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JEE Mains 2026 Session 1 kicks off, here's what candidates must know

National Testing Agency warns against use of mobile phones, smartwatches and unauthorised items as they could attract legal action

By Trisha Katyayan

Jan 21, 2026 15:04 IST

The National Testing Agency (NTA) commenced the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Mains 2026 Session 1, on January 21 (Wednesday), at 9 am. The BE/BTech exams are scheduled to take place on January 21, 22, 23, 24 and January 28, 2026.

The BArch/BPlanning exams are scheduled for January 28 and 29, 2026. The exams will take place as computer-based tests during two shifts each day; from 9 am to noon in the morning shift and from 3 pm to 6 pm for the evening shift.

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Candidates who appear for the exams must arrive at their examination centres on time and be ready to present both their admit cards (downloaded), two passport-sized photographs and a valid ID proof. candidates must place their completed and signed admit cards into the designated drop-off box located at their examination centres upon leaving the examination room. If candidates do not comply with this requirement, their answer sheets could potentially be disqualified from evaluation.

Be aware

Here are some practices that can lead to immediate cancellation of the exam if a candidate is found using Unfair Means (UFM). In some cases, examinees may be debarred for up to three years and be liable for criminal action.

Being in possession or using any item in the exam hall that is not allowed, including stationery, communication devices, mobile phones, Bluetooth devices, smartwatches, calculators, electronic devices, accessories, or any items restricted by the examination agency.

Hiring someone to take an exam (impersonation) or preparing material for copying.

Contacting or trying to communicate with anyone other than the exam staff during the exam time in the centre.

Peeking, interacting, talking, whispering, cheating, writing on hands or desks, or helping others during the exam.

Passing answers or communicating through hand signals or gestures, or looking at another student's screen.

Threatening any officials overseeing the exam or threatening any candidates. Using or trying to use any other inappropriate method or means related to the exam.

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Manipulating, locking, or making false online or physical documents or certificates such as admit cards, self-declaration forms, score cards, Aadhaar cards, or any certificates issued by any government authority.

Affixing or uploading incorrect or altered photographs or signatures on the Application Form, Admit Card, or Proforma is not allowed.

Attempting to hack the system includes using USB drives, hacking tools, screen recording, taking photos or screenshots, using Bluetooth devices, logging in with someone else's credentials or a fake ID, trying to hack the test software, tampering with, pausing, or changing the test timer, and sharing or leaking digital copies of questions.

Any candidate with more than one application number or more than one score card will be considered UFM. This applies even if the issue is discovered later and strict action will be taken.

Candidates who produce or upload a manipulated Disability Certificate, Medical Certificate, or other documents will be penalised.

Violating the examination rules or any instructions issued by NTA regarding various examinations over time is also prohibited.

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