NTA Extends JEE Main 2026 Identity Verification Deadline

• NTA extends deadline to January 15, 2026, for uploading attested identity verification certificates.
• Attestation expanded to include Class-I Gazetted Officers and embassy officials for easier access.
• Candidates must carry printed attested certificates to exam centres for physical identity verification.

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has announced an extension of the deadline for candidates of JEE Main 2026 who faced issues with identity verification due to photograph mismatches during the application process. This decision comes after the agency identified numerous cases where the photograph submitted by applicants did not match the image in their official identity records, particularly those who used identity documents other than Aadhaar for registration.

Originally, affected candidates were required to upload an attested identity verification certificate within a set timeframe to complete their application process. However, following representations from students who faced difficulties obtaining attestation from school principals or headmasters, the NTA has now extended the final date for uploading this certificate to January 15, 2026. Candidates must submit the document in PDF format through the link sent to their registered email addresses.

To make the process more accessible, the NTA has relaxed attestation norms. Besides principals and headmasters, candidates can now have their certificates attested by a Class-I Gazetted Officer such as a tehsildar, revenue officer, Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), District Magistrate (DM), or relevant officials at Indian embassies in the case of NRI applicants. This broader list of authorised officers aims to reduce obstacles for students in remote areas or those without easy access to school authorities.

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Candidates are advised to carry a printed copy of the attested certificate to their respective examination centres on the day of the test. This printed certificate will be used for physical identity verification at the exam location, ensuring that candidates are correctly identified before they sit for the paper.

Should students encounter any technical issues or need further clarification, the NTA has provided helpline numbers and an email contact to assist with any problems in completing the identity verification process.