Have you scored around 85 marks in JEE Mains and are wondering what it means for your percentile, rank, and college options? You are not alone. Many students feel confused after the exam, trying to figure out whether their marks are good enough for admission to a decent engineering college.
Knowing how percentiles are calculated and what rank you can expect is important to understand your position among lakhs of other students. It helps you decide whether to apply for colleges with your current score or focus on improving your marks in the next attempt.
If you are aiming for NITs, IIITs, or good state and private colleges, this article will give you a clear idea of your chances with 85 marks. You will also get tips to boost your score to 180+ in future attempts.
Read on to get accurate information and plan your next move smartly. Whether you want to secure a seat now or aim higher later, this guide will help you take the right steps forward.
What is Percentile in JEE Mains?
Percentile in JEE Mains is a way to compare a student’s performance with all other students who appeared for the exam. It does not indicate absolute marks but tells how well a student has performed relative to others.
The percentile score is calculated separately for each session of the exam. The highest scorer in a session gets a 100 percentile. Other students’ percentiles depend on how many candidates scored below them.
NTA uses the following formula to calculate percentiles:
Percentile=(Number of students with scores equal to or less than yours/Total number of students in your session)×100
For example, if 1,00,000 students appeared in a session and a student scored higher than 85,000 students, their percentile would be:
(85,000/1,00,000​) × 100= 85 percentile
Since JEE Mains is conducted in multiple sessions, scores are normalized. If one session is easier than another, NTA adjusts the scores to ensure fairness.
Each session has a different level of difficulty. If a student appears in an easy session, more students may score high, which can lower the percentile for a given score. On the other hand, if a session is difficult, fewer students score high, which increases the percentile for the same score.
The normalization process ensures that students from tougher sessions are not at a disadvantage. However, percentile variations between sessions still exist.
Expected Percentile for 85 Marks in JEE Mains
Students scoring around 85 marks in JEE Mains can expect a percentile between 85 and 90. The exact percentile depends on:
- The overall difficulty level of the exam.
- The number of students appearing in the session.
- The performance of other students in the same session.
- Session Differences
JEE Main 80 Marks vs Percentile
| Marks | Expected Percentile |
| 90+ marks | 91.2+ percentile |
| 88+ marks | 90.8+ percentile |
| 86+ marks | 90.25+ percentile |
| 84+ marks | 89.85+ percentile |
| 82+ marks | 89.6+ percentile |
| 80+ marks | 89.3+ percentile |
| 78+ marks | 89+ percentile |
| 76+ marks | 88.35+ percentile |
| 74+ marks | 87.5+ percentile |
| 72+ marks | 86.7+ percentile |
| 70+ marks | 86+ percentile |
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 |
If a student takes JEE Mains in a session where the paper is relatively easy, the percentile for 85 marks may be around 85 percentile. In a tougher session, the same marks may lead to a percentile closer to 88.
Since the JEE Mains percentile is based on relative performance, small variations in difficulty affect percentile significantly.
Factors Affecting Rank in JEE Mains
1) Impact of Session and Normalization: Since JEE Mains is conducted in multiple sessions, each session’s difficulty level varies. The normalization process ensures fairness, but there are still small percentile differences between sessions.
2) Exam Difficulty and Candidate Performance: If a particular exam shift is tougher, students scoring 85 marks may get a higher percentile. If the shift is easier, the percentile may be lower.
3) Performance Differentiation Among Top-Scoring Candidates: In JEE Mains, students scoring above 180 marks are tightly packed in percentile rankings. But for those scoring under 100 marks, the percentile differences between small marks variations are more significant. A 5-mark difference in the 80-90 mark range can lead to percentile changes of 2-3 percent.
Preparation Tips to Get 180+ Marks in JEE Mains
Preparing for JEE Mains is a challenging yet rewarding journey. With the right strategy and consistent effort, you can improve your score and increase your chances of getting a higher percentile. Here are some practical tips that will help you maximize your preparation and perform better in the exam:
1) Understand the Syllabus and Exam Pattern
Before diving into your preparation, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of the JEE Mains syllabus and exam pattern. The exam tests your knowledge in three main subjects: Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Each subject has specific chapters and topics that are regularly asked in the exam. Familiarizing yourself with the syllabus will help you prioritize your studies and avoid wasting time on irrelevant topics.
