JEE Main 2026 Eligibility: Is 75% Marks Mandatory? NTA Official Clarification; Details Here

Thousands of engineering aspirants preparing for JEE Main 2026 have one question repeatedly: "Will the 75% marks rule apply this time too?" This confusion persists every year, especially for students who are reappearing (droppers).

They fear that even if they score well on the JEE, will their 12th grade marks prevent their admission?

According to the latest updates from the National Testing Agency (NTA) and previous brochures, the answer is clear: yes, the 75% mark applies, but only for college admissions, not for taking the exam. If you're preparing for JEE Main 2026, it's crucial to understand this distinction.

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What is the 75% rule for JEE Main 2026?

To understand this rule properly, it needs to be divided into two parts:

1. Eligibility to take the JEE Main exam: What is required to appear for the exam?
2. Eligibility for admission to NITs, IIITs, and GFTIs: What is required to secure a seat?

Most students confuse these two requirements and end up stressing out unnecessarily.

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Do You Need 75% Marks to Appear for JEE Main 2026?

Absolutely not. Any student who has passed the 12th grade or an equivalent exam can appear for the JEE Main exam. Your 12th grade percentage is not required to fill out the exam form or enter the exam hall.

Where Does the 75% Rule Actually Apply?

This rule only comes into play when you seek admission to engineering colleges based on your JEE rank.

This means that even if you top the JEE Main, to get a seat in an NIT, IIIT, or GFTI, you must meet one of the following two conditions:

• Have at least 75% marks in your Class 12 board exams, or
• Be among the top 20 percentile students in your respective board (e.g., CBSE, UP Board, etc.).
• Note: For SC and ST candidates, this threshold is 65%.

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Why Has NTA Kept the 75% Rule?

Students have repeatedly demanded that this rule be removed, but the Ministry of Education and the NTA have retained it. Experts believe that clearing the entrance exam isn't enough for a good engineer; they also need a strong foundation at the school level. This rule is meant to strike a balance between school studies and the entrance exam. This is why this criterion is reinstated every year.

When Does the 75% Rule Apply in JEE Main 2026?

This table can help you understand when to worry and when not to worry:

How Does the Top 20 Percentile Criteria Work?

If for some reason you don't score 75% on your board exams, there's no need to panic. You have the option of achieving the "top 20 percentile." This simply means that if you're among the top 20% of your board's brightest students, you'll be considered eligible for admission, even if your scores are below 75%. This rule is a boon for students from state boards where marking is very strict.

What Should Students Remember for 2026 Admissions?

• Don't Panic: If you have less than 75% in Class 12, remember the Top 20 percentile route is available.

• Documents: Ensure you have your original mark sheets and percentage certificates (if applicable) ready for JoSAA counseling.

• Dynamic Cutoffs: Percentage requirements for the "Top 20" change every year based on the distribution of marks in your specific board.

• IIT Admissions: If you are aiming for IITs via JEE Advanced, these same admission criteria apply.

• Relaxation: Reserved category candidates (SC/ST) only need 65%, giving them a significant advantage at the entry level.

What Do Experts Advise for JEE Main 2026?

Experts suggest that students shouldn't stress too much about the 75% rule during the early stages of preparation. Since the rule doesn't affect your ability to sit for the exam, your main focus should remain on the JEE syllabus and performing well in mock tests.

However, students aiming specifically for an NIT or IIIT should plan strategically for their board exams too. You must ensure you maintain a balance between the two.

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