How to Challenge JEE Main 2026 Answer Key: Steps to Follow, NTA Link

Latest Update: Provisional Answer key and Response Sheet release date announced. Answer Key Objection Period: February 4 to February 5, 2026.

The JEE Main 2026 answer key plays a vital role for candidates eagerly waiting to estimate their scores and analyze their performance in one of India’s most competitive exams. Released by the National Testing Agency (NTA), the JEE Main provisional answer key allows aspirants to check the official answers to each question asked in the exam. However, since the key is provisional, candidates are also given the opportunity to review it carefully and challenge any discrepancies they find within a specific time frame.

Challenging the JEE Main answer key is an essential process that ensures fairness and transparency in the evaluation system. If a student believes a particular answer or question is incorrect, they can raise an objection by providing valid proof or supporting references. This process not only helps students secure accurate results but also strengthens the credibility of the examination process. In the article, we’ll walk you through the complete step-by-step guide on how to challenge the JEE Main 2026 answer key, along with important dates, fees, and expert tips to avoid common mistakes.

Also Check: JEE Mains 2026 Session 1 Results

1.0Why Is Challenging the JEE Main Answer Key Important?

Challenging the JEE Main provisional answer key is an essential opportunity for students who believe an answer has been marked incorrectly. It ensures a transparent and fair assessment of every candidate’s response.

Here’s why this process is important:

• Accuracy of Scores: If you notice an incorrect answer in the provisional key, challenging it could directly improve your score.
• Transparency: The process ensures the evaluation is based on correct and verified answers.
• Fairness: It gives students an equal opportunity to highlight potential errors.
• Confidence in Results: Knowing that NTA reviews challenges thoroughly gives candidates confidence in the final results.

The NTA reviews all submitted objections, validates them using subject experts, and then releases the final, revised answer key.

2.0Step-by-Step Process to Challenge JEE Main 2026 Answer Key

Here’s a simple step-by-step procedure to challenge the JEE Main answer key successfully:

Step 1: Visit the Official Website

Go to the official JEE Main portal of NTA. Look for the link that says “Challenge Answer Key” or “JEE Main Answer Key Objection”.

Step 2: Login Using Credentials

Login with your:

• Application Number
• Date of Birth (DOB)
• Password (if required)

This gives you access to your answer key and question paper.

Step 3: Download the Provisional Answer Key

Once logged in, download the JEE Main Provisional Answer Key and your question paper.

Step 4: Review All Questions Carefully

Cross-check your responses with the provisional answers. Mark any question where you feel the answer is incorrect.

Step 5: Raise Objection

Select the question(s) you want to challenge. For each objection:

• Choose the answer option you think is correct
• Provide valid justification or explanation for the challenge
• Attach acceptable supporting documents or references (if allowed)

Step 6: Pay the Challenge Fee

There is usually a non-refundable processing fee charged per question challenged. Make the payment online through the specified method (credit/debit card, net banking, UPI, etc.).

Step 7: Submit

After reviewing all the objections, submit your challenge. The system will generate a confirmation or receipt — save it for your records.

Step 8: Final Answer Key

After the objection window closes, NTA will review all submitted challenges. If your claim is found valid, the answer key will be corrected accordingly and the final answer key will be released.

3.0Important Tips Before Challenging the Answer Key

• Always check the official announcement for the date and time window to challenge — it’s usually open for a limited period.
• Only challenge if you have a solid reason and valid proof — baseless objections are not accepted.
• Keep your login details and application number handy for quick access.
• Check that the supporting references you provide are from credible sources (like NCERT, official syllabus books, etc.).
• Understand the question numbering and paper set properly before raising an objection.