In a record, over 10,000 women clear JEE-Advanced
In 2026, a record number of women qualified for the JEE-Advanced exam in India, though their overall share of IIT seat allotments remains relatively stagnant. The report also notes significant progress in qualification rates for SC and ST candidates.
Why it matters
It reflects ongoing efforts and challenges regarding gender and caste-based representation in elite technical education institutions.
NEW DELHI: Women's success rate in JEE-Advanced reached a record high in 2026 despite fewer registrations, with over 10,000 qualifying for the first time during this period. Yet their share of IIT seat allotments barely changed, from 20.15% to 20.22%. Of the top 100 rankers, 97 were allotted seats at just three IITs - Bombay, Delhi and Madras - with Bombay alone taking 68.This time, a total 18,861 admissions were made in IITs, with 20% being female candidates. Among the top 25 rankers, 8 candidates each took admission in IIT Delhi and IIT Madras, while six toppers took admission in IIT Bombay.The Joint Implementation Committee report, prepared by IIT Roorkee, shows sharp gains for SC and ST candidates.
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