The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET UG) stands as India’s gateway to undergraduate medical and dental courses. With lakhs of aspirants competing for limited seats in prestigious medical colleges across the country, understanding every aspect of NEET UG 2026 becomes crucial for success. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know—from registration procedures to preparation strategies—helping you navigate your journey toward a medical career with confidence.
NEET UG 2026: Quick Highlights
Before diving into the details, let’s look at the key features of NEET UG 2026:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET UG) |
| Conducting Body | National Testing Agency (NTA) |
| Exam Mode | Offline (Pen and Paper-based) |
| Exam Duration | 3 hours 20 minutes (200 minutes) |
| Total Questions | 200 questions (180 to be attempted) |
| Total Marks | 720 marks |
| Exam Language | 13 languages (English, Hindi, Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Odia, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, Urdu) |
| Exam Level | National Level |
| Course Offered | MBBS, BDS, AYUSH courses |
| Official Website | neet.nta.nic.in |
NEET UG 2026: Tentative Important Dates
While the National Testing Agency typically releases the official notification in December-January, here’s a tentative schedule based on previous year patterns:
| Event | Tentative Dates 2026 |
|---|---|
| Official Notification Release | December 2025 – January 2026 |
| Registration Start Date | January 2026 (First week) |
| Last Date to Apply | February 2026 (Last week) |
| Last Date to Pay Application Fee | February 2026 (Last week) |
| Correction Window | March 2026 (First week) |
| Admit Card Release | April 2026 (Last week) |
| NEET UG 2026 Exam Date | May 2026 (First Sunday) |
| Answer Key Release (Provisional) | May 2026 (Within 2-3 days) |
| Answer Key Challenge Window | May 2026 (2-3 days window) |
| Final Answer Key | June 2026 (Second week) |
| Result Declaration | June 2026 (Third week) |
| Counselling Start Date | July 2026 onwards |
Note: These are tentative dates based on previous year trends. Always check the official NTA NEET website for confirmed dates.
NEET UG 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Understanding eligibility requirements is the first step in your NEET journey. Let’s break down each criterion:
Age Criteria
| Category | Minimum Age | Maximum Age |
|---|---|---|
| General & EWS | 17 years (as on 31st December 2026) | No upper age limit |
| SC/ST/OBC | 17 years (as on 31st December 2026) | No upper age limit |
| PwD Category | 17 years (as on 31st December 2026) | No upper age limit |
Academic Qualifications
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Qualifying Exam | 10+2 or equivalent from a recognized board |
| Mandatory Subjects | Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, and English |
| For MBBS/BDS | Physics, Chemistry, Biology (PCB) |
| For BVSc & AH | Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology |
| For AYUSH Courses | Physics, Chemistry, Biology |
| Minimum Percentage | General/EWS: 50% aggregate in PCB SC/ST/OBC: 40% aggregate in PCB PwD: 45% aggregate in PCB |
| Practical Exams | Must have passed Physics, Chemistry, and Biology with practical exams |
Nationality Requirements
- Indian Nationals: Citizens of India can apply
- NRI/OCI/PIO: Eligible to apply under special quotas
- Foreign Nationals: Can apply for deemed/private universities (15% All India Quota seats)
APAAR ID Implementation
From NEET 2026, candidates may be required to link their APAAR (Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry) ID during registration. This unique identification system aims to maintain comprehensive academic records and streamline the verification process. Stay updated with official notifications regarding this implementation.
