JEE Main 2026 cut-offs: Expected closing ranks for new NITs and IIITs, JoSAA counselling update
The exam authority is expected to release the provisional answer key for JEE Main 2026 by December 14 . This is the first formal step toward final scores and the JEE Main 2026 cut-offs for admissions to new NITs and IIITs.
The paper had 120 multiple-choice questions and used negative marking. You will need your final JEE Main score to enter JoSAA counselling and to compete for BTech seats in CSE and ECE at new NITs and IIITs.
JEE Main 2026 cut-offs — key dates and numbers
| Event | Date / detail |
|---|---|
| Provisional answer key expected | December 14 |
| Number of questions in exam | 120 MCQs |
| Negative marking | Yes |
How JEE Main 2026 cut-offs will be set
Cut-offs are based on the final JEE Main scores after objections to the provisional answer key are resolved. The exam authority will publish final results and scores; JoSAA will use those scores to prepare opening and closing ranks for each institute and programme.
Institute-wise and category-wise closing ranks for new NITs and IIITs are not yet available. Closing ranks for high-demand branches like CSE and ECE typically appear soon after the result and vary by institute, category and home-state quota.
What you must do before JoSAA: re-register and check the provisional key
To take part in JoSAA counselling you must have a valid JEE Main result and re-register for the counselling portal. Re-registration is mandatory even if you registered earlier; it allows you to select preferred institutes and programmes.
The counselling authority will publish the re-registration window and detailed instructions. Fee details for re-registration or seat acceptance are not specified yet. Watch official communications closely after the final result is declared.
Other entrance exams on the 2025–26 calendar
Students preparing for undergraduate and postgraduate entrances should note other major tests running in the 2025–2026 cycle, such as national medical and management exams. Keep schedules and eligibility ready if you plan to apply across streams.
Key takeaways
- Provisional answer key expected by December 14 from the exam authority.
- Exam had 120 MCQs with negative marking; final scores will decide cut-offs.
- You must re-register for JoSAA counselling to select university preferences.
- Institute-wise and category-wise closing ranks for new NITs/IIITs will be published after results; no specific closing rank numbers are available yet.