JEE Mains 2026: NTA Introduces Exam City Selection for Candidates

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has initiated the registration for JEE Mains 2026, introducing a significant change that allows candidates to select their preferred exam city. This new feature aims to enhance convenience for candidates, reducing travel time and expenses. The changes are based on recommendations from the Dr. K. Radhakrishnan Committee, marking a new era in the JEE examination process. Candidates can choose up to four cities during registration, ensuring they can take the exam closer to home. This initiative not only simplifies logistics but also provides candidates with more time to prepare for their upcoming exams.

By Sourabh Singh Nov 6, 2025, 11:02 IST

JEE Mains 2026 Registration Begins

JEE Mains 2026: The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially launched the registration for the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main 2026, Session 1. This year marks a significant change in the registration process, allowing candidates to select their preferred exam city for the first time. Applicants can now choose from four different cities for their examination location.

Understanding the New Exam City Selection

Let's delve into the implications of this new option for selecting an exam city in JEE Main. What prompted this change, and what does it entail for the candidates?

Implementation of Recommendations

Recommendations Implemented

The NTA has adopted the suggestions put forth by the Dr. K. Radhakrishnan Committee regarding the JEE Main 2026 Session 1 registration. This committee was established to enhance the JEE examination framework and submitted its proposals to the government last year. Consequently, this session marks the inaugural implementation of these recommendations.

Selecting Exam Cities

How to Choose 4 Exam Cities

For the JEE Main 2026 Session 1, the NTA intends to assign candidates to their chosen exam cities. During the registration process, candidates can select up to four exam cities. Upon entering their current and permanent addresses, a list of nearby exam cities will be displayed, from which candidates can make their selections.

The NTA will prioritize allocating an exam center in the city closest to the candidate's residence. Preparations for this have already been made. However, if one of the selected cities is unavailable, an alternative city closer to home will be assigned. The NTA has also expanded the number of available exam cities this year.

Advantages for Candidates

Benefit for Candidates

This initiative to allow candidates to choose their preferred cities for the JEE Main 2026 Session 1 offers numerous advantages. It will reduce travel time and costs, providing candidates with more time to prepare for other examinations or board assessments.