The exam is divided into two parts:
JEE Main 2025 Exam Pattern for Paper 1 (B.E/B.Tech)
| Particulars | Details |
| Exam Mode | Computer-based examination |
| JEE Main exam duration | 3 hours |
| Language of Examination | English, Hindi, Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Marathi, Malayalam, Odisha, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu. |
| Type of Questions | Multiple choice questions (MCQs)Questions with numerical values as answers |
| No. of Sections | There are three sections:MathematicsPhysicsChemistry |
| JEE Main Total questions | Mathematics: 25 (20+5) 5 Questions with answers as a numerical value. All 5 questions are compulsory.Physics: 25 (20+5) 5 Questions with answers as a numerical value. All 5 questions are compulsory.Chemistry: 25 (20+5) 5 Questions with answers as a numerical value. All 5 questions are compulsory.Total: 75 Questions (25 questions each) |
| How many marks in JEE Main | 300 Marks (100 marks for each section) |
| JEE Mains negative marking | MCQs: Four marks will be awarded for each correct answer and there will be a negative marking of one mark on each wrong answer.Questions with numerical value answers: Candidates will be given four marks for each correct answer and there will be a negative marking of 1 mark for each wrong answer. |
JEE Main 2025 Exam Pattern Paper 2
| Particulars | Details |
| Mode of Exam | Computer-based examination except for Drawing section in B.Arch (Pen & Paper based mode) |
| Language | English, Hindi, Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Marathi, Malayalam, Odia, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu. |
| Exam Duration | Three hours |
| No. of Sections | B.Arch (Paper 2A):Part 1 – MathematicsPart 2 – Aptitude testPart 3 – Drawing testB.Plan (Paper 2B):MathematicsAptitude testPlanning tests (MCQs) |
| Type of Questions | B.Arch -Mathematics: MCQs and questions with numerical value as answersAptitude- Multiple- choice questionsDrawing- Drawing aptitudeB.Planning-Mathematics- MCQs, and questions with numerical value as answersAptitude- MCQs (Multiple choice questions)Planning- MCQs (Multiple choice questions) |
| JEE Mains total questions | B.Arch: 75+2 (Drawing test) QuestionsB.Plan: 100 Questions |
| Total Marks in JEE Mains 2025 paper 2A | 400 Marks |
| JEE Mains Marking Scheme | MCQs: +4 marks for each correct answer and -1 mark for each wrong answer.Questions with numerical value answers: +4 marks for each correct answer and -1 for each wrong answer.Drawing Test: Two questions are evaluated out of 100 marks. |
Know the weightage of each chapter within each subject and plan your study schedule accordingly. For example, in Mathematics, topics like Calculus, Algebra, and Coordinate Geometry often carry more weight, so spend extra time mastering these areas.
2) Practice Regularly with Mock Tests
Mock tests are one of the most effective ways to prepare for JEE Mains. They simulate the actual exam environment and help you get used to the pattern, time constraints, and types of questions asked. Regular mock tests improve your problem-solving speed and accuracy, which is crucial for performing well on exam day.
When you take a mock test, aim for quality, not just quantity. After each test, thoroughly analyze your mistakes and understand why you got them wrong. This will help you avoid making similar errors in the future. Additionally, solving mock papers helps you assess your progress and adjust your preparation strategy as needed.
Best Resource for Practising Mock Tests
To enhance your mock test experience, we highly recommend the Phodu Club’s JEE Main Test Series. The Phodu Club Test Series is designed by experts to give students the most realistic mock test experience, closely resembling the actual JEE Mains exam pattern. With comprehensive question banks, detailed solutions, and thorough performance analytics, this test series ensures that you are fully prepared for the exam day.
3) Focus on Conceptual Clarity
JEE Mains is not a test of rote memorization, but rather of deep understanding. Focus on building a strong conceptual foundation in all three subjects. If you understand the concepts clearly, you’ll find it easier to solve even the most complex problems.
For example, in Physics, it’s essential to understand the fundamental principles behind topics like Mechanics, Thermodynamics, and Electricity. Similarly, in Chemistry, mastering concepts like Chemical Bonding and Organic Chemistry is key. In Mathematics, ensure you grasp the fundamental principles behind areas like Trigonometry and Calculus.
Once the concepts are clear, solving problems becomes easier and faster. Don’t rush through topics—take time to really understand the “why” and “how” behind each problem.
4) Solve Previous Year Papers
One of the best ways to prepare for JEE Mains is by solving previous years’ question papers. These papers give you an insight into the pattern and difficulty level of the exam. They also help you become familiar with the types of questions that are frequently asked.
By solving at least the last five years’ worth of JEE Mains papers, you can identify recurring question patterns and important topics that are often tested. This will guide you in focusing your preparation on the areas that are more likely to appear in the exam.
5) Time Management and Revision
Time management is crucial when preparing for JEE Mains. You have a limited number of months or weeks before the exam, and it’s important to make the most of your time. Create a realistic timetable that allocates sufficient time for each subject while factoring in breaks and revision.
Don’t neglect the importance of revision. Revisiting important formulas, concepts, and tricky problems on a regular basis will reinforce your understanding. Set aside dedicated time for revision in your study schedule—this will help you retain the material you’ve learned and ensure that you don’t forget key concepts right before the exam.
