The Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main 2026 exam in West Bengal, initially scheduled for January 23, 2026 , has been officially rescheduled. The National Testing Agency (NTA) confirmed this change. The decision follows representations regarding the celebration of Saraswati Puja on the original exam date. All candidates affected in West Bengal will receive a new examination date within the existing Session 1 schedule.
West Bengal Exam Date Changed Due to Saraswati Puja
The NTA received formal requests and feedback from students and stakeholders in West Bengal. These communications highlighted the conflict between the exam and the significant religious festival, Saraswati Puja. The agency confirmed the rescheduling via an official post on X (formerly Twitter).
This decision ensures students can observe religious practices without academic conflict. Candidates scheduled to appear for JEE Main in West Bengal on January 23, 2026 , will be allotted another specific date. This new date will be part of the advertised examination period for JEE Main 2026 Session 1 .
JEE Main 2026 Session 1 Complete Schedule
The JEE Main 2026 Session 1 examination period runs from January 21 to January 29, 2026 . This national entrance exam determines eligibility for admission to undergraduate engineering and architecture programs across India. The NTA conducts exams in two shifts daily for Bachelor of Engineering (BE) and Bachelor of Technology (BTech) programs.
The examination for Bachelor of Architecture (BArch) and Bachelor of Planning (BPlan) programs is held on a single dedicated day. Standard daily shifts are from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM for the first shift, and 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM for the second shift.
Refer to the detailed examination schedule for JEE Main 2026 Session 1 below:
| Date | Program(s) | Shift(s) |
|---|---|---|
| January 21, 2026 | BE/BTech (Paper 1) | Shift 1 & Shift 2 |
| January 22, 2026 | BE/BTech (Paper 1) | Shift 1 & Shift 2 |
| January 23, 2026 | BE/BTech (Paper 1) | Shift 1 & Shift 2 (Rescheduled for West Bengal candidates) |
| January 24, 2026 | BE/BTech (Paper 1) | Shift 1 & Shift 2 |
| January 28, 2026 | BE/BTech (Paper 1) | Shift 1 & Shift 2 |
| January 29, 2026 | BArch/BPlan (Paper 2A & 2B) | Single Shift |
Accessing City Intimation Slips and Admit Cards
The JEE Main 2026 Session 1 city intimation slip is currently available on the official NTA website, jeemain.nta.nic.in. This slip provides early information to candidates regarding their allocated examination city and shift details, allowing for travel planning.
The NTA will release the JEE Main 2026 admit cards approximately two to three days before each candidate’s specific examination date. The admit card is a mandatory document for entry into the examination hall. Candidates must download their admit card by logging into the official portal using their registration number and password.
Candidate Support and Official Communication
Candidates requiring further clarification or assistance regarding the JEE Main 2026 examination can contact the NTA. The agency provides support through multiple official channels:
- X (formerly Twitter) Direct Message: @NTA_Helpdesk
- Email: jeemain@nta.ac.in
- Phone: 011-40759000
The NTA advises all candidates to regularly check the official website and designated communication channels for timely updates and announcements regarding the examination schedule and admit card releases. This ensures candidates remain informed about any further changes or essential information.