If you're preparing for JEE Main, this news matters to you. The National Testing Agency (NTA) has changed the exam dates for JEE Main 2026 Session 1. The exam will now wrap up one day earlier than planned.
The exams will take place between 21 January and 29 January 2026. Earlier, the schedule ran until 30 January. This change came after NTA released the city slips for the exam.
What Changed in the Schedule?
The exam duration has been reduced by one day. But don't worry, the starting date remains the same. Your exam will still begin on 21 January 2026. Only the end date has moved from 30 January to 29 January.
You can check the complete schedule on the official website at jeemain.nta.nic.in. The website has all the details you need about your exam dates and timings.
Paper-Wise Schedule Breakdown
Here's what you need to know about when each paper will be conducted:
Paper 1 (B.E/B.Tech): This paper will run from 21 January to 28 January. These papers cover subjects related to engineering and technology courses.
Paper 2 (B.Arch): This exam is scheduled for 21, 22, 23, 24, and 28 January. Students aspiring for architecture courses will take this paper.
Paper 2(A) and Paper 2(B): Both these papers will be held on 29 January, which is the last day of the exam schedule.
Exam Timings: Two Shifts Each Day
NTA will conduct the exams in two shifts each day. This format helps accommodate the large number of students appearing for the test.
The first shift runs from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. If you're assigned to this slot, make sure you reach your centre well before 9 AM.
The second shift operates from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Afternoon test takers should plan their day accordingly.
How to Download Your City Slip
Your city slip tells you which city your exam centre will be in. Here's how to get it:
Visit the official website jeemain.nta.nic.in. Look for the JEE Main 2026 City Slip link on the homepage. Click on it.
You'll need to enter your application number and date of birth. Keep these details handy before you start.
After you submit these details, your city slip will appear on the screen. Download it and save a copy. You might want to take a printout as well.
What You Should Do Now
First, check the new exam schedule carefully. Make sure you know when your specific paper is scheduled. Mark the date on your calendar.
Download your city slip if you haven't already. This document is important because it tells you where you'll take the exam.
Adjust your preparation strategy based on the new dates. You have one less day of uncertainty now, which means you can plan your final revision better.
Keep checking the official website for any further updates. NTA might release additional information about admit cards and other details.
About the Exam Pattern
JEE Main tests your knowledge in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics for Paper 1. The exam is computer-based, so you'll need to be comfortable with taking tests on a screen.
For Paper 2, architecture students will face questions on mathematics, aptitude, and drawing. The format differs from Paper 1, so prepare accordingly.
Each paper has a specific time limit and question pattern. Make sure you're familiar with the format before exam day.
Important Points to Remember
The city slip is different from your admit card. The admit card will come later and will have your exact exam centre details.
Don't panic about the date change. Your preparation time remains more or less the same. Just update your schedule and continue studying.
Stay calm during these final weeks. Stress won't help you perform better. Focus on revision and practice tests.
Keep all your documents ready. You'll need your admit card, a valid ID proof, and other documents on exam day.
Why the Change Happened
NTA hasn't given a specific reason for shortening the exam period. Such changes are normal in large-scale exams. The agency might have optimised the schedule based on the number of candidates and available centres.
What matters is that you're aware of the change and have adjusted your plans. The one-day reduction doesn't affect your exam date unless you were scheduled for 30 January.
Keep These Resources Handy
Bookmark the official JEE Main website. You'll need to visit it several times in the coming weeks.
Save the helpline numbers provided by NTA. If you face any issues with your city slip or have questions about the exam, you can reach out to them.
Join online forums where other JEE aspirants discuss updates. Sometimes, fellow students spot important notices before you do.
Follow reliable education news sources. They often break down official announcements in simpler terms.
The revised schedule is now official. Make sure you have the correct dates noted down. The exam will be here before you know it, so use your preparation time well. Check the official website regularly for your admit card and any other updates. Good luck with your exam.
