NEET-UG 2026: Your Single Entrance for Medical and Dental Courses

The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET-UG) is the most crucial examination for aspiring doctors, dentists, and practitioners of Indian medical systems. As India’s single largest medical entrance exam, it is the mandatory gateway for admission into MBBS, BDS, and various AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy) courses across the country.

NEET-UG Exam Overview (MBBS/BDS Admissions)

NEET-UG Exam Overview (MBBS/BDS Admissions)

To appear for the NEET-UG exam, candidates must meet specific academic and age requirements.

  • Educational Qualification: Candidates must have passed Class 12 (or equivalent) with Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, and English as core subjects.

  • Minimum Marks: Candidates must secure a minimum aggregate of 50% marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology/Biotechnology.

    • Relaxation: The minimum percentage is 40% for SC/ST/OBC candidates and 45% for PwBD candidates.

  • Age Limit: The candidate must have completed 17 years of age as of December 31st of the examination year.

  • Attempts: Currently, there is no fixed limit on the number of attempts for NEET-UG.

NEET-UG Exam Pattern & Marking Scheme

The NEET-UG pattern is standardized across the country, focusing on the curriculum of Class 11 and Class 12.

Format Note: Each subject section is typically divided into Section A (35 compulsory questions) and Section B (15 questions, where 10 must be attempted). This format allows candidates some choice within the paper.

Why NEET-UG is Essential for Medical Aspirants

The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test is the sole determinant for entry into nearly all medical and dental colleges in India, including:

  • AIIMS and JIPMER: Admissions to these premier institutions are now solely through the NEET-UG score.

  • 85% State Quota Seats: Seats in government and private medical colleges reserved under the state quota are filled using the NEET-UG All India Rank (AIR).

  • All India Quota (AIQ) Seats: 15% of the seats in government medical colleges across the country are filled based on the NEET-UG AIR.