Exam prep·India· 5 min read

JEE Main Exam Pattern and Syllabus

The structure of JEE Main Paper 1 — subjects, question types, marking scheme, duration, and where the syllabus comes from.

Paper 1 structure

JEE Main Paper 1 (for B.E./B.Tech) is a computer-based test covering three subjects — Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics — with equal weight. The total is 300 marks and the duration is three hours. Each subject is split into two sections: Section A with multiple-choice questions and Section B with numerical-answer questions.

Marking scheme

JEE Main uses a +4 / −1 marking scheme: four marks for a correct answer and one mark deducted for a wrong answer. Unattempted questions score zero. The exact number of questions to attempt in the numerical section and the negative-marking rule for it are specified in the official bulletin each year, so confirm the current scheme there.

Correct answer: +4 marks
Incorrect answer: −1 mark
Unattempted: 0 marks

Subjects and weight

Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics carry equal marks. Paper 2 is a separate paper for B.Arch and B.Planning aspirants and additionally tests aptitude and drawing/planning, with its own pattern.

Syllabus source

The JEE Main syllabus is published officially by NTA and is based on the Class 11 and Class 12 curriculum. Because the official syllabus is occasionally revised, download the current syllabus PDF from the official JEE Main website rather than relying on older copies.

Frequently asked questions

Is there negative marking in JEE Main?

Yes. JEE Main uses +4 for a correct answer and −1 for a wrong answer. Confirm how negative marking applies to the numerical section in the current official bulletin.

How long is JEE Main Paper 1?

Paper 1 is three hours long and is conducted as a computer-based test.

Where can I find the official syllabus?

The official syllabus is published on the NTA JEE Main website. Always use the latest version, as it can be revised.

Official sources

This guide explains the process and is for guidance only. Eligibility, dates, fees and rules change every year — always confirm the current details on the official site before you act.

Verified against: NTA — JEE Main official site.

Last verified: 2026-06-03.