The National Testing Agency (NTA) has issued a comprehensive advisory for JEE Main 2026 Session 1 aspirants regarding mandatory exam-day protocols and reporting schedules. Candidates are required to adhere to a strict dress code and arrive at their allotted centers at least two hours before the commencement of the test to complete security checks. This update highlights essential documents such as the admit card and valid photo ID, while listing prohibited electronic items and stationery. Failure to follow these official instructions may lead to entry delays or disqualification from the January engineering entrance examination.

With the first session of the Joint Entrance Examination (Main) 2026 currently underway, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has released a fresh advisory. The Agency has urged all scheduled students to strictly follow the pre-defined reporting times and safety protocols to ensure a smooth conduct of the national-level test. As millions of students appear for the computer-based test across the country, maintaining the Integrity of the examination remains the top priority for the authorities.

Mandatory Reporting Schedule and Gate Timings

To prevent overcrowding and facilitate thorough frisking, the NTA has established specific entry slots for both morning and afternoon shifts. Each Aspirant must check their individual admit card for the exact reporting time assigned to them. The gates for the morning session close promptly at 8:30 AM, after which no student will be allowed inside the premises under any circumstances.

• First Shift Entry: Candidates must arrive between 7:30 AM and 8:30 AM for the 9:00 AM exam.
• Second Shift Entry: Entry is permitted from 2:00 PM to 2:30 PM for the 3:00 PM exam.
• Biometric Verification: Fingerprint scanning and image capture are mandatory before entering the Hall.
• Seat Allotment: Students must occupy their allotted seats immediately after the invigilator grants permission.
• Rough Work: All calculations must be done on the provided rough sheets, which must be dropped in the designated box before leaving the Hall.

Dress Code and Prohibited Items

The Agency has enforced a strict dress code to minimize the risk of malpractices and speed up the security check process. Any Aspirant wearing prohibited clothing or carrying restricted items will be stopped at the security gate. Digital gadgets, including smartwatches and mobile phones, are strictly banned from the testing area.

• Permitted Clothing: Light-colored, half-sleeve clothes without large buttons or elaborate embroidery are recommended.
• Footwear: Only slippers or sandals with low soles are allowed; closed shoes and boots are prohibited.
• Restricted Accessories: Jewellery, metallic items, belts, and caps must be removed before the frisking process.
• Stationery: Students are not allowed to bring their own pens or paper; a simple transparent ballpoint pen is often provided or permitted based on specific center rules.
• Diabetic Provisions: Candidates with medical conditions may carry sugar tablets or fruits in transparent containers after prior intimation.

Conclusion

As the January session progresses, the NTA continues to monitor the centers to uphold the Integrity of the competitive process. Every Aspirant is advised to read the instructions printed on the back of their hall ticket carefully to avoid last-minute stress. By reaching the exam Hall well in advance and complying with the dress code, students can focus entirely on their performance in one of the most significant academic challenges of the year.