JEE Main 2026: NTA Issues Advisory on Photograph Mismatch, Extends Verification Deadline to January 15
The National Testing Agency (NTA) has released an important public notice dated January 2, 2026, addressing issues related to mismatch of candidate photographs with submitted identity proof documents for the Joint Entrance Examination (Main) 2026. The advisory is crucial for candidates who registered using identity documents other than Aadhaar and whose live photographs did not match UIDAI records.
What Is the Issue About
As per the notice, JEE (Main) 2026 will be conducted in two sessions. During the online application process for Session 1, which was open from October 31 to November 27, 2025, NTA observed that in certain cases candidates used non-Aadhaar identity proofs. In these instances, the live photographs captured during registration did not match the photographs available in UIDAI records, leading to verification concerns.
Verification Opportunity Provided
To ensure that genuine candidates are not adversely affected, NTA has provided an additional verification mechanism. Affected candidates are required to upload a signed and attested certificate along with a recent photograph, duly certified by their School/College Principal or Headmaster.
However, considering grievances from candidates regarding non-availability or inaccessibility of verifying authorities, NTA has further expanded the list of acceptable attesting officers.
Who Can Attest the Certificate Now
Candidates are now permitted to obtain attestation from any Class-I Gazetted Officer, including:
- Tehsildar
- Revenue Officer
- Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM)
- District Magistrate (DM)
- Any other Class-I Gazetted Officer
- Indian Embassy officials (for NRI candidates)
This relaxation aims to facilitate smooth identity verification for all affected aspirants.
Revised Deadline for Submission
NTA has extended the last date for submission of the attested certificate and photograph in PDF format to January 15, 2026. Candidates must upload the documents through the link sent to their registered email ID.
Importantly, candidates must also carry a printed copy of the same certificate to the examination centre for physical verification on the exam day. Failure to do so may result in issues during entry or verification.
What Candidates Must Do Next
Affected candidates should:
- Check their registered email ID for the verification link sent by NTA
- Download the prescribed certificate format
- Get the certificate signed and attested by an authorised officer
- Attach a recent photograph certified by the same authority
- Upload the complete document in a single PDF before January 15, 2026
- Carry a printed copy to the exam centre for verification
Candidates are advised not to delay this process to avoid last-minute complications.
Helpline and Support
In case of any difficulty during the verification or upload process, candidates may contact NTA through the following channels:
- Phone: 011-40759000 or 011-69227700
- Email: jeemain@nta.ac.in
The agency has assured prompt assistance to resolve candidate grievances.
Official Website for Updates
Aspirants are strongly advised to regularly visit the official JEE Main website:
https://jeemain.nta.nic.in/
for the latest updates, instructions, and notices related to JEE Main 2026.
Why This Advisory Is Important
This advisory is significant as it directly impacts candidate eligibility and exam-day verification. Photograph mismatch issues, if unresolved, can lead to entry denial or disqualification. By extending the deadline and widening the attestation options, NTA aims to ensure fairness, transparency, and inclusivity in the examination process.
Candidates preparing for JEE Main 2026 should treat this notice as high priority and complete the verification process within the stipulated timeline to ensure a smooth examination experience.
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