No Calculator Allowed in JEE Mains 2026: NTA Uploads Updated Clarification

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially confirmed that no calculator, physical or on-screen, will be allowed in JEE Mains 2026. This clarification clears all confusion that arose after the release of the earlier information bulletin, which mistakenly mentioned the availability of a virtual calculator during the Computer-Based Test (CBT).

NTA Issues Clarification on JEE Main 2026 Calculator Policy

On 2 November 2026, the NTA issued a public notice stating that the mention of a virtual or on-screen calculator in the JEE Main 2026 Information Bulletin was a typographical error.

The agency confirmed that the use of calculators in any form is strictly prohibited during the examination. This includes both physical calculators and on-screen calculators. Candidates must rely entirely on manual calculations throughout the test.

Printing Error in JEE Main 2026 Information Bulletin

The confusion began when the JEE Main 2026 information brochure, released on 31 October 2025, mentioned the use of an on-screen calculator. The bulletin described it as a feature meant to help candidates perform basic calculations during the Computer-Based Test (CBT).

However, according to the latest NTA clarification, this mention was a printing error. The virtual calculator feature belongs to the generic test platform used by NTA but is not applicable to JEE Main 2026.

NTA stated:

“This feature forms part of the generic test-conducting platform and does NOT apply to JEE (Main) conducted by the NTA, as the use of calculators in any form is not permitted in this examination.”

Revised JEE Main 2026 Bulletin Released

To avoid further confusion, the National Testing Agency has uploaded a revised version of the JEE Main 2026 Information Bulletin on its official website — jeemain.nta.nic.in.

All candidates are advised to download the updated bulletin to ensure they have accurate details regarding the exam pattern, rules, and eligibility criteria.

NTA also expressed regret for the error, stating:

“NTA regrets the typographic error in the Information Bulletin of JEE (Main) 2026 and for the inconvenience caused to the candidates.”

Details of JEE Main 2026 Examination

Why No Calculator is Allowed in JEE Mains 2026

The JEE Main exam tests a student’s understanding, analytical skills, and problem-solving speed. The decision to not allow calculators ensures that every candidate demonstrates their true ability to perform calculations and apply concepts without external aids.

Allowing calculators might have given some students an unfair advantage, especially when manual calculation speed is a key factor in performance.

By maintaining this strict policy, NTA ensures fairness and uniformity across all candidates.

How to Prepare Without a Calculator

Since no calculator is allowed in JEE Mains 2026, candidates must strengthen their calculation speed and accuracy. Here are a few tips:

1. Practise Mental Maths: Regularly solve problems without writing intermediate steps.

2. Memorise Formulas: Keep essential formulas handy for quick recall.

3. Use Approximation Techniques: Learn rounding and estimation methods for faster results.

4. Mock Tests: Take full-length tests in the same format as JEE to build time management skills.

5. Avoid Overdependence: Do not rely on digital or physical tools during practice.

Impact of the Clarification on Students

The clarification on “No Calculator Allowed in JEE Mains 2026” has helped eliminate confusion among aspirants. While some students initially hoped for an on-screen calculator, this update reinforces the traditional approach of manual problem-solving.

It also serves as a reminder that accuracy, speed, and conceptual clarity remain the most crucial elements of JEE preparation.

Conclusion

The NTA’s clarification that no calculator is allowed in JEE Mains 2026 settles all speculation about the use of virtual or on-screen tools. Candidates must depend solely on their knowledge, speed, and precision during the examination.

For the most accurate and up-to-date details, students should download the revised JEE Main 2026 Information Bulletin from the official NTA website. Proper preparation, consistent practice, and focus on fundamentals will ensure success — even without a calculator.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Is a calculator allowed in JEE Mains 2026?

1. No. According to NTA’s official clarification, no calculator is allowed in JEE Mains 2026, either physical or on-screen.

Q2. Was a virtual calculator mentioned in the JEE Main 2026 Information Bulletin?

Yes. The earlier version of the information bulletin mistakenly mentioned a virtual calculator, but NTA has confirmed it was a printing error.

Q3. Why is the calculator not allowed in JEE Mains 2026?

Because JEE tests conceptual understanding and manual problem-solving ability. NTA prohibits calculators to maintain fairness and accuracy in assessment.

Q4. Has the JEE Main 2026 bulletin been updated?

Yes. NTA has uploaded the revised JEE Main 2026 Information Bulletin on its official website, which removes the incorrect mention of a virtual calculator.

Q5. How can candidates prepare effectively without a calculator?

By practising mental maths, improving calculation speed, and taking mock tests that simulate the real exam environment.