Scored 81 percentile in JEE Main and thinking about what comes next? Many students find themselves at this point, uncertain about their college options or how to improve their scores. While top NITs may be difficult to reach, there are still good opportunities at mid-tier NITs, IIITs, GFTIs, and private universities.
Your current score is just a starting point. With a focused plan and smart preparation, you can aim for a better rank in your next attempt. Strengthening high-weightage topics, correcting past mistakes, and practicing mock tests can help you move forward.
This guide will explain what an 81 percentile means for your rank, highlight the colleges you can target, and share practical tips to boost your JEE Main performance. Let’s outline your options and plan your next steps.
Understanding 81 Percentile in JEE Mains
JEE Main uses a percentile-based scoring system rather than raw marks. The percentile score shows the percentage of candidates who scored lower than you. It does not reflect your actual marks but your relative performance compared to others.
For example, if you scored 81 percentile, it means you performed better than 81% of the total candidates who appeared for the exam. The higher your percentile, the better your rank.
The formula used to calculate the JEE Main percentile is:
Percentile=(Number of candidates who scored less than you​/Total number of candidates in the session)×100
Expected Rank for 81 Percentile in JEE Mains
If you scored 81 percentile in JEE Mains, your expected rank would be approximately between 1.7 lakh to 2 lakh. If 10 lakh students appeared, your rank would be around 1.9 lakh. If 9 lakh students appeared, your rank would be close to 1.7 lakh.
JEE Main Marks vs Rank vs Percentile 2025 (Expected)
| Marks out of 300 | Rank | Percentile |
| 288- 294 | 20-11 | 99.99826992- 99.99890732 |
| 280-284 | 44-22 | 99.99617561 – 99.99790569 |
| 270-279 | 107-63 | 99.99034797 – 99.99417236 |
| 252- 268 | 522-106 | 99.95228621- 99.99016586 |
| 231-249 | 1385-546 | 99.87388626-99.95028296 |
| 215-230 | 2798-1421 | 99.74522293-99.87060821 |
| 202-214 | 4666-2862 | 99.57503767- 99.73930423 |
| 190-200 | 6664- 4830 | 99.39319714- 99.56019541 |
| 175-189 | 10746-7151 | 99.02150308 – 99.3487614 |
| 161-174 | 16163-11018 | 98.52824811-98.99673561 |
| 149-159 | 21145-16495 | 98.07460288-98.49801724 |
| 132-148 | 32826-22238 | 97.0109678-97.97507774 |
| 120-131 | 43174-33636 | 96.0687115-96.93721175 |
| 110-119 | 54293-44115 | 95.05625037-95.983027 |
| 102-109 | 65758-55269 | 94.01228357-94.96737888 |
| 95-101 | 76260-66999 | 93.05600452 -93.89928202 |
| 89-94 | 87219-78111 | 92.05811248 -92.88745828 |
| 79-88 | 109329-90144 | 90.0448455 -91.79177119 |
| 62-87 | 169542-92303 | 84.56203931-91.59517945 |
| 41-61 | 326517-173239 | 70.26839007-84.22540213 |
| 1-42 | 1025009-334080 | 66.6590786-69.5797271 |
List of NIT Colleges Between 80-90 Percentile in JEE Main
| College Name | NIRF Ranking | Popular Courses | Annual B.Tech Course Fees (Approx.) |
| National Institute of Technology (NIT), Durgapur | 44th in the Engineering category93rd in the Overall category | Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology | INR 1.79 Lakhs |
| National Institute of Technology (NIT), Jalandhar | 58th in the Engineering category101–150th in the overall category | Instrumentation and Control Engineering, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering | INR 1.64 Lakhs |
| National Institute of Technology (NIT), Raipur | 71st in the engineering category36th in the architecture category | Electrical Engineering, Information Technology, Electronics and Communication Engineering, Mechanical Engineering | INR 71,110 |
| National Institute of Technology (NIT), Meghalaya | 72nd in the Engineering category | Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering | INR 1.55 Lakhs |
| National Institute of Technology (NIT), Agartala | 82nd in the Engineering category | Bioengineering, Chemical Engineering | INR 1.51 Lakhs |
| National Institute of Technology (NIT), Puducherry | 97th among engineering colleges | Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Computer Science and Engineering | INR 1.45 Lakhs |
| National Institute of Technology (NIT), Goa | 101–150 in the Engineering category | Electronics and Communication Engineering | INR 1.33 Lakhs |
| National Institute of Technology (NIT), Hamirpur | 101–150 in the Engineering category | Electronics and Communication Engineering | INR 1.8 Lakhs |
List of Colleges Other than NITs Accepting 80-90 Percentile in JEE Main
| College Name | Courses |
| IIITM Gwalior | Computer Science and Engineering |
| IIIT Allahabad | Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Electronics and Communication Engineering, Computer Science and Engineering |
| University of Engineering and Management, Jaipur | Civil Engineering, Computer Science Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Computer Science and Engineering, Electrical and Electronics Engineering |
| BITS Ranchi | Information Technology, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science and Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electronics and Communication Engineering, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Mechanical Engineering |
| KIIT University | Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Computer Science Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Automobile Engineering, Information Technology, Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering |
| Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar | Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electronics and Communication Engineering |
| Jaipur Engineering College, Jaipur | Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science Engineering, Information Technology, Electronics and Communication Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science Engineering, Artificial Intelligence and Data Science Engineering |
| CMR Institute of Technology, Kolkata | Computer Science Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electronics and Communication Engineering |
| College of Engineering, Pune | Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, Computer Science Engineering, Telecommunication Engineering |
Preparation Tips for Improving JEE Mains Rank
1) Analyzing Past Mistakes
The first step in improving your JEE Mains rank is to analyze your past mistakes. Identifying the reasons behind your errors will help you avoid repeating them. Whether the mistakes stem from conceptual gaps, calculation errors, or misinterpretation of questions, each mistake is an opportunity to learn and improve.
