NTA Advises JEE Main 2026 Aspirants to Verify Centre Details Carefully
The National Testing Agency has issued a crucial advisory for JEE Main 2026 aspirants to verify their allotted examination centre details carefully. With Session 1 exams currently underway across India, the NTA emphasizes checking the exact venue address and reporting times mentioned on the admit card. Candidates must complete biometric authentication and present a valid photo ID for entry into the computer-based testing labs. Failure to follow these security protocols or reaching the venue after the gate closure may result in the cancellation of the candidature.

As the first session of the Joint Entrance Examination (Main) enters its peak phase, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has released a fresh advisory for all exam-day participants. With tests scheduled for several major shifts this week, officials have noted that some students are still arriving at incorrect locations due to similarities in venue names. The NTA has strictly instructed candidates to use the official hall ticket to confirm the precise geographic coordinates of their assigned lab, as no last-minute changes to the testing venue will be entertained under any circumstances.
Strict Entry Protocols and Time Management
For the JEE Main 2026 cycle, the NTA has implemented a multi-layered security check that requires additional time for processing. Aspirants are advised to reach their centers at least 90 minutes before the commencement of the exam. This buffer is essential for completing the mandatory biometric verification process, which includes fingerprint scanning and live facial recognition to prevent impersonation.
- Gate Closing Policy: Gates will close precisely at 8:30 AM for the morning shift and 2:30 PM for the afternoon shift.
- Prohibited Navigation: Students should not rely solely on city intimation slips, as they do not contain the final testing venue address.
- Document Checklist: Only the printed official hall ticket, a valid photo ID, and a passport-size photograph are allowed inside.
- Technical Briefing: Once inside, candidates will have 10 minutes to log in and read the specialized computer-based instructions.
| Shift Details | Reporting Time | Gate Closing | Exam Start Time |
| Shift 1 (Morning) | 7:30 AM | 8:30 AM | 9:00 AM |
| Shift 2 (Afternoon) | 2:00 PM | 2:30 PM | 3:00 PM |
| B.Arch (Jan 29) | 7:30 AM | 8:30 AM | 9:00 AM |
Mandatory Security and Biometric Procedures
The JEE Main 2026 administration has strengthened its integrity measures by making biometric verification a non-negotiable step for entry. Every candidate's identity is cross-referenced with the digital records stored during the registration phase. Furthermore, any candidate found with prohibited electronic items or attempting to use unfair means will face immediate debarment.
- Identity Proof: Aadhaar cards, PAN cards, or Passports are accepted; however, digital copies on mobile phones are strictly prohibited.
- Authentication Steps: In addition to thumbprints, a live photo will be captured at the testing venue for post-exam auditing.
- Scribe Requirements: PwD candidates must ensure their scribes carry the authorized permission letter and valid identity documents.
- Staff Assistance: Centre Superintendents are authorized to assist any exam-day participants facing technical login issues at their allotted terminals.
Conclusion
The National Testing Agency’s latest advisory serves as a final reminder for students to prioritize the verification of their testing venue and follow the biometric verification guidelines diligently. By ensuring that all details on the official hall ticket are accurate and that reporting times are met, exam-day participants can avoid unnecessary stress and focus entirely on their performance in the JEE Main 2026. The agency remains committed to maintaining a fair and transparent environment for all engineering aspirants across the country.
