Ever wondered what it takes to achieve the highest scores in one of the toughest exams in India? For many JEE aspirants, securing a top rank in JEE Advanced is a dream that takes years of preparation, discipline, and relentless hard work. The Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Advanced is not just another entrance test—it’s a crucial step toward securing a seat in one of India’s most prestigious institutions: the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs).
The significance of the JEE Advanced exam is immense, as it determines who gets the opportunity to enter the IITs and other top-tier engineering institutes. With only the top 2,50,000 rank holders from JEE Main eligible to appear for JEE Advanced, the competition is fierce. This means only the best of the best can crack it.
Among those who make it to the IITs, only a few have achieved the highest marks in JEE Advanced. Their scores and strategies inspire countless students who aspire to follow in their footsteps. Understanding the highest scores ever achieved, along with the strategies used by these top scorers, is essential for JEE aspirants. Learning about their journey gives us valuable insights into effective preparation techniques and what it truly takes to succeed.
The purpose of this article is to provide a comprehensive overview of the highest marks achieved in JEE Advanced over the years. We’ll also explore the factors contributing to these remarkable scores, including study plans, time management techniques, and preparation tips shared by toppers.
JEE Advanced Marking Scheme
Before delving into the highest marks achieved in JEE Advanced, it’s important to understand how the exam is structured and how marks are awarded. The marking scheme of JEE Advanced is a critical component, as it can vary slightly each year. The exam consists of two papers: Paper 1 and Paper 2, both of which are mandatory.
Structure of JEE Advanced
Two Papers: Each paper has three sections—Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. These subjects are tested with a mix of multiple-choice questions (MCQs), numerical-based questions, and match-the-following questions.
Duration: Each paper lasts for 3 hours, with a total testing time of 6 hours. There is an additional 2-hour break between the two papers.
Marking Scheme Overview
The marking scheme for JEE Advanced is known for being complex, with different types of questions carrying different marks. Here’s a breakdown of the types of questions you can expect in the exam:
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- Single Correct Option: These questions have one correct answer. If you select the correct answer, you receive full marks. Incorrect answers often carry negative marking.
- Multiple Correct Options: These questions can have more than one correct option. If you select all the correct options and none of the incorrect ones, you get full marks. Partial marking may be awarded if you select some correct options but none of the wrong ones.
Numerical Answer-Type Questions:
In these questions, the answer is a number that you must enter. Typically, there is no negative marking for numerical-type questions, making them an opportunity to score without the fear of losing marks.
Match the Following:
These questions require students to match items from two lists. Depending on the year, these questions may or may not have negative marking.
Negative and Partial Marking
JEE Advanced is unique in that it often incorporates partial marking and negative marking into its structure. While negative marking penalises incorrect answers, partial marking rewards you for partially correct answers, provided you haven’t selected any wrong options.
Total Marks
The total marks for JEE Advanced vary each year but generally range between 360 and 400 marks, depending on the difficulty level and the paper pattern for that particular year. For example, some years have had 372 marks, while others had a total of 360.
Understanding the marking scheme is essential because it helps students manage their risk when answering questions. Focusing on accuracy, especially in questions with negative marking, is critical for securing high scores.
Highest Marks Achieved in JEE Advanced
Over the years, JEE Advanced has seen some incredible performances from students who went on to achieve the highest marks in the exam. These students not only demonstrated an exceptional understanding of Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics but also showcased their ability to manage time and exam pressure.
Year-Wise Breakdown
2024
- Highest Marks Achieved:355 out 360(98.61%)
- Topper’s Name: Ved Lahoti
Ved was determined to break the record of JEE-Advanced and he accomplished it by scoring the highest marks ever: 355 of 360 marks.
2023
- Highest Marks Achieved: 341 out of 360(94.72%)
- Topper’s Name: Vavilala Chidvilas Reddy
- Overall Rank: 1
- Subject-Wise Breakdown: maths-114 , physics – 110, chemistry-117
In 2023, Vavilala Chidvilas Reddy achieved an impressive score of 341 out of 360, securing the top rank. His excellent performance across all three subjects, combined with his strategic approach to the exam, made him a standout candidate in one of the most competitive years in JEE history.
2022
- Highest Marks Achieved: 314 out of 360(87.22%)
- Topper’s Name: RK Shishir
- Overall Rank: 1
RK Shishir topped the JEE Advanced 2022 exam with a score of 314. Despite the challenging nature of the exam that year, Shishir’s consistent preparation and ability to tackle tough questions allowed him to excel and secure the top rank.
2021
- Highest Marks Achieved: 348 out of 360(96%)
- Topper’s Name: Mridul Agarwal
- Overall Rank: 1
Mridul Agarwal’s score of 348 out of 360 in 2021 was among the highest ever recorded in the history of JEE Advanced. His deep conceptual understanding of the subjects, combined with his ability to solve complex problems efficiently, helped him achieve this remarkable score.
