JEE Main 2026 Update: NTA Extends Photo Mismatch Identity Verification Deadline to January 15

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The National Testing Agency (NTA) has extended the deadline for identity verification for JEE Main 2026 candidates. This extension is for those candidates who were flagged for a mismatch between their uploaded photographs and official identity records. Candidates can now upload the attested identity verification certificate in PDF format till January 15, 2026.

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The affected candidates have received a link on their registered email IDs to upload the required documents. This decision comes as a relief for thousands of students who were facing difficulties in completing the verification process within the earlier deadline.

The JEE Main 2026 exam will be conducted in two sessions. The online application process for Session 1 was open from October 31, 2025, to November 27, 2025. During the scrutiny of application data, NTA found a problem. In some cases, the photographs uploaded during registration didn't match the photographs available with the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI).

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This issue was mainly observed in cases where candidates had registered using identity proof documents other than Aadhaar. Since the UIDAI database contains photographs linked to Aadhaar, candidates who used other ID proofs faced this mismatch issue.

What Was the Earlier Requirement?

To address these discrepancies, NTA had earlier asked affected candidates to verify their identity. They were required to upload a signed and attested certificate along with a recent photograph. Initially, this certificate was required to be attested by the school or college principal or headmaster only.

However, many candidates faced problems with this requirement. Several students couldn't easily access their school or college authorities for attestation. This was especially difficult for candidates who had passed out from school or were studying in different cities.

NTA Relaxes Verification Norms

After receiving grievances from candidates about limited accessibility to verifying authorities, NTA has taken two important steps. First, the agency has relaxed the verification norms. Second, it has extended the deadline for submission of required documents.

The good news is that NTA has expanded the list of officials authorized to attest the certificate. Candidates no longer need to depend only on school or college principals. This change will make the verification process much easier for affected candidates.

Who Can Attest the Identity Verification Certificate?

NTA has now allowed several Class-I Gazetted Officers to attest the identity verification certificate. Here's the complete list of authorized officials:

Candidates can get their certificate attested by a Tehsildar, who is a common revenue officer available at the tehsil level. Revenue Officers at the district level are also authorized to attest the certificate. Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs) can provide attestation for candidates in their jurisdiction.

District Magistrates (DMs) are also included in the list of authorized officials. Any other Class-I Gazetted Officer can attest the certificate as well. For NRI candidates appearing for JEE Main 2026, Class-I Gazetted Officers of the Indian Embassy in their respective countries are authorized to attest the certificate.

This expanded list ensures that candidates across India and abroad can easily find an authorized official for attestation.

Important Instructions for Exam Day

NTA has issued an important instruction regarding the attested certificate. Candidates must carry a printed copy of the same attested certificate to the examination center. This printed copy will be used for physical verification on the day of the examination.

During the entry process at the exam center, officials will verify the candidate's identity using this certificate. The photograph on the certificate will be matched with the candidate's physical appearance. This step ensures that only genuine candidates appear for the examination.

Candidates should ensure that the printed copy is clear and legible. It's advisable to carry multiple copies in case one gets damaged or misplaced.

How to Upload the Identity Verification Certificate?

Candidates who have received the photo mismatch notification should follow these steps to upload their certificate. First, check your registered email ID for the link sent by NTA. Click on the link to access the upload portal.

Prepare your attested identity verification certificate in PDF format. Make sure the file size is within the prescribed limit. The certificate should include your recent photograph and must be signed by you and attested by an authorized official.

Upload the PDF file using the link provided. After successful upload, you'll receive a confirmation message. Save this confirmation for your records. Complete this process before January 15, 2026, to avoid any issues.

Need Help? Contact NTA Helpline

Candidates who face difficulties in completing the identity verification process can seek assistance from NTA. The agency has provided multiple channels for help and support.

You can call the NTA helpline numbers at 011-40759000 or 011-69227700. These helplines are available during working hours to address your queries and concerns. You can also send an email to jeemain@nta.ac.in explaining your problem. The NTA team will respond to your email with appropriate guidance.

Don't wait until the last day to seek help. If you have any doubts or face technical issues, contact NTA immediately to ensure timely resolution.

JEE Main 2026 Photo Mismatch: Key Points to Remember

The deadline for identity verification has been extended to January 15, 2026. Affected candidates have received the upload link on their registered email IDs. The certificate can now be attested by any Class-I Gazetted Officer, not just school principals.

Authorized officials include Tehsildars, Revenue Officers, SDMs, DMs, and other Gazetted Officers. NRI candidates can get attestation from Indian Embassy officials. A printed copy of the attested certificate must be carried to the exam center.

For any assistance, candidates can call 011-40759000 or 011-69227700. They can also email at jeemain@nta.ac.in for help. Don't miss the extended deadline and complete the verification process at the earliest.

Important Dates for JEE Main 2026

The JEE Main 2026 Session 1 application process was open from October 31, 2025, to November 27, 2025. The extended deadline for photo mismatch identity verification is January 15, 2026. The JEE Main 2026 Session 1 exam is scheduled for January 2026.

Candidates should regularly check the official NTA website and their registered email for updates. Any further changes or announcements regarding the verification process will be communicated through official channels.

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