Steps to Analyze Mistakes
Review Mock Tests and Previous Attempts: Start by reviewing the mistakes you made in your previous mock tests and actual exam attempts. This could include errors in your answers, timing issues, or incorrect strategies for solving problems.
Identify the Nature of the Mistakes:
- Conceptual Gaps: Sometimes, students make mistakes due to a lack of clarity in fundamental concepts. This could be a result of not thoroughly understanding the subject material or not connecting various concepts. For example, if you’re struggling with Physics problems on Mechanics, revisiting basic laws of motion and force may help.
- Calculation Mistakes: Another common error is incorrect calculations, especially in Physics and Mathematics. This could happen due to lack of attention or unfamiliarity with certain types of problems. Practicing more problems in those areas can help build speed and accuracy.
- Misinterpretation of Questions: A frequently overlooked issue is misinterpreting the questions, especially in Chemistry and Mathematics. Reading the question carefully, understanding what is being asked, and eliminating impossible options can help avoid such mistakes.
2) Focused Preparation on High-Weightage Topics
JEE Mains tests a wide variety of topics across Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. However, certain topics have a higher weightage and appear more frequently in the exam. Focusing on these high-weightage topics can significantly improve your score.
High-Weightage Topics in JEE Mains Physics
| Chapter Name | No. of Questions In JEE Mains | Weightage |
| Current Electricity | 3 | 9.90% |
| Magnetic Effect of Current and Magnetism | 2 | 6.60% |
| Alternating Current | 2 | 6.60% |
| Kinetic Theory of Gases & Thermodynamics | 2 | 6.60% |
| Kinematics | 2 | 6.60% |
| Work, Energy, and Power | 2 | 6.60% |
| Law of Motion | 2 | 6.60% |
| Centre Of Mass | 2 | 6.60% |
| Rotational Dynamics | 2 | 6.60% |
| Modern Physics | 2 | 6.60% |
| Wave Optics | 2 | 6.60% |
| Electrostatics | 1 | 3.30% |
| Capacitors | 1 | 3.30% |
| Simple Harmonic Motion | 1 | 3.30% |
| Sound Waves | 1 | 3.30% |
| Elasticity | 1 | 3.30% |
| Error in Measurement | 1 | 3.30% |
| Circular Motion | 1 | 3.30% |
| Electromagnetic Waves | 1 | 3.30% |
| Semiconductors | 1 | 3.30% |
High-Weightage Topics in JEE Mains Chemistry
| Chapters | No. of Questions In JEE Mains | Weightage |
| Transition Elements & Coordination Compounds | 3 | 9.90% |
| Periodic table, p-Block Elements | 3 | 9.90% |
| Atomic Structure | 2 | 6.60% |
| Chemical Bonding | 2 | 6.60% |
| Chemical And Ionic Equilibrium | 2 | 6.60% |
| Solid-State And Surface Chemistry | 2 | 6.60% |
| Nuclear & Environmental Chemistry | 2 | 6.60% |
| Thermodynamics & the Gaseous State | 2 | 6.60% |
| Mole Concept | 1 | 3.30% |
| Redox Reactions | 1 | 3.30% |
| Electrochemistry | 1 | 3.30% |
| Chemical Kinetics | 1 | 3.30% |
| Solution & Colligative Properties | 1 | 3.30% |
| General Organic Chemistry | 1 | 3.30% |
| Stereochemistry | 1 | 3.30% |
| Hydrocarbon | 1 | 3.30% |
| Alkyl Halides | 1 | 3.30% |
| Carboxylic Acids & their Derivatives | 1 | 6.60% |
| Carbohydrates, amino acids, and Polymers | 1 | 6.60% |
| Aromatic Compounds | 1 | 6.60% |
High-Weightage Topics in JEE Mains Mathematics
| Chapter Name | No. of Questions In JEE Mains | Weightage |
