If you’re preparing for NEET UG 2026 and wondering “How many attempts are allowed for NEET?” — here’s the good news: There is no limit on the number of NEET attempts. You can appear for NEET as many times as you wish, provided you meet the age and eligibility criteria.
Earlier, the upper age limit for NEET was 25 years (30 years for reserved categories), and the number of attempts was restricted. But now, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has removed any such cap, making NEET open for aspirants without restrictions on attempts.
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✅ NEET Attempt Limit – What’s the Latest Update?
As per the latest NTA guidelines and Ministry of Health notifications:
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NEET attempt limit: Unlimited
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Minimum age to appear: 17 years (as on or before 31st December 2025 for NEET 2026)
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Upper age limit: No age bar
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Number of attempts per year: One (since NEET UG is conducted once a year)
This update has been in place since December 2017 and continues for NEET 2026 as well.
NEET Attempts – Category-wise Guidelines
Here’s a quick look at how NEET attempt rules apply to different categories:
| Category | NEET Attempt Limit | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| General | Unlimited | Must fulfill minimum age (17 years) and educational qualifications |
| OBC | Unlimited | Same as General category |
| SC/ST | Unlimited | Same as General category |
| PwD | Unlimited | No age or attempt restriction |
So, whether you’re from the General, OBC, SC, ST, or PwD category — there’s no restriction on the number of times you can take the NEET exam.
Age Limit for NEET UG 2026
| Criteria | Age Limit |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 17 years as on or before 31st Dec 2025 |
| Maximum Age | No upper age limit |
Candidates who are at least 17 years old by the end of 2025 can apply for NEET 2026, even if they’ve taken gap years or attempted before.
Educational Qualification Required
To be eligible for NEET UG:
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You must have passed Class 12 or equivalent with Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology and English as core subjects.
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Candidates must score minimum qualifying marks in PCB as per their category.
NEET Minimum Qualifying Marks (Class 12):
| Category | Minimum Marks in PCB |
|---|---|
| General (UR) | 50% |
| OBC / SC / ST / PwD (Reserved) | 40% |
| General PwD | 45% |
NEET Attempt FAQs – Answered Clearly
Q1: How many attempts are allowed in NEET 2026?
There is no limit to the number of attempts in NEET for any category.
Q2: Can I give NEET multiple times?
Yes, you can appear for NEET multiple times, as long as you meet the age and academic eligibility.
Q3: Does skipping a year reduce my NEET attempts?
No. Since there is no limit, skipping a year doesn’t affect your chances.
Q4: Who decides NEET eligibility rules?
The National Testing Agency (NTA) frames the official eligibility guidelines, based on directions from the National Medical Commission (NMC) and Ministry of Health.
Q5: What is the required percentage in 12th for NEET eligibility?
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General: 50% in PCB
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OBC/SC/ST: 40% in PCB
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General-PwD: 45% in PCB
Final Thoughts: No Limit, No Pressure!
NEET UG is one of India’s toughest entrance exams, but with no limit on attempts, aspirants now have the freedom to prepare and reappear if needed — without added pressure. This is especially beneficial for droppers, gap-year students, or those restarting their journey after a break.
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