Are you planning to get into an IIT in 2026? Then JEE Advanced is the exam you must crack. After clearing JEE Main, only the top 2.5 lakh students get the chance to appear for JEE Advanced. This exam is tough, but with the right preparation and strategy, it is possible to succeed.
JEE Advanced checks your understanding of Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. It is not just about solving questions but also about solving them correctly under time pressure. Many students feel confused about the paper pattern, total marks, and how much they need to score.
In this article, we explain everything about JEE Advanced 2025 in simple words. You will learn about the exam structure, marking scheme, qualifying marks, cutoff trends, and preparation tips. If you are serious about joining an IIT, this guide will help you stay on the right track and avoid common mistakes.
JEE Advanced 2025 Exam Structure & Total Marks
The JEE Advanced 2025 exam is the final step for students who want to join the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). The exam is designed to test how well you understand the core concepts of Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. The structure of the exam may vary slightly every year, but the basic format remains the same.
Although the exact pattern is not fixed, students can refer to the previous year’s exam structure to understand what to expect. The overall format has remained mostly consistent in recent years. Knowing the pattern helps in better planning and preparation. Here is a simple table showing the basic details of the exam:
| Particulars | Details |
| Mode of the Examination | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Medium of the Exam | English and Hindi |
| Number of Papers | 2 (Paper 1 and Paper 2, both are mandatory) |
| Duration | 3 hours per paper (4 hours for PwD) |
| Number of Sections | 3 sections per paper (PCM in both papers) |
| Total Questions | 54 questions per paper (18 per subject) |
| Total Marks | 360 marks (180 in each paper) |
Each paper contains three sections: Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. You must attempt both Paper 1 and Paper 2 to be considered for ranking.
JEE Advanced 2025 Total Marks and Subject Weightage
Each subject has equal weightage in the exam. The total marks are 360, with 180 marks in each paper. Each subject carries 120 marks overall (60 marks in each paper).
| Subject | Paper 1 Marks | Paper 2 Marks | Total Marks |
| Physics | 60 | 60 | 120 |
| Chemistry | 60 | 60 | 120 |
| Mathematics | 60 | 60 | 120 |
| Total | 180 | 180 | 360 |
Students should give equal attention to all three subjects while preparing.
JEE Advanced 2025 Marking Scheme
The marking scheme in JEE Advanced is different from other exams. It includes full marks, partial marks, zero marks, and negative marks depending on the type of question. The scheme is slightly different for Paper 1 and Paper 2.
Paper 1: JEE Advanced 2025 Marking Scheme
| Section | Number of Questions | Total Marks | Marking Scheme |
| 1 | 4 | 12 | +3 for correct answer, 0 if unanswered, -1 for incorrect |
| 2 | 3 | 12 | +4 for all correct options+3 for 3 correct out of 4+2 for 2 correct+1 for 1 correct0 if unanswered-2 for incorrect |
| 3 | 6 | 24 | +4 for correct answer, 0 if unanswered, no negative marking |
| 4 | 4 | 12 | +3 for correct answer, 0 if unanswered, -1 for incorrect |
This pattern encourages accuracy. Guessing may lead to negative marks, especially in sections with penalties.
Paper 2: JEE Advanced 2025 Marking Scheme
| Section | Number of Questions | Total Marks | Marking Scheme |
| 1 | 4 | 12 | +3 for correct answer, 0 if unanswered, -1 for incorrect |
| 2 | 3 | 12 | +4 for all correct options+3 for 3 correct+2 for 2 correct+1 for 1 correct0 if unanswered-2 for incorrect |
| 3 | 6 | 24 | +4 for correct answer, 0 if unanswered, no negative marks |
| 4 | 4 | 12 | +3 for correct answer, 0 if unanswered, no negative marks |
Both papers use a mix of question types such as:
- MCQs with single correct answer
- MCQs with multiple correct answers
- Numerical value questions
- Match-the-following type questions
Important Points to Remember
- Attempt both papers to qualify for a rank.
- Read instructions for each section carefully before attempting.
- Some sections give partial marks, so even a partly correct answer may fetch you some marks.
- Numerical questions are a good scoring opportunity as they usually have no negative marks.
- Use your time wisely. Each paper is 3 hours long, so plan how much time you will give to each subject and each question.
Understanding the exam pattern and marking scheme is the first step in your JEE Advanced preparation. Practice similar question types and focus on accuracy and time management to improve your chances of getting a good score.
JEE Advanced Previous Year Exam Pattern (2024 and 2023)
Understanding the previous year’s paper pattern is very important for students preparing for JEE Advanced 2025. Even though the JEE Advanced exam does not follow a fixed format every year, the structure remains similar. By checking how questions were framed in the past, students can plan their preparation better.
