JEE Advanced 2026 Eligibility Criteria

The JEE Advanced stands as one of India's most prestigious and challenging engineering entrance exams conducted at a national level. The examination comprises two mandatory papers, each lasting three hours and covering Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Both papers are conducted in computer-based mode on the same day, with questions designed to test not just subject knowledge but also analytical reasoning, problem-solving skills, and the ability to apply concepts in novel situations. Hence, each year the JEE Advanced exam witnesses a cut throat competition among the candidates. Being successful in JEE Advanced exam opens doors to world-class education, research opportunities, and a vibrant peer network at the IITs, making it a coveted goal for engineering aspirants across the country.

JEE ADVANCED 2026 Eligibility Criteria:

4– 5 Year Under Graduate Program (B. Tech/ B.E./ B. Planning/ B. Arch):

• Only the top 2,50,000 candidates (all categories combined) in the B.E./ B. Tech. paper of JEE Main 2026 are eligible to appear for JEE Advanced 2026. Category-wise distribution and reservation norms apply.
• Candidates must be born on or after October 1, 2001. For SC, ST, and PwD candidates there is a 5-year relaxation (born on or after October 1, 1996) by the authorities.
• A candidate can attempt JEE Advanceda maximum of two times in two consecutive years.
• Candidates must have appeared for the Class 10+2 (or equivalent) examination for the first time in either 2025 or 2026. Those who appeared in 2024 or earlier will not be eligible for this exam.
• Candidates must have studied Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics in their Class 10+2 (or equivalent) examination.
• Candidates who have been admitted to an IIT previously (regardless of whether they continued in the program or not) will also not be eligible to appear for JEE Advanced 2026.
• The earlier requirement of a minimum percentage (75% for general, 65% for SC/ ST/ PwD) in Class 10+2 has been removed; there is no minimum percentage requirement for JEE Advanced 2026.
• Foreign nationals are also eligible but have separate criteria, including direct application to JEE Advanced (JEE Main not required) and a different age cut-off

 JEE Advanced 2026 Exam Pattern