JEE Main is one of the most competitive engineering entrance exams in India, attracting lakhs of students every year. Every aspirant dreams of topping this exam, and achieving JEE Main 2026 AIR 1 is considered the ultimate goal. While the competition is tough, the right preparation, strategy, and consistency can make it possible to reach the top. Understanding how previous toppers approached the exam can give you valuable insights for your own journey.
In this blog, we will take a closer look at JEE Main 2026 AIR 1, including the topper’s score, study strategy, and preparation plan. We will also review the previous years’ AIR 1 toppers, their marks, and the methods they followed to succeed. By learning from these insights, you can design a smart and focused plan to maximize your chances of achieving top rank in JEE Main 2026.
JEE Main 2026 AIR 1 – Score & Details
The National Testing Agency (NTA) declared the results for JEE Main 2026 Session 1 on February 16, 2026. In this session, 12 candidates achieved a perfect NTA Score of 100 percentile in Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech.). Note that the final All India Rank (AIR) will be determined after considering the best of the two sessions. The perfect scorers demonstrate exceptional preparation and consistency. Below is the list of candidates who scored 100 NTA percentile, along with their states (based on eligibility):
| Name | State | NTA Score |
| SHREYAS MISHRA | DELHI (NCT) | 100.0000000 |
| NARENDRABABU GARI MAHITH | ANDHRA PRADESH | 100.0000000 |
| SHUBHAM KUMAR | BIHAR | 100.0000000 |
| KABEER CHHILLAR | RAJASTHAN | 100.0000000 |
| CHIRANJIB KAR | RAJASTHAN | 100.0000000 |
| BHAVESH PATRA | ODISHA | 100.0000000 |
| ANAY JAIN | HARYANA | 100.0000000 |
| ARNAV GAUTAM | RAJASTHAN | 100.0000000 |
| PASALA MOHITH | ANDHRA PRADESH | 100.0000000 |
| MADHAV VIRADIYA | MAHARASHTRA | 100.0000000 |
| PUROHIT NIMAY | GUJARAT | 100.0000000 |
| VIVAN SHARAD MAHISWARI | TELANGANA | 100.0000000 |
Rajasthan stands out with three perfect scorers: Kabeer Chhillar, Chiranjib Kar, and Arnav Gautam. This highlights the strong preparation ecosystem in the state, including coaching hubs like Sikar.
Last 5 Years’ AIR 1 Toppers & Their Scores
Every year, JEE Main witnesses lakhs of students competing for the top rank. While cracking the exam itself is a huge achievement, securing AIR 1 is truly exceptional. Looking at the previous years’ toppers can give you a clear idea of the scores, trends, and strategies that helped them achieve the top rank. Here’s a quick overview of AIR 1 toppers from the last 5 years along with their scores and cities.
| Year | AIR 1 Topper(s) | Total 100 Percentilers |
| 2026 (Session 1) | Multiple (Shreyas Mishra, Narendrababu Gari Mahith, Shubham Kumar, Kabeer Chhillar, Chiranjib Kar, Bhavesh Patra, Anay Jain, Arnav Gautam, Pasala Mohith, Madhav Viradiya, Purohit Nimay, Vivan Sharad Mahiswari) | 12 |
| 2025 | Om Prakash Behera | 24 |
| 2024 | Gajare Nilkrishna Nirmalkumar | 56 |
| 2023 | Singaraju Venkat Koundiya | 43 |
| 2022 | Shrenik Mohan Sakala | 24 |
Note: JEE Main AIR 1 usually scores 100 percentile, but their raw marks vary slightly depending on difficulty. For 2026, the final AIR will be based on both sessions.
Category-Wise Toppers for JEE Main 2026 Session 1
This section highlights the top-performing candidates across different categories in JEE Main 2026 Session 1. It showcases the highest NTA scorers from General, OBC-NCL, SC, ST, EWS, and PwBD categories, reflecting exceptional academic achievement and competitive excellence across all segments. Here are the top performers in various categories for Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech.):
- General Category Toppers: The 11 toppers listed (excluding the OBC-NCL one) all scored 100.0000000.
- Gen-EWS Category Topper: Shresth Jasoria (Rajasthan) – 99.9992442
- OBC-NCL Category Topper: Narendrababu Gari Mahith (Andhra Pradesh) – 100.0000000
- SC Category Topper: Deva Srivedh (Andhra Pradesh) – 99.9992271
- ST Category Topper: Daksh Sehra (Rajasthan) – 99.9938620
- PwBD Topper: Arsh Jain (Madhya Pradesh) – 99.9100843
Gender-Wise Toppers for JEE Main 2026 Session 1
This section highlights the highest-scoring candidates based on gender in JEE Main 2026 Session 1. It features the top male and female performers who achieved exceptional NTA scores and secured leading positions in the examination.
- Male Toppers: All 12 perfect scorers (listed above) – 100.0000000
- Female Topper: Ashi Grewal (Haryana) – 99.9969766
State-Wise Toppers for JEE Main 2026 Session 1
This section presents the list of state-wise toppers who secured the highest NTA scores in JEE Main 2026 Session 1. It highlights the top-performing candidates from each state, showcasing regional excellence and strong competitive performance across the country.
