The JEE Main 2026 session 2 exam is being held from April 2 to 8. Candidates appearing for the JEE Mains 2nd attempt must take note of their JEE Mains exam timings carefully. Not just the exam shift time, candidates should also take extra care of the reporting time. On this page, we have provided details of the JEE Mains 2026 session 2 exam time, shift time and reporting time.
JEE Mains 2026 Shift Timings: The National Testing Agency (NTA) is conducting the JEE Main 2026 session 2 exam in multiple shifts across several days. The paper 1 exam is being held on April 2, 4, 5, 6 and 8 and on each day there will be two shifts. While the paper 2 exam will be held in one shift on April 7. Knowing the exact shift timings is very important for candidates so they can plan their exam day properly and avoid last-minute stress. This article explains the JEE Main 2026 Session 2 shift timings, reporting schedule, and important instructions. Read below.
- JEE Main 2026 Session 2 Shift Timings
- Reporting Time for JEE Mains 2026 Session 2
- Why JEE Mains Shift Timings Matter
- Tips to Manage Your JEE Mains Session 2 Shift Effectively
- Important Instructions for JEE Mains Session 2 Exam Day
JEE Main 2026 Session 2 Shift Timings
JEE Main April session will be conducted in two shifts per day for BE/BTech (Paper 1). Check the timings below:
- Shift 1 (Morning Shift): 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
- Shift 2 (Afternoon Shift): 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Each shift is of 3 hours duration. Candidates must carefully check their allotted shift on the JEE Mains 2026 admit card.
Check below day wise shift timings of JEE Mains Session 2:
| Date | Paper | Shift timings |
|---|---|---|
| April 2, 4, 5 and 6 | Paper 1 - BE/BTech | Shift 1 - 9 am to 12 pm Shift 2 - 3 pm to 6 pm |
| April 7 | Paper 2a - BArch Paper 2b - BPlan |
Shift 2 - 3 pm to 6 pm and 3 pm to 6:30 pm if appearing for both paper 2a and 2b |
| April 8 | Paper 1 - BE/BTech | Shift 2 - 3 pm to 6 pm |
Reporting Time for JEE Mains 2026 Session 2
Apart from the exam timings, candidates should also pay attention to the reporting time. Entry to the JEE Mains exam centre closes well before the exam starts.
Here is the expected reporting schedule:
For Shift 1:
- Reporting starts: 7:00 AM
- Last entry: 8:30 AM
For Shift 2:
- Reporting starts: 1:00 PM
- Last entry: 2:30 PM
Candidates are strongly advised to reach the exam centre at least 1.5 to 2 hours before the exam to complete security checks and biometric verification smoothly.
Why JEE Mains Shift Timings Matter
Many students ignore the importance of shift timings, but it plays a big role in their performance. Here’s why:
- Better time management: Knowing your shift helps you plan your sleep, meals, and travel.
- Avoid panic: Reaching early keeps you relaxed and focused.
- Exam strategy: Morning and afternoon shifts may feel different due to energy levels, so preparation should be adjusted accordingly. For example, students appearing in the morning shift should sleep early the night before, while afternoon shift candidates should avoid feeling too relaxed and losing focus.
Tips to Manage Your JEE Mains Session 2 Shift Effectively
Here are some simple tips to help you perform well according to your shift timing:
For Morning Shift:
- Wake up early and revise key formulas
- Eat a light breakfast
- Reach the centre well in advance
For Afternoon Shift:
- Avoid studying too much right before the exam
- Have a light lunch
- Stay calm and avoid overthinking
In both cases, make sure you stay hydrated and carry only the required documents.
JEE Main 2026 Session 2 shift timings will play an important role in your exam day experience. The key to doing well in JEE Main is not just preparation but also proper planning on the exam day. Reach early, follow instructions, and stay calm during your shift. Keep checking official updates from NTA, and once your admit card is available, make sure to go through all the details carefully.
