The National Testing Agency (NTA) has announced a significant change for the upcoming JEE Main 2025, with the exam returning to its original format for Papers 1 (B.E./B.Tech), 2A (B. Arch), and 2B (B. Planning). According to the NTA’s press release dated October 17, Section B will now consist of five numerical questions per subject that candidates must answer without any options for selection. This change marks a shift away from the flexible format introduced in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic, which allowed candidates to attempt any five questions out of a total of 10 in Section B.
Key Changes to the JEE Main 2025 Exam Pattern
From 2025 onwards, the JEE Main exam pattern will revert to its pre-pandemic structure, requiring candidates to solve all numerical questions in Section B across each subject—Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Previously, as a relief measure during the pandemic, candidates were given the flexibility to choose 5 out of 10 numerical questions to attempt. This option was available until the last JEE Main exam, but the upcoming changes mean that flexibility will no longer be offered.
The revised structure for JEE Main 2025 will be as follows:
- Section A: Each subject (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics) will consist of 20 multiple-choice questions (MCQs).
- Section B: There will be five numerical questions per subject that must be answered without any choice.
- Total Marks: The exam will be scored out of 300 marks, with each correct answer awarding four marks and each incorrect answer resulting in a deduction of one mark.
Upcoming Application Process for JEE Main 2025
In addition to the changes in the exam pattern, NTA’s press release also mentioned that the application process for the first phase of JEE Main 2025 will begin soon. Specific details regarding the registration timeline and further examination information will be made available on the NTA’s official websites: nta.ac.in and jeemain.nta.nic.in.
Candidates are advised to keep an eye on these sites for the latest updates and clarifications related to JEE Main 2025.
Why Revert to the Original Exam Format?
The decision to bring back the original pattern could be an attempt to restore consistency in the national-level entrance exam. The flexible format was initially introduced to accommodate the disruptions and uncertainties caused by the pandemic, providing candidates with greater ease during that challenging period. However, with circumstances now stabilizing, the NTA aims to align JEE Main with its traditional methods, making all exam cycles uniform.
What This Means for JEE Main Aspirants
As JEE Main 2025 will no longer have the optional question format, aspirants will need to focus on strengthening their ability to solve all five numerical questions per subject. This adjustment may influence how students approach their preparation, emphasizing a well-rounded understanding of all topics rather than selectively practicing certain numerical problems.
Important Tips for Preparation
Given the revised pattern, here are some tips for students preparing for JEE Main 2025:
- Practice Thoroughly Across All Topics: Since there will be no optional questions, it’s crucial to be well-prepared across the entire syllabus.
- Focus on Accuracy: With negative marking still in place, careful problem-solving is essential to avoid losing marks on incorrect answers.
- Stay Updated: Regularly check the NTA websites for updates on the application process and exam schedule.
