The National Testing Agency (NTA) has issued a critical directive for Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main 2026 candidates. Applicants who utilized identity documents other than Aadhaar, such as a PAN card, Indian Passport, or Non-Indian Passport, must upload a Photo Verification Certificate. The strict deadline for this mandatory submission is January 7 . Non-compliance could result in application rejection.
This verification requirement specifically targets candidates whose applications were identified as using alternative identification methods. The NTA communicated these instructions directly to affected individuals via email. The agency aims to ensure robust and consistent identity verification for all participants in the upcoming examination.
Mandatory Photo Verification Process
Candidates must follow a precise, multi-step process to submit the Photo Verification Certificate. The initial step involves downloading the official certificate form. This form is accessible through the candidate’s login portal on the NTA’s official JEE Main website, jeemain.nta.nic.in.
Upon downloading, candidates must print the certificate. They are required to fill in all necessary personal details accurately. A recent passport-size photograph must be securely affixed to the designated space on the certificate. The photograph needs to be clear and meet standard passport photo specifications.
The next crucial step demands official attestation. Candidates must present the completed certificate, with the attached photograph, to their school or college principal. The principal is then required to attest the document. This attestation serves as official confirmation of the candidate’s identity by an educational institution.
Following attestation, the candidate must scan the entire certificate. The scanned image must clearly show all details, including the photograph, the principal’s signature, and any official stamp. The document must be saved in PDF format. This PDF file is then uploaded using a specific link provided within the JEE Main candidate portal.
Key Submission Requirements
The NTA has outlined a strict protocol for the principal’s attestation. The signature of the principal or headmaster must partially overlap both the affixed photograph and the certificate itself. This overlapping signature functions as a vital security measure, directly linking the photograph to the verified document. Documents that do not adhere to this specific signature requirement may face rejection by the NTA.
Furthermore, applicants must prepare for identity verification at the examination venue. Candidates are instructed to carry a printed copy of the Photo Verification Certificate to their designated examination centre. Examination officials will use this physical copy for on-site identity verification before candidates gain entry to the exam hall. This measure is in place to confirm that only the registered candidate appears for the test.
Support and Contact Information
The NTA offers dedicated support for candidates encountering difficulties with the verification process. For technical issues, procedural queries, or any assistance, candidates can contact the NTA helpdesk through telephone or email.
Candidates can reach the NTA at these contact numbers:
- 011-40759000
- 011-69227700
Alternatively, inquiries can be sent via email to jeemain@nta.ac.in. The NTA advises candidates to utilize these support channels well in advance of the January 7 deadline to ensure timely resolution of any issues and avoid last-minute complications with their application.