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NEET 2026 Complete Guidance
NEET 2026 Complete Guidance – Exam Pattern, Eligibility & Preparation
This NEET 2026 guidance page provides accurate, up-to-date, and student-safe information about the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET). It is designed for students and parents looking for clear understanding of the exam pattern, eligibility, syllabus overview, and career options.
What is NEET?
The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). It is the single entrance examination for admission to undergraduate medical and allied health science courses in India. The exam is based on the NCERT syllabus of Classes 11 and 12.
NEET is mandatory for admission to courses such as MBBS, BDS, AYUSH (BAMS, BHMS, BUMS, BSMS), B.Sc. Nursing, and other medical-related undergraduate programs in government, private, deemed, and central universities, including AIIMS and JIPMER. Additionally, NEET qualification is required for Indian students seeking to study medical courses abroad.
NEET 2026 Exam Pattern
NEET 2026 will be conducted in offline (OMR-based) mode. The exam evaluates a candidate’s understanding of Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Mode | Offline (OMR-based) |
| Duration | 3 Hours 20 Minutes |
| Total Questions | 200 |
| Maximum Questions to Attempt | 180 |
| Marking Scheme | +4 for correct, -1 for wrong |
| Maximum Marks | 720 |
*Important: Attempting 180 questions is NOT compulsory. Students may attempt fewer questions based on their confidence. Unattempted questions do not carry negative marking.
NEET 2026 Eligibility Criteria
- Candidates must have completed or be appearing for Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology/Biotechnology
- Minimum qualifying marks in PCB subjects as per category norms
- Indian Nationals, OCI, NRI, and foreign nationals are eligible as per regulations
- There is currently no upper age limit as per official guidelines
Courses for Which NEET is Required
- MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery)
- BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery)
- BAMS (Ayurveda)
- BHMS (Homeopathy)
- BUMS (Unani)
- BSMS (Siddha)
- BVSc & AH (Veterinary Science)
- B.Sc Nursing (through NEET in certain counselling processes)
*Course requirements may vary depending on counselling authority and academic year.
NEET 2026 Preparation Strategy
Class 11 Students
- Build strong fundamentals using NCERT textbooks
- Maintain a consistent daily study routine
- Begin basic MCQ practice early
Class 12 Students
- Balance board exam preparation with NEET syllabus
- Focus on revision and regular mock tests
- Improve accuracy and time management
Repeaters
Analyse previous performance and identify weak areas
- Follow a structured test-based preparation plan
- Avoid excessive study resources and focus on revision
