JEE Exam Day Guidelines: Admit Card, What to Carry & CBT Centre Rules

Exam day is where months of preparation either convert into marks or get tripped up by avoidable logistics. JEE Main is a computer-based test (CBT) conducted by the NTA at designated centres, and the centre has strict rules on identity, permitted items, and reporting time. JEE Advanced is also computer-based, organised by the conducting IIT. Knowing the procedure in advance removes a major source of exam-morning stress.

This guide walks through the admit card, what to carry, what is banned, and how a typical CBT session runs — so nothing on the day is a surprise. Always confirm the exact instructions printed on your own admit card and on the official portal, because details can change each cycle.

Before you leave home

1. Print the admit card and read its instructions fully — Download the admit card from the official portal, print a clear copy, and read every instruction on it. The admit card is the authoritative list of what to bring and what is allowed for your exam.
2. Carry a valid original photo ID — Bring an original government-issued photo ID such as Aadhaar, passport, PAN, driving licence, or a school ID with photograph. Confirm the exact accepted-ID list on your admit card, as it can vary.
3. Affix the photograph and documents the admit card asks for — Some cycles require a passport-size photograph and a self-declaration to be carried. Prepare exactly what your admit card specifies, in the format it specifies.
4. Plan to reach before the reporting time — Reach the centre before the reporting time printed on your admit card — this is earlier than the exam start time. Gates close before the exam begins, and late entry is not permitted.
5. Leave banned items behind — Do not carry mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators, study material, or any electronic device. These are prohibited inside the CBT centre and create avoidable problems at security.

What to carry vs what is banned (confirm on your admit card)

Indicative only. The instructions on your own admit card and the official portal are the final word, and rules can change each cycle.

Inside the computer-based test

1. Complete security, biometrics, and seat allocation — Centres verify your ID and admit card, may capture biometrics, and direct you to your assigned computer. Follow staff instructions and do not switch seats.
2. Log in and read on-screen instructions carefully — Use the credentials provided to log in to your allotted system. Read the general instructions and confirm your subject and paper before the timer starts.
3. Plan your attempt by section and marks — Start with the subject or section you are strongest in to bank marks early. Remember numerical questions carry no negative marking, so attempt those even with moderate confidence; be more selective on MCQs to avoid the penalty.
4. Use rough sheets and the on-screen tools properly — Use the provided rough sheets for working, mark questions for review if the interface allows, and submit only after a final check. Do not leave the system or talk to others during the exam.

Reach early and breathe: Arriving with time to spare turns a stressful morning into a calm one. If a question stumps you, take a slow breath, mark it, move on, and return later. Allocate time by marks and keep a few minutes at the end to review flagged questions.

Frequently asked questions

Official sources

• JEE Main NTA portal (admit card & instructions)
• JEE Advanced official portal