NEET 2025-26: NTA Releases New Guidelines

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially released the NEET UG 2025-26 notification on February 7, 2025, announcing key updates related to the exam pattern, application process, exam centres, and a revised tie-breaking policy.

If you're appearing for NEET 2025-26, it’s crucial to understand these updates to avoid any confusion and to streamline your preparation strategy.

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NEET 2025-26: Key Exam Details

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Major Changes in NEET Exam 2025-26

Here’s a summary of all the major updates introduced by NTA:

1. Revised Exam Pattern

• NEET 2025-26 returns to the pre-COVID format.

• Section B has been removed — all questions are compulsory.

• Exam duration reduced to 180 minutes from the previous 200 minutes.

2. APAAR ID Integration (Optional)

• APAAR: Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry.

• 12-digit ID to store academic data digitally.

• If entered, application form is auto-filled, saving time.

APAAR ID is optional but recommended for a smoother application process.

3. Updated Tie-Breaking Rules

If two or more students score the same marks, NTA follows these steps to decide ranking:

Tie-Breaking Criteria (in order):

1. Higher marks in Biology

2. Higher marks in Chemistry

3. Higher marks in Physics

4. Fewer incorrect answers overall

5. Fewer incorrect answers in Biology

6. Fewer incorrect answers in Chemistry

7. Fewer incorrect answers in Physics

8. New Rule: If still tied, a random draw will be done under expert committee supervision.

2024 vs 2025-26 Tie-Breaking Comparison:

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NEET 2025-26 Exam Centres Update

• Number of Indian cities reduced from 557 to 552.

• 5 cities removed from the list:

Changes in Application Process

Here’s what’s new in the NEET 2025-26 application:

What’s New?

• APAAR ID Integration: Optional; enables auto-fill.

• More Exam City Choices: Now select 3 preferred cities instead of 2.

• Class 11 Details Removed: Only Class 10 & 12 info required.

• Increase in Documents Required:

  • Class 10 Pass Certificate

  • Class 10 Mark Sheet

  • CGPA to Percentage Conversion Certificate (if applicable)

  • Identity Proof (other than Aadhaar/Digi Locker)

  • Present and Permanent Address Proof (if no Aadhaar)

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NEET 2025-26 FAQs

Q1. How many questions in NEET 2025-26?

Ans: 180 compulsory questions (no optional questions):

• Physics: 45

• Chemistry: 45

• Biology: 90
  Total = 720 marks

Q2. Is APAAR ID mandatory?

Ans: No. It’s optional but helps auto-fill your application.

Q3. What is the latest tie-breaking rule?

Ans: If scores remain tied even after 7 criteria, a random method under expert supervision will be used.

Q4. Is NEET 2025-26 online?

Ans: No. It remains pen-and-paper mode, one day, one shift.

Q5. Do I need Class 11 academic details?

Ans: No, only Class 10 & 12 details are needed.

Q6. What’s the new total exam duration?

Ans: 180 minutes (3 hours) – reduced from 200 minutes.

Q7. Has the exam format changed?

Ans: Yes, Section B removed; all 180 questions are now mandatory.

Q8. What documents need to be uploaded?

Ans: Minimum 5 documents, including:

• Class 10 Pass Certificate & Mark Sheet

• Identity Proof

• Address Proofs

• CGPA Conversion Certificate (if applicable)

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Final Thoughts

The NEET 2025-26 exam brings several important changes that can impact your preparation and application process. With revised pattern, new tie-breaking rules, APAAR integration, and changes in centre allocation, staying updated is more important than ever.

To ensure success:

• Plan your preparation according to the new pattern

• Fill the application form carefully, leveraging APAAR if possible

• Keep all required documents ready

• Practice full-length mocks within 180 minutes

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