JEE Main Session 2 Wraps Up with Strong 92.1% Attendance
The National Testing Agency (NTA) has successfully concluded the second session of the Joint Entrance Examination (Main) 2026. The computer-based test (CBT) was conducted across multiple days, from April 2 through April 8, marking the completion of a major milestone for aspiring engineering and architecture candidates this year.
Massive Candidate Turnout Across India and Abroad
A total of 11,65,452 candidates registered for this session, and of those, 10,73,255 actually appeared for the examination. This impressive turnout translates to an attendance rate of 92.1 percent, reflecting the high level of seriousness and preparation among students.
The examination was held at approximately 566 centers spread across 304 cities within India and 14 cities overseas. This wide network of test centers ensured that candidates from various regions, including those residing abroad, had convenient access to appear for the exam.
Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech.) Participation Details
For Paper 1, which serves as the gateway for admission to undergraduate engineering programs (B.E./B.Tech.), nearly 11.06 lakh candidates registered from within the country. Additionally, 4,229 international candidates also enrolled for this paper. The attendance for Paper 1 was recorded at approximately 93 percent, indicating a very high level of candidate commitment.
In terms of identity verification, the Aadhaar-based authentication process was completed successfully for around 97 percent of the candidates who appeared. This smooth verification process helped maintain the integrity and efficiency of the examination workflow.
Paper 2 (B.Arch./B.Planning) Sees Moderate Turnout
Paper 2, which caters to candidates seeking admission to architecture and planning programs (B.Arch./B.Planning), saw a comparatively smaller but still significant number of applicants. Approximately 54,953 candidates registered domestically, while 270 candidates registered from international locations.
However, the attendance for Paper 2 was lower, with around 73 percent of registered candidates actually appearing for the test. Similar to Paper 1, the Aadhaar verification success rate for Paper 2 candidates was also about 97 percent.
Application and Admit Card Timeline
The online application window for Session 2 remained open from February 1 to February 25, 2026. Recognizing the demand from students, the NTA reopened the application portal for two additional days on March 12 and March 13. Following the application process, admit cards were issued in a phased manner on March 29 and April 1, 2026, allowing candidates ample time to prepare for their respective exam dates.
Provisional Answer Key Release Date Announced
Candidates who appeared for Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech.) can now look forward to the release of the provisional answer key. The NTA is expected to publish the answer key along with the candidates’ recorded responses by April 11, 2026. This will enable students to cross-check their answers and estimate their probable scores before the final results are declared.
Once the answer key is released, candidates will also have the opportunity to raise objections if they believe any answer is incorrect. The challenge facility will be available online for a specified duration, and candidates can submit their grievances by paying a non-refundable fee of ₹200 per question challenged. This transparent process ensures that any discrepancies in the answer key are addressed fairly before the final evaluation is completed.
With the examination phase now over, the focus shifts to result preparation and the subsequent counseling processes for various participating institutions across the country.
