The Current Landscape: JEE Main Jan 2026
The JEE Main Session 1 examination 2026 is currently underway and is being conducted from 21 January to 29 January 2026 in Computer Based Test (CBT) mode. As the exam progresses through multiple shifts, the anxiety among aspirants is palpable.
Candidates are actively analyzing marks vs percentile vs rank, normalization, and shift-wise difficulty to estimate performance. Since the difficulty level varies between morning and evening shifts (as seen on Jan 24), understanding the normalization process is crucial. A raw score of 120 in a tough shift might be equal to 140 in an easy shift.
Why this analysis matters?
A clear analysis of marks, percentile, and rank helps candidates set realistic expectations for NIT admissions and eligibility for JEE Advanced. It stops you from panicking and helps you pivot your strategy for the April attempt.
Decoding the Metrics: Marks vs Percentile vs Rank
JEE Main follows a complex three-step performance measurement system: Marks → Percentile → Rank. Each step serves a different purpose and plays a crucial role in determining a candidate’s position in the final merit list.
1. JEE Main Marks
Refers to the raw score obtained. Total marks are 300 (+4 for correct, -1 for wrong). Raw marks alone do not decide the result because exam difficulty varies.
2. JEE Percentile
Also known as NTA Score. It indicates how you performed relative to others in your specific shift. 95%ile means you are ahead of 95% of students in your session.
3. All India Rank
Derived from the final percentile. This is the only metric used for JoSAA counseling and JEE Advanced eligibility.
| Aspect | Marks (Raw) | Percentile | Rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Actual score / 300 | Relative Performance | Merit Position |
| Calculation | Answer Key check | Normalization Formula | Based on Percentile |
| Usage | Self-Analysis | Equalizing Shifts | Admission |
Understanding Normalization
JEE Main is conducted in multiple shifts. Since each shift may vary in difficulty, comparing raw marks directly would be unfair. Normalization solves this by:
- Adjusting scores based on session difficulty.
- Converting raw marks into percentiles (0 to 100 scale).
- Ensuring a student in a "Hard Shift" with 150 marks gets the same percentile as a student in an "Easy Shift" with 180 marks.
Therefore: Same marks ≠ Same percentile.
Expected JEE Main Marks Vs Percentile Vs Rank 2026
This table presents the predicted scenario for 2026 based on past trends (2024-25) and the increased applicant count this year.
| Marks Range (300) | Expected Percentile | Expected AIR |
|---|---|---|
| 280 – 290+ | 99.99+ | 1 – 36 |
| 260 – 280 | 99.97 – 99.99 | 36 – 428 |
| 240 – 260 | 99.84 – 99.96 | 428 – 755 |
| 200 – 220 | 99.07 – 99.45 | 1893 – 2720 |
| 180 – 190 | 98.56 – 98.90 | 3803 – 5320 |
| 150 – 160 | 98.07 – 98.20 | 9564 – 13163 |
| 130 – 140 | 97.44 – 97.87 | 17223 – 23133 |
| 110 – 120 | 96.06 – 97.35 | 29340 – 37440 |
| 80 – 90 | 92.72 – 94.96 | 61621 – 76271 |
| 60 – 70 | 87.06 – 90.41 | 102421 – 136085 |
Detailed Analysis: What Does Your Score Mean?
If you scored 120 - 130 Marks
Expected Percentile: 96.5 - 97.5 %ile
This is a "Borderline Safe" score. In moderately difficult shifts, this can fetch you a decent NIT (lower branches) or a good IIIT. You are definitely eligible for JEE Advanced.
If you scored 150+ Marks
Expected Percentile: 98.0+ %ile
You are in a comfortable spot. Admission to top NITs (Core branches) is highly likely. Focus on Advanced preparation now.
If you scored 80 - 100 Marks
Expected Percentile: 93.0 - 95.5 %ile
This qualifies you for JEE Advanced (General Cutoff usually ~91%ile), but getting a top NIT seat is tough unless you have Category/Home State quota. Target the April attempt.
If you scored 60 Marks
Expected Percentile: 87 - 90 %ile
You are on the edge of the cutoff. For General candidates, this might miss the Advanced eligibility. Immediate action is needed for the next attempt.
Subject-Wise Marks vs Percentile in JEE Main
In JEE Main, the percentile can vary significantly based on performance in individual subjects. This is also used for Tie-Breaking.
- Maths Marks vs Percentile: Mathematics is generally considered the most challenging section. Even moderate marks (40-50) in Maths can fetch a 99%ile in the subject, significantly boosting your overall rank.
- Physics Marks vs Percentile: Physics scores often show less variation as it is formula-based. You need high accuracy here (80+ marks) to stay competitive.
- Chemistry Marks vs Percentile: Chemistry is the high-scoring section. A low score here hurts your rank the most because "everyone else is scoring high."
NTA Tie-Breaking Policy 2026
When two students get the same total NTA Score, the rank is decided in this order:
- Higher marks in Mathematics.
- Higher marks in Physics.
- Higher marks in Chemistry.
- Less proportion of negative answers (Accuracy).
- Older age.