NTA Releases Provisional Answer Key for JEE Main 2026 Session 1
The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially released the provisional answer key and recorded response sheet for the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main 2026 Session 1. This significant announcement marks a crucial phase for engineering aspirants across India who appeared for the examination.
Key Details and Important Dates
Candidates who participated in the JEE Main 2026 Session 1 can now access their answer keys and responses through the official online portal. The provisional answer key is specifically available for Paper 1, which corresponds to the Bachelor of Engineering and Bachelor of Technology programs.
The objection window has been opened for a limited duration, allowing examinees to submit challenges against any discrepancies they identify. It is essential to note that all objections must be submitted exclusively through online mode, with no offline alternatives available.
Important Particulars:
- Exam Name: JEE Main 2026
- Conducting Body: National Testing Agency (NTA)
- Session: Session 1 (January 2026)
- Paper: Paper 1 (Bachelor of Engineering/Bachelor of Technology)
- Answer Key Status: Provisional
- Official Website: jeemain.nta.nic.in
- Last Date to Raise Objections: February 6, 2026 (up to 11:50 pm)
- Fee Per Question: ₹200
How to Download Answer Key and Response Sheet
To access the provisional answer key and recorded response sheet, candidates should follow these straightforward steps:
- Visit the official JEE Main website at jeemain.nta.nic.in
- Click on the link labeled “Challenge(s) regarding Answer Key”
- Log in using your application number and password
- Enter the captcha code and submit the details
- The provisional answer key and your recorded response sheet will be displayed on the screen
- Download and save both documents for future reference
Procedure to Raise Objections Against Answer Key
If candidates find any answer in the provisional key to be incorrect or questionable, they can formally raise objections by adhering to the following procedure:
- Log in to the candidate portal at jeemain.nta.nic.in
- Click on “Challenge(s) regarding Answer Key”
- Select the specific question ID you wish to challenge
- Choose the correct option from the provided list
- Upload supporting documents, if available, in a single PDF file
- Click on “Save your claim” to proceed
- Pay the challenge fee of ₹200 per question using debit card, credit card, or net banking
- Submit the challenge and retain a copy of the confirmation for records
Essential Guidelines and Reminders
Candidates must keep several critical points in mind during this process:
- The challenge fee of ₹200 per question is non-refundable under any circumstances
- Objections will not be accepted after the deadline of February 6, 2026, at 11:50 pm
- All challenges must be submitted strictly through online mode; no physical submissions are permitted
- No individual candidate will receive personal notification regarding the acceptance or rejection of their objection
- The final answer key will be prepared after subject experts review all submitted challenges
For any clarifications or assistance related to JEE Main 2026, candidates can contact the NTA helpline at 011-40759000 or send an email to jeemain@nta.ac.in.
Candidates are strongly advised to meticulously review the answer key within the stipulated timeline to ensure they do not miss the objection window. This step is crucial for maintaining transparency and accuracy in the evaluation process.
