The National Testing Agency (NTA) closes the photo verification submission facility today for Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Mains 2026 applicants. This deadline specifically targets candidates whose identities remain unverified. These include individuals who registered without an Aadhaar card. It also applies to applicants experiencing a mismatch with their submitted photograph. Affected candidates must upload necessary documents via the official website, jeemain.nta.nic.in .
Reason for Verification
The NTA initiated this verification process due to specific registration issues. Some JEE Mains 2026 candidates used identity proof documents other than the Aadhaar card for their computer-based test registration. Additionally, for certain applicants, the live photographs captured during their application process did not match records available with the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI).
This process offers a final opportunity for affected candidates. They must verify their identity by uploading a signed and attested certificate. This measure ensures all applicant identities are accurately confirmed ahead of the examination.
Required Documentation and Attestation
Candidates must submit a comprehensive photo verification certificate. This document requires both a signature and attestation. It must include a recent photograph. A school principal must duly certify this photograph.
The NTA addressed grievances regarding access to verifying authorities. Consequently, the agency broadened the permissible attestation sources. Candidates may now obtain attestation from a Class-I Gazetted Officer . This category includes officials such as a Tehsildar, Revenue Officer, Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), or District Magistrate (DM). For Non-Resident Indian (NRI) candidates, a Class-I Gazetted Officer of the Indian Embassy can provide the required attestation, as per official notification.
Submission Procedure and Exam Day Requirement
Applicants must submit the completed photo verification certificate in PDF format . The NTA provides a specific submission link for this purpose. Candidates receive this link directly via their registered email ID. Submitting the document by the stated deadline is crucial for application validity.
A physical copy of the submitted certificate is mandatory. Candidates must print this verification certificate. They must then present the printed copy at their assigned JEE Mains 2026 examination centre. This serves as a physical identity verification measure on the day of the exam.
JEE Mains 2026 Examination Schedule
The JEE Mains 2026 Session 1 examinations are scheduled to run from January 21 to January 29 . The NTA will conduct the Session 2 exams later in the year, from April 2 to April 9 . These examinations are computer-based tests. They serve as a crucial entrance for admission to various undergraduate programs.
Programs include Bachelor of Technology (BTech), Bachelor of Architecture (BArch), and Bachelor of Planning (BPlanning). These admissions are for both government and private higher education institutions across India.
Examination Shift Timings
The NTA organizes the exams into two daily shifts:
- Forenoon Shift: Held from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
- Afternoon Shift: Held from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
Admit Card and City Intimation
The NTA has not yet issued the official JEE Mains 2026 admit card for Session 1 exams. Candidates await the release of their city intimation slip . This slip will inform them about their allocated examination city. Applicants will be able to download this slip from the official NTA portal. Access requires using their unique application number and password.