Let us now look at the exam pattern for JEE Advanced 2024 and 2023 for both Paper 1 and Paper 2. These patterns will give you a clear idea of the types of questions, marking schemes, and section-wise marks.
JEE Advanced Exam Pattern 2024
In 2024, the exam had three sections. Each section tested different question formats like numerical-based, multiple-correct options, and match-the-following types.
| Section | Type of Questions | Marking Scheme | Maximum Marks |
| 1 | 8 Numerical Value Questions (answers correct to 2 decimal places) | +3 for correct answer0 in all other cases | 24 |
| 2 | 6 Multiple Correct Options (more than one correct) | +4 if all correct options chosen+3 if 4 correct, but only 3 marked+2 if 2 correct options marked out of 3++1 if 1 correct marked0 if unattempted-2 for wrong attempts | 24 |
| 3 | 4 Match-the-Following Questions | +3 for all correct matches0 if unattempted-1 for incorrect attempts | 12 |
These sections tested deep understanding of concepts. The numerical questions required precise calculations, while the multiple-correct and matching questions needed careful thinking.
JEE Advanced Exam Pattern – Paper 1 (2023)
In 2023 Paper 1, there were three sections: single correct MCQs, multiple correct options, and numerical value questions.
| Section | Question Type | Number of Questions | Marking Scheme | Maximum Marks |
| 1 | Single Correct Option | 6 | +3 if correct0 if unattempted-1 in all other cases | 18 |
| 2 | One or More Correct Options | 6 | +4 for all correct+3 for 3 correct out of 4+2 for 2 correct out of 3++1 for 1 correct out of 2+0 if unattempted-2 for wrong | 24 |
| 3 | Numerical Value Answer | 6 | +4 if correct0 in all other casesNo negative marking | 24 |
This paper focused on accuracy and concept clarity. Students had to solve problems without making guesses, especially in multiple-correct type questions.
JEE Advanced Exam Pattern – Paper 2 (2023)
Paper 2 in 2023 also had three sections but with different types of questions including single-digit integers and numerical values.
| Section | Question Type | Number of Questions | Marking Scheme | Maximum Marks |
| 1 | MCQs (One or More Correct Options) | 6 | +4 if all correct+3 if 3 out of 4 correct+2 if 2 correct+1 if 1 correct0 if unattempted-2 for incorrect combinations | 24 |
| 2 | Numerical Value Answer | 6 | +4 if correct0 if unattemptedNo negative marks | 24 |
| 3 | Single-digit Integer Type (Answer: 0–9) | 6 | +3 if correct0 if unattempted-1 for incorrect answers | 18 |
This paper also checked problem-solving speed and attention to detail. Students had to be accurate while working with numbers and selecting options.
Comparison of 2023 and 2024 JEE Advanced Papers
| Year | Paper | Question Types Included | Negative Marking | Max Marks |
| 2023 | Paper 1 | Single correct, multiple correct, numerical | Yes (-1, -2) | 66 |
| 2023 | Paper 2 | Multiple correct, numerical, single-digit int. | Yes (-1, -2) | 66 |
| 2024 | Paper 1 | Numerical value, multiple correct, match-type | Yes (-1, -2) | 60 |
Studying the previous year’s exam patterns helps you know what to expect and how to prepare. Make sure to solve previous year papers under timed conditions. This will help improve your speed, accuracy, and confidence for JEE Advanced 2025.
JEE Advanced 2025 Qualifying Marks & Cutoffs
To be included in the rank list, students must score a minimum percentage in each subject and overall. These marks vary by category.
