JEE Main 2026: Provisional Answer Key and Response Sheets Released

The National Testing Agency has released the provisional answer key and response sheets for JEE Main 2026 Session-1, allowing approximately 1.3 million students to assess their performance. Students can access the answer key on the official NTA website and have the opportunity to raise objections from February 4th to February 6th. The results are expected to be announced on February 12, 2026, paving the way for further admissions processes. This article outlines the steps to access the answer key and the objection submission process.

By Ambika Singh Feb 4, 2026, 15:52 IST

JEE Main 2026 Session-1 Updates

The provisional answer key for the JEE Main 2026 Session-1 has been officially released, along with the response sheets, by the National Testing Agency (NTA). This announcement marks a significant moment for around 1.3 million students nationwide, as they can now evaluate their performance against the correct answers.

JEE Main is a pivotal engineering entrance examination in India, facilitating admissions into prestigious institutions such as IITs, NITs, and IIITs. Thus, the availability of the answer key is crucial for students aiming for these opportunities.

Accessing the Answer Key

Students can find the answer key and their response sheets on the official NTA website at jeemain.nta.nic.in. To access these documents, students need to log in using their application number and password. Once logged in, they will see their response sheet, which displays the answers they selected during the exam, alongside the answer key that lists the correct responses. This allows students to estimate their potential scores.

Objection Submission Process

The NTA has also provided a window for students to contest any discrepancies they believe exist in the answer key. Students can submit objections from February 4th to February 6th, with a fee of Rs. 200 applicable for each question contested. This process is conducted entirely online.

NTA's Review Process

The NTA has assured that all objections will be evaluated by subject matter experts. The final answer key, which will be established after this review, will be used to determine the results. Importantly, students will not receive individual notifications regarding the acceptance of their objections; the final answer key will apply universally.

Exam Schedule and Results

The JEE Main 2026 Session-1 was held from January 21 to January 29, 2026, in a computer-based format across two shifts: the morning shift from 9 AM to 12 PM and the afternoon shift from 3 PM to 6 PM. This exam is crucial for students seeking admission to B.Tech, B.Arch, and B.Planning programs.

The results for JEE Main 2026 Session-1 are set to be announced on February 12, 2026. Alongside the results, students will receive their scores, percentiles, and All India Ranks, enabling eligible candidates to apply for JEE Advanced and participate in subsequent counseling.

Steps to Download the Answer Key

To download the answer key, follow these steps:

1. Visit the official website at jeemain.nta.nic.in.

2. Click on the link for 'JEE Main 2026 Session 1 Response Sheet' on the homepage.

3. Enter your application number and password.

4. After submission, your answer key and response sheet will appear on the screen.

5. Download the documents and review your answers.