IIT JEE Exam Pattern 2025: Everything You Need to Know

Overview of JEE Main & JEE Advanced Exam Pattern

The Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) serves as the gateway to prestigious engineering institutions across India. Conducted in two phases—JEE Main and JEE Advanced—this national-level examination evaluates students based on their conceptual understanding, analytical thinking, and problem-solving abilities in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.

Understanding the JEE exam pattern is crucial for aspirants to strategize their preparation effectively. The 2025 exam pattern continues to evolve, incorporating changes that reflect the evolving educational landscape while maintaining the core assessment of engineering aptitude.

Importance of Understanding the Exam Structure

Familiarity with the JEE exam pattern offers several strategic advantages:

  • Effective Time Management: Knowing the number of questions, their distribution, and the time allowed helps candidates allocate time efficiently during the examination.
  • Strategic Preparation: Understanding the weightage of different topics enables focused study on high-value sections.
  • Examination Strategy: Knowledge of marking schemes helps develop question-attempt strategies that maximize scores while minimizing penalties.
  • Confidence Building: Familiarity with the exam format reduces anxiety and builds confidence, allowing candidates to perform optimally under pressure.

Quick Overview: JEE 2025

  • JEE Main: Conducted by National Testing Agency (NTA) in multiple sessions
  • JEE Advanced: Conducted by one of the IITs for admission to 23 IITs
  • Top 2,50,000 candidates from JEE Main qualify for JEE Advanced
  • Computer-based test format predominates both examinations

JEE Main Exam Pattern 2025

JEE Main serves as both a standalone entrance examination for NITs, IIITs, and other CFTIs, and as a qualifying test for JEE Advanced. The 2025 pattern continues the structure established in recent years with some refinements.

Mode of Examination (CBT & Pen-Paper Mode)

JEE Main 2025 will be conducted primarily in computer-based test (CBT) mode, with one exception:

  • Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech): Computer-Based Test (Online mode)
  • Paper 2A (B.Arch):
    • Mathematics and Aptitude Test: Computer-Based Test
    • Drawing Test: Pen and Paper Based (Offline mode)
  • Paper 2B (B.Planning): Computer-Based Test (Online mode)

The computer-based test provides immediate benefits:

  • Reduced possibility of human error in evaluation
  • Enhanced security and transparency
  • Faster result processing
  • Environmentally friendly approach

Number of Papers: Paper 1 (B.Tech) & Paper 2 (B.Arch/B.Planning)

JEE Main comprises three distinct papers, catering to different academic pursuits:

Paper Course Subjects
Paper 1 B.E./B.Tech Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics
Paper 2A B.Arch Mathematics, Aptitude Test, Drawing Test
Paper 2B B.Planning Mathematics, Aptitude Test, Planning Based Questions

Students can opt for one or more papers based on their career aspirations. Many candidates appear for multiple papers to keep their options open.

Duration & Marking Scheme

The examination duration and total marks for each paper are structured as follows:

Paper Duration Total Questions Maximum Marks
Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech) 3 hours 90 questions 300 marks
Paper 2A (B.Arch) 3 hours 82 questions 400 marks
Paper 2B (B.Planning) 3 hours 105 questions 400 marks

Note: For candidates with specific disabilities as per the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, the examination duration is extended to 4 hours.

Subject-Wise Distribution of Questions

The question distribution across subjects for each paper follows a structured format:

Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech):

Subject Total Questions Section A (MCQs) Section B (Numerical Value) Maximum Marks
Physics 30 20 10 (Attempt any 5) 100
Chemistry 30 20 10 (Attempt any 5) 100
Mathematics 30 20 10 (Attempt any 5) 100
Total 90 60 30 (Attempt 15) 300

Paper 2A (B.Arch):

Part Subject Questions Maximum Marks
Part I Mathematics 30 (20 MCQs + 10 Numerical Value) 100
Part II Aptitude Test 50 MCQs 200
Part III Drawing Test 2 questions 100
Total 82 400

Paper 2B (B.Planning):

Part Subject Questions Maximum Marks
Part I Mathematics 30 (20 MCQs + 10 Numerical Value) 100
Part II Aptitude Test 50 MCQs 200
Part III Planning Based Questions 25 MCQs 100
Total 105 400

Negative Marking Policy

JEE Main implements a negative marking system to discourage random guessing and ensure fair assessment:

  • Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):
    • +4 marks for each correct answer
    • -1 mark for each incorrect answer
    • 0 marks for unattempted questions
  • Numerical Value Questions (NVQs):
    • +4 marks for each correct answer
    • 0 marks for incorrect answers (No negative marking)
    • 0 marks for unattempted questions

Strategy Tip: In Section B (Numerical Value questions), candidates need only attempt 5 out of 10 questions in each subject. Since there's no negative marking for these questions, strategically selecting questions you're more confident about can optimize your score.