| Sequences & Series | 2 | 6.60% |
| Straight Lines | 2 | 6.60% |
| 3-D Geometry | 2 | 6.60% |
| Determinants | 2 | 6.60% |
| Sets | 1 | 3.30% |
| Permutations & Combinations | 1 | 3.30% |
| Probability | 1 | 3.30% |
| Complex Numbers | 1 | 3.30% |
| Binominal Theorem | 1 | 3.30% |
| Limits | 1 | 3.30% |
| Differentiability | 1 | 3.30% |
| Indefinite Integration | 1 | 3.30% |
| Definite Integration | 1 | 3.30% |
| Differential Equations | 1 | 3.30% |
| Height & Distance | 1 | 3.30% |
| Trigonometric Equations | 1 | 3.30% |
| The Area under the Curve | 1 | 3.30% |
| Quadratic Equations | 1 | 3.30% |
| Vectors | 1 | 3.30% |
| Tangents and Normals | 1 | 3.30% |
| Maxima and Minima | 1 | 3.30% |
| Statistics | 1 | 3.30% |
| Parabola | 1 | 3.30% |
| Ellipse | 1 | 3.30% |
| Hyperbola | 1 | 3.30% |
How to Prioritize These Topics
- Make a List: List the high-weightage topics in each subject, and dedicate more time to these areas.
- Study Plan: Design a study plan that ensures consistent practice in these topics.
- Breakdown into Subtopics: Each high-weightage topic has subtopics. Break these into manageable chunks and study them systematically. For example, in Mechanics, first understand kinematics before moving on to the laws of motion and rotational motion.
By focusing on high-weightage topics, you can ensure that you’re preparing efficiently and maximizing your score potential.
3) Structured Revision Schedule
A revision schedule is a crucial aspect of any successful preparation strategy. A well-planned revision routine ensures that you cover all topics, including the difficult ones, and that you don’t miss out on essential areas. It also ensures you’re consistently revisiting what you’ve studied, which helps reinforce your learning.
How to Create a Revision Schedule
- Daily Revision: Allocate specific time slots for each subject, depending on your strengths and weaknesses. For example, you might dedicate 2 hours to Physics, 1.5 hours to Chemistry, and 2.5 hours to Mathematics. Include a mix of theory revision (concepts, formulas) and problem-solving practice. Focus more on problem-solving in the last few weeks leading up to the exam.
- Weekly Revision: Every week, revise what you studied during the week and solve problems from previous years. This will help you identify any weak areas that need additional attention. Reserve the last day of the week for solving a set of full-length mock papers.
- Pre-Exam Revision: In the weeks leading up to the exam, begin to revise every subject daily. Focus on a quick revision of key concepts and formulas. Include at least one or two full-length mock tests during this period.
Benefits of Revision Schedule
- Ensures Complete Coverage: You’ll make sure that no topic is left behind.
- Prevents Last-Minute Cramming: A well-structured revision avoids the stress of cramming at the last minute.
- Improves Retention: Regular revision helps you retain information for a longer time, which is vital during the actual exam.
4) Resource Selection and Quality Study Material
Choosing the right resources is essential for mastering the JEE Mains syllabus. Quality study material can make a significant difference in your preparation. Stick to books that are known for their comprehensive explanations and problem-solving approach.
