JEE 2026 Session-1 registration closed; city-slip release expected next

The registration window for the JEE Main 2026 Session 1 (January attempt) has officially closed. With a record 14.5 lakh applications received, the National Testing Agency (NTA) is now set to release the crucial City Intimation Slip in the first week of January 2026. This slip will inform candidates of their allocated exam city, followed immediately by the release of the Admit Card before the exam starts on January 21, 2026. Aspirants must strictly adhere to the final exam preparation and schedule.

The application process for the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main 2026 Session 1 has concluded, marking the end of the initial registration phase for the country's largest engineering entrance test. Following the closure of the form correction window, the National Testing Agency (NTA) is now preparing for the next critical logistical steps: the allocation of exam cities and the release of admit cards for the unprecedented number of applicants (around 14.5 lakh).

The immediate next step for all registered candidates is the download of the City Intimation Slip, which is vital for planning travel and accommodation ahead of the examination week. Candidates are advised to keep a close watch on the official NTA website, jeemain.nta.ac.in, for the latest updates.

I. Critical Dates: From Slip Release to Exam Day

The NTA follows a strict timeline in the days leading up to the exam, starting with the announcement of the exam city.

• City Intimation Slip: This document is the first official communication regarding the examination centre location.
  • Expected Release:First week of January 2026 (Typically released 15-20 days before the exam).
  • Purpose: To inform candidates about the city where their exam center will be located, allowing them to make necessary travel arrangements. The slip is not the Admit Card and does not contain the exact center name or address.
• Admit Card Release: The final, mandatory document for entry into the examination hall.
  • Expected Release:Third week of January 2026 (Typically released 3-4 days before the first exam date).
  • Details Contained: Candidate's photograph, signature, exact examination center address, reporting time, shift time, and mandatory instructions.
• JEE Main 2026 Session 1 Exam:
  • Dates:January 21 to January 30, 2026 (Various shifts and days for B.E./B.Tech and B.Arch papers).

II. Checklist for the Waiting Period

With the exam window just weeks away, candidates must utilize this period for targeted preparation and logistical readiness, using the record registration number as motivation.

• Targeted Revision: Focus exclusively on high-weightage topics and the latest JEE Main syllabus changes. Avoid starting new topics now.
• Mock Test Execution: Take full-length, timed mock tests (preferably in CBT mode) corresponding to the expected 21st to 30th January schedule to build stamina and time management skills.
• Document Readiness: Ensure that all application-related documents (like photographs and signatures) match the data submitted to the NTA. Keep the application number handy for downloading the City Slip and Admit Card.

Key Difference: The City Intimation Slip only contains the city name, whereas the Admit Card, released closer to the exam, contains the exact test center name and address. Both must be downloaded from the official NTA portal.

III. Focus on the Next Session

Candidates must also keep the upcoming Session 2 registration in mind, regardless of their performance in the January attempt.

• Session 2 Opportunity: The score considered for the final rank is the best percentile obtained from either Session 1 (January) or Session 2 (April).
• Session 2 Registration: The portal for Session 2 registration (for the exam scheduled from April 2 to April 9, 2026) is expected to open in the last week of January 2026, immediately following the completion of Session 1.

Aspirants are strongly encouraged to utilize the final weeks of December for rigorous preparation and ensure they check the official website frequently in the first week of January 2026 for the release of their City Intimation Slip.

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