2020
- Highest Marks Achieved: 352 out of 396(88.88%)
- Topper’s Name: Chirag Falor
- Overall Rank: 1
Chirag Falor secured the highest score in 2020 with 352 out of 396 marks. The exam had a slightly higher total than usual, but his balanced preparation in all subjects helped him perform exceptionally well.
2019
- Highest Marks Achieved: 346 out of 372
- Topper’s Name: Kartikey Gupta
- Overall Rank: 1
Kartikey Gupta topped the JEE Advanced exam in 2019 with a score of 346 out of 372. His excellent time management skills and focused study strategy allowed him to solve even the most difficult problems effectively.
2018
- Highest Marks Achieved: 337 out of 360(93%)
- Topper’s Name: Pranav Goyal
- Overall Rank: 1
Pranav Goyal achieved an extraordinary score of 337 out of 360 in 2018, setting a high benchmark for future aspirants. His preparation strategies included consistent practice and strong conceptual clarity in all three subjects.
2017
- Highest Marks Achieved: 339 out of 366(92%)
- Topper’s Name: Sarvesh Mehtani
- Overall Rank: 1
- Subject-Wise Breakdown: maths-120, physics-104, Chemistry-115
Sarvesh Mehtani from Panchkula topped JEE Advanced with an AIR (All India Rank) 1. A student of Bhavan Vidyalaya School, Mehtani bagged an AIR 55 in JEE Main 2017.
All-Time Highest Score
2024
- Highest Marks Achieved:355 out 360(98.61%)
- Topper’s Name: Ved Lahoti
Ved was determined to break the record of JEE-Advanced and he accomplished it by scoring the highest marks ever: 355 of 360 marks securing over 98.61 percentage in the history of JEE advanced.
Strategies and Preparation Tips Used by Ved Lahoti
Ved Lahoti’s perfect score was not a coincidence—it was the result of meticulous planning, disciplined study habits, and an unwavering focus. Here are some key strategies that Kalpit used during his preparation for JEE Advanced:
Strict Study Routine: Ved Lahoti followed a strict daily schedule. He allocated specific hours to each subject, ensuring that he maintained a balance between Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
Conceptual Understanding: Instead of memorising formulas, Ved focused on understanding the underlying concepts of each topic. This allowed him to solve a wide variety of problems, even those with tricky twists.
Mock Tests: Ved made extensive use of mock tests to simulate the real exam environment. By regularly taking these tests, he was able to manage his time effectively during the actual exam.
Regular Revision: He revised topics regularly to ensure that he retained what he had studied. This constant revision helped him maintain clarity on all subjects and reduced the chances of forgetting key concepts.
Avoiding Distractions: Ved avoided distractions such as social media and unnecessary activities during his preparation. This allowed him to focus entirely on his studies and maintain a high level of concentration.
Stress Management: Ved practised meditation and breathing exercises to manage stress and keep his mind calm. This helped him perform well under pressure, especially during the six hours of the exam.
Factors Contributing to High Scores in JEE Advanced
Achieving high scores in JEE Advanced is not only about academic brilliance—it also requires effective exam strategies, mental preparation, and a well-structured study plan. Here, we’ll explore the key factors that contribute to top scores in JEE Advanced.
Exam Preparation Strategies
Effective Study Plans
One of the most important factors for success in JEE Advanced is having a well-structured study plan. Toppers always emphasise the importance of starting early and being consistent throughout the preparation period.
Daily Study Schedule: Create a balanced study schedule that covers all three subjects—Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Allocate specific hours to each subject, and ensure you stick to your schedule.
Topic Prioritization: Focus on the high-weightage topics first, especially those that are frequently asked in previous exams. Once you have a solid grip on these topics, move on to the less critical ones.
Regular Revision: Keep revisiting topics to ensure that you don’t forget what you’ve already studied. Revision is crucial, as it helps reinforce your understanding of key concepts.
Integration of Concepts: JEE Advanced often includes problems that require knowledge of multiple topics. Toppers recommend cross-linking concepts from different chapters, especially between Physics and Mathematics, to solve complex problems efficiently.
Time Management Techniques
Managing time during both preparation and the actual exam is key to scoring high in JEE Advanced. Without proper time management, even the most knowledgeable students may find themselves running out of time during the exam.
Timed Practice Sessions: Regularly practise solving questions under timed conditions. This will help you get used to solving problems quickly and accurately within the given time frame.
Avoiding Over-Emphasis on One Section: In the exam, avoid spending too much time on any one section or question. If you get stuck, move on to the next question and return to the difficult ones later.
Use of Timers: Use timers during your study sessions to mimic the time constraints of the actual exam. This will help you develop the habit of pacing yourself effectively.
Importance of Mock Tests and Practice
Mock tests are one of the most critical tools in preparing for JEE Advanced. Top scorers consistently emphasise the importance of practising with mock tests, as they provide a real-time simulation of the actual exam.
Identifying Weak Areas: Mock tests help you identify areas where you’re struggling. By regularly analysing your performance, you can focus on improving these weak points.
Building Speed and Accuracy: Solving questions under exam-like conditions helps you improve your speed and accuracy, both of which are crucial for JEE Advanced.
