What is IIT JEE Exam (Joint Entrance Examination)? - India's Elite Engineering Entrance Exam

The Indian Institutes of Technology Joint Entrance Examination (IIT JEE), commonly known as JEE Advanced, is one of the most prestigious and challenging entrance exams in India.

It is the gateway to undergraduate engineering programs at the Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT) and some other top engineering institutes. Here's an overview of the IIT JEE exam:

1. Stages of the Exam

JEE Main

This is the preliminary stage of the exam. It is conducted twice a year (in January and April) by the National Testing Agency (NTA). JEE Main serves as a qualifying exam for JEE Advanced and also for admissions to other non-IIT engineering colleges.

JEE Advanced

Only the top candidates from JEE Main are eligible to appear for JEE Advanced. It is the second stage of the exam and is conducted by one of the IITs on a rotational basis. JEE Advanced is the gateway to securing a seat in the prestigious IITs.

2. Eligibility Criteria

For JEE Main

Candidates who have completed their 10+2 or equivalent examination with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics are eligible. There are also age and number-of-attempts criteria.

For JEE Advanced

Only the top 2.5 lakh candidates (approximately) from JEE Main are eligible to appear for JEE Advanced.

3. Exam Pattern

JEE Main

The exam includes multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and numerical answer-type questions. It has separate papers for B.E./B. Tech and B.Arch/B.Planning programs.

JEE Advanced

The exam pattern varies each year. It generally includes multiple-choice questions, numerical answer-type questions, and more subjective questions that test the depth of understanding.

4. Subjects

Both JEE Main and JEE Advanced assess candidates' knowledge of Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.

5. Syllabus

The syllabus for both exams is based on the 10+2 curriculum, covering various topics in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.

JEE Advanced might include more advanced topics and test the application of concepts.

6. Marking Scheme

JEE Main

There are different marking schemes for MCQs and numerical answer-type questions, with negative markings for incorrect answers.

JEE Advanced

The marking scheme can vary, and there might be partial marks for some questions.

7. Preparation

Preparing for IIT JEE requires a thorough understanding of concepts, regular practice, and solving previous years' question papers.

Many students join coaching institutes or self-study using standard reference books to excel in the exams.

8. Results and Counseling

JEE Main results determine eligibility for JEE Advanced.

JEE Advanced results are used for admission to IITs and other participating institutes.

After the results, counselling sessions are conducted for seat allocation in various programs and institutes.

9. Difficulty Level

Both JEE Main and JEE Advanced are known for their high difficulty levels and competition.

10. Importance

Securing a good rank in JEE Advanced opens the doors to prestigious IITs, which are globally recognized for their quality engineering education.

Always refer to the official websites of the conducting bodies for the most current information regarding the IIT JEE exams.

Written by: Khushi Khandelwal