The National Testing Agency has issued the JEE Main 2026 city intimation slips and pre-exam notices for Session 1.Candidates scheduled for the January 21-30 exams can now access their allotted test cities on the official portal. A special rescheduling notice has been issued for West Bengal candidates due to Saraswati Puja. Download the advance slip using your application number and password to finalize travel arrangements.

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially released the advance-slip for the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main 2026 Session 1. As of today, January 20, 2026, students across the country are accessing the NTA-dashboard to confirm their allotted examination cities. This release precedes the issuance of the formal hall tickets and serves as a crucial logistical tool for candidates traveling to different states. The advance-slip provides the date of the examination and the specific city, though it does not contain the exact venue address, which will be revealed in the upcoming admit cards.

Examination Schedule and Slot Timings

The NTA-dashboard has updated the comprehensive timetable for the January session, which remains the primary test-cycle for over 12 lakh engineering aspirants.

• Exam Dates: The Session 1 exams for Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech) are scheduled for January 21, 22, 23, 24, and 28. Paper 2 (B.Arch/B.Planning) will take place on January 29, 2026.
• Shift Timings: The first shift runs from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, while the second shift is conducted from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
• Rescheduling Update: A significant official-notice has been issued for candidates in West Bengal. Due to Saraswati Puja on January 23, those originally scheduled for that day will be shifted to an alternative date within the test-cycle.
• Admit Card Release: While the city details are live, the full admit cards are expected to be available for download in a phased manner starting late this evening or early tomorrow.

Mandatory Verification and Candidate Activity

Candidates are urged to log in to the NTA-dashboard to complete any pending verification tasks before the commencement of the test-cycle.

• Identity Verification: NTA recently closed the window for photo verification for non-Aadhaar users; however, these candidates must carry the attested physical certificate to the center.
• Document Check: Aspirants must ensure that the details on their advance-slip match their application form to avoid discrepancies during the biometric check at the exam hall.
• Discrepancy Redressal: If a candidate finds any error in the city allotment or personal details, they are required to contact the NTA helpdesk immediately via the official helpline or email.
• Scribe Details: PwD candidates who require a scribe must ensure their scribe's details are correctly registered and reflected in their profile status before the official-notice regarding center instructions is finalized.

Shift and Reporting Protocols

The testing agency has established strict reporting protocols that all candidates must follow to ensure a smooth conduct of the examination.

• Security Checks: Frisking and biometric attendance will be mandatory for all. No electronic gadgets, including smartwatches or calculators, are permitted inside the hall.
• Stationery: For the computer-based test, rough sheets will be provided at the seat; candidates must bring their own ballpoint pen and valid ID proof.
• Paper 2 Requirements: B.Arch candidates are permitted to bring their own geometry box and color pencils for the drawing section of the paper.

Conclusion

As the first day of the 2026 engineering entrance season approaches, the NTA has emphasized the importance of monitoring the NTA-dashboard for the final hall ticket link. The recent official-notice regarding the West Bengal rescheduling serves as a reminder for students to verify their specific dates once more. With the advance-slip now accessible, candidates are advised to finalize their travel and accommodation to ensure they reach their venues well before the gate closing time.

For regular updates follow Only Education News. For more details on engineering entrance exams and courses, check here: Engineering Exams List.