The National Testing Agency (NTA) has issued an important notification for candidates appearing in JEE Main 2026, addressing the issue of mismatch in candidate photographs uploaded during the application process. Along with this crucial update, NTA has also informed aspirants that the JEE Main 2026 Exam City Intimation Slip will be released soon on the official website — jeemain.nta.nic.in.
This notification is highly significant for lakhs of engineering aspirants across India who have registered for Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main 2026, as discrepancies in photographs may lead to problems during admit card issuance or even entry at the examination centre if not corrected on time.
Table of Contents
JEE Main 2026 – Latest Update at a Glance
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main 2026 |
| Conducting Authority | National Testing Agency (NTA) |
| Notification Issued For | Photograph mismatch in application |
| Exam City Slip | To be released soon |
| Admit Card Status | Yet to be released |
| Official Website | jeemain.nta.nic.in |
| Exam Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
NTA Notification on Photograph Mismatch: What Is the Issue?
According to the official notice released by NTA, it has been observed that some candidates uploaded incorrect or mismatched photographs during the JEE Main 2026 application process. These issues may include:
Photograph not matching the candidate’s appearance
Blurred or unclear image
Incorrect background
Photograph without proper face visibility
Use of old or non-compliant photographs
NTA has emphasized that the photograph on the admit card must clearly match the candidate appearing at the examination centre. Any discrepancy may result in identity verification issues on exam day.
Why Photograph Mismatch Is a Serious Concern
The photograph uploaded during registration is used for:
Admit card generation
Identity verification at the exam centre
Attendance records
Result and counselling process
If a candidate’s photograph does not match their appearance, invigilators may raise objections, which could lead to delays, additional verification, or even denial of entry in extreme cases. Hence, NTA has taken proactive steps to alert candidates in advance.
What Should Candidates Do If There Is a Photograph Mismatch?
Candidates who suspect or have been informed that their photograph may be incorrect should take immediate action once the correction window or specific instructions are provided by NTA.
Expected Steps to Resolve Photograph Issues
Visit the official website jeemain.nta.nic.in
Log in using application number and password/date of birth
Upload a recent, clear passport-size photograph
Ensure the photograph meets NTA guidelines
Save confirmation after successful upload
NTA is expected to provide candidate-wise instructions or enable a photograph correction facility for affected applicants.
Guidelines for Uploading Correct Photograph
To avoid further issues, candidates should ensure their photograph meets the following standard requirements:
Recent photograph (not older than 3 months)
Clear face with no shadows
Plain light-coloured background
No cap, goggles, or sunglasses
Neutral facial expression
High resolution and proper size as prescribed
Following these guidelines will help prevent rejection or discrepancies during verification.
JEE Main 2026 Exam City Slip to Be Released Soon
Along with the photograph-related notification, NTA has also confirmed that the JEE Main 2026 Exam City Intimation Slip will be released soon on the official website.
The exam city slip informs candidates about:
The city where their exam centre will be located
The exam date and shift (in some cases)
However, it does not contain the exact exam centre address, which will be mentioned on the admit card.
Purpose of Exam City Intimation Slip
The exam city slip is released prior to the admit card to help candidates:
Make travel arrangements
Plan accommodation if required
Reduce last-minute confusion and stress
Candidates should note that the exam city slip is not a substitute for the admit card.
How to Download JEE Main 2026 Exam City Slip
Once released, candidates can download the city intimation slip by following these steps:
Visit jeemain.nta.nic.in
Click on the link “JEE Main 2026 Exam City Intimation Slip”
Log in using:
Application Number
Password or Date of Birth
Submit the details
Download and save the exam city slip
It is advisable to take a printout for reference.
Difference Between Exam City Slip and Admit Card
Many candidates confuse the exam city slip with the admit card. Here is a clear comparison:
| Feature | Exam City Slip | Admit Card |
|---|---|---|
| Exam City | Yes | Yes |
| Exact Centre Address | No | Yes |
| Exam Date & Shift | Partial | Full |
| Entry to Exam Hall |  No |  Yes |
The admit card is mandatory to appear for the examination.
When Will JEE Main 2026 Admit Card Be Released?
The JEE Main 2026 Admit Card is expected to be released 3–4 days before the examination date. Candidates must download it from the official website and carry a printed copy to the exam centre.
Before downloading the admit card, candidates are strongly advised to:
Verify photograph and signature
Check personal details
Confirm exam date, shift, and centre address
What If Issues Persist After Correction?
If a candidate still faces issues related to photograph mismatch or login problems, they should:
Contact the NTA Helpdesk
Email NTA with application details
Keep screenshots and confirmation pages as proof
Prompt communication can help resolve issues before the exam.
Important Instructions for JEE Main 2026 Candidates
Regularly visit jeemain.nta.nic.in for updates
Download exam city slip and admit card as soon as available
Follow photograph and ID guidelines strictly
Carry a valid photo ID along with admit card
Reach the exam centre well before reporting time
Ignoring official notifications may lead to unnecessary complications.
Why This Notification Matters for Aspirants
The NTA’s notification reflects its effort to ensure smooth and fair conduct of JEE Main 2026. By addressing photograph mismatches in advance and informing candidates about the upcoming release of exam city slips, NTA aims to reduce last-minute disruptions and ensure proper candidate verification.
For aspirants competing for seats in NITs, IIITs, CFTIs, and eligibility for JEE Advanced, even a small mistake can have serious consequences. Staying alert and proactive is essential.
Conclusion
The National Testing Agency’s latest notification for JEE Main 2026 regarding photograph mismatch is a crucial alert for all registered candidates. Aspirants must carefully check their application details and be prepared to take corrective action if required. Additionally, with the exam city slip set to be released soon at jeemain.nta.nic.in, candidates should stay updated and plan their exam logistics in advance.
Timely action, careful verification, and regular monitoring of official announcements will ensure a hassle-free examination experience and allow students to focus on what truly matters — performing their best in JEE Main 2026.
