JEE Main 2026 Exam Pattern: Marking Scheme & Question Format

Navigating the JEE Main 2026 exam pattern is the first critical step for any student aiming for top-tier technical courses in India. As we move into 2026, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has solidified a structure that emphasizes precision over guesswork. Whether you are aiming for a B.E./B.Tech degree or specialized streams like B.Arch and B.Planning, understanding the "how" of the paper is just as important as the "what" of the syllabus.

The 2026 cycle continues the streamlined format introduced recently, characterized by the removal of optional questions in Section B. This means every question counts, and your strategy must adapt to a "no-choice" environment.

Detailed Structure of JEE Main 2026 Exam Pattern

The examination is divided into three distinct papers based on the course of study. Each paper is designed to test specific aptitude areas required for that professional stream.

1. Paper 1: B.E. / B.Tech (Engineering)

This is the most popular paper, serving as the gateway to undergraduate engineering courses across NITs, IIITs, and GFTIs. The core subjects remain Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.

Particulars	Details
Total Questions	75 Questions (All Compulsory)
Total Marks	300 Marks
Question Format	20 MCQs + 5 Numerical Value Questions (per subject)
Duration	3 Hours (4 Hours for PwD)

2. Paper 2A: B.Arch (Architecture)

For students interested in the B.Arch course, this paper includes a mix of computer-based and pen-and-paper (offline) testing for the drawing section.

• Mathematics: 25 Questions (100 Marks)

• Aptitude Test: 50 Questions (200 Marks)

• Drawing Test: 2 Questions (100 Marks) – Conducted on a physical drawing sheet.

3. Paper 2B: B.Planning (Planning)

The B.Planning paper is conducted entirely in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode.

• Mathematics: 25 Questions (100 Marks)

• Aptitude Test: 50 Questions (200 Marks)

• Planning-Based Questions: 25 Questions (100 Marks)

Important Note: In the JEE Main 2026 exam pattern, the "Section B" for Mathematics in both Paper 2A and 2B now consists of 5 mandatory numerical questions, with no optional choices.

Marking Scheme and Scoring System for 2026

The scoring system is uniform across all objective sections. With the inclusion of negative marking for both Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and Numerical Value Questions (NVQs), accuracy is paramount.

• Correct Answer: $+4$ Marks

• Incorrect Answer: $-1$ Mark

• Unattempted Question: $0$ Marks

For the B.Arch Drawing Test, the evaluation is based on the candidate's sketching and observational skills, totaling 100 marks for two questions. There is typically no negative marking in the drawing section.

Section-Wise Analysis: What to Expect?

The JEE Main 2026 exam pattern demands a balanced approach across the three subjects. Based on recent 2026 Session 1 trends, the difficulty level has shifted toward "Moderate yet Lengthy."

Mathematics: The Speed Breaker

Mathematics continues to be the most challenging section. It often features multi-step problems from Integral Calculus, Coordinate Geometry, and Algebra. Since all 5 numerical questions are now compulsory, students cannot skip heavy-calculation topics like Matrices or Vector 3D.

Physics: Application-Oriented

Physics in 2026 focuses heavily on Electromagnetism, Modern Physics, and Mechanics. The numerical section often tests your ability to apply formulas to real-world scenarios, such as error analysis in Vernier Callipers or circuit resistance.

Chemistry: The Scoring Subject

Chemistry is generally divided equally between Physical, Organic, and Inorganic branches. Many questions are statement-based, directly derived from NCERT. It is the section where students can save time for the lengthier Mathematics paper.

Pro Tip: If you're interested in how these foundational engineering subjects translate into specialized fields, you might want to explore the Civil Engineering Subjects 2026 guide. It provides excellent insight into how the 2026 curriculum has evolved to include AI and smart materials.

Key Changes in JEE Main 2026 Exam Pattern

The National Testing Agency has emphasized a more rigorous selection process. The most notable update for 2026 is the total removal of internal choice in Section B.

1. Mandatory Numerical Questions: Previously, students could choose 5 out of 10 questions. Now, Section B contains only 5 questions, and all are compulsory.

2. Increased Negative Marking: Every single incorrect entry, including numerical ones, results in a deduction of 1 mark.

3. Digital Features: The 2026 interface allows candidates to toggle between light and dark modes and adjust font sizes for better accessibility during the 3-hour window.

Course Selection and Career Pathways

While JEE Main is the primary hurdle, selecting the right stream is equally vital. The landscape of engineering in 2026 is rapidly changing. Core branches like Civil and Chemical engineering are now merging with digital technologies.

• Civil Engineering: Now focuses on "Construction Technology," including BIM and AI-driven infrastructure. Check out the Top Colleges for Civil Engineering 2026 to see how the stream details have changed.

• BSc Data Science: For those interested in pure tech without the traditional engineering route, this has become a top choice. You can read more about Mathematics for BSc Data Science 2026 to understand the academic requirements.

• Innovative Projects: Students in these streams are now working on high-impact BSc Data Science final year project ideas like real-time fraud detection and IoT smart grids.

FAQs on JEE Main 2026 Exam Pattern

Q1. How many questions are there in Paper 1 according to the JEE Main 2026 exam pattern? 

There are a total of 75 questions in Paper 1. Each subject (Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics) contains 20 MCQs and 5 compulsory Numerical Value Questions.

Q2. Is there negative marking for numerical questions in 2026? 

Yes. Under the updated JEE Main 2026 exam pattern, incorrect numerical answers result in a deduction of 1 mark ($-1$).

Q3. Can I choose which numerical questions to answer in Section B?

No. The option to choose 5 out of 10 questions has been removed. You must attempt the 5 questions provided in Section B.

Q4. What is the total marks for the B.Arch and B.Planning papers?

Both Paper 2A (B.Arch) and Paper 2B (B.Planning) are conducted for a total of 400 marks.

Q5. What is the duration of the JEE Main 2026 exam?

The standard duration is 3 hours. However, PwD candidates are allotted 4 hours to complete the test.

Conclusion

Success in JEE Main 2026 isn't just about how much you know; it’s about how well you handle the paper format. With the removal of optional questions, your preparation must be comprehensive. There are no "skippable" topics anymore. Focus on accuracy, manage your time between the subjects, and keep abreast of the latest course details to make an informed decision about your future stream.