JEE Main Exam Pattern 2026 

The JEE Main Exam Pattern 2026 for Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech) includes three subjects: Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. The paper has 90 questions in total (30 from each subject), out of which candidates must attempt 75 questions. The exam is conducted in online (CBT) mode, carries 300 total marks, and has a duration of 3 hours. Both MCQs and numerical value questions are included, with negative marking applicable in all sections.[Text Wrapping Break] 

Why Understanding the Pattern Is Crucial 

The JEE Main Exam Pattern 2026 plays a major role in how well students perform on exam day. Many aspirants prepare hard but lose marks simply because they are unclear about question choices, negative marking, or how Section B works. 

A common area of confusion in the JEE Mains pattern is the Numerical Value section, where students must choose questions wisely. On top of that, Session 2 (April) is often treated casually, even though it can be more competitive. Knowing the pattern clearly helps students plan attempts, manage time better, and avoid unnecessary mistakes. 

 JEE Main Exam Pattern 2026:  

The JEE Main Paper Pattern for Engineering remains structured and student-friendly, provided you understand it well. 

Feature	Details
Exam mode	Computer-Based Test (CBT)
Duration	3 Hours
Total Subjects	Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics
Total Questions	90 (30 per subject)
Questions to Attempt	75
Total Marks	300
Language Medium	English, Hindi & regional language

Understanding this structure early helps in planning subject-wise preparation and mock test strategies. 

Detailed Section-Wise Breakdown (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics) 

Each subject in the JEE Main Paper Pattern is divided into two sections: MCQs and Numerical Value questions. 

Subject	Section A (MCQs)	Section B (Numericals)	Total Questions	Questions to Attempt	Maximum Marks
Physics	20	10	30	25(20+5)	100
Chemistry	20	10	30	25(20+5)	100
Mathematics	20	10	30	25(20+5)	100

In Section B, students must attempt only 5 out of 10 numerical questions in each subject. Choosing the right questions here can significantly improve your score. 

JEE Main Marking Scheme 2026 (Updated Rules) 

Understanding the JEE Main marking scheme is just as important as knowing the syllabus. 

• Correct Answer: +4 marks 

• Wrong Answer: -1 mark 

• Unattempt Question: 0 marks 

Negative Marking in JEE Mains (Important Update) 

Many students still believe that numerical questions do not have negative marking. This is incorrect. 

Section B (Numerical Value Questions) also carries -1 negative marking for wrong answers. 

This makes accuracy extremely important, especially when selecting which 5 numerical questions to attempt. 

Is the Pattern Different for Session 2 (April)? 

The JEE Main Session 2 exam follows the same official exam pattern as Session 1 (January). There is no change in the number of questions, marking scheme, or duration. 

However, based on previous years: 

• The difficulty level, especially in Mathematics, is often slightly higher in Session 2. 

• Competition may increase due to repeat candidates aiming to improve scores. 

This makes strong pattern awareness and smart question selection even more important in April attempts. 

 

JEE Main Paper 2 Pattern (B.Arch. & B. Planning) 

While this blog mainly focuses on Paper 1, here’s a brief overview of Paper 2: 

• B. Arch: Mathematics + Aptitude Test + Drawing Test 

• B. Planning: Mathematics + Aptitude Test + Planning-based questions 

Paper 2 has different marking rules and skill requirements, so students should prepare separately based on their course choice. 

Total Marks & Time Management Strategy 

The JEE Main total marks for Paper 1 is 300, and managing time smartly is key. 

Recommended time split: 

• Chemistry: 40 minutes 

• Physics: 60 minutes 

• Mathematics: 80 minutes 

• Review & buffer: 20 minutes 

Smart exam tips: 

• Attempt easy MCQs first to secure quick marks 

• In Section B, pick the easiest 5 numerical questions 

• Avoid guesswork due to negative marking 

• Keep last 15–20 minutes for review 

Previous Year Trends: What Has Changed? 

Over the years, the exam pattern has evolved to reduce stress and increase fairness: 

Earlier, JEE Main was conducted for 360 marks 

It was later reduced to 300 marks 

Section B choices were introduced post-COVID to give students flexibility 

These changes aim to test understanding rather than speed alone. 

 

FAQs on JEE Main Exam Pattern 2026 

Q1. Is there negative marking in Section B of JEE Mains 2026? 

Yes. Numerical value questions also carry -1 negative marking for incorrect answers. 

Q2. How many questions are there in JEE Main 2026 total? 

There are 90 questions, out of which students must attempt 75. 

Q3. Can I switch between sections during the exam? 

Yes. You can move freely between subjects and sections during the exam. 

Q4. Is the JEE Main pattern for Session 2 different? 

No. The JEE Main Session 2 follows the same official pattern as Session 1. 

Q5. What is the total duration for PwD candidates? 

A.PwD candidates are provided 4 hours instead of 3 hours. 

Master the JEE Main Exam Pattern with Tutoroot 

Understanding the pattern is one thing, using it to your advantage is another. Tutoroot helps students practise with real exam-style mock tests, make smarter Section B question choices, and manage time with confidence. Through our IIT online classes and personalised online tuition classes, students don’t just study harder—they learn how to prepare smartly and score better.