Minimum marks to qualify JEE Advanced 2025
| Rank List | Minimum Marks in Each Subject | Minimum Aggregate Marks |
| Common Rank List (CRL) | 7 | 74 |
| OBC-NCL Rank List | 6 | 66 |
| GEN-EWS Rank List | 6 | 66 |
| SC Rank List | 3 | 37 |
| ST Rank List | 3 | 37 |
| Common-PwD Rank List (CRL-PwD) | 3 | 37 |
| OBC-NCL-PwD Rank List | 3 | 37 |
| GEN-EWS-PwD Rank List | 3 | 37 |
| SC-PwD Rank List | 3 | 37 |
| ST-PwD Rank List | 3 | 37 |
| Preparatory Course (PC) Rank List | 1 | 18 |
Minimum marks to qualify JEE Advanced 2024
| Rank List | Minimum Marks in Each Subject | Minimum Aggregate Marks |
| Common rank list (CRL) | 9 | 97 |
| GEN-EWS rank list | 8 | 88 |
| OBC-NCL rank list | 8 | 88 |
| SC rank list | 5 | 56 |
| ST rank list | 5 | 56 |
| Common-PwD rank list (CRL-PwD) | 5 | 56 |
| GEN-EWS-PwD rank list | 5 | 56 |
| OBC-NCL-PwD rank list | 5 | 56 |
| SC-PwD rank list | 5 | 56 |
| ST-PwD rank list | 5 | 56 |
| Preparatory course rank lists | 3 | 31 |
Minimum marks to qualify JEE Advanced 2023
| Rank List | Minimum Marks in Each Subject | Minimum Aggregate Marks |
| Common rank list (CRL) | 8 | 86 |
| OBC-NCL rank list | 7 | 77 |
| GEN-EWS rank list | 7 | 77 |
| SC rank list | 4 | 43 |
| ST rank list | 4 | 43 |
| Common-PwD rank list (CRL-PwD) | 4 | 43 |
| OBC-NCL-PwD rank list | 4 | 43 |
| GEN-EWS-PwD rank list | 4 | 43 |
| SC-PwD rank list | 4 | 43 |
| ST-PwD rank list | 4 | 43 |
| Preparatory course (PC) rank lists | 2 | 22 |
Minimum marks to qualify JEE Advanced 2022
| Rank List | Minimum Marks in EachSubject | Minimum AggregateMarks |
| Common rank list (CRL) | 5 | 55 |
| OBC-NCL rank list | 5 | 50 |
| GEN-EWS rank list | 5 | 50 |
| SC rank list | 3 | 28 |
| ST rank list | 3 | 28 |
| Common-PwD rank list (CRL-PwD) | 3 | 28 |
| OBC-NCL-PwD rank list | 3 | 28 |
| GEN-EWS-PwD rank list | 3 | 28 |
| SC-PwD rank list | 3 | 28 |
| ST-PwD rank list | 3 | 28 |
| Preparatory course (PC) rank lists | 1 | 14 |
Minimum marks to qualify JEE Advanced 2021
| Rank List | Minimum Marks inEach Subject | Minimum AggregateMarks |
| Common rank list (CRL) | 6 | 63 |
| OBC-NCL rank list | 5 | 56 |
| GEN-EWS rank list | 5 | 56 |
| SC rank list | 3 | 31 |
| ST rank list | 3 | 31 |
| Common-PwD rank list (CRL-PwD) | 3 | 31 |
| OBC-NCL-PwD rank list | 3 | 31 |
| GEN-EWS-PwD rank list | 3 | 31 |
| SC-PwD rank list | 3 | 31 |
| ST-PwD rank list | 3 | 31 |
| Preparatory course (PC) rank lists | 0 | 9 |
JEE Advanced Step-by-Step Preparation Strategy
Preparing for the IIT JEE exams requires a strategic approach, dedication, and hard work. The process can be overwhelming, especially considering the vast syllabus and the intense competition. However, by following a well-structured preparation plan, you can stay on track and optimize your chances of success. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you prepare effectively for JEE Main and JEE Advanced.
1) Early Preparation (Class 11 & 12 Students)
One of the biggest mistakes many students make is leaving their preparation until the last minute. Starting early is essential for better understanding and retention of concepts. Ideally, you should begin preparing for JEE during Class 11, as this gives you ample time to cover the syllabus and revise thoroughly before the exams. The Class 11 syllabus is foundational, and many topics will reappear in Class 12. Therefore, a solid grasp of Class 11 concepts will make Class 12 easier and prevent last-minute cramming.
Balancing School Boards and JEE Prep
In India, students are expected to balance school board exams and JEE preparation. While the board exams require a different focus, the JEE syllabus overlaps with most of the Class 12 board curriculum. Managing both simultaneously is challenging but possible. To make this easier, follow a daily schedule that allows you to dedicate specific hours to JEE preparation while ensuring you complete your schoolwork. Prioritize your daily tasks and stay consistent with your routine.
Recommended Daily Study Hours
How many hours should you study? The answer depends on your current level and how much time you can dedicate to preparation. For most students, 6 to 8 hours a day for JEE preparation, in addition to school hours, is ideal. If you are in Class 11, aim to study consistently, focusing more on understanding concepts. In Class 12, you may need to increase your study hours slightly as the syllabus becomes more challenging. Ensure to take short breaks to avoid burnout.
