JEE Main 2026 PWD Application Guidelines: Complete Guide

Introduction

Are you planning to apply for JEE Main 2026 under the PwD category? Navigating the application process for differently-abled candidates can be challenging if you’re unfamiliar with the rules. Every year, a significant number of PwD aspirants face issues due to missing documents, eligibility confusion, or incorrect certificate uploads.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know: eligibility criteria, reservation benefits, step-by-step application instructions, required documents, important dates, and common mistakes to avoid. By the end, you’ll have a clear roadmap to complete your JEE Main 2026 registration smoothly.

Did you know that in 2025, around 3–4% of total JEE Main applicants registered under the PwD category? Ensuring your application is accurate and complete is crucial to benefit from the reserved seats and exam relaxations.

Understanding the PwD Category in JEE Main 2026

1. Who Qualifies as a PwD Candidate?

PwD candidates include those with:

• Locomotor disability (OL, OA)
• Visual impairment (low vision, blindness)
• Hearing impairment (hard of hearing, deaf)
• Intellectual disabilities
• Cerebral palsy

Eligibility requires a minimum of 40% disability, certified by a recognized medical authority. Candidates must ensure their disability certificate is valid at the time of application.

2. Reservation Benefits for PwD Applicants

PwD candidates enjoy several benefits under JEE Main 2026:

• 5% reservation in all centrally funded institutes
• Relaxation in exam pattern, such as extra time or facility assistance
• Access to dedicated facilities during examinations

These provisions aim to ensure fair competition while accommodating the unique needs of differently-abled candidates.

Eligibility Criteria for JEE Main 2026 PwD Category

1. Academic Requirements

• Candidates must meet the general academic eligibility for JEE Main.
• Completion of class 12 or equivalent with required subjects (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics).

2. Medical Certification Requirements

• A valid PwD certificate issued by a recognized medical board is mandatory.
• Certificates must clearly state the type and percentage of disability.
• Only certificates issued after a certain date (as specified by NTA) will be accepted.

Ensuring your certificate aligns with NTA guidelines is critical, as applications with invalid or incomplete documents may be rejected.

Step-by-Step Application Process for PwD Candidates

1. Registration on NTA Portal

1. Visit the official NTA JEE Main portal. 
2. Click on “New Registration” and create an account using a valid email ID and phone number.
3. Choose the PwD category during registration.

2. Filling Personal and Academic Details

• Enter your personal information carefully.
• Include all academic records accurately; mistakes may lead to rejection.
• Select the relevant examination session (January/April).

3. Uploading PwD Certificate and Documents

• Upload your PwD certificate in the prescribed format (PDF/JPG).
• Maximum file size: 200 KB for certificates.
• Upload a recent passport-size photograph and signature as per guidelines.
• Naming conventions matter; follow NTA instructions precisely.

4. Fee Payment and Confirmation

• Pay the examination fee using online methods (credit/debit/net banking).
• Confirm the successful submission of your application.
• Save the confirmation page and application PDF for future reference.

Image Suggestion: Step-by-step screenshot of the PwD certificate upload section.

Important Dates for JEE Main 2026 PwD Applicants(Tentative Schedule)

Note: Always confirm dates on the official NTA portal, as they may change.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Applying

• Uploading an invalid or expired PwD certificate
• Missing deadlines for registration or corrections
• Incorrect personal or academic details
• Using non-prescribed formats for documents
• Failing to check the reservation benefits before final submission
  

Tips: Double-check every entry, keep multiple copies of documents, and save all confirmations.

How Career Plan B Helps

At Career Plan B, we simplify counselling for PwD candidates:

• One-on-One Counselling Support: Personalized guidance for your career path.
• Psychometric Assessments: Identify your strengths and interests to make informed decisions.
• Career Roadmaps: Clear strategies based on your interests and strengths.
• Backup Strategies: Alternative options so you never miss opportunities.
  

Book your free counselling session with Career Plan B today and secure your path to success.

FAQs

1. Can PwD candidates apply for all JEE Main papers?
   Yes, PwD candidates can apply for all papers (B.E./B.Tech, B.Arch, and B.Planning) as per eligibility.
2. What documents are mandatory for a PwD application?
   PwD certificate, class 12 mark sheet, identity proof, and photograph/signature are mandatory.
3. Is there a fee relaxation for PwD applicants?
   Yes, NTA may offer concessions; always check the official portal for updates.
4. How to correct mistakes in the PwD category application?
   Use the correction window provided by NTA; changes outside this period are not allowed.
5. Are there any special exam provisions for PwD candidates?
   Yes, PwD candidates may get extra time, scribe assistance, and dedicated seating arrangements.
6. How to get a valid PwD certificate for JEE?
   Certificates must be issued by a recognized medical authority or government hospital specifying the type and percentage of disability.
7. What happens if the PwD certificate is rejected?
   The application may be treated under the general category, and reserved benefits will not apply.
8. Can PwD applicants change categories after submission?
   No, once submitted and confirmed, category changes are not allowed.

Conclusion

Applying under the PwD category for JEE Main 2026 requires careful attention to eligibility, documentation, and deadlines. Following the steps in this guide ensures your application is complete and maximizes the benefits available for differently-abled candidates.