Recommended Books for JEE Mains Physics
| Name of the Book | Author/Publication | Why the Books are the Best for JEE Mains Physics |
| NCERT Textbook | NCERT | It covers up almost everything. It is the best book for the basic concepts and practice. |
| Concepts of physics (Vol. 1 and 2) | HC Verma | They provide the best exercises along with the basic concepts. |
| Fundamentals of Physics | Halliday, Resnick, & walker | This book helps in clearing all the concepts of Physics important for JEE Mains. |
| Understanding PhysicsIt’s a set of the following books:Electricity & Magnetism Mechanics (Vol. 1 & 2) Optics & Modern Physics Waves & Thermodynamics | D C Pandey – Arihant Publications | This set of books is very popular among the students and one of the best books for JEE Mains. This explains the concepts, derives the formula, and provides a number of solved examples and exercises to solve. |
| Understanding Physics | Freedman and Young | This book explains all the concepts in detail and provides exercises for practice. |
| Problems in Physics | SS Krotov | This book is popular for its exercise questions. |
| Physics Vol-1 and Vol-2 by for Theory and Non-Trivial Problems | Resnick Halliday | Book for understanding concepts and practising questions. |
| Problems on General Physics | I E Irodov | A lot of questions are provided for practising. |
Recommended Books for JEE Mains Chemistry
| Name of the Book | Author/Publication | Why the Book is the Best for JEE Mains Chemistry |
| NCERT Textbook | NCERT | It covers up almost everything. It is the best book for the basic concepts and practice. |
| Modern Approach to Chemical Calculations | R C Mukherjee | Physical Chemistry Numericals are the best in this book. |
| Organic Chemistry | O P Tandon | Each and every topic is well explained in this book. |
| Concise Inorganic Chemistry | J. D. Lee | This is the best book for the concepts of Inorganic Chemistry. |
| Concept of Physical Chemistry | P Bahadur | Along with the concepts, there are many exercises to solve. |
| Physical Chemistry | P.W. Atkins | This book is best for extra exercises. |
| Organic Chemistry | Morrison & Boyd | This book is best for extra exercises. |
| Numerical Chemistry 22/e | P Bahadur | This is one of the best books for JEE Mains recommended by toppers. |
Recommended Books for JEE Mains Mathematics
| Name of the Book | Author/Publication | Why the Book is the Best Maths Book for JEE Mains |
| NCERT Textbook | NCERT | It covers up almost everything. It is the best book for the basic concepts and practice. |
| Objective Mathematics | RD Sharma | This book explains the concepts very well. They also have a lot of exercise questions. |
| Plane Trigonometry | S L Loney | This book is best for Trigonometry. |
| Algebra | Dr S K Goyal – Arihant Publications | This book is best for Algebra. |
| Differential Calculus | Amit M Agarwal – Arihant Publications | This book is best for understanding the concepts of Calculus. |
| Integral Calculus | Amit M Agarwal – Arihant Publications | This book is best for understanding the concepts of Calculus. |
| The Elements of Coordinate Geometry | S L Loney | This book is best for understanding the concepts of Coordinate Geometry and practising questions on Coordinate Geometry. |
| Play with Graphs | Amit M Agarwal – Arihant Publications | This book is best for practising graphs. |
| Complete Mathematics for JEE Main | Tata McGraw Hill | This is the best book for overall preparation. |
| New Pattern Mathematics for JEE Main | Arihant Publications | You will get a lot of exercises. |
5) Regular Mock Tests
Mock tests are a vital part of JEE Mains preparation, as they help simulate real exam conditions, improve time management, and boost performance. To make the most of mock tests, follow these strategies:
- Practice Under Timed Conditions: Always take mock tests within the actual exam duration (3 hours). This will help you manage time effectively and build endurance for the real exam.
- Analyze Performance: After each test, review your mistakes and identify weak areas. Focus on correcting conceptual gaps, calculation errors, and improving time management.
- Increase Frequency: In the final month before the exam, aim for 3-4 full-length mock tests per week. This ensures consistent practice and helps fine-tune your strategy.
Benefits of Mock Tests:
- Improved Time Management: Helps you develop strategies to solve problems faster and more efficiently.
- Familiarity with the Exam Pattern: Regular mock tests get you comfortable with the format, reducing exam-day anxiety.
- Reduced Stress: With regular practice, you’ll approach the exam more confidently.
Highly Recommended: Phodu Club’s JEE Mains Test Series
For comprehensive practice, we highly recommend Phodu Club’s JEE Mains Test Series. It is designed to closely mirror the actual exam, providing you with a realistic test experience. The detailed performance analysis after each test will help you track your progress, identify strengths and weaknesses, and fine-tune your exam strategy. This tailored approach ensures that you are well-prepared to excel in the exam and gives you a significant edge in your preparation.
Conclusion
Scoring 81 percentile in JEE Main might feel like a middle ground, but it is far from the end of your engineering journey. While admission to top NITs may be challenging, there are still several mid-tier NITs, IIITs, GFTIs, and private universities where you can secure a seat.
If you aim for a better rank, the key lies in analyzing your mistakes, focusing on high-weightage topics, following a solid revision plan, and practicing mock tests regularly. Consistency and smart preparation can significantly boost your score in the next attempt.
Your current score is just a step in the process. With dedication and a clear plan, you can unlock more opportunities. Keep pushing forward, stay focused, and aim higher. Your dream college might be closer than you think.