NEET UG 2026 Registration Process
How to Fill the NEET UG 2026 Application Form
Follow these step-by-step instructions to complete your registration successfully:
Step 1: Registration
- Visit the official NEET website (neet.nta.nic.in)
- Click on “NEET UG 2026 Registration”
- Enter basic details: Name, Date of Birth, Email ID, Mobile Number
- Create a secure password
- Verify email and mobile through OTP
- Note down your Application Number for future reference
Step 2: Fill Application Form
- Log in using your Application Number and Password
- Fill in personal details accurately
- Enter academic qualifications (12th marks, board details)
- Provide parent/guardian information
- Select exam city preferences (4 choices in order of preference)
- Choose your preferred medium of examination
- Link APAAR ID if applicable
Step 3: Upload Documents
- Recent passport-sized photograph (10-200 KB, JPG/JPEG format)
- White background
- 80% face coverage
- Taken after 1st January 2026
- Scanned signature (4-30 KB, JPG/JPEG format)
- Left thumb impression (scanned – 10-50 KB)
- Valid ID proof (Aadhaar/PAN/Passport/Driving License)
- Category certificate (if applicable)
- PwD certificate (if applicable)
Step 4: Pay Application Fee
- Review all entered information carefully
- Proceed to payment section
- Choose payment mode (Debit/Credit Card, Net Banking, UPI, Paytm)
- Complete the payment process
- Save the payment confirmation
Step 5: Print Confirmation Page
- Download and print the confirmation page
- Keep multiple copies for future reference
- Note down your Application Number and Password
Application Fee Structure
| Category | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| General/EWS | ₹1,700 |
| General-EWS/OBC-NCL | ₹1,700 |
| SC/ST/PwD/Third Gender | ₹1,000 |
| For Candidates Outside India | ₹9,500 |
Payment Methods Accepted: Debit Card, Credit Card, Net Banking, UPI, Paytm Wallet
Important Notes:
- Application fee is non-refundable and non-transferable
- Keep the transaction receipt until the admission process is complete
- Fee once paid cannot be adjusted for any other examination
NEET UG 2026 Exam Pattern
Understanding the exam pattern helps you strategize your preparation effectively:
Subject-Wise Distribution
| Subject | Section | Total Questions | Questions to Attempt | Marks per Question | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Physics | Section A | 35 (All compulsory) | 35 | 4 | 140 |
| Section B | 15 (Attempt any 10) | 10 | 4 | 40 | |
| Subtotal | 50 | 45 | – | 180 | |
| Chemistry | Section A | 35 (All compulsory) | 35 | 4 | 140 |
| Section B | 15 (Attempt any 10) | 10 | 4 | 40 | |
| Subtotal | 50 | 45 | – | 180 | |
| Biology | Botany | ||||
| Section A | 35 (All compulsory) | 35 | 4 | 140 | |
| Section B | 15 (Attempt any 10) | 10 | 4 | 40 | |
| Subtotal | 50 | 45 | – | 180 | |
| Zoology | |||||
| Section A | 35 (All compulsory) | 35 | 4 | 140 | |
| Section B | 15 (Attempt any 10) | 10 | 4 | 40 | |
| Subtotal | 50 | 45 | – | 180 | |
| TOTAL | – | 200 | 180 | – | 720 |
Marking Scheme
| Response Type | Marks Awarded |
|---|---|
| Correct Answer | +4 marks |
| Incorrect Answer | -1 mark (Negative marking) |
| Unattempted/Marked for Review | 0 marks |
Tie-Breaking Policy (Updated)
In case of a tie, the following criteria are applied in sequence:
- Higher marks in Biology (Botany + Zoology)
- Higher marks in Chemistry
- Higher marks in Physics
- Less number of incorrect answers in all subjects
- Less number of incorrect answers in Biology
- Less number of incorrect answers in Chemistry
- Candidates older in age (if still tied)
- Alphabetical order of names (as a last resort)
NEET UG 2026 Syllabus
The NEET syllabus is based on the NCERT curriculum for Classes 11 and 12. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown:
Physics Syllabus
Class 11 Topics:
- Physical World and Measurement: Units, dimensions, errors, significant figures
- Kinematics: Motion in straight line, motion in plane
- Laws of Motion: Newton’s laws, friction, circular motion
- Work, Energy and Power: Work-energy theorem, conservation laws, collisions
- Motion of System of Particles and Rigid Body: Centre of mass, momentum conservation, rotational motion
- Gravitation: Universal law, acceleration due to gravity, satellites, Kepler’s laws