JEE Advanced Exam Pattern 2025

JEE Advanced represents the second and more rigorous phase of the selection process, exclusively for admission to the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). The examination tests deeper conceptual understanding and application abilities.

Number of Papers & Duration

JEE Advanced 2025 maintains its established structure:

  • Two compulsory papers: Paper 1 and Paper 2
  • Each paper duration: 3 hours
  • Both papers conducted on the same day
  • Morning session (Paper 1): 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
  • Afternoon session (Paper 2): 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM

Both papers are mandatory, and the aggregate performance across both determines the final ranking.

Types of Questions Asked (MCQs, Numerical, Matrix Match, etc.)

JEE Advanced features diverse question formats that test different cognitive abilities:

Question Type Description
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) Questions with single or multiple correct options
Numerical Value Answer (NVA) Questions requiring a numerical answer entered via virtual keypad
Matrix Match Questions Questions requiring matching of items from two columns
Paragraph-Based Questions Multiple questions based on a given paragraph or data
Integer Answer Type Questions Questions with answers as non-negative integers

The variety of question formats is designed to assess not just knowledge retention but also conceptual understanding, application ability, analytical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

Marking Scheme & Partial Marking

JEE Advanced employs a sophisticated marking scheme that varies by question type:

Question Type Marking System
Single Correct Option MCQs +3 for correct answer, -1 for incorrect answer, 0 for unmarked
Multiple Correct Option MCQs +4 for marking all correct options, Partial marking with negative marks for incorrect selections, -2 for all incorrect options
Numerical Value Questions +3 for correct answer, 0 for incorrect or unmarked
Matrix Match Questions Partial marking scheme based on correct matches, with negative marking for incorrect matches

The exact marking scheme may vary slightly each year as determined by the organizing IIT. The final scheme is detailed in the question paper.

Paper 1 vs. Paper 2 Structure

While both papers cover Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, they differ in their approach and question distribution:

Feature Paper 1 Paper 2
Difficulty Level Typically focuses on fundamental concepts with moderate complexity Often contains more challenging questions requiring deeper analysis
Question Types May emphasize MCQs and numerical value questions May feature more matrix match and comprehension-based questions
Subject Distribution Equal distribution across Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics Equal distribution across Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics
Total Marks Approximately 183 marks (may vary) Approximately 183 marks (may vary)

Both papers jointly evaluate a candidate's comprehensive understanding of all three subjects, with varied question formats testing different aspects of knowledge application.

Subject-Wise Exam Format for JEE Main & Advanced

Understanding the subject-specific approach in both examinations helps candidates focus their preparation on high-yield topics.

Physics: Topics Covered & Question Distribution

Physics questions in JEE evaluate conceptual clarity, mathematical application, and problem-solving abilities.

Key Topic Areas:

  • Mechanics: Kinematics, Laws of Motion, Work-Energy-Power, Rotational Motion
  • Thermodynamics and Kinetic Theory: Heat Transfer, Laws of Thermodynamics
  • Electrodynamics: Electrostatics, Current Electricity, Magnetism, Electromagnetic Induction
  • Optics: Ray Optics, Wave Optics
  • Modern Physics: Atomic Structure, Nuclear Physics, Semiconductor Devices
  • Waves and Oscillations: Simple Harmonic Motion, Mechanical Waves

Typical Distribution (JEE Main):

Topic Area Approximate Weightage
Mechanics 30-35%
Electrodynamics 25-30%
Modern Physics 15-20%
Thermodynamics and Waves 15-20%
Optics 8-10%

JEE Advanced tends to feature more integrated questions that combine concepts from multiple physics domains, demanding deeper understanding and analytical thinking.

Chemistry: Physical, Organic & Inorganic Chemistry Breakdown

Chemistry in JEE covers three main branches, each with distinctive question types and approaches.

Key Topic Areas:

  • Physical Chemistry: Thermodynamics, Chemical Equilibrium, Electrochemistry, Chemical Kinetics, Solutions
  • Organic Chemistry: Nomenclature, Reaction Mechanisms, Functional Groups, Biomolecules
  • Inorganic Chemistry: Periodic Properties, Coordination Compounds, Metallurgy, s/p/d/f-Block Elements

Typical Distribution (JEE Main):

Branch Approximate Weightage
Physical Chemistry 35-40%
Organic Chemistry 30-35%
Inorganic Chemistry 25-30%

JEE Advanced chemistry questions often require integration of concepts across branches, with emphasis on reaction mechanisms in organic chemistry, application of principles in physical chemistry, and systematic properties in inorganic chemistry.

