NEET UG 2026 – National Eligibility cum Entrance Test Overview

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has announced the NEET UG 2026 examination for admission to undergraduate medical courses including MBBS, BDS, BAMS, BUMS, BSMS, and BHMS across India. This is a golden opportunity for aspiring medical students to secure seats in top government and private medical colleges nationwide. The exam is conducted as per the National Medical Commission Act 2019 and offers a transparent, merit-based admission process.

NEET UG 2026 is designed for candidates who have completed or are appearing in Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. This examination opens doors to prestigious institutions including AIIMS, JIPMER, and central universities. With proper preparation and timely application, candidates can achieve their dream of becoming healthcare professionals.

This comprehensive guide on jobsarkariupdate covers everything from eligibility criteria to application process, ensuring you don’t miss any crucial detail for NEET UG 2026.

Organization & Recruitment Details

The National Testing Agency has been conducting NEET UG since 2019 with approval from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The examination ensures a uniform admission standard across all medical institutions in India, replacing multiple state-level entrance tests.

Important Dates – NEET UG 2026

Application Fee – NEET UG 2026

Payment Mode & Process

Candidates can pay the application fee through the following online modes:

• Credit Card – Domestic and International cards accepted
• Debit Card – All major banks supported
• Net Banking – Available for multiple banks
• UPI – Quick payment through UPI apps

Important: Processing charges and GST (18%) will be applicable and must be borne by the candidate. Mere deduction of fee from your account doesn’t confirm payment. Ensure you receive the confirmation page after successful payment. The fee once paid is non-refundable and non-transferable.

Age Limit – NEET UG 2026

Age Calculation Explained

According to the Graduate Medical Education Regulation-2023 Amendment dated 16 June 2023, candidates must have completed 17 years of age on or before 31 December of the examination year. This means:

• For NEET UG 2026, you should be born on or before 31 December 2009
• There is no maximum age limit as per NMC notification dated 09 March 2022
• This applies to all categories – General, EWS, OBC-NCL, SC, ST, and PwBD

How to verify: Check your Class 10 certificate or birth certificate for accurate date of birth. The same DOB will be used throughout the admission process, so ensure consistency across all documents.

Eligibility Criteria – NEET UG 2026

Subject Requirements

Important Notes for Eligibility:

• Candidates who studied Physics, Chemistry, Biology as additional subjects after passing Class 12 from recognized boards are now eligible as per NMC Public Notice dated 22 November 2023
• For BUMS course: Must have studied Urdu/Arabic/Persian in Class 10 or clear equivalent test
• For BSMS course: Must have studied Tamil in Class 10 or Higher Secondary or during First Professional year
• Foreign board candidates must ensure their qualification matches Indian 10+2 standard

Vacancy Details – Seat Distribution

NEET UG 2026 is conducted for admission to approximately 1,08,000+ MBBS seats and 27,000+ BDS seats across India in government and private medical/dental colleges. The exact vacancy details vary each year and are announced by respective counseling authorities.

Reservation Policy

Competition Insight: With over 20 lakh candidates appearing for NEET UG annually and limited seats available, the competition is extremely intense. Securing a government medical seat typically requires scoring above 600+ marks (for General category). State quotas have separate cutoffs based on domicile and category.

Selection Process – NEET UG 2026

The selection for MBBS/BDS and other undergraduate medical courses through NEET UG 2026 follows a multi-stage process:

Stage 1: Written Examination

The NEET UG 2026 examination is a pen-paper based objective test conducted offline on 03 May 2026. The exam consists of:

Marking Scheme

• Correct Answer: +4 marks
• Incorrect Answer: -1 mark (Negative marking)
• Unanswered: 0 marks

Stage 2: Qualifying Criteria

Stage 3: All India Rank (AIR) Declaration

NTA prepares the All India Merit List based on NEET UG 2026 scores. In case of tie-breaking, the following criteria are applied sequentially:

1. Higher marks in Biology (Botany + Zoology)
2. Higher marks in Chemistry
3. Higher marks in Physics
4. Lower ratio of incorrect to correct answers (all subjects)
5. Lower ratio of incorrect to correct answers in Biology
6. Lower ratio of incorrect to correct answers in Chemistry
7. Lower ratio of incorrect to correct answers in Physics
8. If still tied, random process with expert committee guidance

Stage 4: Counseling & Document Verification

Counseling is conducted separately by:

• MCC (Medical Counseling Committee): For 15% All India Quota, AIIMS, JIPMER, central universities, deemed universities
• State Counseling Authorities: For 85% state quota seats
• AACCC: For AYUSH courses (BAMS, BUMS, BSMS, BHMS)

During counseling, candidates must submit original documents for verification including mark sheets, category certificates, domicile proof, and identity proof.

