The Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) is one of India’s most prestigious engineering entrance exams. For candidates aiming to secure a spot in the prestigious Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), qualifying for JEE Advanced is a significant milestone. However, before advancing to JEE Advanced, candidates must first clear JEE Mains. Understanding the minimum marks in JEE Mains to qualify for JEE Advanced is crucial for all aspirants. This article will provide you with an in-depth analysis of the qualification criteria, the differences between JEE Mains and JEE Advanced, the cutoff trends, and tips to ensure eligibility.
Why JEE Mains Cutoff Matters for JEE Advanced
JEE Mains serves as the first stage in the selection process for admission to IITs, NITs, IIITs, and other top engineering institutes. To appear for JEE Advanced, candidates must first meet the JEE Mains qualification marks. These marks act as a filter, determining whether you have the potential to take the more advanced exam. Therefore, knowing the cutoff marks for JEE Mains is essential for strategic preparation and achieving your goal of entering IIT.
What Is JEE Mains? What Is JEE Advanced?
Both JEE Mains and JEE Advanced are national-level exams conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) and the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) for admission to various undergraduate engineering programs. However, there are notable differences between the two.
- JEE Mains: This is the initial qualifying exam, held twice a year (January and April). It tests candidates on Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, based on the NCERT syllabus.
- JEE Advanced: This is the second stage, conducted by one of the IITs. It is a more difficult exam and is the gateway for admission to the IITs.
Differences in Structure and Difficulty: JEE Mains is designed to assess a candidate’s fundamental understanding, while JEE Advanced focuses on more complex problem-solving skills and concepts.
Role of JEE Advanced for IIT Admissions: Only those who qualify in JEE Mains are eligible to appear for JEE Advanced. The performance in JEE Advanced plays a direct role in admission to IITs.
Who Sets the Minimum Marks to Qualify for JEE Advanced?
The minimum marks required to qualify for JEE Advanced are set by the National Testing Agency (NTA) and the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). These marks are not fixed and may vary each year depending on several factors such as:
- The total number of candidates appearing for the exam
- The difficulty level of JEE Mains
- The overall performance of the candidates
- The reservation policies and category-wise quotas
The qualifying marks for JEE Advanced are determined after analyzing these factors, ensuring a fair selection process for all candidates.
JEE Mains Qualifying Marks vs. Admission Cutoff: Know the Difference
Many students confuse the qualifying marks with the admission cutoff. It’s essential to understand the difference between the two:
- Qualifying Marks: These are the marks required to qualify for JEE Advanced, allowing you to appear for the next stage of the exam.
- Admission Cutoff: This refers to the minimum marks required for admission to specific IITs, NITs, or IIITs. It may vary based on the college, branch, and category.
In simple terms, meeting the qualifying marks doesn’t guarantee admission but only ensures that you are eligible to appear for JEE Advanced.
Category-Wise Minimum Marks in JEE Mains to Qualify for JEE Advanced (Latest Year)
Here are the minimum qualifying marks in JEE Mains for JEE Advanced, categorized by each group for the most recent year (2025).
| Category | Minimum Marks in JEE Mains (2025) |
| General | 90 |
| OBC-NCL | 70 |
| SC | 50 |
| ST | 50 |
| EWS | 75 |
| PwD (Persons with Disability) | 40 |
These are the minimum marks you must secure to be eligible for JEE Advanced qualification marks. Ensure that you’re aware of these thresholds to properly plan your preparation strategy.
Trend Analysis: JEE Mains Cutoff Marks Over the Years
Over the past few years, the cutoff marks for JEE Mains have fluctuated due to changes in exam patterns, number of applicants, and difficulty levels. Here’s a line graph/table illustrating the trends over the last five years.
| Year | General | EWS | OBC-NCL | SC | ST | PwD |
| 2021 | 87.89 | 66.22 | 68.02 | 46.88 | 34.67 | 0.0096 |
| 2022 | 88.41 | 63.11 | 67.00 | 43.08 | 26.77 | 0.0031 |
| 2023 | 90.78 | 75.62 | 73.61 | 51.98 | 37.23 | 0.0014 |
| 2024 | 93.24 | 81.33 | 79.68 | 60.09 | 46.70 | 0.0019 |
| 2025 | 93.10 | 80.38 | 79.43 | 61.15 | 47.90 | 0.0079 |
- General Category: The cutoff has steadily increased from 87.89 in 2021 to 93.10 in 2025, indicating rising competition and possibly higher exam difficulty levels.
