National Testing Agency (NTA) conducts the National Council for Hotel Management Joint Entrance Examination (NCHM JEE) for admission to B.Sc. in Hospitality & Hotel Administration and other hotel management courses in IHMs (Institute of Hotel Management) and affiliated colleges across India.
Latest Update (February 2026): Good news for hotel management aspirants! NTA has extended the NCHM JEE 2026 application form last date to March 25, 2026 (up to 5:00 PM). Earlier, it was January 25, 2026. This extension gives extra time to apply online. The application process started on December 26, 2025.
Important Dates Table
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release & Application Start | December 26, 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply Online (Extended) | March 25, 2026 (5:00 PM) |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | March 25, 2026 |
| Correction Window (Expected) | After last date (check official) |
| Exam Date (CBT Mode) | April 25, 2026 |
| Result Date | May/June 2026 (tentative) |
| Counselling | After result |
Why the Extension? NTA extended the deadline after receiving requests from candidates for more time. Some sources mention addition of new exam cities for better access. No changes in eligibility, syllabus, or exam pattern.
Vacancies / Seats
- Around 10,000+ seats in various IHMs (including Central, State, and Private IHMs).
- Exact seat matrix will be in the official counselling brochure later.
- Popular courses: B.Sc. (H&HA), Diploma in various hospitality fields.
Eligibility Criteria – Simple Explanation
- Educational Qualification: 10+2 (or equivalent) with English as a subject. Appearing candidates in 12th can also apply.
- Age Limit (as on July 1, 2026 – tentative): Upper age 25 years for General/OBC (relaxation for SC/ST/PwD as per rules – usually 5 years).
- Nationality: Indian citizens (some seats for NRI/Foreign).
Application Fee
- General/OBC/EWS: Around ₹1,000–₹1,200
- SC/ST/PwD/Female: Around ₹450–₹700
- Pay online via debit/credit card, net banking, UPI.
Selection Process
- Computer-Based Test (CBT) – Objective MCQs.
- Sections: Numerical Ability, Reasoning, GK & Current Affairs, English Language, Aptitude for Service Sector.
- Duration: 3 hours.
- Negative marking: -1 for wrong answers.
- Merit list based on exam score → Counselling for seat allotment.
How to Apply Online – Easy Steps
- Visit the official NTA NCHM JEE website.
- Click on “Registration for NCHM JEE 2026” or “Apply Online”.
- Complete registration with mobile/email.
- Fill personal, education, and other details.
- Upload photo, signature, and documents.
- Pay the fee online.
- Submit and download confirmation page.
Important Links (Must-Visit)
- Official NCHM JEE Website (Apply Online & Updates): https://exams.nta.nic.in/nchm-jee/
- NTA Official Website: https://nta.ac.in/ (Check notices section)
- NCHM Official Website (for more info): https://nchm.gov.in/
- Direct Application Link: Available on exams.nta.nic.in/nchm-jee/ (Start registration here)
- Download Notification PDF (Draft/Information Bulletin): Check on NTA site or https://nchm.gov.in/
- Extension Notice PDF: Search “Extension of Online Application Registration for NCHM JEE 2026” on nta.ac.in
Tips for Applicants
- Apply soon – don’t wait for the last day to avoid website issues!
- Read the full official Information Bulletin carefully (available on NTA site).
- Keep documents ready: 10th/12th marksheets, photo (white background), signature.
- Check regularly on exams.nta.nic.in/nchm-jee/ for admit card, syllabus, or any new notices.
- This is your gateway to top hotel management institutes like IHM Mumbai, Delhi, Pusa, etc. – great career in hospitality!
This is a fantastic opportunity for 12th pass students dreaming of a career in hotels, tourism, and food service.