Salary / Pay Scale – After MBBS/BDS

While NEET UG is an entrance examination and not a recruitment process, understanding potential career earnings helps candidates make informed decisions:

Starting Salary for MBBS Graduates

Government Medical Officer Pay Scale

BDS Graduate Salary

Career Growth: After MBBS, candidates can pursue MD/MS specialization which significantly increases earning potential. Specialists in fields like Cardiology, Neurology, Orthopedics earn ₹2-10 lakhs per month. Government doctors also enjoy benefits like pension, medical facilities, and job security.

How to Apply – NEET UG 2026 Step-by-Step Guide

The application process for NEET UG 2026 is completely online. Follow these steps carefully to ensure successful submission:

Step 1: Registration

1. Visit the official NEET UG website (check NTA website for link)
2. Click on “New Registration” for NEET UG 2026
3. Enter your basic details:
   • Name (as per Class 10 certificate)
   • Date of Birth
   • Mobile Number (your own or parent’s – will receive OTP)
   • Email ID (your own or parent’s – will receive OTP)
4. Create a strong password (8-13 characters with uppercase, lowercase, number, and special character)
5. Choose a security question and answer
6. Verify mobile number and email ID through OTP
7. Note down the Application Number generated – this is crucial for all future logins

Step 2: Login & Fill Personal Details

1. Login using your Application Number and Password
2. Fill in complete personal information:
   • Full name, Father’s name, Mother’s name
   • Gender, Category (Gen/EWS/OBC/SC/ST)
   • Nationality (Indian/NRI/OCI/Foreign)
   • PwBD status (if applicable)
   • Complete address (present and permanent)

Step 3: Identity Verification

Choose ONE mode of identity verification:

• Aadhaar Card (Recommended): Enter 12-digit Aadhaar number
• DigiLocker: Link your DigiLocker account
• Other IDs: PAN Card, Passport, Voter ID, etc. (requires additional document upload)

Note: Using Aadhaar is recommended as it avoids the need for additional document attestation.

Step 4: Disability Details (If Applicable)

• If you have benchmark disability (PwBD), enter UDID Card details
• Upload disability certificate
• Specify if you need a scribe
• Provide scribe details if using your own scribe

Step 5: Choose Exam Centers & Question Paper Medium

1. Select 3 exam city choices in order of preference (based on your permanent/present address state)
2. Choose question paper medium (13 options available):
   • English only
   • English + Hindi
   • English + Regional language (Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Odia, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, Urdu)

Important: Medium and exam city choices CANNOT be changed later (except during correction window).

Step 6: Educational Qualification Details

1. Enter Class 10 details:
   • Board name
   • Roll number
   • Passing year
   • Marks/percentage
2. Enter Class 12 details:
   • Board name
   • Select qualifying code (01 if appearing in 2026; 02-07 if passed)
   • Roll number
   • Passing year
   • Subjects studied
   • Marks/percentage

Step 7: Upload Documents

Upload scanned copies in specified format (JPG/JPEG/PDF):

Step 8: Capture Live Photograph

• Enable webcam/camera on your device
• Ensure good lighting and white background
• Face should be 80% visible including ears
• Remove mask and spectacles (unless medically required)
• Click and upload live photo

Step 9: Review & Preview

1. Carefully review all entered information
2. Check uploaded documents
3. Preview the complete application form
4. Make corrections if needed before proceeding to payment

Step 10: Fee Payment

1. Select your payment mode (Credit/Debit Card/Net Banking/UPI)
2. Enter payment details
3. Verify OTP received on registered email
4. Complete the transaction
5. Wait for confirmation page to generate

Step 11: Download Confirmation Page

• After successful payment, Confirmation Page will be generated automatically
• Download and save multiple copies
• Take printouts for your records
• This confirms your application is successfully submitted

Important Instructions for Candidates

NEET UG 2026 – Expert Tips & Success Strategies

Success in NEET requires strategic preparation beyond just hard work. Here are expert-backed tips to maximize your chances:

1. Start Application Process Early

Don’t wait until the last week to apply. Technical glitches, payment issues, and server overload are common near the deadline. Apply within the first 10 days after registration opens. This gives you buffer time to resolve any issues and also allows you to utilize the correction window if needed.

