NTA has Listed the Latest Unfair Means and Exam Rule Breaches in the JEE Main 2026 Information Brochure
The National Testing Agency (NTA) has detailed in the JEE Main 2026 Information brochure all the activities and conduct that will be considered unfair means or a violation of exam rules during the exam. Maintaining transparency and fairness in a national-level exam like the JEE Main is crucial, so it’s essential for every candidate to be aware of these rules.
In addition to the several unfair means practices and breach of examination rules laid down over the years by the National Testing Agency over the years, there are many latest unfair means practices and breach of exam rules which have been emplaced in the information bulletin of JEE Main 2026 Exam All the important points are described below.
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Here are the latest Additions to the Unfair Means and Exam Rule Violations:
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Inappropriate Communication and Behavior During the Exam
Any form of communication, whether direct or indirect, in the exam center is subject to strict penalties. This includes:
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- Talking, whispering, or communicating with someone through gestures
- Peering into another candidate’s screen
- Using information written on hands, desks, or any surface
- Assisting or receiving assistance from another candidate
All of these actions directly fall under the category of unfair means and warrant swift action.
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Methods of Sharing or Receiving Answers
NTA considers all such actions as serious violations, such as:
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- Sharing answers through hand gestures or signals
- Passing questions or answers through handwritten slips
- Reading portions written on someone else’s rough sheet or passing one’s own rough sheet.
- Passing on the rough paper with scribbling.
Such attempts compromise the credibility and fairness of the examination and are therefore strictly prohibited.
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Cheating through Digital Means
Computer-based examinations expose us to various forms of digital abuse, including:
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- Attempting to infiltrate the examination system
- Using USB, electronic devices, Bluetooth, or any other form of hidden technology
- Screen recording, taking photos, or capturing screenshots
- Using someone else’s login information or taking the examination under a false identity
- Attempting to stop, tamper with, or alter the test software or timer
- Attempting to share or leak a digital copy of the question paper
The NTA considers all of these activities to be extremely serious offenses and has prescribed strict penalties.
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Possession of Multiple Application Numbers
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- If a candidate is found to have more than one application number or score card, they will be immediately placed under the unfair means category.
- This rule applies at any stage of the examination—application, examination, results, or counseling.
- In such circumstances, the candidate may face strict action, even if this fact is discovered later.
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Falsifying or Submitting False Documents
According to the NTA, the following actions are also clearly violations of the examination rules:
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- Altering or uploading a disability certificate, medical certificate, or any official document
- Submitting fake or tampered documents
The NTA regularly conducts verification procedures to ensure the authenticity of documents, and punitive action is mandatory if found to be inaccurate.
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Other Usual Unfair Means Practices and Breach of Examination Rules
- Possessing or using any item or material in the examination hall that is prohibited by the examination agency or that could be used for unfair means. This includes stationery, communication devices, mobile phones, Bluetooth, smart watches, calculators, electronic devices, accessories, or any other material, whether or not related to the examination.
- Impersonating someone else to appear in the examination (impersonation) or preparing materials for cheating. Similarly, assisting other candidates in unfair means, or attempting to obtain or provide assistance of any kind.
- Contacting or attempting to contact anyone other than examination staff at the examination centre during the examination.
- Intimidating or threatening any official involved in the conduct of the examination or any other candidate.
- Using or attempting to use any unfair means or method in any examination-related activity.
- Falsely locking, forging, or creating fake documents, online or physical, such as admit cards, self-declaration forms, score cards, Aadhaar cards, or other certificates issued by any government authority.
- Forcing entry into or attempting to leave the examination centre or examination hall outside the stipulated time.
- Using or attempting to use any electronic device after entering the examination centre.
- Affirming or uploading a false or morphed photograph or signature on the application form, admit card, or any other form.
- Obstructing the smooth and fair conduct of the examination.
- Appearing restless, looking around, or engaging in suspicious activities during the examination.
- Having pieces of paper or any written/printed material in possession.
- All other acts classified as unfair means by the National Testing Agency (NTA).
- All such activities are punishable under the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024.
- Candidates are therefore advised to carefully read and follow every guideline issued by the NTA.
Violation of Examination Rules and Guidelines
The NTA issues examination-related guidelines from time to time. Violation of any rule, instruction, or provision may lead to the following consequences:
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- Expulsion from the examination
- Cancellation of results
- Ban from future examinations
- Legal action
Success in JEE Main 2026 is ensured not only by good preparation but also by following all examination rules. Every guideline set by the NTA is designed to maintain the fairness of the examination. Therefore, every candidate must be fully aware of these unfair practices and violations of the examination rules and maintain complete discipline during the examination.
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Aabshar Hassan QuaziAabshar H. Quazi is a seasoned education writer associated with ALLEN Career Institute, where he crafts insightful blogs on competitive exam trends, student journeys, and academic guidance. With a background in journalism, Aabshar has worked as Principal Correspondent for Hindustan Times, honing his skills in storytelling, analysis, and impactful reporting. His writing blends credibility with clarity, making complex topics accessible for students and parents alike.
