Major Change in Exam Centre Allocation for JEE, NEET & CUET from 2026

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has introduced a significant policy shift for national-level entrance exams including JEE Main, NEET-UG, and CUET-UG. Beginning with the 2026 academic cycle, candidates will no longer be allowed to select their preferred exam cities during registration. Instead, exam centres will be assigned strictly based on the residential address linked to the candidate’s Aadhaar card.

Aadhaar-Based Centre Allocation: What’s Changing?

Old System: Students could choose 3–4 preferred cities while filling out application forms.

New Rule (Effective 2026): Exam centres will be auto-assigned based on Aadhaar-linked address only.

This move is aimed at enhancing transparency and reducing instances of impersonation and exam malpractice. Candidates from rural or semi-urban areas will be allotted centres closer to their Aadhaar-registered location.

Concerns & Precautions for Students

The decision has sparked concern among students and parents, especially those studying away from their permanent address. To avoid travel complications, NTA has urged aspirants to update their Aadhaar details well before the application window opens.

Strict Document Matching: Names, birth dates, and other personal details on Aadhaar must exactly match those on the Class 10 marksheet. Even minor mismatches could lead to application rejection.

Update Now: Students are advised to visit their nearest UIDAI centre to correct any discrepancies in Aadhaar details, especially the address.

Implementation Timeline

The new rule will first apply to JEE Main January 2026 session.

It will then be extended to NEET-UG and CUET-UG in subsequent cycles.