The next competitive-exam season is here. If you’re preparing for engineering, medical or university entrance tests in 2026, this short, practical guide tells you the exact windows, the immediate steps to take, and the common pitfalls to avoid — all in one page. Read it, act on the checklist, and share it with classmates.
Key dates (quick view)
- JEE (Main) 2026 — Session-1: 21–30 January 2026
- JEE (Main) 2026 — Session-2: 1–10 April 2026
- NEET (UG) 2026 (expected): 3 May 2026 (single session reported)
- CBSE Class X / XII (2026): CBSE has issued critical-dates notices — schools must complete LOC uploads and practical schedules for the 2025–26 exam cycle.
- Other national tests: CUET (UG/PG), UGC-NET, CSIR-NET, CMAT and similar exams follow tentative windows in the national exam calendar — check each exam’s official notification when released.
What these dates mean for you (short)
- Multiple JEE attempts: There are two JEE(Main) sessions in 2026 — you may appear in one or both. Many students use Session-2 to improve scores.
- NEET timing: Plan final phase preparation for April–May so you peak for the NEET window.
- CBSE actions: If you’re a board student, ensure your school has uploaded LOCs and practical marks correctly — corrections are time-limited.
- Watch official notifications: Dates are subject to final confirmation from the exam authorities; rely on official notices for application opening/closing and admit cards.
Conclusion
Competitive-exam Calendar dates set the framework — your preparation and organisation determine the outcome. Use this guide to plan, act early, and avoid preventable mistakes. Need a one-page printable timeline or a ready-to-post social graphic for your students? I’ll make it perfect and copy-paste ready.
FAQs
1. Can I attempt both JEE(Main) sessions?
Ans: A: Yes. Candidates can sit for one or both sessions. Authorities generally specify how best-of or combined scores are used — confirm in the session notification.
2. Is NEET 2026 fixed for 3 May?
Ans: A: 3 May is widely reported as the expected date. Treat it as provisional until the final notification is published.
3. Where do I get admit cards and official instructions?
Ans: A: Admit cards and official instructions are released by the respective exam authority for each test. Download and read them carefully — they contain centre rules and identity verification steps.
4. What if my Aadhaar doesn’t match school records?
Ans: A: Fix the mismatch before applying. Start the process now — corrections can take several days.
5. Best single step to take right now?
Ans: A: Prepare and organise all required digital documents (clear scans of ID, photo and signature) so you can apply immediately when the window opens.
My self Anita Sahani. I have completed my B.Com from Purbanchal College Silapathar. I am working in Dev Library as a Content Manager. A website that provides all SCERT, NCERT 3 to 12, and BA, B.com, B.Sc, and Computer Science with Post Graduate Notes & Suggestions, Novel, eBooks, Health, Finance, Biography, Quotes, Study Materials, and more.
