Students who appeared for the JEE Main 2026 exam between 21st January and 28th January are now eagerly waiting for the cut-off details. Based on expert opinions, the JEE Main cut-off in 2026 is expected to see a slight increase compared to last year. This is mainly because the exam paper was of moderate difficulty, making it manageable for well-prepared students.
The official JEE Main 2026 cut-off will be announced by the National Testing Agency (NTA) only after the completion of Session 2, which is scheduled for April 2026. Along with the final result, NTA will release the category-wise cut-off percentile for qualifying for JEE Advanced 2026.
Exam Difficulty Level in JEE Main 2026
Experts have described the overall difficulty level of the JEE Main 2026 Paper 1 (B.Tech./BE) as moderate. Compared to previous years, the paper was neither very tough nor very easy.
According to Dr Saurabh Kumar, Founder and CEO of Shiksha Nation, the Physics and Chemistry sections were easier compared to years when the paper was highly challenging. Because of this, more students are expected to score well, which may cause the cut-off to rise slightly. However, he also clarified that there is no chance of a sharp increase in the cut-off.
Role of Mathematics in Final Scores
While Physics and Chemistry were considered moderate, Mathematics played an important role in deciding higher percentiles. Dr Kumar explained that students who performed well in Mathematics, along with Physics and Chemistry, are more likely to secure top percentiles.
The paper tested conceptual understanding, regular practice, and time management rather than complex calculations. Students with balanced preparation across all three subjects had a clear advantage in this exam.
Expected Cut-off Percentile for JEE Main 2026
As per Sandeep Mehta, IIT alumnus and Co-founder of Vidyamandir Classes, the JEE Main 2026 cut-off will depend on several factors, such as exam difficulty, number of candidates, and overall performance.
Based on recent trends, the General category cut-off is expected to be around the 93.5 to 95th percentile, which is roughly equal to 140 marks or more out of 300.
For OBC-NCL and EWS candidates, the expected cut-off is likely to be between the 79.5 and 81.5 percentiles, which usually means 90 marks or above. Cut-offs for other reserved categories like SC, ST, and PwD are expected to be lower.
Importance of NCERT-Based Preparation
Experts have also pointed out that students who followed NCERT textbooks closely, especially for Physics and Chemistry, found the paper easier. A strong NCERT foundation, combined with regular mock tests and revision, helped students manage time better during the exam.
Students should remember that the cut-off is released in percentile form, not marks, and it can vary each year. Since JEE Main has two sessions, candidates who are not satisfied with their January attempt still have a chance to improve in Session 2. Until the official announcement by NTA, students are advised to stay calm, continue their preparation, and keep checking official updates.