- EWS Category: A significant rise from 66.22 in 2021 to 80.38 in 2025, reflecting the growing number of applicants and their performance levels.
- OBC-NCL Category: A consistent upward trend, with the cutoff moving from 68.02 in 2021 to 79.43 in 2025.
- SC and ST Categories: Both categories have seen gradual increases, with SC moving from 46.88 in 2021 to 61.15 in 2025, and ST from 34.67 in 2021 to 47.90 in 2025.
- PwD Category: The cutoff has remained low but slightly increased, from 0.0096 in 2021 to 0.0079 in 2025.
This trend underscores the importance of targeted preparation to meet the evolving cutoff requirements.
Factors Affecting the Minimum Marks for JEE Advanced Qualification
Several factors influence the minimum marks required for JEE Advanced qualification:
- Number of Applicants: As more students appear for JEE Mains, the cutoff may rise.
- Difficulty Level of the Exam: A more difficult exam can lead to a lower cutoff, as fewer students will be able to score high marks.
- Performance of Candidates: If the overall performance is better, the cutoff will tend to increase.
- Reservation Policies: The reservation system in India, including categories like OBC, SC, ST, and PwD, affects the cutoff marks.
These factors should be taken into account while preparing for JEE Mains, as they can directly impact the cutoff.
How Many Students Qualify for JEE Advanced Every Year?
Every year, around top 2.5 lakh candidates who meet the JEE Mains cutoff qualify to appear for JEE Advanced. The number may vary slightly based on the year, but it gives you an idea of the level of competition. This is why understanding the JEE Advanced qualifying marks is so important for setting realistic goals.
Can You Qualify for JEE Advanced with Low JEE Mains Marks?
Yes, it is possible. Candidates who fall under reserved categories such as SC, ST, OBC, or PwD may qualify with relatively lower marks compared to the general category. This is due to category-specific cutoff marks. However, achieving higher marks is always recommended for a better chance of securing your desired college.
What Happens After You Qualify for JEE Advanced?
Once you meet the qualifying marks for JEE Advanced, you can proceed with the registration process for the JEE Advanced exam. This includes:
- Registration: Candidates need to register for JEE Advanced by filling out the online application.
- Exam Pattern: The exam is typically conducted in two papers (Paper 1 and Paper 2) with multiple-choice questions and numerical problems.
- Timeline Overview: After qualifying, candidates will be given a specific timeline for registration, exam dates, and result declaration.
Tips to Score Above JEE Mains Cutoff and Secure Eligibility
- Subject-Wise Tips: Focus on mastering key topics in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Prioritize areas like Mechanics, Organic Chemistry, and Calculus.
- Mock Tests and Time Management: Regular mock tests and time management strategies will help you practice under exam conditions.
- NCERT + Coaching Materials: Following NCERT textbooks is essential for building a strong foundation. Additionally, specialized coaching classes like SPM & Lalans Classes can provide in-depth knowledge and exam strategies.
Coaching or Self-Study: What Helps Clear JEE Mains Cutoff?
While self-study is essential, coaching institutes like SPM & Lalans Classes offer structured learning, regular assessments, and expert guidance. With a comprehensive coaching program, you will receive personalized attention and strategies to improve weak areas, ensuring you meet the JEE Advanced qualification marks.
Mistakes to Avoid While Preparing for JEE Mains Cutoff
- Ignoring Mock Analysis: Don’t just take mock tests; thoroughly analyze your performance.
- Neglecting Weak Areas: Focus more on subjects or topics where you struggle.
- Underestimating NCERT: NCERT forms the base for JEE Mains and should be studied thoroughly.
FAQs: Minimum Marks in JEE Mains for JEE Advanced Qualification
What if I just meet the cutoff?
Meeting the cutoff makes you eligible for JEE Advanced, but to secure admission to IITs, aim for higher marks to increase your chances.
Do percentile and marks both matter?
Yes. Percentile indicates your rank, but the marks required for JEE Advanced qualification must meet the cutoff.
How to prepare if I’m targeting next year?
Start early with a clear study plan, focus on weak areas, and consider joining coaching classes like SPM & Lalans for structured preparation.
Conclusion: Aim Higher Than the Minimum
While knowing the minimum marks required to qualify for JEE Advanced is crucial, it’s important to aim for higher scores to ensure a successful admission into IITs. Focus on a thorough preparation strategy, utilize resources like SPM & Lalans, and stay motivated. Success in JEE Mains and JEE Advanced is not just about meeting the cutoff but excelling to secure the best opportunities in your engineering career.
