JEE Main 2026: NTA Clarifies Calculator Use Policy
NTA Notification on JEE Main 2026
The National Testing Agency (NTA) has released an important notification for candidates preparing for the JEE Main 2026 exam, emphasizing that calculators will not be permitted during the test.
Both physical and on-screen calculators are banned in the JEE Main 2026 examination. A previous notification mistakenly indicated that an on-screen calculator would be accessible on computers, leading to confusion among students. Many candidates took to social media to inquire about the availability of calculators during the exam.
In response to the confusion, the NTA quickly issued a clarification, confirming that the mention of an on-screen calculator was a typographical error. The agency reiterated that no calculators of any kind would be allowed in the JEE Main 2026.
NTA Updates Information Bulletin
The NTA has revised the information bulletin to correct the earlier mistake. A new version has been released to ensure candidates have accurate information. Students are encouraged to refer only to the official website, https://jeemain.nta.ac.in, for updates.
Clarification on Student Confusion
The initial mention of an on-screen calculator led many students to believe that the exam would be simplified, as they could rely on calculators for complex calculations. However, the NTA's clarification has resolved this misunderstanding.
Experts in examination protocols explain that calculators are typically not allowed in national-level assessments like JEE Main, as they do not effectively measure a candidate's calculation skills. The exam is designed to evaluate both speed and precision, and allowing calculators could disrupt this evaluation.
JEE Main Exam Schedule
The JEE Main exam will take place in two sessions:
1. The first session is scheduled for January 2026.
2. The second session will occur in April 2026.
This computer-based exam will be held at various centers nationwide, with the application process anticipated to commence by the end of December 2025.
