JEE Main Answer Key: Provisional, Challenge & Final
After each JEE Main session, NTA releases a provisional answer key along with recorded responses for each candidate on jeemain.nta.nic.in. You have a short window — typically a few days — to compare your recorded responses with the provisional key and raise objections if you believe an answer is incorrect.
Each challenge costs a fee per question. If NTA accepts the challenge after expert review, the fee is refunded and the key is updated. The final answer key (published after the challenge window closes) is the definitive version used to compute results.
How to challenge an answer key
- Log in and download your response sheet — Your recorded responses for each question are available alongside the provisional key. Compare them carefully before raising any challenge.
- Identify the question(s) you want to challenge — Confirm the question number from the paper you sat. Challenges are per question, so be specific and evidence-based.
- Pay the challenge fee online — Each challenged question requires the prescribed fee. The fee is refunded if the challenge is accepted. Confirm the current fee in the official notice.
- Submit within the window — The challenge window is short — typically 2–3 days. Late submissions are not accepted. Always confirm on the official portal.
Final answer key is the only one that counts: Do not calculate your score using the provisional key — it may change. Wait for the final answer key before estimating your marks or percentile. Always confirm on the official portal.
Frequently asked questions
Is the challenge fee refunded if NTA accepts my objection?
Yes, NTA refunds the challenge fee if the challenge is accepted after expert review. Rejected challenges are not refunded.
Can I challenge a question in the numerical section?
You can challenge any question where you believe the key is incorrect. Check the current challenge rules in the official notice for that session.