- Properties of Bulk Matter: Elastic behavior, fluid pressure, surface tension, viscosity
- Thermodynamics: Thermal equilibrium, heat transfer, laws of thermodynamics
- Behavior of Perfect Gas and Kinetic Theory: Gas laws, kinetic theory
- Oscillations and Waves: Simple harmonic motion, wave motion, sound waves
Class 12 Topics:
- Electrostatics: Coulomb’s law, electric field, Gauss’s law, capacitance
- Current Electricity: Ohm’s law, Kirchhoff’s laws, resistances, cells
- Magnetic Effects of Current and Magnetism: Biot-Savart law, Ampere’s law, electromagnetic induction
- Electromagnetic Induction and Alternating Currents: Faraday’s law, AC circuits
- Electromagnetic Waves: Properties, spectrum
- Optics: Reflection, refraction, interference, diffraction, polarization, optical instruments
- Dual Nature of Matter and Radiation: Photoelectric effect, de Broglie wavelength
- Atoms and Nuclei: Bohr’s model, radioactivity, nuclear reactions
- Electronic Devices: Semiconductors, diodes, transistors, logic gates
Chemistry Syllabus
Class 11 Topics:
- Some Basic Concepts of Chemistry: Atoms, molecules, mole concept, stoichiometry
- Structure of Atom: Bohr’s model, quantum numbers, electronic configuration
- Classification of Elements and Periodicity: Modern periodic law, periodic trends
- Chemical Bonding and Molecular Structure: Ionic, covalent, coordinate bonding, VSEPR, hybridization
- States of Matter: Gas laws, liquid state, solid state
- Thermodynamics: Enthalpy, entropy, Gibbs energy, spontaneity
- Equilibrium: Law of equilibrium, Le Chatelier’s principle, acids and bases, buffer solutions
- Redox Reactions: Oxidation number, balancing redox reactions
- Hydrogen: Properties, hydrides, water, hydrogen peroxide
- s-Block Elements: Alkali and alkaline earth metals
- p-Block Elements: Group 13 and 14 elements
- Organic Chemistry – Basic Principles: Nomenclature, isomerism, reaction mechanisms
- Hydrocarbons: Alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, aromatic hydrocarbons
- Environmental Chemistry: Pollution types, greenhouse effect
Class 12 Topics:
- Solid State: Crystal lattices, defects, semiconductors
- Solutions: Concentration terms, Raoult’s law, colligative properties
- Electrochemistry: Conductance, Nernst equation, batteries, corrosion
- Chemical Kinetics: Rate of reaction, order, Arrhenius equation
- Surface Chemistry: Adsorption, colloids, emulsions
- General Principles of Isolation of Elements: Metallurgy principles
- p-Block Elements: Groups 15, 16, 17, and 18
- d and f Block Elements: Transition elements, lanthanides, actinides
- Coordination Compounds: Nomenclature, bonding theories, isomerism
- Haloalkanes and Haloarenes: Reactions, uses
- Alcohols, Phenols and Ethers: Preparation, properties, reactions
- Aldehydes, Ketones and Carboxylic Acids: Preparation, properties, reactions
- Organic Compounds Containing Nitrogen: Amines, diazonium salts
- Biomolecules: Carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, nucleic acids
- Polymers: Types, synthesis, uses
- Chemistry in Everyday Life: Drugs, detergents, chemicals in food
Biology Syllabus
Botany (Class 11):
- Diversity in Living World: Classification, taxonomy, five kingdom system, plant kingdom
- Structural Organization in Plants: Morphology, anatomy of flowering plants
- Cell Structure and Function: Cell theory, organelles, cell cycle, cell division
- Plant Physiology: Transport, mineral nutrition, photosynthesis, respiration, plant growth and development
Botany (Class 12):
- Reproduction: Asexual and sexual reproduction in plants, pollination, fertilization
- Genetics and Evolution: Mendel’s laws, chromosomal theory, molecular basis of inheritance, evolution theories
- Biology and Human Welfare: Microbes, strategies for food production
- Biotechnology: Genetic engineering, biotechnology applications
- Ecology and Environment: Organisms and environment, ecosystem, biodiversity, environmental issues
Zoology (Class 11):
- Diversity in Living World: Animal kingdom classification
- Structural Organization in Animals: Animal tissues, morphology, anatomy of earthworm, cockroach, frog
- Cell Structure and Function: Similar to Botany
- Human Physiology: Digestion, breathing, circulation, excretion, locomotion, neural control, endocrine system
Zoology (Class 12):
- Reproduction: Human reproduction, reproductive health
