NTA Changes JEE Main 2026 Exam Date, Tests Will Not Be Held on January 23

Considering the opposition that students raised on account of observing Saraswati Puja in West Bengal on January 23, 2026, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has made a significant move. The agency has revealed that the candidates of the state who were to appear in JEE Main 2026 (Session 1) on January 23 will now have the option to appear for the exam on another date within the same session.

With this step, pupils will not be compelled to attend the test centres on the day of Saraswati Puja. NTA has confirmed that the students will be able to pick a convenient day from the exam schedule that is officially released. The change of date for the test will be notified to the candidates directly.

Decision Taken Respecting Religious Sentiments

The NTA pointed out that the choice was taken in view of the religious sentiments of the students as well as the difficulties in practice that they might face. Saraswati Puja is a very important festival in West Bengal and a great number of students participate in the religious ceremonies of the day. Giving an alternative date for the exam is thus being considered as a support measure for the students.

Helpline Available for Student Assistance

If any candidate has questions or concerns regarding the revised date, they can directly contact the NTA through the following channels:

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Helpline Number: 011-40759000

City Intimation Slip Released, Admit Card Awaited

The NTA has already released the city intimation slip for JEE Main 2026 Session 1 on January 8, 2026. Through this slip, candidates can check the city where their examination centre will be located.

Students are now awaiting the release of the admit cards, which are expected to be issued soon.

JEE Main 2026 Session 1 Exam Dates

The JEE Main 2026 Session 1 exam dates are as follows:

Paper 1: January 21, 22, 23, 24, and 28, 2026

Paper 2A: January 29, 2026

How to Download JEE Main 2026 City Intimation Slip

Candidates can take the following steps to download their city intimation slip:

Go to the official website: jeemain.nta.nic.in

Click on the link named JEE Main 2026 City Intimation Slip

Enter your application number and password

Your city slip will appear on the screen in PDF format

Download it and take a printout for future reference