A Comprehensive Guide to the JEE Main 2018 Exam Pattern

The JEE (Joint Entrance Examination) Main is a national-level examination conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for admissions to undergraduate programs at institutions like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and National Institutes of Technology (NITs). Understanding the exam pattern is crucial for aspirants to plan their preparation accordingly. In this article, we will explore the pattern of JEE Main 2018 and the latest updates and recommendations.

Overview of JEE Main Exam Pattern

Generally, the JEE Main exam pattern varies annually based on the weightage of questions, marks, and difficulty levels. However, a detailed analysis of the previous years' papers can provide insights into the expected structure of the exam. The JEE Main 2018 follows a similar pattern to the previous years, but with some notable changes being proposed.

Key Highlights from JEE Main 2017 Analysis

In 2017, the JEE Main exam was conducted twice, and the marks were divided as follows:

Total marks for 2017: 366 Number of questions: 90 (30 each from Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics) Time duration: 3 hours

Proposed Changes for JEE Main 2018

Based on recommendations from the Committee of Eminent Persons (CEP), the government is considering several changes for the JEE Main 2018. These changes aim to make the exam more challenging and provide candidates with multiple opportunities to appear for the exam.

Multiple Exams: The NTA is likely to conduct the JEE Main examination multiple times in a single year, providing more test opportunities to candidates. Admission Process: The test is set to be upgraded to the level of JEE Advanced, testing the aptitude in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. The top 200,000 students from JEE Main will be allowed to appear in JEE Advanced, and over 40,000 ranks will be issued for admission to IITs and NITs. National Testing Service (NTS): The NTS might replace CBSE for conducting JEE Main, with a monthly examination schedule to cater to more students. Mock Exams and MOOCs: IITs are recommended to develop a system of mock JEE examinations and explore the use of MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) for preparing candidates.

Official Changes in the JEE Main Exam Pattern

In a significant move, the 40 percent weightage given to the 12th class board exams for admissions to NITs and other central universities has been dropped for JEE Main 2017. Now, a candidate must secure at least 75 marks or be in the top 20 percentile of their respective boards to qualify for the JEE examination. However, for SC/ST students, this has been relaxed to 65 marks.

For JEE Main 2018 and beyond, candidates will face the following exam pattern:

Total marks: 366 (same as 2017) Number of questions: 90 (30 each from Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics) Time duration: 3 hours Format: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

Frequently Asked Questions

Will JEE Main be conducted multiple times in 2018?

Yes, the government is proposing to conduct JEE Main multiple times in a single year, providing candidates with more opportunities. However, this is subject to approval and official announcement.

How will the weightage of board exams change for JEE Main 2018?

The 40 percent weightage given to the 12th class board exams has been dropped, meaning board marks will not be counted for admissions to NITs and other central universities. However, candidates must still achieve a qualifying mark in their board exams to be considered for the JEE examination.

What is the role of the NTS in JEE Main 2018?

The National Testing Service (NTS) is likely to take over from CBSE in conducting JEE Main, providing for a more frequent examination schedule and greater flexibility for candidates.

For more detailed and updated information, please refer to the official announcements and notifications from the relevant authorities.