The National Testing Agency has introduced major changes in the way exam centres will be allocated for national-level entrance tests such as JEE Main, NEET UG, and CUET UG. Beginning with the 2026 examination cycle, candidates will no longer have the freedom to select their preferred test cities. Instead, centres will be allotted based on the residential address mentioned in their Aadhaar cards.

Aadhaar Address to Decide Exam City

According to the NTA, this step has been taken to prevent impersonation and enhance transparency in the examination process. Until now, candidates were allowed to choose exam cities while filling the application form, but this flexibility has now been removed. The updated rule means that a student residing in a particular town or village will be assigned a centre nearby, as per the location given on their Aadhaar card.

The agency has stressed that students must ensure the address linked to their Aadhaar is current and accurate, as no corrections will be accepted once the application process begins. Officials believe this change will make it easier to verify candidates’ identities and reduce the chances of fraudulent activity during exams.

Changes Effective from JEE Main 2026

The first national exam to implement this new rule will be the JEE Main 2026, whose Session 1 is scheduled for January 2026. Registrations for the same are expected to begin later this month. Following JEE, the revised system will be adopted for NEET UG and CUET UG examinations over the next few months.

The NTA has also urged students to review and update their Aadhaar details well in advance, as no modifications will be permitted once the application window opens. Students from different parts of the country have been advised to visit their nearest UIDAI centres to correct their personal information and address if necessary. The agency has further clarified that technical or spelling errors in Aadhaar information could lead to complications during registration.

Stricter Verification Process Introduced

Under the new guidelines, the verification process has become more stringent. Every candidate’s personal details, including name and date of birth, must match exactly between the Aadhaar card and the Class 10 marksheet. Even minor differences in spelling or date formats will be flagged by the system, potentially resulting in cancellation of the application form.

This move, according to the NTA, will ensure authenticity at every level of the examination process. The agency highlighted that in recent years, there have been reported cases of impersonation in national-level tests, prompting the need for stricter verification mechanisms. Linking data with Aadhaar is expected to minimise such risks while ensuring fair and transparent functioning.

Students Express Concerns

While the change aims at integrity and transparency, students have expressed apprehension about its practical impact. Many aspirants preparing in cities away from their native addresses fear logistical difficulties. For instance, those staying in hostels or coaching centres often have Aadhaar cards linked to their hometowns, meaning they might be required to travel long distances to attend the exams.

Several students have requested that NTA consider alternate verification methods or allow limited flexibility for those who can produce proof of current residence. Some parents have also voiced concerns that students might face mental stress and travel-related hurdles, especially those from rural backgrounds or regions with limited connectivity.

Despite the concerns, NTA officials maintain that the decision has been taken after careful assessment and that arrangements will be made to ensure fair access for all candidates. The agency is expected to release a detailed FAQ and helpline to assist students with Aadhaar-related clarifications before the registration process begins.

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