- Genetics and Evolution: Molecular basis, evolution concepts
- Biology and Human Welfare: Human health and disease, microbes in human welfare
- Biotechnology: Similar to Botany
- Ecology and Environment: Similar to Botany with focus on animal populations
NEET UG 2026 Admit Card
How to Download NEET UG 2026 Admit Card
The admit card is your entry ticket to the examination hall. Follow these steps to download it:
Step 1: Visit Official Website
- Go to neet.nta.nic.in
- Look for “Download NEET UG 2026 Admit Card” link
- Click on the admit card download link
Step 2: Login
- Enter your Application Number
- Enter your Date of Birth (DD/MM/YYYY format)
- Enter the security code/captcha
- Click “Submit”
Step 3: Download and Verify
- Your admit card will appear on screen
- Check all details carefully:
- Name, photograph, signature
- Exam date, time, and reporting time
- Exam center name and address
- Roll number and application number
- Important instructions
Step 4: Take Printouts
- Download the admit card as a PDF
- Take at least 3-4 clear printouts on A4 size paper
- Do not laminate the admit card
- Ensure photograph and signature are clearly visible
Important Points:
- Admit card will be released approximately 2-3 weeks before the exam
- No physical copy will be sent by post
- Candidates must carry the admit card to the exam center
- Aadhaar card/any valid photo ID is mandatory along with admit card
- Candidates should reach the exam center at least 90 minutes before exam time
NEET UG 2026 Answer Key and Result
How to Challenge the Answer Key
NTA releases a provisional answer key after the examination, allowing candidates to challenge it:
Step 1: Access the Portal
- Visit the official NEET website
- Login using your credentials (Application Number and Password)
- Navigate to “Challenge Answer Key” section
Step 2: Review Questions
- The question paper and provisional answer key will be displayed
- Review each question and answer carefully
- Identify questions you wish to challenge
Step 3: Submit Challenge
- Select the question number you want to challenge
- Upload supporting documents (textbook references, research papers, etc.)
- Provide a detailed explanation for your challenge (maximum 500 words)
- Submit the challenge
Step 4: Pay Processing Fee
- Pay ₹200 per question challenged (non-refundable)
- Complete the payment through online mode
- Save the payment receipt
Step 5: Confirmation
- You’ll receive a confirmation of your challenge
- Download and save the acknowledgment receipt
- Wait for the final answer key
Important Notes:
- Challenge window is typically open for 2-3 days only
- Fee is non-refundable even if your challenge is unsuccessful
- A panel of subject experts reviews all challenges
- If your challenge is found correct, you’ll be refunded the fee
- Final answer key is prepared based on expert recommendations
- No further representations are entertained after the final answer key
Result Declaration
NEET UG 2026 results will include:
- All India Rank (AIR)
- Category rank
- Qualifying status
- Percentile score
- Subject-wise and overall marks
Qualifying Marks (Percentile):
| Category | Qualifying Percentile | Approximate Marks Range |
|---|---|---|
| General/EWS | 50th percentile | 720-131 |
| OBC/SC/ST | 40th percentile | 720-107 |
| General-PwD | 45th percentile | 720-120 |
| SC/ST/OBC-PwD | 40th percentile | 720-107 |
NEET UG 2026 Exam Day Guidelines
Dress Code and Prohibited Items
Permitted Dress Code:
- Light-colored clothes (preferably half-sleeves)
- Clothes without large buttons, badges, brooches, or flowers
- Slippers/sandals without any metallic parts
- Simple and minimal jewelry (small earrings allowed)
Strictly Prohibited Items:
| Category | Items Not Allowed |
|---|---|
| Electronic Devices | Mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators, Bluetooth devices, pen cameras, microphones, pagers |
| Study Materials | Books, notebooks, printed or written material, geometry boxes, pencil boxes, slide rules, log tables |
| Accessories | Wallets, belts with metal buckles, large jewelry, hair pins, flowers, badges |
| Stationery | Erasers, colored pens, highlighters (except blue/black ballpoint pen) |
| Others | Food items, water bottles (outside examination hall), handbags, goggles, caps |
Items Allowed:
