Complete Guide to OJEE for Engineering Aspirants in Odisha
OJEE 2026 registration opened on January 28, and if you're planning to study engineering in Odisha, you need to understand how this exam works. The exam runs from May 4-9, 2026, and serves as your entry point to government and private technical institutions across the state.
One thing changed this year. BTech admissions in Odisha now primarily happen through JEE Main scores. OJEE Phase 2 (Special OJEE) fills only the remaining seats after JEE Main counselling ends. This means if you want a seat at a college of engineering and technology in Bhubaneswar, appearing for JEE Main matters more than before.
But OJEE still holds value. It gives you a second chance if JEE Main didn't go well. It also remains the only route for lateral entry admissions (for diploma holders) and other technical programs like MCA and MBA.
Who Can Apply for OJEE 2026
You need to pass Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics to appear for OJEE engineering. There's no minimum percentage requirement just to sit for the exam. Both Odisha domicile and non-domicile students can apply, though government college seats require a nativity certificate.
Students who appeared for their qualifying exam can also register, but final admission depends on passing. The application window closes on March 22, 2026, so don't wait until the last week.
OJEE Exam Pattern and Structure
OJEE follows a Computer-Based Test format with 120 multiple-choice questions. You get 40 questions each from Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. The exam lasts 3 hours, and the marking scheme awards 4 marks for correct answers while deducting 1 mark for wrong ones.
The difficulty level sits below JEE Main. The syllabus follows the CHSE Odisha curriculum for Class 11 and 12, making it accessible if you studied in an Odisha school. This is why many students find OJEE easier to crack compared to national-level exams.
Important Dates for OJEE 2026
Mark these dates:
Application form release: January 28, 2026
Last date to apply: March 22, 2026
Admit card release: April 25, 2026
Exam dates: May 4, 5, 7, 8, and 9, 2026
Result declaration: First week of June 2026
Counselling start: June 2026
Missing any deadline means losing your chance for that admission cycle.
How to Register for OJEE
Visit ojee.nic.in and click "New Registration" for OJEE 2026. Fill in your personal and academic details, then upload your photograph, signature, and Class 10 and 12 marksheets. Pay the application fee online and save the confirmation page.
A correction window opens later if you need to fix mistakes after submission. Keep your login credentials safe because you'll need them for counselling.
What Changed in 2026
Starting this year, direct BTech admission in Odisha happens primarily through JEE Main scores. OJEE Phase 2 (Special OJEE) now only fills remaining BTech seats after the first JEE Main counselling round.
This shift makes JEE Main preparation non-negotiable for Odisha students. However, OJEE Phase 2 in June 2026 still offers opportunities if you couldn't secure a seat through JEE Main. Lateral entry to BTech for diploma holders continues exclusively through OJEE.
Preparation Strategy
Focus on completing the CHSE Odisha Class 11 and 12 syllabus thoroughly. NCERT textbooks cover the basics for all three subjects. Download previous years' OJEE question papers from the official website and practice them under timed conditions.
Physics and Mathematics need conceptual understanding, while Chemistry requires memorization of reactions and properties. Taking mock tests helps you improve speed and accuracy. Six to eight months of consistent preparation works for most students.
Counselling Process
Once results come out in June, qualified candidates register for online counselling. You'll fill college and branch preferences, and the system allots seats based on your rank and choices.
Research previous years' cutoffs before filling preferences. Institutions like NM Institute of Engineering and Technology (NMIET) in Bhubaneswar have placement partnerships with companies like Cognizant, Capgemini, IBM, and BYJU's. NMIET holds AICTE and BPUT accreditation and ranks #248 for B.Tech in India according to Collegedunia 2025. If you're looking for a college of engineering and technology in Bhubaneswar with strong industry connections, check their admission process during counselling.
Why OJEE Still Matters
Even with JEE Main taking priority, OJEE provides a safety net through its special round for unfilled seats. State-level preparation proves sufficient, unlike the intense competition of JEE Main. Reservation benefits for Odisha domicile students apply fully during OJEE counselling.
The exam also serves as the sole gateway for lateral entry students and those pursuing MCA, MBA, or M.Tech programs in Odisha. Understanding OJEE gives you more options and reduces pressure if other entrance exams don't work out.
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