JEE Main 2026 Paper Pattern: Section-Wise Questions & Marks Distribution
- mayuri pawar
- 5 days ago
- 4 min read
Navigating the competitive landscape of engineering entrance exams in India requires more than just subject knowledge; it requires a strategic understanding of the JEE Main 2026 paper pattern. As we move into the 2026 academic cycle, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has solidified the examination structure, moving away from the optional question format seen in previous "pandemic-era" years.
For students aiming for top-tier B.E., B.Tech, B.Arch, or B.Planning courses, staying updated on the section-wise distribution and marking scheme is the first step toward a high percentile. This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of the JEE Main 2026 paper pattern to help you streamline your preparation.
Overview of JEE Main 2026 Exam Structure
The JEE Main 2026 is conducted in two sessions—January and April. The exam is divided into three distinct papers based on the course of study. Whether you are pursuing a career in core engineering, architecture, or urban planning, the following table summarizes the primary format:
Feature | Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech) | Paper 2A (B.Arch) | Paper 2B (B.Planning) |
Mode of Exam | Online (CBT) | Online & Offline (Drawing) | Online (CBT) |
Total Questions | 75 | 77 | 100 |
Total Marks | 300 | 400 | 400 |
Duration | 3 Hours | 3 Hours | 3 Hours |
Detailed JEE Main 2026 Paper Pattern for B.E./B.Tech
Paper 1 is the gateway to B.E. and B.Tech programs at NITs, IIITs, and GFTIs. The most significant change in the JEE Main 2026 paper pattern is the removal of optional questions in Section B. All numerical value questions are now compulsory.
Section-Wise Question Distribution
Each subject (Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics) is divided into two sections:
Section A: 20 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs).
Section B: 5 Numerical Value Questions (NVQs).
Subject-Wise Marks Breakdown
Subject | Section A (MCQs) | Section B (NVQs) | Total Questions | Total Marks |
Mathematics | 20 | 5 | 25 | 100 |
Physics | 20 | 5 | 25 | 100 |
Chemistry | 20 | 5 | 25 | 100 |
Total | 60 | 15 | 75 | 300 |
Note: In Section B, candidates must enter the correct integer or decimal value using the on-screen numeric keypad. Unlike previous years, you no longer have a choice of 5 out of 10; you must attempt all 5 questions provided.
Marking Scheme for JEE Main 2026
The marking scheme is consistent across all three subjects in Paper 1. It is designed to reward accuracy while penalizing guesswork.
Correct Answer: +4 Marks
Incorrect Answer: -1 Mark (Negative marking applies to both MCQs and NVQs)
Unattempted Question: 0 Marks
JEE Main 2026 Paper Pattern for B.Arch (Paper 2A)
For students interested in the B.Arch course, the paper pattern involves a mix of computer-based and pen-and-paper testing.
Mathematics (Part I): 20 MCQs + 5 Numerical Questions (100 Marks)
Aptitude Test (Part II): 50 MCQs (200 Marks)
Drawing Test (Part III): 2 Questions (100 Marks) - Conducted Offline
Total: 77 Questions | 400 Marks
JEE Main 2026 Paper Pattern for B.Planning (Paper 2B)
The B.Planning paper is conducted entirely online and focuses on planning-based objective questions.
Mathematics (Part I): 20 MCQs + 5 Numerical Questions (100 Marks)
Aptitude Test (Part II): 50 MCQs (200 Marks)
Planning Based Questions (Part III): 25 MCQs (100 Marks)
Total: 100 Questions | 400 Marks
Key Changes and Trends in 2026
Compulsory Section B: The most critical update for 2026 is the lack of choice in Section B. This requires students to have a broader command over the entire syllabus rather than selective study.
Syllabus Alignment: The 2026 syllabus remains strictly aligned with the NCERT Class 11 and 12 curriculum.
Normalization Process: Since the exam is held in multiple shifts, NTA uses a normalization procedure based on Percentile Scores to ensure fairness across varying difficulty levels.
Tips to Master the JEE Main 2026 Paper Pattern
Practice Without Options: Since Section B no longer offers choices, practice solving every numerical problem in your mock tests.
Time Management: Allocate approximately 60 minutes per subject. However, Chemistry often takes less time, allowing you to spend more on the lengthy Mathematics section.
NCERT Mastery: Approximately 60-65% of the questions in Chemistry and Physics are directly or indirectly linked to NCERT concepts.
Mock Tests: Take at least two full-length mock tests per week in the final three months to get accustomed to the CBT interface.
FAQs on JEE Main 2026 Paper Pattern
1. What is the total number of questions in JEE Main 2026 Paper 1?
The total number of questions in the JEE Main 2026 paper pattern for Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech) is 75. This includes 25 questions each from Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
2. Is there negative marking for numerical value questions in 2026?
Yes, for the 2026 session, there is a negative marking of -1 for every incorrect answer in both Section A (MCQs) and Section B (Numerical Value Questions).
3. Are there any optional questions in Section B of JEE Main 2026?
No. In the latest JEE Main 2026 paper pattern, all 5 numerical questions in Section B of each subject are compulsory. The choice to attempt 5 out of 10 has been removed.
4. What is the duration for the B.Arch and B.Planning combined paper?
If a candidate appears for both B.Arch and B.Planning, the total duration of the exam is 3 hours and 30 minutes.
5. In which languages is the JEE Main 2026 conducted?
The exam is conducted in 13 languages, including English, Hindi, Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Odia, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu.
Conclusion
The JEE Main 2026 paper pattern reflects a move toward a more rigorous and standardized testing environment. By making all sections compulsory, the NTA ensures that only those with a holistic understanding of the subjects secure the top ranks. As you prepare for the 2026 sessions, focus on accuracy and speed, especially in the numerical sections.
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