How Many Attempts for JEE (Main)?

You can choose several tests when you apply to an engineering college or institute. Your pick depends on which colleges or institutes you’d like to attend. You may take multiple tests if considering more than one type of college or institute. 

This article will discuss the JEE Main examination, the first test you take when applying to most central universities and institutes.

What is the JEE Main?

The JEE (Joint Entrance Exam) Main is the primary engineering college entrance exam. It has two separate purposes: the entrance exam to most engineering colleges and the qualifying test for the JEE Advanced examination, which is required for admission to certain institutes.  

How many times can you take the JEE Main?

The JEE Main has both annual and consecutive examination-taking limits. The test can be taken for three consecutive years,  up to twice a year. Applicants can sign up for both test attempts in the same year. Thus, it can be attempted up to six times in total. 

When will the JEE Main examination be offered in 2025?

The JEE Main includes two papers: Paper 1 and Paper 2. Paper 1 is designed for admission to undergraduate engineering programmes (BE/BTech), while Paper 2 is designed for entry to BArch and BPlanning programmes. These sessions are held twice a year. In 2025, Session 1 will occur from January 22–24 and January 28–29, followed by Session 2 on January 30. Before your examination year, be sure to observe for registration dates and times, as well as be sure to choose a testing location convenient for you.

How do you study for JEE Main?

When you decide to take the JEE Main, developing a study plan is essential to reduce the times you must retake the test. Try to set aside at least two months to prepare for the exam adequately, but depending on your background, you may need more or less time. Consider following these steps to prepare for the JEE Main:

• Solidify your knowledge in 11th and 12th maths.

• Solve mock tests and past papers to learn exam patterns. You’ll also know which subjects to focus your test preparation on. For instance, there may be items from 11th maths that you need to relearn because it's been a while since you took the course.

• Practice timed test taking. Tests are timed, so as you get used to the test, start timing yourself to make sure you complete the test on time in person. This step can help relieve anxiety when officially taking the test and getting close to time limits.

• Look for and do practice questions on each topic with a higher focus on your weaker areas of study.

• Solidify your learning by refreshing your memory close to the exam of what you practised. You can always retake practice tests to monitor your progress.

JEE Main syllabus

Once a test date is issued, the Department of Higher Education publishes the syllabus for the exam. The 2025 posting includes details of what topics are being tested, including 14 units of mathematics, 20 units of physics, and 20 units of chemistry for paper 1 (BE/BTech). 

The paper 2A (BArch) syllabus includes 14 units of mathematics, two units of an aptitude test, and a drawing test. For the drawing test, you’ll need pencils, a geometry box set, colour pencils, and crayons. Drawings are memories of urbanscapes, landscapes, and rural life, from public spaces to festivals, jungles, and monuments. 

Paper 2B (BPlanning) had 14 units of mathematics, two units of an aptitude test, and three units of a planning test. The aptitude test assesses three-dimensional perception and awareness of people and the world around you.

Steps to register

Registering for the JEE Main requires the following steps:

• First-time JEE Main test takers must register on the JEE Main website. If you’re retaking the JEE Main, your old registration is still valid, and you can proceed to the application form on the website. 

• On the JEE Main site, you'll need to create a password for future logins and fill in your academic, contact, name, etc. You should note your application number.

• Fill in details requiring choices carefully. Be sure to provide your full name as it is printed on your Class 10 certificate or marksheet for your application form to be accepted. If applicable, you'll also need to upload a recent photograph, signature, category, and PwD certificate.

Get started with Coursera

The JEE Main examination covers science, mathematics, chemistry, and physics topics, depending on which paper you choose. If you want to refresh or enhance your knowledge on specific topics, courses on Coursera in physics, chemistry, and maths are a good place to start.