JEE Main 2027 Registration: NTA Clarifies Which Category Candidates Should Select

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has issued an important clarification for candidates applying for the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main 2027. The agency has explained which nationality-related category applicants should select while filling out the online application form.The advisory is particularly relevant for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) cardholders and candidates living abroad, who may be unsure about the appropriate registration option.

According to the clarification shared by NTA on November 13, 2026, applicants must select their category based on their citizenship and Aadhaar status. Choosing the correct option will help prevent discrepancies during the application and identity verification processes.

JEE Main 2027: Which Category Should Candidates Select?

NTA has explained three categories to help applicants identify the appropriate option during registration.

The category selection guidelines are as follows:

1. Indian Nationals

Indian citizens, including Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) who possess an Aadhaar card, must select the Indian Nationals category while completing the application form.

2. Foreign Nationals

Candidates who are foreign citizens and Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) cardholders must select the Foreign Nationals category.

3. NRIs Having No Aadhaar

NRIs who hold an Indian passport but do not possess an Aadhaar card must choose the NRIs Having No Aadhaar option.The clarification is intended to ensure that candidates select the registration category that accurately reflects their citizenship and identity documents.

NTA Issues Special Instructions for NRIs Without Aadhaar

Earlier, NTA had specifically advised NRI applicants who do not have an Aadhaar card but hold a valid Indian passport to complete their applications through the designated NRIs Having No Aadhaar option.This clarification is important for applicants who might otherwise select an incorrect registration category because of the absence of an Aadhaar card.

Candidates should carefully check their passport and other identity documents before submitting the application. They should also ensure that the information entered in the form matches their official records.

Important: These three options refer to nationality and Aadhaar-related registration categories. They should not be confused with reservation categories such as General, SC, ST, OBC-NCL and EWS.

JEE Main 2027 Registration: Important Dates

Candidates planning to appear for the January 2027 session should keep the following application deadlines in mind:

Candidates should complete their applications before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical difficulties.

How to Apply for JEE Main 2027

Eligible candidates can complete the registration process by following these steps:

1. Visit the official website.
2. Open the JEE Main 2027 Session 1 application link.
3. Complete the registration using the required personal details.
4. Select the appropriate nationality-related category.
5. Fill in the academic and other required information.
6. Upload the necessary documents and photograph.
7. Pay the application fee.
8. Submit the form and download the confirmation page for future reference.

NTA has also advised candidates to use their own DigiLocker, JanParichay or e-Pramaan (MeriPehchaan) credentials during registration. Applicants should complete DigiLocker re-KYC to ensure that their latest details are available. Their name and date of birth should match the Class 10 certificate or marksheet.

Candidates Advised to Check Details Before Submission

NTA has advised applicants to carefully verify their personal information and supporting documents before submitting the JEE Main 2027 application form.Selecting the correct nationality-related category is particularly important for Indian citizens living abroad, NRIs and OCI cardholders. Candidates should refer to the official information bulletin and registration instructions if they have any doubts.For the latest announcements, application-related instructions and updates, candidates should regularly visit the official JEE Main website.