What to Do if Aadhaar Details Differ from School Records for JEE Main 2026 Registration

Facing an Aadhaar–school record mismatch while filling the JEE Main 2026 application form is a common issue — and it’s completely fixable. Consistency between the Aadhaar card and Class 10 marksheet is essential because the National Testing Agency (NTA) verifies candidate details online using the UIDAI database. Even a small difference in spelling, date of birth, or parent’s name can trigger an “Authentication Failed” error during registration.

This guide explains exactly how to resolve Aadhaar–school record mismatches, update details quickly through UIDAI, and ensure smooth verification before the JEE Main 2026 registration deadline.

Why Do Mismatches Between Aadhaar and School Records Happen?

A mismatch between Aadhaar details and school records is one of the most common problems students face during JEE Main 2026 registration. The National Testing Agency (NTA) cross-verifies the candidate’s identity with the UIDAI database, and even a small difference in details can lead to an “Aadhaar Authentication Failed” message.

These errors usually occur due to minor inconsistencies made while filling out school admission forms, Aadhaar enrolment forms, or both. Understanding the exact reason helps fix the problem quickly and ensures smooth verification.

Here are the most common causes of Aadhaar–school record mismatches:

• Spelling Variations in Name: Differences like Ankit Sharma vs Ankit K. Sharma often trigger verification errors. Always ensure the spelling on your Aadhaar card matches your Class 10 marksheet exactly.
• Inclusion or Exclusion of Middle Names or Initials: Some students use a middle name or initial in school documents but not in Aadhaar (e.g., Ankit Kumar Sharma vs Ankit Sharma). The NTA verification system reads them as separate names, causing a mismatch.
• Slight Differences in Date of Birth (DoB): A one-day or one-month error (e.g., 15 June 2008 vs 14 June 2008) can block form submission. Verify that the DoB on Aadhaar, Class 10 certificate, and school records are identical.
• Use of Initials in Parent’s Name: Short forms such as R. Kumar instead of Rajesh Kumar or S. Devi instead of Sunita Devi may result in partial name recognition errors. Always use the full name as printed on the Aadhaar card or the school certificate to avoid issues.

This small verification step can prevent form rejection, save time during correction windows, and ensure hassle-free Aadhaar validation by NTA.

What Are NTA’s Official Rules for ID Verification?

During JEE Main 2026 registration, the National Testing Agency (NTA) verifies each candidate’s identity using the details provided in the application form. According to the official JEE Main 2026 Information Bulletin, Aadhaar is the primary document for identity authentication, as it allows automatic verification through the UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India) database.

However, NTA has also clarified that Aadhaar is not mandatory. If there’s an Aadhaar–school record mismatch or the authentication fails, candidates can use other valid government-issued photo IDs to complete registration successfully.

The name, date of birth, and gender entered in the JEE Main application form must exactly match the details on the selected ID proof. Any mismatch can delay verification or lead to application rejection during scrutiny.

Accepted ID Proofs for JEE Main 2026 Registration

Candidates can use any one of the following government-issued IDs if Aadhaar authentication fails:

• Passport
• PAN Card
• Voter ID Card (EPIC)
• Bank Passbook with Photograph
• Ration Card with Photograph

NTA clearly states that all uploaded ID documents must be valid, clear, and legible. The photograph, name, and date of birth should match the details provided in the JEE Main 2026 application form.

How Can I Solve the Mismatch Before the Deadline?

A mismatch between your Aadhaar card and school records can delay or even block your JEE Main 2026 registration, so it’s crucial to act fast. There are two primary ways to fix this issue — updating Aadhaar details or correcting your school records.
The right choice depends on how much time is left before the JEE Main 2026 registration last date.

If the deadline is approaching, updating Aadhaar details is the faster and more reliable option.
If you have a few weeks or months before registration opens, you can also initiate school record correction for long-term consistency.

Should I Update My Aadhaar Details? 

When the registration deadline is near, updating your Aadhaar details is the quickest and most effective fix. NTA directly verifies candidate information with UIDAI, so once your Aadhaar is updated, the correction automatically reflects during authentication.

Here’s how to update Aadhaar quickly:

Step-by-Step Process (Online – myAadhaar Portal)

1. Visithttps://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in/
2. Log in using your Aadhaar number and OTP.
3. Select ‘Update Aadhaar Online’.
4. Choose the field to correct (Name, DoB, etc.).
5. Upload a scanned copy of your proof.
6. Submit the request and note the URN.

Offline Method (Aadhaar Seva Kendra – ASK)

• Visit the nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra with original supporting documents.
• Fill out the Aadhaar Update/Correction Form and pay a ₹50 service fee.
• You’ll receive an acknowledgement slip with an Update Request Number for tracking your request.

Average Processing Time for Aadhaar Update

Should I Correct My School Records? 

If there’s a permanent error in your school records—such as your name, father’s name, or date of birth—correcting those details through your school board is the most reliable long-term solution. While updating Aadhaar is faster for meeting the JEE Main 2026 registration deadline, correcting your school records ensures consistency across all future documents like college admissions, government exams, and certificates.

However, this process takes longer and is only recommended if you have several months before registration opens.