Improving Time Management: Mock tests teach you how to allocate your time across different sections of the paper, ensuring you don’t spend too much time on any one question.
Role of Coaching Institutes
While self-study is essential, coaching institutes also play a significant role in helping students achieve high scores in JEE Advanced. Here’s how coaching institutes contribute to the success of toppers:
Structured Study Material: Coaching institutes provide students with well-organised study material that is designed to cover the entire JEE syllabus comprehensively.
Experienced Faculty: Many coaching institutes employ experienced faculty who can explain difficult concepts clearly and offer valuable insights into the exam pattern.
Regular Tests and Assessments: Coaching institutes often conduct regular tests, which help students assess their preparation and track their progress over time.
Mental and Emotional Preparation
Handling Exam Stress and Anxiety
The mental and emotional challenges of preparing for JEE Advanced are just as important as the academic ones. Exam stress and anxiety can severely affect a student’s performance if not managed well.
Mindfulness Practices: Techniques such as meditation and breathing exercises can help calm your mind and reduce anxiety. Taking just a few minutes each day to focus on your breath can make a big difference in your mental state.
Breaks and Relaxation: Avoid studying for long hours without breaks. Taking short, regular breaks helps refresh your mind and prevents burnout.
Healthy Lifestyle: Eating nutritious food, getting enough sleep, and staying physically active are all important for maintaining a healthy mind and body during the intense JEE preparation period.
Positive Mindset and Motivation
Staying positive and motivated throughout your JEE preparation is crucial. Many toppers credit their success to their ability to stay focused on their goals and maintain a positive attitude, even when faced with setbacks.
Visualising Success: Visualisation is a powerful technique used by many toppers. Spend a few minutes each day imagining yourself performing well in the exam. This positive mental image can help boost your confidence and keep you motivated.
Breaking Big Goals into Smaller Tasks: Breaking down the huge task of preparing for JEE into smaller, manageable tasks makes the process feel less overwhelming. Focus on achieving one small goal at a time.
Celebrating Small Wins: Acknowledge your progress by celebrating small achievements, whether it’s completing a difficult chapter or scoring well on a mock test.
Subject-Specific Strategies
Each subject in JEE Advanced requires a slightly different approach. Let’s take a look at the specific strategies that toppers use for Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
Physics
Physics in JEE Advanced often requires a strong conceptual understanding and the ability to apply these concepts to solve numerical problems. Here are some strategies to excel in Physics:
Focus on Core Concepts: Many toppers recommend spending extra time mastering core topics such as Mechanics, Electrodynamics, and Optics, as these topics often carry the most weight in the exam.
Practice Problem-Solving: Physics requires a lot of problem-solving practice. Regularly solving numerical problems will help improve your ability to think critically and apply concepts in different situations.
Stick to One Resource for Theory: Focus on a single resource, such as NCERT textbooks or coaching material or any other resource for building a strong understanding of theory and concepts. If you encounter difficulty in a particular topic, supplement your learning by searching for explanations or tutorials on YouTube to clarify your doubts. This focused approach helps avoid confusion and ensures a deeper grasp of the subject.
Chemistry
Chemistry in JEE Advanced is divided into three parts—Physical, Organic, and Inorganic Chemistry. Each of these sections requires a different approach.
Physical Chemistry: Focus on solving numerical problems related to topics such as thermodynamics, chemical kinetics, and electrochemistry. Practice is key to mastering these topics.
Organic Chemistry: Memorising reaction mechanisms and functional groups is crucial for success in Organic Chemistry. Regularly revising reactions and solving related problems is essential.
Inorganic Chemistry: This section is more memory-based, so regular revision is critical. Pay special attention to the periodic table, chemical bonding, and coordination compounds.
Mathematics
Mathematics in JEE Advanced is known for being challenging, requiring strong problem-solving skills and a deep understanding of concepts.
Focus on High-Weightage Topics: Topics such as Calculus, Algebra, and Coordinate Geometry often carry more weight in the exam. Prioritise these topics in your preparation.
Practice Daily: Mathematics is a subject that requires consistent practice. Set aside time each day to solve problems from different topics.
Work on Speed and Accuracy: Mathematics questions in JEE Advanced can be lengthy and time-consuming. Focus on improving your speed and accuracy by practising regularly under timed conditions.
Conclusion
Scoring high in JEE Advanced is no easy task. It requires a combination of deep conceptual understanding, regular practice, effective time management, and mental resilience. By analysing the highest marks achieved in JEE Advanced over the years, we gain valuable insights into what it takes to reach the top ranks.
Understanding the exam’s marking scheme, preparing with the right strategies, and learning from the experiences of toppers can help you tailor your own preparation plan. Factors such as a well-structured study plan, mock tests, and regular revision play a crucial role in achieving high scores. Equally important is managing exam stress, staying motivated, and maintaining a positive mindset throughout your preparation.
By incorporating these strategies and staying focused on your goals, you can maximise your chances of success in JEE Advanced and achieve your dream of securing a spot in one of the top engineering colleges in India.
