The second session of the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main 2026 has officially commenced, with the National Testing Agency (NTA) conducting the exam across 566 centers nationwide. As the gates opened for the April session, over 12 lakh registered candidates are appearing for what is widely considered the most critical attempt for NIT, IIIT, and GFTI admissions.
With the first few shifts now concluded, a clear pattern is emerging regarding the difficulty level and chapter weightage. Early reports suggest that while the overall vibe remains "student-friendly," the paper is far from a walk in the park, particularly for those who struggled with time management in the January session.
Shift Analysis and Difficulty Breakdown
Initial feedback from students who appeared on April 2 and April 3 indicates a "Moderate" overall difficulty level. However, the experience varied significantly across the three core subjects.
Mathematics: The Time-Thief Consistent with the trend seen in recent years, Mathematics remains the most challenging section. Students reported that while the questions were conceptually grounded in the syllabus, the calculations were exceptionally lengthy. Key topics like Vector 3D, Integration, and Coordinate Geometry dominated the paper, often requiring multiple steps to reach the final answer.
Physics: Formula-Based and Balanced Physics continues to be the "savior" for many. The section was rated as Easy to Moderate, with a heavy emphasis on formula application and NCERT-based theory. Electromagnetism, Modern Physics, and Kinematics saw significant representation. A few statement-based questions were included to test conceptual depth, but overall, it remained scoring.
Chemistry: The Scoring Zone Chemistry was largely NCERT-centric. Inorganic and Organic chemistry were direct, while Physical Chemistry was mostly restricted to the numerical section. Students noted that 4 to 5 statement-based questions in Chemistry required careful reading but were generally manageable for those who had thoroughly revised their textbooks.
Expected Percentile vs. Marks (April Session)
Based on the difficulty level of the initial shifts, experts have shared preliminary "Marks vs. Percentile" estimates. It appears that the competition is slightly higher than the January session as students have had more time to bridge their learning gaps.
Expected Percentile Marks Range (Approx.)
99+ Percentile 180 - 195
98-99 Percentile 165 - 175
96-97 Percentile 145 - 155
94-95 Percentile 125 - 135
Essential Strategy for Upcoming Shifts
If your exam is scheduled between April 4 and April 8, keep these points in mind:
- Prioritize NCERT: Especially for Chemistry and Physics theory. Direct lines from the textbook are being framed as MCQ options.
- Manage Math Wisely: Do not get stuck on lengthy calculations early in the exam. Mark them for review and secure marks in Physics and Chemistry first.
- Review Session 1 Papers: Many concepts and question formats are being mirrored from the January 2026 session.
Admit Card & Guidelines: Ensure you have your phased admit card downloaded from Essential Strategy for Upcoming Shifts
If your exam is scheduled between April 4 and April 8, keep these points in mind:
- Prioritize NCERT: Especially for Chemistry and Physics theory. Direct lines from the textbook are being framed as MCQ options.
- Manage Math Wisely: Do not get stuck on lengthy calculations early in the exam. Mark them for review and secure marks in Physics and Chemistry first.
- Review Session 1 Papers: Many concepts and question formats are being mirrored from the January 2026 session.
- Admit Card & Guidelines: Ensure you have your phased admit card downloaded from
jeemain.nta.nic.inand follow the dress code to avoid last-minute hurdles at the center. - The NTA is expected to release the provisional answer keys shortly after the final exam on April 8, with results tentatively scheduled for declaration by April 20, 2026. and follow the dress code to avoid last-minute hurdles at the center.
The NTA is expected to release the provisional answer keys shortly after the final exam on April 8, with results tentatively scheduled for declaration by April 20, 2026.