2) Subject-Wise Breakdown
Physics: Physics is one of the most important subjects in JEE, and its understanding is crucial for both JEE Main and Advanced. The key topics in Physics include:
- Mechanics: This is the foundation of Physics, covering motion, forces, energy, and more. Focus on understanding Newton’s laws, work-energy theorem, and rotational motion.
- Electrodynamics: Important for both exams, topics like electrostatics, current electricity, and magnetism are regularly tested in JEE.
- Modern Physics: This topic is highly scoring and consists of quantum mechanics, nuclear physics, and semiconductor devices.
Problem-solving is essential in Physics, so practice regularly to develop a systematic approach. Focus on mastering the derivations and understanding the core principles behind each concept.
Chemistry: Chemistry can be divided into three branches: Physical, Organic, and Inorganic. Each has its own focus areas:
- Physical Chemistry: Topics such as mole concepts, stoichiometry, thermodynamics, and chemical kinetics are crucial. Understanding the basics will help you tackle tougher problems in JEE.
- Organic Chemistry: Focus on reaction mechanisms, functional groups, and named reactions. Practice organic reactions regularly as this section carries significant weight in both JEE Main and Advanced.
- Inorganic Chemistry: NCERT is your best friend for Inorganic Chemistry. Focus on periodic table trends, coordination compounds, and chemical bonding. While it may seem theoretical, strong conceptual clarity will help you answer questions accurately.
Make sure to refer to NCERT books as well as advanced reference materials like OP Tandon and MS Chouhan for Organic Chemistry.
Mathematics: Mathematics in JEE is often considered challenging, and its weightage is significant in both JEE Main and Advanced. The key topics include:
- Algebra: Focus on quadratic equations, progressions, and complex numbers. These topics form the backbone of many higher-level problems.
- Calculus: Limits, derivatives, integration, and differential equations are crucial for both exams.
- Coordinate Geometry: This section includes straight lines, circles, and conic sections. A clear understanding of these topics can help you score well.
Speed and accuracy are vital in Mathematics. Practice problems from multiple sources to improve your problem-solving speed and accuracy.
3) Study Plan & Time Management
A detailed study plan is essential to track your progress. Start with a yearly plan, breaking down the syllabus into months. Then, create monthly and weekly plans to break down the topics further. Your weekly plan should have a list of all the topics you aim to cover, and each day should have a dedicated time slot for revision, new learning, and problem-solving.
Importance of Consistency Over Cramming
Consistency is key to JEE success. Cramming the night before the exam may give you short-term results, but it won’t lead to long-term success. Ensure that you cover all topics consistently over the months. Focus on understanding concepts instead of memorizing them. Revising regularly is essential to retain what you learn.
How to Allocate Time for Theory, Problems, and Revision
While studying, it’s essential to strike a balance between theory, practice, and revision. Ideally, dedicate 40% of your time to learning theory, 40% to solving problems, and 20% to revision. The time spent on revision should increase as the exam approaches, especially in the final month.
4) Best Books & Resources for IIT JEE (2025)
Choosing the right books is crucial for IIT JEE preparation. Here are some of the best books for each subject:
Recommended Books for JEE 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 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 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. |
Using a mix of books and online resources will give you both conceptual clarity and practice.
Conclusion
JEE Advanced 2025 is a very important step if you want to study at an IIT. The exam is challenging, but with clear planning and regular practice, you can do well. Make sure you understand the exam pattern, total marks, and subject-wise weightage. Focus on high-scoring topics and avoid careless mistakes, especially where negative marking is involved.
Use mock tests to improve speed and accuracy. Set clear targets based on past cutoffs. Always revise important formulas and concepts regularly. Stay calm and take care of your health during preparation.
Remember, both hard work and smart work are important. If you stay focused and manage your time well, getting a good rank in JEE Advanced is possible. This article gives you the key details to plan your journey. Start early, stay consistent, and keep your goal in mind. You can achieve success with steady effort and the right guidance.
FAQs
1) Can I qualify with less than the cutoff marks?
No. You must score the minimum qualifying marks in each subject and overall to be included in the rank list.
2) How are ties in marks resolved?
If two or more students get the same marks:
- The student with higher Mathematics marks gets a higher rank.
- If still tied, higher Physics marks are considered.
- If still tied, the younger student gets a better rank.
3) Are both Paper 1 and Paper 2 compulsory?
Yes. You must appear in both Paper 1 and Paper 2. If you miss even one paper, you will not be ranked.
4) Can I bring a calculator for the exam?
No. Calculators and electronic devices are not allowed. A virtual calculator will be available on the computer screen.
5) What is the age limit for JEE Advanced?
You should have been born on or after October 1, 2000. For SC/ST/PwD candidates, the age limit is relaxed by 5 years.