- Valid admit card with clear photograph
- Valid photo ID proof (Aadhaar/PAN/Driving License/Passport)
- Transparent water bottle (allowed inside hall in some centers)
- Blue/black ballpoint pen
- PwD certificate (if applicable)
Security Measures:
- CCTV surveillance in all exam centers
- Biometric verification (photo and left thumb impression)
- Frisking at entry points
- No provision for safekeeping of prohibited items
NEET UG 2026 Preparation Strategy
Best Books for NEET UG 2026 Preparation
Physics:
- NCERT Class 11 & 12 Physics (Mandatory)
- Concepts of Physics by H.C. Verma (Vol 1 & 2)
- Objective Physics by DC Pandey
- Previous Years’ NEET Question Papers
Chemistry:
- NCERT Class 11 & 12 Chemistry (Mandatory)
- Physical Chemistry by O.P. Tandon
- Organic Chemistry by Morrison and Boyd
- Inorganic Chemistry by J.D. Lee
- ABC of Chemistry for Classes 11 and 12 by Modern
Biology:
- NCERT Class 11 & 12 Biology (Absolutely Mandatory – Read multiple times)
- Biology Vol 1 & 2 by Trueman
- Objective Biology by Dinesh
- GR Bathla publications for Biology
- Previous Years’ NEET Question Papers with explanations
Actionable Preparation Tips
1. Master NCERT Books
- NCERT books form the backbone of NEET preparation, especially for Biology and Chemistry
- Read NCERT Biology thoroughly 3-4 times
- Make notes of important diagrams, tables, and highlighted text
- 80-85% of Biology questions come directly from NCERT
2. Create a Realistic Study Schedule
- Allocate 8-10 hours daily for consistent preparation
- Give more time to Biology (40-45%), followed by Physics (30-35%) and Chemistry (25-30%)
- Include regular revision slots in your timetable
- Take one full day off per week for mental relaxation
3. Focus on Weak Areas
- Identify your weak topics through regular self-assessment
- Dedicate extra time to understand concepts rather than rote learning
- Seek help from teachers, mentors, or online resources for difficult topics
4. Practice Mock Tests Regularly
- Take at least 2-3 full-length mock tests every week
- Simulate actual exam conditions (3 hours 20 minutes, no breaks)
- Analyze your performance after each test
- Focus on time management and accuracy
5. Previous Year Papers Analysis
- Solve NEET previous year papers from last 10-15 years
- Understand question patterns and frequently asked topics
- Learn from mistakes and avoid repeating them
- Identify high-weightage chapters
6. Revision is Key
- Create concise notes, flashcards, and mind maps
- Revise each subject at least 4-5 times before the exam
- Quick revision 15 days before the exam using your notes
- Don’t study new topics in the last week
7. Maintain Health and Well-being
- Get 6-8 hours of quality sleep daily
- Exercise regularly (30 minutes daily) to stay physically active
- Practice meditation or yoga for mental clarity
- Eat nutritious, balanced meals
- Stay hydrated throughout the day
8. Join Online Test Series
- Enroll in reputed online test series platforms
- Regular tests help track progress and build exam temperament
- Get detailed performance analytics
- Compare your rank with other aspirants nationwide
9. Stay Updated with Current Affairs
- While NEET focuses on core science, stay aware of recent developments
- Read about Nobel Prize winners in Medicine/Physiology
- Stay informed about health-related current events
10. Maintain Positive Mindset
- Believe in yourself and your preparation
- Avoid negative peer pressure and comparisons
- Take short breaks when feeling overwhelmed
- Seek support from family, friends, or counselors when needed
Additional Resources and Tools
Utilize ecareerpoint Resources
To enhance your NEET preparation, take advantage of these helpful tools available on our platform:
- NEET Rank Predictor: Get an estimated rank based on your expected score or mock test performance
- NEET College Predictor: Discover which colleges you may qualify for based on your rank and preferences
- Study Material Downloads: Access free downloadable PDFs, formula sheets, and quick revision notes
- Previous Year Papers: Practice with solutions and detailed explanations
- Expert Counseling: Connect with our career counselors for personalized guidance
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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1. How many times can I attempt NEET?
