JEE Main 2026 Session 2: NTA Responds to Chemistry Answer Key Discrepancies

NTA Steps In: The "Hold Your Objections" Notice for Chemistry

If you walked out of your JEE Main Session 2 exam feeling confident, only to see "wrong" answers on your provisional key, you aren't alone. The National Testing Agency (NTA) has acknowledged reported errors in the Chemistry section. In a rare notification, the NTA has specifically advised candidates—particularly those from the April 5 afternoon shift—not to rush into filing challenges for the Chemistry paper just yet.

This "pause" suggests the agency is already aware of a technical glitch or an error in the uploaded key and is likely working on a bulk correction. This could save students thousands in non-refundable challenge fees, as a single error can cost ₹200 to contest.

Key Timeline for Session 2 Updates

What Should You Do Now?

The first step is to download your individual response sheet and the provisional answer key from the official NTA portal. Check your Chemistry answers carefully, but if you see discrepancies that align with the widely reported errors, wait for the NTA's updated notice before paying for a challenge.

Remember, the "Provisional" key is exactly that—subject to change. If the NTA’s experts agree with the discrepancies, they will release a "Final Answer Key" where questions might be "dropped" or have multiple correct options. If a question is dropped, marks are typically awarded to all candidates who appeared in that shift, regardless of whether they challenged it.

How the Challenge Process Works

Experts note that Chemistry discrepancies often stem from subtle NCERT interpretations. If you find a clear error, ensure your "proof" is a direct scan from an official textbook rather than a handwritten note.

Final Word

Don't panic about your percentile just yet. Discrepancies are a standard part of the process, and the NTA's early acknowledgement is actually a good sign for transparency. Keep an eye on the official site for the "Final Answer Key," which will be released alongside your results by April 20. Use this time to plan for JEE Advanced instead of stressing over a key that's still being fixed.