Mathematics: Key Topics & Weightage

Mathematics in JEE tests computational skills, conceptual understanding, and problem-solving approaches.

Key Topic Areas:

  • Calculus: Limits, Continuity, Differentiation, Integration, Differential Equations
  • Algebra: Complex Numbers, Matrices, Determinants, Permutation & Combination, Probability
  • Coordinate Geometry: Straight Lines, Circles, Conic Sections, 3D Geometry
  • Trigonometry: Trigonometric Ratios, Equations, Inverse Functions
  • Vector Algebra

Typical Distribution (JEE Main):

Topic Area Approximate Weightage
Calculus 35-40%
Algebra 25-30%
Coordinate Geometry 15-20%
Trigonometry 10-15%
Vector Algebra & 3D Geometry 5-10%

JEE Advanced mathematics questions emphasize creative problem-solving approaches, requiring deeper conceptual understanding and application of multiple mathematical techniques.

New Changes & Updates in JEE 2025 Exam Pattern

The JEE examination structure undergoes periodic refinements to maintain assessment quality and align with evolving educational objectives.

Any Changes Introduced by NTA & IITs

For JEE 2025, several notable updates have been implemented:

JEE Main 2025 Updates:

  • Enhanced focus on conceptual understanding with fewer direct formula-based questions
  • Continued emphasis on numerical value questions (introduced in recent years)
  • Improved computer-based testing interface with enhanced functionality
  • Maintained option to drop lowest score when attempting multiple sessions
  • Potential increase in the number of examination centers to facilitate better accessibility

JEE Advanced 2025 Updates:

  • Refined partial marking scheme for multiple correct option questions
  • Potential increase in application-based and integrated concept questions
  • Enhanced focus on testing innovation and research orientation
  • Improved security measures for the computer-based testing environment

The organizing authorities typically release the final examination pattern a few months before the examination, and minor adjustments may occur closer to the examination date.

Differences from Previous Year Patterns

Comparing the 2025 pattern with previous years reveals several evolutionary changes:

Aspect Previous Pattern 2025 Pattern
Numerical Value Questions in JEE Main Introduced with mandatory attempt of all questions Continued with flexibility to attempt 5 out of 10 questions per subject
Number of JEE Main Sessions Two sessions (January and April) Expected to continue with two sessions, with possibility of additional sessions
Question Complexity Balance of direct and application-based questions Increased emphasis on application-based and conceptual understanding questions
JEE Advanced Question Types Established mix of different question formats Maintained diversity with refined marking schemes for complex question types

These evolutionary changes reflect the broader educational objective of testing genuine understanding and problem-solving abilities rather than rote memorization or formulaic approaches.

JEE Marking Scheme & Scoring System

Understanding the marking scheme is crucial for developing effective examination strategies and maximizing scores.

Marks Per Correct Answer

The allocation of marks for correct answers varies by examination and question type:

JEE Main:

  • Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs): +4 marks per correct answer
  • Numerical Value Questions (NVQs): +4 marks per correct answer

JEE Advanced:

  • Single Correct Option MCQs: +3 marks per correct answer
  • Multiple Correct Option MCQs: +4 marks when all correct options are selected
  • Numerical Value Questions: +3 marks per correct answer
  • Matrix Match Questions: Varying marks based on the number of correct matches

The exact mark allocation in JEE Advanced may vary slightly each year and is specified in the question paper.

Negative Marking for Incorrect Answers

Both examinations implement negative marking to discourage random guessing:

JEE Main:

  • Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs): -1 mark per incorrect answer
  • Numerical Value Questions (NVQs): No negative marking

JEE Advanced:

  • Single Correct Option MCQs: -1 mark per incorrect answer
  • Multiple Correct Option MCQs: Partial negative marking based on the number and nature of incorrect selections
  • Matrix Match Questions: Negative marking applies for incorrect matches
  • Numerical Value Questions: No negative marking

Strategic Implication: The negative marking system requires candidates to be judicious in their attempt strategy. Questions with certainty should be prioritized, while those with significant ambiguity may be better left unattempted, particularly in MCQ formats.

No Negative Marking Questions (If Any)

Certain question types across both examinations do not carry negative marking:

JEE Main:

  • Numerical Value Questions (NVQs) across all subjects
  • Drawing test questions in Paper 2A (B.Arch)

JEE Advanced:

  • Numerical Value Questions (may vary based on the specific paper)
  • Certain special question types as specified in the instructions

Optimization Strategy:

For questions without negative marking, candidates should attempt all such questions even when unsure, as there is no penalty for incorrect answers. This approach maximizes the probability of scoring additional marks through educated guesses.