2. Document Preparation Before Application

Before starting your application, gather and verify all documents:

• Take fresh passport-size photographs with white background (after 01 Jan 2026)
• Scan all certificates in required format and size
• Keep Aadhaar details, Class 10 & 12 certificates ready
• Verify your date of birth across all documents for consistency
• If claiming category/PwBD benefits, ensure certificates are valid and from competent authority

3. Choose Exam Centers Wisely

Select exam cities strategically:

• First preference: Your home city or nearest city
• Second preference: Well-connected city within your state
• Third preference: Another accessible city in your state
• Visit potential exam centers beforehand if possible
• Check travel time, accommodation options, and accessibility

4. Medium Selection Strategy

Choose your question paper medium carefully:

• If comfortable with English, choose English only – it avoids translation ambiguities
• If you studied in regional language medium, choose bilingual option
• Practice previous papers in your chosen medium
• Remember: English version is final in case of translation discrepancies

5. Avoid Common Application Mistakes

These errors can cost you admission:

• Wrong category selection: OBC-NCL means Central List only, not state list
• Incorrect qualifying code: Use Code 01 if appearing in 2026; Code 02-07 if already passed
• Poor quality uploads: Blurry documents lead to rejection
• Different name spellings: Name should match exactly across all documents
• Using someone else’s credentials: Mobile/email should be yours or parents’ only

6. Smart Study Plan for NEET UG

7. Exam Day Success Tactics

• Time management: Allocate 90 minutes for Biology, 45 minutes each for Physics and Chemistry, keep 30 minutes for revision
• Attempt sequence: Start with Biology (highest marks), then your stronger subject between Physics/Chemistry
• Accuracy over speed: Due to negative marking (-1), avoid blind guessing. Attempt only when 80% sure
• Two-pass strategy: First pass – attempt questions you’re confident about; Second pass – tackle difficult questions
• OMR marking: Darken bubbles completely, avoid overwriting, maintain cleanliness

8. Resource Recommendations

Best Study Materials:

• NCERT Textbooks (Class 11 & 12) – Most important, read thoroughly 3+ times
• Previous 10 years NEET question papers
• Standard reference books: HC Verma (Physics), OP Tandon (Chemistry), Trueman’s Biology
• Quality test series for regular practice
• Avoid too many books – master limited quality resources

9. Stay Updated Throughout the Process

Create a tracking system:

• Bookmark official NTA NEET website and check weekly
• Subscribe to official updates (if available)
• Join reliable NEET preparation groups (verify information from official sources)
• Set reminders for important dates: application deadline, correction window, admit card release
• After results, track counseling websites regularly (MCC for AIQ, respective state counseling sites)

10. Mental Health & Motivation

• Take regular breaks – study in 50-minute blocks with 10-minute breaks
• Maintain healthy sleep schedule (7-8 hours)
• Practice meditation or yoga for stress management
• Stay connected with family and mentors
• Maintain realistic expectations – have backup plans ready
• Remember: NEET can be attempted multiple times with no upper age limit

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – NEET UG 2026

1. What is the last date to apply for NEET UG 2026?

The last date to submit online application is 08 March 2026 till 9:00 PM. However, fee payment is accepted till 11:50 PM on the same day. It’s recommended to apply at least 3-5 days before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues.

2. Can I apply for NEET UG 2026 if I’m appearing in Class 12 in 2026?

Yes, candidates appearing in Class 12 qualifying examination in 2026 are eligible to apply. You must select qualifying code 01 in the application form. However, admission will only be granted after you pass the qualifying examination before the first counseling round.

3. Is there any age limit for NEET UG 2026?

The minimum age requirement is 17 years as on 31 December 2009 (must be born on or before this date). There is no upper age limit as per NMC notification dated 09 March 2022. This applies to all categories.

4. What is the application fee for NEET UG 2026?

The fee varies by category: General/OBC – ₹1700; EWS/OBC-NCL – ₹1600; SC/ST/PwBD/Third Gender – ₹1000. For exam centers outside India, all categories pay ₹9500. Additional processing charges and 18% GST apply.

