Introduction: Understanding JEE Main 2026 Eligibility Criteria
The Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main 2026 is one of India’s most competitive exams for students aspiring to get into premier engineering institutes like IITs, NITs, and IIITs. Every year, lakhs of students prepare for this exam under the guidance of reputed coaching institutes such as Resonance Jhunjhunu, known for its result-oriented IIT-JEE and NEET coaching.
Before starting your JEE Main 2026 preparation, understanding the eligibility criteria, age limit, qualification requirements, and number of attempts is crucial. A small mistake in eligibility could cost you a year of preparation.
This blog will guide you through all the important details you need to know about JEE Main 2026 eligibility and help you confirm if you’re eligible to apply.
What is JEE Main 2026?
JEE Main is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) and serves as the qualifying exam for JEE Advanced. It is the first step for admission to:
- NITs (National Institutes of Technology)
- IIITs (Indian Institutes of Information Technology)
- GFTIs (Government-Funded Technical Institutions)
- Other state and private engineering colleges accepting JEE scores
Important Dates for JEE Main 2026
The NTA will release the official JEE Main 2026 notification on its official website — Here’s a tentative schedule to keep in mind:
| Event | Tentative Date |
|---|---|
| JEE Main 2026 Notification Release | November 2025 |
| JEE Main 2026 Session 1 Exam | January 2026 |
| JEE Main 2026 Session 2 Exam | April 2026 |
| JEE Advanced 2026 Exam | May 2026 |
Stay updated with official announcements and follow Resonance Jhunjhunu’s blog section for the latest updates on JEE Main 2026.
JEE Main 2026 Eligibility Criteria – Complete Overview
The eligibility for JEE Main 2026 is determined based on several factors such as age, educational qualification, subjects studied, and attempt limits. Let’s understand them one by one.
1. Age Limit for JEE Main 2026
One of the most common questions asked by students is — What is the age limit for JEE Main 2026?
Good news!
There is no specific age limit for candidates appearing in JEE Main 2026.
However, candidates must have appeared or passed their Class 12th (or equivalent) examination in 2024 or 2025.
Note: Some institutes like IIST or private universities may have separate age criteria, so students should check respective college eligibility as well.
2. Educational Qualification for JEE Main 2026
To appear for JEE Main 2026, candidates must fulfill the following educational requirements:
- Must have passed Class 12th or equivalent exam in 2024 or 2025.
- Candidates appearing in Class 12th in 2026 are also eligible.
- Must have studied Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects along with Chemistry/Biology/Biotechnology/Technical Vocational subject.
Minimum Marks Requirement:
There is no fixed percentage required to appear for JEE Main. However, for admission to NITs, IIITs, and GFTIs, candidates must have at least:
- 75% aggregate marks (for General category)
- 65% (for SC/ST category)
in Class 12th or be in the top 20 percentile of their respective boards.
3. Number of Attempts for JEE Main 2026
Candidates can appear for JEE Main for three consecutive years after passing Class 12th.
Each year has two sessions, giving students six total attempts.
This allows flexibility for students to improve their scores without losing a year.
4. Subjects and Combination Required
To be eligible for B.E./B.Tech, the subjects in Class 12th must include:
- Physics (Compulsory)
- Mathematics (Compulsory)
- Chemistry/Biology/Biotechnology/Technical Subject
For B.Arch and B.Planning, candidates must have Mathematics in 12th and meet additional criteria as per NTA guidelines.
JEE Main 2026 Eligibility for Admission to NITs, IIITs, and GFTIs
Admission into these top engineering institutes is based on JEE Main ranks and Class 12th board performance.
| Category | Required Percentage | Board Rank Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| General / OBC | 75% marks | Top 20 percentile |
| SC / ST | 65% marks | Top 20 percentile |
Students from Resonance Jhunjhunu have consistently achieved top ranks and secured admissions into IITs and NITs nationwide due to disciplined preparation and structured coaching.
Documents Required to Prove Eligibility
When applying for JEE Main 2026, candidates must upload valid documents such as:
- Class 10th Marksheet (Date of Birth proof)
- Class 12th Marksheet or Admit Card (for appearing students)
- Category Certificate (if applicable)
- PwD Certificate (if applicable)
- Passport-size Photograph and Signature
Ensure all documents are scanned clearly before submission to avoid rejection.
JEE Main 2026 Eligibility for Droppers
If you’ve taken a drop year to prepare for JEE Main, don’t worry — you are still eligible.
Eligibility for Droppers:
- If you passed Class 12th in 2024 or 2025, you can appear in JEE Main 2026.
- There’s no restriction on drop years, provided you fall within the three consecutive attempt rule.
Many droppers from Resonance Jhunjhunu have successfully cracked IIT-JEE and NEET after focused one-year coaching programs.
JEE Main 2026 Reservation Criteria
Reservation is provided as per Government of India rules:
| Category | Reservation (%) |
|---|---|
| OBC (NCL) | 27% |
| SC | 15% |
| ST | 7.5% |
| PwD | 5% |
| EWS | 10% |
Candidates claiming reservation must provide valid certificates issued by competent authorities.
How to Prepare for JEE Main 2026 Along with Class 12th
Balancing Class 12th boards and JEE Main preparation can be challenging, but with the right approach and coaching, it’s achievable.
🔸 Tips from Resonance Jhunjhunu Experts:
- Follow an integrated study plan combining board and JEE syllabus.
- Focus on NCERT concepts before moving to advanced JEE-level questions.
- Take regular mock tests to assess your preparation level.
- Use Resonance study material for concept clarity and problem-solving.
- Stay consistent and stress-free through proper time management.
Why Choose Resonance Jhunjhunu for JEE Main 2026 Preparation?
Resonance Jhunjhunu is among the most trusted institutes for IIT-JEE and NEET Coaching in Jhunjhunu.
Key Highlights:
- Experienced faculty with IIT backgrounds
- Personalized doubt-solving sessions
- Comprehensive study material and test series
- Consistent track record of top ranks in JEE & NEET
- Mentorship and counseling for students and parents
Whether you are targeting JEE Main, Advanced, or NEET, Resonance Jhunjhunu provides a structured approach to ensure success.
Conclusion
Understanding the JEE Main 2026 eligibility criteria is the first step toward your engineering dream. Ensure you meet all requirements related to age, qualification, subjects, and attempts before applying.
With expert guidance from Resonance Jhunjhunu, you can streamline your preparation, balance your school studies, and confidently aim for top results in JEE Main 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the age limit for JEE Main 2026?
There is no specific age limit for JEE Main 2026. Candidates must have passed Class 12th in 2024 or 2025.
Q2. Can I appear for JEE Main if I’m in Class 12th in 2026?
Yes, students appearing in Class 12th in 2026 are eligible to appear for JEE Main 2026.
Q3. How many attempts are allowed for JEE Main?
Candidates can attempt JEE Main for three consecutive years with two sessions each year (total six attempts).
Q4. What subjects are required in Class 12th for JEE Main?
Physics and Mathematics are compulsory, along with Chemistry, Biology, Biotechnology, or a Technical subject.
Q5. Does the 75% eligibility rule apply to all students?
Yes, it applies to admission in NITs, IIITs, and GFTIs — 75% for General and 65% for SC/ST candidates.
Q6. Which is the best coaching for JEE in Jhunjhunu?
Resonance Jhunjhunu is among the best IIT-JEE & NEET coaching institutes, offering expert faculty, test series, and consistent results.
