JEE Main Exam Timing 2026 for Session 2, Shift-wise Schedule
JEE Main Exam Timing 2026 for Session 2 is expected to follow the usual two-shift pattern conducted by NTA. The morning shift (Shift 1) will run from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, with entry allowed between 7:30 AM and 8:30 AM. The evening shift (Shift 2) will be held from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, with entry from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM. Gates close strictly 30 minutes before the exam. The exam duration is 3 hours for general candidates and 4 hours for PwD candidates. Candidates must always verify exact shift timings on their admit card, as official confirmation comes from NTA.
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JEE Main Exam Timing 2026 for Session 2 is a crucial detail for aspirants appearing in the April attempt, as it is the final opportunity of the year to secure a better score. With thousands of candidates preparing to appear across multiple exam days, understanding the exact shift timings, reporting schedule, and exam duration becomes essential.
Being aware of the official exam timings in advance helps students plan their travel, revision, and exam-day routine efficiently, reducing last-minute stress and ensuring a smooth test-day experience.
JEE Main Session 2 Exam Timing 2026 Overview
The JEE Main examination is generally held in two slots to accommodate the large volume of aspirants across the country. Below is a detailed breakdown of the expected JEE Mains Shift 1 timings and JEE Mains Shift 2 timings.
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JEE Main Session 2 Exam Timing 2026 Overview |
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Feature |
Morning Shift (Shift 1) |
Evening Shift (Shift 2) |
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Exam Duration |
3 Hours (4 Hours for PwD) |
3 Hours (4 Hours for PwD) |
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JEE Morning Shift Timings |
9:00 AM to 12:00 PM |
- |
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JEE Evening Shift Timings |
- |
3:00 PM to 6:00 PM |
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Entry into Exam Centre |
7:30 AM to 8:30 AM |
1:30 PM to 2:30 PM |
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Gate Closing Time |
8:30 AM Sharp |
2:30 PM Sharp |
JEE Main 2026 Exam Timing
When preparing for the entrance test, many candidates ask, "How many shifts in JEE Mains 2026?" Historically, the NTA conducts the exam over a window of 5 to 7 days, resulting in approximately 10 to 14 shifts per session. Adhering to the JEE Mains shift timings is mandatory, as late entry is strictly prohibited once the gates are closed.
JEE Mains Session 2 Shift 1 Timings (Morning)
The JEE Mains Shift 1 timings are designed for the first batch of the day. The JEE Mains morning shift timing requires students to be early risers to complete security protocols on time.
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JEE Mains Session 2 Shift 1 Timings (Morning) |
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JEE Main Exam Dates |
Paper Duration |
JEE Mains Shift 2 Timings (Morning) |
JEE Mains Shift 2 Timings (Evening) |
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1 to 19 April 2026 |
3 Hours |
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (IST) |
3:00 PM – 6:00 PM (IST) |
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1 to 19 April 2026 |
3 Hours 30 Minutes |
9:00 AM – 12:30 PM (IST) |
3:00 PM – 6:30 PM (IST) |
JEE Main 2026 Session 2: Shift-Wise Duration for Different Papers
The JEE exam time 2026 remains consistent for most papers, but the duration varies slightly for specific categories:
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B.E./B.Tech (Paper 1): 3 hours for general candidates and 4 hours for PwD candidates.
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B.Arch/B.Planning (Paper 2A/2B): 3 hours for general candidates.
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Combination of B.Arch & B.Planning: 3 hours and 30 minutes.
Important Guidelines for JEE Main 2026 Aspirants
To ensure you are ready for the JEE Main 2026 shift timings, keep the following points in mind:
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Official Confirmation: While the timings mentioned above are based on previous years' patterns, they are considered expected/tentative until the official NTA notification is released.
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Admit Card Verification: Always check your specific JEE Mains shift timings on your admit card, as the NTA may adjust slots based on the number of applicants in certain cities.
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Verification Process: The time between reporting and the actual start of the exam is used for verifying the Admit Card, original Photo ID, and capturing biometric data.