• Exam Date: Tentatively scheduled from April 1 to April 10, 2026.

Pro-Tip: The registration window for Session 1 is your earliest and most stress-free chance to 

apply. Don’t wait for the Session 2 window, which often opens during a critical study period. Get your registration done in October/November 2025.

The New Simplified Registration Process: What’s Changing?

The NTA has been actively working to simplify the application process, aiming to minimize errors and procedural hurdles for the massive number of applicants. For 2026, a significant change involves the integration of your Aadhaar details.

Also Read: JEE Mains Exam 2026: NTA To Announce Session 1 and 2 Schedule Soon Based on CBSE Time Table

Aadhaar-Based Auto-Fetching of Details

In a move to improve data accuracy and transparency, the NTA will now utilize Aadhaar authentication to auto-fetch key candidate details directly from the UIDAI database. This includes:

1. Candidate Name
2. Date of Birth (DoB)
3. Gender
4. Photograph
5. Address

Actionable Insight: The NTA has specifically advised aspirants to ensure that their Name, DoB, and Gender on their Aadhaar Card exactly match their Class 10th or equivalent certificate. If there is a discrepancy, you must get it corrected with UIDAI before the JEE Mains Registration Date 2026 opens. This is a common point of rejection or delay!

• Exception: Details like parents’ or guardians’ names, and specific academic information (like Class 12 marks/status) will still need to be entered manually.

Essential Documents for a Flawless JEE Main Application

To avoid a last-minute panic when the JEE Mains Registration Date 2026 arrives, start gathering your documents now. A well-prepared candidate is a stress-free candidate.

Checklist of Required Documentation

Here is a comprehensive list of what you’ll need to upload or reference:

• Aadhaar Card: Ensure the details (Name, DoB, Gender) match your school records.
• Class 10th Certificate: Used for verification of Name and Date of Birth.
• Class 12th/Equivalent Marksheet: (If passed in 2024 or 2025, or appearing in 2026).
• Scanned Photograph: A recent passport-size color photograph (check the exact size and format specifications in the official Information Bulletin).
• Scanned Signature: Signature of the candidate.
• Category Certificate (if applicable): OBC-NCL, SC, ST, EWS.
• Crucial Note: OBC-NCL and EWS certificates often require a format that has been issued on or after April 1st of the previous year (e.g., April 1, 2025, for the 2026 exam).

• PwD Certificate (if applicable): For Persons with Benchmark Disability.
• Valid Email ID and Mobile Number: Must be active for all communication.
• Bank Account Details: For paying the application fee online.

The Cost of Application: JEE Main 2026 Registration Fee

The application fee is non-refundable and varies based on the session(s) you choose to appear for and your category. While the official 2026 fee structure will be confirmed in the detailed Information Bulletin, here is the expected fee based on previous years (subject to minor changes):

Note: These amounts are approximate and based on historical data.

Expert Strategy: Maximize Your Registration Advantage

Your goal is to complete the application successfully on your first attempt without needing the correction window.

1. Read the Information Bulletin: Before clicking “Apply Online,” download and read the official Information Bulletin from the NTA website (jeemain.nta.nic.in). This is the only document with 100% accurate, non-negotiable details.
2. Verify Aadhaar & Certificates: As mentioned, address any name/DoB mismatch immediately. Ensure your category certificates are in the latest format and have been issued recently.
3. Start Early: Don’t wait for the last week of the JEE Mains Registration Date 2026. Starting in the opening week of October 2025 (Session 1) avoids website crashes and gives you a buffer for document collection.
4. Proofread Thrice: Treat the application form like your exam. Have a parent or guardian proofread all manually entered details before final submission.
5. Save the Confirmation Page: After successful payment, download and print the final confirmation page. This is your only proof of registration.

Quote for Motivation: 

As Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam once said, “Excellence is a continuous process and not an accident.” Your excellence begins with a meticulously planned and executed application.

Secure Your Spot, Focus on Your Score

The JEE Mains Registration Date 2026 is not just a deadline; it’s the official starting gun for your journey towards an elite engineering college. By staying informed about the expected October 2025 start date, diligently preparing your documents, and utilizing the NTA’s new, simplified Aadhaar process, you can complete this administrative hurdle with ease. 

Get your application squared away, save that confirmation page, and then direct all your focus back to cracking the exam!

FAQs on JEE Mains Registration Date 2026

Q1. When exactly will the JEE Mains Registration 2026 start?

A. The NTA has indicated that the registration for Session 1 will tentatively begin in October 2025. While an exact date isn’t out yet, based on the official exam schedule release, it’s expected to be around the third week of October 2025. Candidates should constantly check the official website, jeemain.nta.nic.in, for the final public notice.

Q2. Can I apply for both JEE Main sessions together?

A. Yes, typically, the NTA allows candidates to apply for both Session 1 (January) and Session 2 (April) during the initial registration window (October-December 2025). You will need to select the option for both sessions and pay the combined fee at that time.

Q3. Is the Aadhaar card mandatory for JEE Main 2026 registration?

A. While the NTA has implemented an Aadhaar-based auto-fetching system for key personal details, the Information Bulletin specifies the exact rules. It is strongly advised to have an up-to-date Aadhaar card, as discrepancies with school records can cause major verification issues due to the NTA’s new auto-fetch feature.

Q4. What is the last date to apply for JEE Mains 2026 Session 1?

A. The last date for Session 1 registration is tentatively expected to be in December 2025. However, the NTA keeps the application window open for approximately six to eight weeks. Always aim to complete your application at least one week before the announced closing date.

Q5. What if there is a mismatch between my Aadhaar and Class 10 certificate?

A. The NTA has specifically addressed this issue for 2026. If there is a name/DoB mismatch, candidates are advised to get their Aadhaar card details corrected through a UIDAI center before registration starts. If a minor mismatch persists, NTA usually provides an option to correct discrepancies during the online application process itself.