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JEE Mains 2026 Attempts: Official Rule
As per the latest guidelines issued by NTA:
Number of Sessions per Year: JEE Main is conducted in two sessions every year – usually in January and April.
Maximum Attempts in a Year: A candidate can appear in both sessions. Both attempts are counted separately, and the best score out of the two will be considered for ranking.
Maximum Attempts Across Years: Students are allowed to appear for JEE Main for three consecutive years after passing their Class 12 (or equivalent) examination.
✅ So, How Many Attempts in Total for JEE Mains 2026?
A student can appear twice in one year.
Since the maximum eligibility window is three consecutive years, a student gets 6 attempts in total (2 attempts × 3 years).
For example:
If you passed Class 12 in 2024, you can appear for JEE Mains in 2024, 2025, and 2026.
This means a total of 6 attempts spread across those three years.
JEE Main 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Before planning attempts, students must also understand the eligibility requirements:
Educational Qualification:
Candidates must have passed Class 12 or equivalent with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as core subjects.
Students appearing for Class 12 in 2026 are also eligible.
Year of Passing:
Only those who passed Class 12 in 2024, 2025, or appearing in 2026 can apply for JEE Main 2026.
Age Limit:
There is no age limit for appearing in JEE Main. However, institutes may have their own age criteria for admissions.
Subjects Requirement:
Candidates must have studied Mathematics and Physics as compulsory subjects and one additional subject (Chemistry, Biotechnology, Biology, or Technical Vocational subject).
Why Multiple Attempts are Beneficial
NTA introduced the two-session system to give students flexibility and reduce stress. Here’s why multiple attempts are advantageous:
Improvement of Score – If you perform poorly in the first attempt, you can improve your marks in the second attempt of the same year.
Reduced Pressure – Students don’t have to rely on a single chance for success.
Real Exam Practice – The first attempt helps you understand the exam pattern and environment, which boosts confidence for the next attempt.
Fair Opportunity – External factors like illness, exam-day anxiety, or technical issues won’t permanently affect your ranking since you get another attempt.
Key Points to Remember About JEE Mains Attempts
The best score out of the two attempts in a single year is considered for merit ranking.
If you miss one session, you can still appear in the other session of the same year.
Even if you appear in only one session per year, it is counted as an attempt.
The attempt count is linked with years, not the number of times you register.
Strategy to Utilize All JEE Mains Attempts
Since JEE Mains allows up to 6 attempts across 3 years, you must plan wisely:
1. Class 12 Appearing Year (First Year of Attempt)
Treat this year as a learning phase.
Appear in both sessions to get familiar with the exam pattern.
Focus on completing the syllabus and improving weak topics.
2. Drop Year (Second Year of Attempt)
By now, your fundamentals will be strong.
Use both attempts to push for higher scores and maximize your chances for NITs/IIITs or qualifying for JEE Advanced.
3. Final Attempt (Third Year)
This is your last chance, so use it wisely.
Attempt both sessions and aim for consistency.
Work on mock tests, time management, and accuracy.
JEE Mains 2026 Exam Pattern (Quick Glance)
Mode of Exam: Online (Computer-Based Test)
Papers: Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech), Paper 2A (B.Arch), Paper 2B (B.Planning)
Duration: 3 hours
Marking Scheme: +4 for correct answer, –1 for wrong answer
Syllabus: Class 11 & 12 NCERT syllabus in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics
FAQs on JEE Mains Attempts 2026
Q1. How many attempts can a student take in JEE Mains 2026?
A student can appear two times in 2026 (January & April sessions).
Q2. What is the total number of JEE Main attempts allowed overall?
A student gets 6 attempts in total (2 per year × 3 years).
Q3. Is there any age limit for JEE Mains 2026?
No, there is no age limit, but you must have passed Class 12 in 2024 or later.
Q4. If I appear in only one session, will it count as an attempt?
Yes, appearing in even one session is considered an attempt.
Q5. Which attempt score is considered for admission?
The best score from the two sessions of a particular year will be used.
Final Thoughts
To answer the burning question – How many attempts for JEE Mains 2026? – you can attempt the exam twice in one year and up to 6 times across three consecutive years after passing Class 12. This flexible system is designed to give students multiple opportunities to succeed without unnecessary stress.
If you are preparing for JEE Mains 2026, use every attempt strategically. Start early, focus on your fundamentals, practice mock tests, and improve with each session. With smart planning and consistent effort, your dream of securing a seat in a top engineering college can become a reality.