- Delhi (NCT): Shreyas Mishra – 100.0000000
- Andhra Pradesh: Narendrababu Gari Mahith and Pasala Mohith – 100.0000000
- Bihar: Shubham Kumar – 100.0000000
- Rajasthan: Kabeer Chhillar, Chiranjib Kar, Arnav Gautam – 100.0000000 (Top state with three perfect scorers)
- And many more, with scores ranging down to lower percentiles for smaller states.
A total of 13,55,293 candidates registered, and 13,04,653 appeared, with a 96.26% appearance rate.
Preparation Strategy of AIR 1
Every student who secures AIR 1 in JEE Main follows a smart and well-planned approach. Cracking the exam is not just about hard work, it’s about strategic preparation, regular practice, and consistency. By understanding what worked for previous toppers, you can adopt similar techniques to improve your own performance and stay ahead in the competition. Here’s a breakdown of the key JEE Main preparation strategies that helped JEE Main toppers achieve AIR 1.
Strong Basics
Topper’s success starts with clear concepts. Most focus heavily on NCERT books for Physics and Chemistry, as these form the foundation of the exam. For Maths, conceptual clarity and problem-solving skills are crucial to tackle tricky questions confidently.
Regular Practice
Solving mock tests, sample papers, and previous years’ questions is a habit all toppers follow. This helps them get familiar with exam patterns, question types, and time management, making them more confident on the exam day.
Time Management
Smart toppers plan their study time effectively, they know the importance of time in exam preparation . Toppers understand the importance of balancing between learning new topics, revising old ones, and practicing questions. They make sure each subject gets enough attention without overloading themselves.
Error Analysis
After every test, toppers carefully analyze their mistakes. They note down weak areas and revisit those topics, ensuring that the same errors are never repeated in the future.
Balanced Approach
While it’s tempting to focus on one strong subject, toppers know the importance of consistent performance across Physics, Chemistry, and Maths. A balanced approach helps in scoring high overall JEE Main percentile , which is key to securing AIR 1.
Topper’s Daily Study Routine for AIR 1
Cracking JEE Main 2026 AIR 1 requires not just hard work but also a well-structured study plan. Dividing your day into focused sessions for learning, practice, and revision can help you cover the syllabus effectively while keeping stress under control. Here’s a practical daily study plan that many toppers follow to achieve consistent results.
| Session | Duration | Focus Area | Tips & Strategy |
| Morning Session | 3–4 hours | Conceptual Learning | Focus on NCERT for Chemistry, standard reference books for Physics & Maths. Solve example problems after understanding concepts. |
| Afternoon Session | 3 hours | Practice & Revision | Solve previous year questions and practice problems. Identify weak topics and revise them thoroughly. |
| Evening Session | 2–3 hours | Mock Tests / Sectional Tests | Take mock tests or subject-wise sectional tests. Analyze mistakes carefully and redo questions you got wrong. |
| Night Session | 1–2 hours | Quick Revision | Revise formulas, key reactions, and important points. Focus on difficult topics that need more attention. |
Key Tips from Past Toppers
Cracking JEE Main AIR 1 is not just about studying hard-it’s about studying smart, staying consistent, and maintaining the right mindset. Learning from previous toppers can give you small but powerful tips that make a big difference in your preparation. Here are some key habits and strategies that toppers swear by:
1. Consistency Beats Intensity
Studying 5–6 hours every day consistently is far more effective than last-minute cramming. Small daily efforts add up and help retain concepts better.
2. Short Notes Help
Create concise notes for formulas, important reactions, and shortcuts. These notes are lifesavers during last-minute revision.
3. Stay Healthy
Regular sleep, a balanced diet, and short breaks are essential. A healthy routine in IIT JEE and NEET keeps your mind sharp and improves focus.
4. Confidence Matters
A positive mindset is crucial. Don’t let small mistakes or tough questions shake your morale-believe in your preparation and keep moving forward.
Conclusion
Achieving JEE Main 2026 AIR 1 may seem like a distant dream, but with smart planning, consistent effort, and strategic preparation, it is absolutely possible. Learning from previous toppers, following a structured daily routine, practicing regularly, and maintaining a healthy mindset are the key elements of success. Remember, it’s not just about studying harder-it’s about studying smarter, staying disciplined, and believing in yourself. If you implement these strategies, you can maximize your chances of securing a top rank in JEE Main 2026. With Rajasthan producing three perfect scorers this session, consider exploring top coaching options in Sikar for expert guidance.
Also Read:
- JEE Main 2026 Session 1 Result
- JEE Main 2026 Session 1 Answer Key
- JEE Main 2026 Session 2 Registration
- JEE Main 2026 Marks vs Percentile vs Rank
- JEE Advanced 2026 Syllabus
FAQs
The topper typically scores 100 percentile, though raw marks may vary slightly depending on exam difficulty.
NCERT is essential for Physics and Chemistry. For Maths, standard reference books like RD Sharma, Cengage, or Arihant series are highly recommended.
6–8 hours of focused study daily, along with regular revision and practice, is sufficient if done consistently.
Coaching helps in guidance and structured practice, but self-study, consistency, and strategic planning are the real keys to achieving AIR 1.
Time management is crucial. Toppers balance between learning, revising, and practicing to ensure they cover the syllabus without burnout.