5. How many times can I attempt NEET UG?

There is no limit on the number of attempts for NEET UG. Since there’s no upper age limit, you can appear for the exam as many times as you wish until you qualify or secure admission.

6. What subjects are required for NEET UG 2026 eligibility?

You must have studied Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology (with practicals) and English in your 10+2 or equivalent examination. As per recent NMC guidelines, these subjects can also be studied as additional subjects after passing Class 12.

7. Can I change my exam center or question paper medium after submitting the application?

No, exam center cities and question paper medium cannot be changed once the application is submitted, except during the correction window (10-12 March 2026). Even during the correction window, only limited fields are editable, so choose carefully while filling the form.

8. What is the exam pattern for NEET UG 2026?

NEET UG 2026 is a pen-paper based offline exam with 180 compulsory MCQs for 720 marks. Subjects: Physics (45 questions, 180 marks), Chemistry (45 questions, 180 marks), Biology (90 questions, 360 marks). Duration: 3 hours. Marking: +4 for correct, -1 for incorrect.

9. What documents are required for NEET UG 2026 application?

Essential documents: Recent passport-size photograph (taken after 01 Jan 2026), signature, thumb impressions, Class 10 certificate and marksheet, Class 12 certificate (if passed), Aadhaar card or other valid ID proof, category certificate (if applicable), PwBD certificate (if applicable).

10. What is the qualifying percentile for NEET UG 2026?

Qualifying percentiles: General/EWS – 50th percentile; OBC/SC/ST – 40th percentile; PwBD (Gen/EWS) – 45th percentile; PwBD (OBC/SC/ST) – 40th percentile. Actual qualifying marks vary each year based on difficulty level.

11. Who conducts counseling for NEET UG 2026?

Counseling is conducted by multiple authorities: MCC-DGHS for 15% All India Quota, AIIMS, JIPMER, central universities, and deemed universities; State Counseling Authorities for 85% state quota seats; AACCC for AYUSH courses (BAMS, BUMS, BSMS, BHMS).

12. Can NRI/OCI/Foreign nationals apply for NEET UG 2026?

Yes, NRI, OCI cardholders, and foreign nationals are eligible to apply. They must pay ₹9500 application fee and provide valid documentary proof (passport, OCI card, embassy certificate). However, their eligibility for specific seats depends on respective state/institution rules.

13. Is negative marking applicable in NEET UG 2026?

Yes, there is negative marking. Each correct answer gives +4 marks, while each incorrect answer results in -1 mark. Unanswered questions get zero marks. Therefore, avoid random guessing and attempt only when reasonably confident.

14. What is the syllabus for NEET UG 2026?

The syllabus is based on Class 11 and 12 NCERT curriculum covering Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (Botany + Zoology). NMC has notified the detailed syllabus which is available on the official NEET website and NMC website. There is no change in syllabus compared to previous years.

15. When will NEET UG 2026 admit card be released?

The admit card release date will be announced later on the official NTA NEET website. Typically, admit cards are released 2-3 weeks before the exam date. Candidates can download it from the website using their application number and password. No admit card will be sent by post.

16. Can I submit more than one application for NEET UG 2026?

No, submitting multiple applications is strictly prohibited and will lead to cancellation of candidature. Each candidate can submit only ONE application. This is considered an unfair means practice and may result in debarment from NTA exams.

17. What happens if I make a mistake in my application form?

NTA provides a correction window (10-12 March 2026) where you can edit certain fields in your application. However, not all fields are editable. Fields like photograph, signature, and some critical details cannot be changed. Therefore, fill the form very carefully and verify all information before final submission.

18. Is there any reservation in NEET UG 2026?

Yes, for 15% All India Quota and central institutions, reservation policy is: SC – 15%, ST – 7.5%, OBC-NCL – 27%, EWS – 10%, and PwBD – 5% horizontal reservation. State quota seats follow respective state government reservation policies.

19. What is the expected salary after MBBS through NEET?

Starting salary for MBBS graduates in government service ranges from ₹60,000 to ₹80,000 per month with allowances. After specialization (MD/MS), salaries increase significantly to ₹1.5-5 lakhs per month depending on specialization and experience. Private practice can earn even higher income.

20. How can I check my NEET UG 2026 result?

Results will be declared on the official NTA NEET website. You can download your scorecard using your application number and password. The scorecard will contain your marks, percentile, All India Rank (AIR), and qualifying status. Save multiple copies for future counseling processes.