JEE Main Paper 2 & AAT 2026: Complete Guide for Architecture Aspirants
If you want to pursue Architecture at IITs, NITs, or SPAs, understanding the JEE Main Paper 2Â & AAT (Architecture Aptitude Test) is essential. This guide covers eligibility, exam structure, application process, fees, documents, reservation policies, FAQs, and key dates for 2026.
Architecture Admission Pathways in India
Architecture aspirants have two main routes:
- IITs (Roorkee, Kharagpur, BHU Varanasi): JEE Main Paper 1 → JEE Advanced → AAT
- NITs, SPAs, GFTIs: Admission based on JEE Main Paper 2 (B.Arch/B.Planning)
Note: Only students who clear JEE Advanced are eligible for AAT. JEE Main Paper 2 is the direct route for NITs, SPAs, and other central institutes.
JEE Main Paper 2 – Exam Overview
Conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), JEE Main Paper 2 is held twice a year (January & April). It evaluates candidates on Mathematics, Aptitude Test, and Drawing Skills, focusing on spatial reasoning, analytical thinking, and design abilities.
| Feature | Details |
| Exam Body | NTA |
| Courses | B.Arch, B.Planning |
| Mode | Online (Mathematics & Aptitude), Drawing Test offline/online |
| Duration | 3 Hours |
| Total Marks | 400 |
| Official Website | JEE Main 2026 Registration |
Exam Pattern & Syllabus Tweak
| Section | Topics | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Part I | Mathematics | 20 MCQs + 10 NAT (5 to answer) | 100 |
| Part II | Aptitude Test | 50 | 200 |
| Part III | Drawing Test | 2 Questions | 100 |
| Total | Â | 82 Questions | 400 Marks |
Syllabus Highlights:
- Mathematics: Algebra, Trigonometry, Coordinate Geometry, 3D, Calculus basics
- Aptitude: 3D visualization, analytical reasoning, architectural awareness
- Drawing: Freehand sketching, perspective, proportion, composition, creativity
Focus on concept clarity over rote learning. NCERT 11–12 is sufficient for most topics, but practice visual reasoning and drawing consistently.
Architecture via IITs – JEE Advanced & AAT
For IITs, the path is:
- JEE Main Paper 1
- JEE Advanced
- AAT (Architecture Aptitude Test)
AAT Exam Highlights:
- Tests perception, creativity, freehand drawing, and 3D visualization
- Duration: 3 Hours
- Only students who clear JEE Advanced can register
- Required to secure admission to IIT Architecture programs
JEE Main 2026 Application Process
Step 1: Registration
- Visit the official registration portal: JEE Main 2026 Registration
- Create an account with email, mobile number, and date of birth.
Step 2: Filling the Application Form
- Enter personal details: Name, DOB, Gender, Nationality, Category.
- Fill in academic details: Class 12 board, year of passing/appearing.
- Select exam preferences: Paper (1 or 2), language, city preferences.
Step 3: Upload Documents
- Passport-sized photo: 10–200 KB
- Candidate’s signature: 4–30 KB
- Category certificate (if applicable)
- PwD certificate (if applicable)
Step 4: Payment of Application Fees
| Category | Fee (INR) |
|---|---|
| General / EWS / OBC-NCL | ₹1000 |
| SC / ST / PwD | ₹500 |
| NRI / OCI / PIO | ₹2000 |
- Fees can be paid via debit/credit card, net banking, UPI, or other accepted modes.
- Save the transaction receipt for reference.
Step 5: Confirmation
- Review all details before final submission.
- Download the confirmation page or acknowledgment slip.
Tip: Use a secure internet connection and verify all uploaded documents to avoid rejection.
Reservation Policy
| Category | Reservation (%) |
|---|---|
| General / EWS | 10% |
| OBC-NCL | 27% |
| SC | 15% |
| ST | 7.5% |
| PwD | 5% (within each category) |
Documents Required
For Application & Exam:
- Passport-sized photo
- Candidate’s signature
- Valid ID (Aadhaar, Voter ID, Passport, etc.)
For Seat Allocation & Admission:
- Class 12 mark sheet/pass certificate
- Category certificate (if applicable)
- PwD certificate (if applicable)
- Domicile certificate (if state quota applies)
- Migration/transfer certificate (if required)
Note: Keep both physical and scanned copies ready.
Key Dates for 2026
| Event | Date / Information |
|---|---|
| Online Submission of Application Form | 31 October 2025 to 27 November 2025 (Up to 09:00 P.M.) |
| Last date of successful transaction of fee | 27 November 2025 (up to 11:50 P.M.) |
| Announcement of the City of Examination | By the First week of January 2026 |
| Date(s) of Examination | Between 21 January to 30 January 2026 |
| Declaration of Result on the NTA website | By 12 February 2026 (Tentative) |
FAQs
1. Can I appear for both Paper 1 and Paper 2?
Yes. Paper 1 is for engineering, Paper 2 is for architecture.
2. What subjects are tested in Paper 2?
Mathematics, Aptitude, and Drawing — primarily NCERT Class 11–12 concepts.
3. Is NATA required for IIT or NIT?
4. Are calculators allowed?
No electronic devices are permitted.
5. How many attempts are allowed for JEE Main Paper 2?
Why Choose Architecture Through JEE
- Access India’s top institutes with excellent infrastructure and faculty.
- Build strong technical and creative skills.
- Merit-based admission ensures fair selection of talented students.
- Exposure to industry connections and global career opportunities.
Start early, follow official NTA announcements, and keep all documents ready.
