Eligibility for JEE Mains: Minimum Marks Requirement Explained

Many candidates have questions regarding the eligibility for the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Mains based on their 12th class marks. Specifically, candidates often ask if a 60 or below score in their 12th class is sufficient to apply for JEE Mains. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the eligibility criteria for JEE Mains and clarifies the current requirements.

Current Eligibility Criteria for JEE Mains

According to the latest guidelines, candidates are required to have passed their 12th grade or an equivalent examination with Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects. Additionally, candidates must offer one of the following subjects:

Notably, there is no strict minimum percentage requirement for applying to JEE Mains. However, many colleges and universities have their own admission criteria, which may include a minimum percentage in the qualifying examination. Candidates are advised to check the specific requirements of the institutions they are interested in applying to.

Past and Recent Developments in JEE Mains Eligibility

There have been recent discussions and changes in the eligibility criteria for JEE Mains. In particular, there is a growing concern about the 75 criteria, which may affect many students. According to some sources, the 75 criterion for Class 12 or qualifying examinations to appear in JEE Mains was not present in JEE Main 2022. However, it is reported that from 2023 onwards, this criterion will be in place. This development adjusts the eligibility criteria for JEE Mains and affects a large number of students who may not meet the 75 mark but can still excel in the JEE Mains exam.

Other Options for Admission

For students who do not meet the 75 criterion, there are alternative options for admission to engineering programs. State-level engineering counseling processes, such as MHTCET, do not require a 75 percentage. For instance, with a 65 PCM (Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics) aggregate, one can be eligible for admission to top Delhi colleges via the JAC (Joint Admission Committee) Delhi counseling.

Top Percentile Requirement

It is also important to note that the 75 criterion is not the only eligibility requirement. Many top-tier institutions also apply a top 20 percentile criterion for Class 12 board exams, as per the JoSAA (Joint Seat Allocation Authority) Rulebook 2024-25. Candidates must be among the top 20 percentile of their respective board exam to be eligible for admission through JoSAA.

Conclusion

While the requirement of 75 marks in 12th class or qualifying examinations is a significant criterion for JEE Mains, it is not the only one. Candidates who do not meet this requirement should explore other counseling options and adhere to the specific eligibility criteria of the institutions they intend to apply for. Adhering to these guidelines will help ensure a clearer path towards admission into engineering programs.

For further updates and detailed information, refer to the official JEE Mains website and relevant educational counseling portals. Good luck to all aspiring engineers!