6 Key Changes in the JEE Main 2025 Exam You Must Know

 The JEE Main 2025 exam is just around the corner, and the National Testing Agency (NTA) has introduced several important updates that all aspirants must be aware of. The first session of JEE Main 2025 is scheduled to take place between January 22 and January 31, 2025, with applications closing on November 22, 2024.

Understanding these changes is crucial for refining your preparation strategy. Let’s explore the six major updates and how they impact JEE aspirants.

1. Revised Exam Pattern for JEE Main 2025

The JEE Main 2025 exam pattern has undergone significant revisions. The optional questions in Section B (Numerical Value Questions) have been removed, and this section now includes only five compulsory questions.

For JEE Main 2025 Paper 1 (Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics) and Paper 2 (Mathematics only), students must solve all 75 questions, comprising:

  • 20 Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs) per subject
  • 5 Numerical Value Questions per subject

This change eliminates any choice in the question paper, requiring students to thoroughly prepare all topics.

2. Updated Marking Scheme

A major change has been introduced to the marking scheme for numerical value questions. Unlike previous years, these questions now include negative marking.

  • Correct Answer: +4 marks
  • Incorrect Answer: -1 mark
  • Unanswered Questions: No marks awarded or deducted

This aligns numerical value questions with MCQs, making it essential for candidates to answer cautiously. Every incorrect response can significantly impact your overall score.

3. Revised Tie-Breaking Policy

The NTA has revamped its tie-breaking rules for candidates scoring the same marks in the JEE Main exam. Age and application number are no longer considered, and the tie-breaking hierarchy is as follows:

  1. Higher marks in Mathematics
  2. Higher marks in Physics
  3. Higher marks in Chemistry
  4. Lower ratio of incorrect to correct answers (overall)
  5. Lower ratio of incorrect to correct answers in Mathematics
  6. Lower ratio of incorrect to correct answers in Physics
  7. Lower ratio of incorrect to correct answers in Chemistry

If the tie persists even after applying all these rules, candidates will be awarded the same rank. This updated policy ensures fairness in ranking.

4. Age Limit Removed from Eligibility Criteria

One of the most inclusive changes for JEE Main 2025 is the removal of the age limit. Candidates meeting the minimum qualification criteria can now apply for the exam, regardless of age.

This update provides opportunities for students who have taken a gap year or are pursuing engineering after a longer break.

5. Adjustments in the JEE Main 2025 Syllabus

The syllabus for JEE Main 2025 has been revised to better align with current NCERT textbooks. Key changes include:

Physics

  • Removed Topics: Scalars & Vectors, Vector Addition/Subtraction, Unit Vectors, and Resolution of Vectors
  • Added Topics: Physics and Measurement, Work, Energy and Power, Motion in a Vertical Circle, Rotational Motion, Thermodynamics, Gravitation, Electrostatics, Current Electricity, and Magnetism

Chemistry

  • Removed Topics: States of Matter, Surface Chemistry, and General Principles of Isolation of Metals
  • Simplified Topics: Certain sections of p-Block elements, including properties and uses of Boron, Aluminum, Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Sulfur, and Halogens

Mathematics

  • No significant changes were made to the Mathematics syllabus.

Candidates should focus on the revised topics to ensure their preparation is in line with the updated syllabus.

6. Reduction in Examination Centers

The number of examination centers for JEE Main 2025 has been reduced from 300 to 284. Key changes include:

  • Odisha: Reduced from 23 centers to 17
  • Tamil Nadu: Three cities removed; two new centers added
  • Andhra Pradesh: 12 cities removed
  • Telangana: Two new centers added
  • Maharashtra: Two centers added, two removed

This reduction may cause inconvenience for students, as finding a center closer to home could become challenging.

How These Changes Impact JEE Aspirants

The updates in JEE Main 2025 demand a more focused and strategic preparation approach:

  • Removal of Optional Questions: Leaves no room for selective preparation, requiring students to cover the entire syllabus.
  • Negative Marking for Numerical Questions: Calls for greater precision and careful problem-solving to avoid penalties.
  • Revised Tie-Breaking Policy: Ensures fairness in ranking but places greater emphasis on accuracy.
  • Age Limit Removal: Broadens access to the exam, giving more aspirants a chance to compete.

Conclusion

The changes introduced in JEE Main 2025 by the NTA reflect a commitment to transparency and fairness while challenging students to elevate their preparation.

To stay ahead, consider enrolling in a reputed coaching institute like IIB Career Institute, which offers specialized JEE classes for 11th, 12th, and repeater students. With a focus on the latest syllabus and strategic preparation, IIB can help you achieve your dream of acing the JEE Main exam.

Prepare smarter, and aim for success!

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