How to Correct School Record Details

1. Contact your school or board office (CBSE, ICSE, or State Board) and request a correction form for name, date of birth, or parent details.
2. Attach required documents — Class 10 marksheet, Aadhaar card, and an affidavit confirming the correct details.
3. Submit the application through your school principal or directly to the board’s regional office.
4. Pay the applicable correction fee (varies by board) and keep the acknowledgement slip for tracking.

What If I Can’t Fix the Mismatch in Time for Registration?

If there isn’t enough time to correct your Aadhaar or school record mismatch before the JEE Main 2026 registration deadline, don’t panic — you can still complete your application successfully. The National Testing Agency (NTA) allows students to register using an alternate government-approved ID proof. This ensures that no candidate misses out on registration due to verification issues.

Can I Use a Different ID Proof If My Aadhaar Doesn’t Match?

Yes. If your Aadhaar details do not match your school records, or if Aadhaar authentication fails during the registration process, you can select a non-Aadhaar ID proof while filling out the JEE Main form. NTA accepts several alternative identity documents to verify a candidate’s name, photograph, and date of birth.

Here’s the official list of accepted alternate ID proofs for JEE Main 2026 registration:

• Passport
• PAN Card
• Voter ID Card (EPIC)
• Bank Passbook with Photograph
• Ration Card with Photograph

During registration, select the “Other ID Proof” option in the form and enter the corresponding document number. Upload a clear scanned copy (PDF or JPG format) of the chosen ID to avoid verification delays.

Which Document Does NTA Consider More Important: Aadhaar or Marksheet?

Many students get confused about whether the Aadhaar card or the Class 10 marksheet holds more weight during JEE Main 2026 registration. Both documents are important, but they serve different purposes in the NTA verification process.

• Aadhaar is for Authentication:
  NTA uses your Aadhaar details to confirm your identity in real time through the UIDAI database. It verifies that the candidate is genuine and prevents duplicate registrations. Any spelling or date-of-birth mismatch in Aadhaar can cause an “Authentication Failed” error during the registration step.
• Class 10 Certificate is for Verification:
  Your Class 10 marksheet (or certificate) is the final authority for verifying your Name, Date of Birth, and Father’s Name. The information entered in the JEE Main 2026 form must exactly match this certificate, as NTA uses it to generate your Admit Card and later confirm your eligibility during counselling or document verification.

What Should I Do if Aadhaar Authentication Fails During Registration?

If your Aadhaar authentication fails while filling out the JEE Main 2026 application form, don’t worry — it’s a common issue and can be fixed easily. Follow this quick troubleshooting checklist to resolve the problem:

1. Check for Typos:
   Make sure the name, date of birth, and gender entered in the form match exactly with your Aadhaar card. Even a single extra space, dot, or initial can cause the UIDAI verification to fail.
2. Wait and Retry:
   Sometimes, the issue may be temporary due to heavy traffic on the UIDAI servers. Wait for a few minutes, refresh the page, and try again.
3. Switch to an Alternate ID:
   If the error persists, select the “Other ID Proof” option and upload a different valid document such as a Passport, PAN Card, or Voter ID. NTA allows alternate identity verification to ensure your registration isn’t delayed.
4. Contact NTA Helpdesk:
   If all else fails, email the NTA helpdesk at jeemain@nta.ac.in or call 011-40759000. Attach a screenshot of the error message along with your application number (if generated) and Aadhaar details for faster resolution.

Can I Fix Mismatched Details During the Form Correction Window?

Yes. The JEE Main 2026 form correction window is your final opportunity to fix certain details after registration. NTA usually opens this window for a few days (typically in December for Session 1) to allow candidates to make corrections in limited fields.

During this period, you can:

• Update or change your ID proof details (Aadhaar or alternate ID).
• Re-upload corrected documents if there were errors or mismatches.
• Edit category, sub-category, city of examination, or paper selection depending on what NTA allows for that session.

Once the correction window closes, no further changes are permitted, and the details you submit become final for both your Admit Card and result.

What Common Mistakes Should I Avoid?

When fixing an Aadhaar–school record mismatch for JEE Main 2026 registration, even a small error can delay verification or lead to form rejection. To ensure a smooth registration process, avoid these common mistakes that students often make while updating or uploading their documents.

Here’s a quick “Do Not Do” checklist every JEE Main aspirant should follow:

• Don’t wait until the last day to start the correction process. Aadhaar updates and school record corrections take time to reflect. Begin the process at least 10–15 days before the JEE Main 2026 registration deadline to avoid server delays and last-minute errors.
• Don’t upload blurry or unreadable copies of documents. NTA requires clear, colour-scanned copies of your Aadhaar, marksheet, or ID proofs. Blurred or low-resolution uploads often lead to verification failures. Ensure the file size and format (JPG or PDF) match the official guidelines.
• Don’t enter initials or short names if your documents have the full name. Use the exact spelling and full name printed on your Class 10 certificate and Aadhaar card. Even a minor variation like R. Kumar instead of Rajesh Kumar can cause an “Authentication Failed” error.
• Don’t forget to save the URN (Update Request Number) after submitting an Aadhaar correction. The URN helps you track the status of your Aadhaar update on the UIDAI portal. Without it, you won’t know when the correction is processed or if it’s approved before the JEE Main registration deadline.