To manage your time better during the exam, practice solving questions under timed conditions. This will improve your ability to allocate time wisely and avoid spending too long on any one question.
6) Use the Right Study Material
It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the number of study materials available in the market. Stick to a few trusted sources that are known for their quality content.
Best Physics Books for JEE Mains
| Best Physics Book for JEE Main | Book will be best for |
| NCERT for Class XI and XII | Fundamental concepts and understanding of theory |
| Concepts of physics (Vol. 1 and 2) by H.C Verma | Quality problems on all topics |
| Fundamentals of Physics by Halliday, Resnick & walker | Concepts of all the topics |
| Understanding Physics by D C Pandey (Arihant Publications): Set of books forElectricity & MagnetismMechanics (Vol. 1 & 2)Optics & Modern PhysicsWaves & Thermodynamics | Explanation, Derivation and question set of quality solved/unsolved problems |
| Problems in General Physics by I.E Irodov | Practicing problems |
| Understanding physics by Freedman and Young | Explanation, theory of all topics |
| Problems in physics by SS Krotov | Practicing problems |
| Problems and solution of Physics by Shashi Bhushan Tiwari | For practising problems and studying detailed solutions. |
Best Chemistry Books for JEE Mains
| Name of the book and author | Book will be best for |
| NCERT Textbooks (for Class XI and XII ) | Fundamentals of the JEE Main 2025 chemistry topics |
| Modern Approach to Chemical Calculations by R.C. Mukherjee | For practice of solving Physical Chemistry Numericals |
| Organic Chemistry by O P Tandon | Good explanation of topics |
| Concept of Physical Chemistry by P Bahadur | Good explanation and set of quality problems |
| Concise Inorganic Chemistry by J D Lee | Good reference book on Inorganic Chemistry |
| Physical Chemistry by P.W. Atkins | Refer to this book once you are done with the above books or want to practice more |
| Organic Chemistry by Morrison & Boyd | Refer to this book once you are done with the above books or want to practice more |
Best Math Books for JEE Mains
| Name of the book and author | Book will be best for |
| NCERT Books for Class XI and XII | Contains fundamental concepts |
| Objective Mathematics by R D Sharma | Basics of every topic |
| Plane Trigonometry by S L Loney | Trigonometry |
| The Elements Of Coordinate Geometry by S L Loney | Coordinate Geometry |
| Algebra by Dr S K Goyal Arihant Publications | Algebra |
| Play with Graphs by Amit M Agarwal (Arihant Publications) | For solving problems |
| Differential Calculus by Amit M Agarwal (Arihant Publications) | Calculus |
| Integral Calculus by Amit M Agarwal (Arihant Publications) | Calculus |
| Complete mathematics for JEE Main TMH | For an explanation of topics |
Additionally, online platforms such as Khan Academy, Phodu Club and youtube channels offer excellent study material and practice questions for JEE preparation.
7) Stay Healthy and Take Care of Your Mental Well-being
Lastly, don’t forget to take care of your physical and mental health during your preparation. The stress of JEE Mains preparation can take a toll on your well-being, and it’s important to stay balanced.
- Exercise: Physical activity can help reduce stress and keep you energized. Even a short walk or a 20-minute workout every day can boost your mood and productivity.
- Sleep: Aim for at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night. Sleep is essential for memory consolidation and concentration.
- Stay Positive: Keep a positive mindset throughout your preparation. It’s natural to feel anxious at times, but remember that consistency and effort are key to achieving your goal.
8) Stay Consistent and Motivated
Consistency is the secret to success in JEE Mains preparation. It’s easy to get distracted or lose motivation, especially during long study sessions. However, staying consistent with your efforts, no matter how small they may seem, will lead to steady progress.
Set small, achievable goals for each week. Celebrate your successes, even if they are minor, to keep yourself motivated. Remind yourself regularly of your end goal—getting into your dream college—and let that drive your daily efforts.
Conclusion
Scoring 85 marks in JEE Mains can place you in the 85 to 90 percentile range, with a rank between 1,30,000 and 1,60,000. While this may not be enough for top NITs or IIITs, you still have good options in newer NITs, state engineering colleges, and private universities.
If you belong to a reserved category like OBC, SC, or ST, your chances improve further due to lower cutoffs and category ranks.
However, if you aim for top colleges or better branches like CSE, ECE, or Mechanical, you need to work on improving your score. With the right study plan, practice, and focus on NCERT and mock tests, it is possible to score 180+ in future attempts.
Do not feel discouraged if you did not get your desired result this time. Use this experience as a learning step. With dedication and smart preparation, you can achieve a much better score in your next attempt and secure admission to your dream college.
Stay positive, keep practicing, and success will follow.