Important Instructions for JEE Mains Session 2 Exam Day
Following the shift timings properly is not just about arriving on time. Candidates must follow a few important guidelines to avoid any issues:
Commonly asked questions
Yes, it is mandatory to carry a print copy of the JEE Mains admit card. Soft copy on the mobile phone is not valid for entry at exam.
No. It is not mandatory to carry a colour printout of the JEE Main admit card. Candidates can carry a black and white printout; just make sure that all details are clear. Check the clarity of the photo, QR code, Bar Code and other details after the printout and ensure that everything is readable.
No. Any kind of calculator - virtual or physical - is not allowed at the JEE Main exam centres.
Yes. Candidates should not wear flashy clothes but wear very simple clothing to the JEE Main exam. Make sure your clothes do not have any metallic objects and do not carry or wear any jewellery. Basically, try to avoid anything that can prolong the frisking process.
Commonly asked questions
Candidates can check the allotted JEE Mains 2026 exam date on their JEE admit card and also on the city intimation slip.
The JEE Main 2026 exam shift timings are:
- Shift 1: 9 am to 12 noon
- Shift 2: 3 pm to 6 pm
No, candidates are not allowed to carry personal rough sheets into the exam hall. The rough sheets are provided at the JEE Mains exam centre to all candidates.
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- Carry your admit card: It is mandatory to bring a printed copy of the JEE Main 2026 admit card.
- Valid ID proof: Aadhaar card, PAN card, or any government-approved ID is required.
- Follow JEE Mains dress code: Avoid wearing items with metal objects or heavy accessories.
- Do not carry restricted items: Electronic gadgets, calculators, notes, and bags are not allowed inside the exam hall.
- Biometric verification: Fingerprint and photograph verification will be done at the centre.
- If a candidate arrives late and misses the entry window, they will not be allowed to enter under any circumstances.

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Student Forum
Answered Yesterday
Yes. The syllabus overlaps heavily, and JEE preparation often covers TS EAMCET topics. Just add state-specific mock tests for better speed and familiarity.
M
Contributor-Level 8
Answered Yesterday
Any candidate who cleared Class 12th with an aggregate of less than 50% must appear for JEE Mains to qualify for Sagar Institute of Science Technology and Engineering (SISTec-E) - Sagar Group of Institutions Bhopal BTech admission. Howver, candidates who cleared Class 12th with a minimum aggregate o
S
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 days ago
You might be able to get a seat at Manipal Institute of Technology with a rank of 50000 if you belong to the General AI category.
According to the Manipal Institute of Technology JEE Main cutoff 2026 for round 1, the cutoff ranged from 32577 to 102650 for the aforementioned category. Students can re
N
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 days ago
Manipal Institute of Technology JEE Main Cutoff 2026 was released for admission to the BTech course and its various specialisations among the All India categories students.
For the General AI category, the round 1 cutoff ranged from 32577 to 102650, wherein BTech in Mathematics and Computing and B.T
N
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 days ago
No, candidates are not required to appear in AUEE if they have secured a valid JEE Mains score. These candidates will be directly proceeded to Alliance Selection Process. Final admission is based on a combined score of last qualifying exam, entrance exam and Alliance Selection Process score.
S
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 6 days ago
The JEE Mains cutoff of 2026 has not been released yet. However, in 2025 the closing rank for the general category for BTech in AI and ML was 1843344. In 2024 the closing rank for SDEC BTech AI and ML was 737084.
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 6 days ago
No, Cluster Innovation Centre does not accept JEE Mains for BTech admissions. Students must appear for the CUET exam and participate in CSAS counselling. No other admission tests including JEE are considered by the college.
P
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 6 days ago
Yes, students can get admission in DIT University Admission Office BTech without appearing for JEE Main. The univeristy offers direct admissions to top 10% of Class 12 board toppers. Students can connect with the university to know more.
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
If you qualified for JEE Advanced, then study for it; otherwise, look for the best college at your rank.
V
Beginner-Level 1
Answered a week ago
The cutoff for of OBC category students for admission to I2IT Pune is approximately 95 percentile.
V
Beginner-Level 1

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