There is no limit on the number of attempts for NEET UG. You can appear for the exam as many times as you want, provided you meet the age criteria. The upper age limit has been removed, so candidates of any age above 17 years can appear.
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2. Is a calculator allowed in the NEET exam?
No, calculators are strictly prohibited in the NEET examination hall. All calculations must be done mentally or on the rough sheet provided. Electronic devices of any kind, including calculators, smartwatches, and mobile phones, are not allowed.
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3. What are the qualifying marks for NEET 2026?
Qualifying marks are based on percentiles: 50th percentile for General/EWS (approximately 720-131 marks), 40th percentile for SC/ST/OBC (approximately 720-107 marks), and 45th percentile for General-PwD candidates (approximately 720-120 marks). These cut-offs vary annually based on difficulty level.
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4. Can I appear for NEET without Class 12 results?
Yes, candidates appearing in Class 12 can apply for NEET. However, you must pass your Class 12 examination with the minimum required percentage before counseling begins. Your admission will be provisional until you submit your qualifying examination certificate.
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5. Which is more important for NEET – NCERT or reference books?
NCERT books are absolutely essential and form the foundation of NEET preparation, especially for Biology and Chemistry. Around 80-85% of Biology questions come directly from NCERT. Reference books should be used only to practice additional problems and gain deeper understanding after thoroughly completing NCERT.
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6. How is the exam center allotted for NEET?
Exam centers are allotted based on your preferences (you can choose up to 4 cities in order of preference) and availability. NTA tries to allot centers as per your first choice, but it’s not guaranteed. Candidates cannot change the allotted exam center once it’s mentioned on the admit card.
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7. What is the difference between All India Quota and State Quota?
All India Quota (AIQ) comprises 15% of total seats in government medical colleges (except Andhra Pradesh and Telangana which don’t participate in AIQ). State Quota comprises 85% of state government medical college seats, reserved for domicile candidates of that state. Admission to both quotas is based on NEET scores through separate counseling processes conducted by MCC and respective state authorities.
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8. Can I change my exam language after registration?
No, you cannot change your chosen medium/language of examination after the correction window closes. The language you select during application cannot be modified later, so choose carefully. NEET is conducted in 13 languages.
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9. What happens if there's a discrepancy in my documents?
Any discrepancy in documents (name spelling, date of birth, photograph) can lead to disqualification or issues during counseling. If you notice any error on your admit card or application form, contact NTA immediately through the helpdesk. Make corrections during the correction window if provided.
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10. Is coaching necessary to crack NEET?
Coaching is not mandatory to crack NEET. Many students clear NEET through self-study using NCERT books, reference materials, and online resources. However, coaching can provide structured guidance, regular tests, peer learning, and expert mentorship. The decision depends on your learning style, self-discipline, and access to quality study material.
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11. Can I carry my own pen to the examination hall?
Yes, you must carry your own blue or black ballpoint pen. However, some examination centers may provide pens. It’s advisable to carry 2-3 pens of your own. Gel pens, fountain pens, or pencils are not allowed for marking the OMR sheet.
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12. What should I do if I fall sick on the exam day?
NEET is conducted only once a year, so there’s no provision for a re-exam if you’re unwell. If you’re sick, inform the invigilator but still attempt the exam if possible. There’s no medical emergency provision for a second chance. Carry necessary medications if you have known health conditions.
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13. How long does the counseling process take?
The counseling process typically begins in June-July and continues until October-November through multiple rounds (usually 4 AIQ rounds and several state quota rounds). The exact duration depends on seat vacancies and the number of rounds conducted.
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14. Can I use the NEET score for admission abroad?
Many international universities, particularly in countries like Russia, Ukraine, Philippines, and some European nations, accept NEET scores for admission to their medical programs. However, you must check the specific requirements of each university, as some may require additional entrance tests or eligibility criteria.
