Every year, lakhs of students across India gear up for one of the most competitive exams in the country – the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) UG. If you’re dreaming of a career in medicine, dentistry, AYUSH, or allied health sciences, NEET UG is your gateway to top colleges like AIIMS, JIPMER, and state medical institutions.
Application Form, Dates, Fees, and Key Changes
Good news: The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially started the registration process for NEET UG 2026 today, February 8, 2026, With the exam scheduled for May 3, 2026, now is the perfect time to get your application right and avoid last-minute stress. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need – from important dates and eligibility to the new security features and step-by-step process. Let’s dive in and make your preparation journey smoother.
NEET UG 2026, Key Dates You Can’t Miss 📅
Timing is everything when it comes to competitive exams. Missing a deadline can cost you an entire year. Here’s a clear overview of the official schedule for NEET UG 2026:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | February 8, 2026 |
| Online Application Start | February 8, 2026 |
| Last Date to Submit Application | March 8, 2026 (up to 9:00 PM) |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | March 8, 2026 |
| Application Correction Window | March (exact dates to be announced soon) |
| Admit Card Release | Last week of April 2026 (tentative) |
| Exam Date | May 3, 2026 (Sunday) |
| Exam Timing | 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM (3 hours) |
| Result Declaration | First week of June 2026 (tentative) |
Keep checking the official website – neet.nta.nic.in – for any updates. Pro tip: Set reminders a week before deadlines
Who Can Apply? Eligibility Criteria for NEET UG 2026
Before you start filling the form, make sure you meet the basic requirements. NTA follows strict guidelines, and any mismatch can lead to disqualification.
Here are the key eligibility points:
- Age Limit: You must be at least 17 years old by December 31, 2026. There’s no upper age limit.
- Educational Qualification: Passed Class 12 (or equivalent) with Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, and English as core subjects.
- Minimum Marks:
- General category: 50% aggregate in PCB
- OBC/SC/ST: 40%
- PwD (General): 45%
- Appearing Students: Class 12 appearing candidates in 2026 are eligible, but must submit proof later.
- Nationality: Indian citizens, NRIs, OCIs, PIOs, and foreign nationals are eligible (with specific rules for foreign candidates).
- Number of Attempts: No limit – you can appear as many times as you want.
If you’re from an open board or NIOS, double-check your eligibility on the official bulletin.
What’s New in NEET UG 2026? Major Changes You Should Know
NTA is stepping up security measures this year to ensure fairness and prevent malpractices. These updates are designed to make the process more transparent.
Key changes include:
- Aadhaar-based eKYC (Mandatory): Your identity will be verified through Aadhaar authentication. Enter accurate Aadhaar details – any mismatch can block your application.
- Live Photo Capture: No more uploading old passport photos During submission, the system will capture a real-time photograph using your webcam/device camera. This live image is automatically compared with your Aadhaar photo for verification.
- If there’s a mismatch (due to appearance change), you’ll need to upload a supporting certificate.
- This eliminates fake applications and impersonation risks.
- Exam City & Medium Selection: Choices must match your permanent and correspondence address details. Random mismatches won’t be allowed anymore.
- Stricter Document Verification: Ensure your Aadhaar, category certificates, and PwD certificates are updated before applying.
These changes might feel a bit strict, but they’re for everyone’s benefit. Practice with your webcam beforehand to avoid technical glitches.
Application Fees for NEET UG 2026
Fees vary by category and exam centre location. Payment is online only (credit/debit card, net banking, UPI).
| Category | Fee in India (₹) | Fee Outside India (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| General | 1,700 | 9,500 |
| General-EWS/OBC-NCL | 1,600 | 9,500 |
| SC/ST/PwD/Third Gender | 1,000 | 9,500 |
Late fees apply if you miss the window, so pay on time.
Step-by-Step Guide How to Fill NEET UG 2026 Application Form
The process is completely online at neet.nta.nic.in. Follow these steps carefully:
- Registration:
- Visit neet.nta.nic.in and click on “New Registration”.
- Enter basic details like name, mobile number, email, and create a password.
- Note down your application number and security pin.
- Fill the Application Form:
- Log in and complete personal, academic, and contact details.
- Choose exam cities (up to 4 preferences) and medium of question paper.
- Upload Documents:
- Scanned signature and thumb impression.
- Class 10 certificate.
- Category/PwD certificate (if applicable).
- Live Photo Capture: Follow on-screen instructions for real-time capture.
- Aadhaar eKYC Verification:
- Authenticate using Aadhaar details.
- Pay the Fee:
- Select payment mode and complete transaction.
- Save the payment confirmation.
- Submit & Download:
- Review everything, submit, and download the confirmation page (take 4-5 printouts).
Common mistakes to avoid:
- Typing errors in name/DOB (must match Class 10 certificate)
- Poor quality scans
- Waiting till the last day (servers can get slow)
Documents Required for NEET UG 2026
Prepare these in advance (scanned in specified format/size):
- Recent passport-size photograph (live capture mandatory)
- Left-hand thumb impression
- Signature (on white paper with black pen)
- Class 10 passing certificate
- Class 12 mark sheet (if available)
- Valid ID proof (Aadhaar preferred)
- Category certificate (if applicable, latest format)
- PwD certificate (from designated centres)
File formats: JPG/PDF, sizes as per guidelines on the portal.
Quick Look at Exam Pattern
No major changes here:
- Mode: Pen-and-paper (OMR-based)
- Duration: 3 hours (180 minutes)
- Total Questions: 200 (attempt any 180)
- Sections: Physics (50), Chemistry (50), Biology (100)
- Marking: +4 for correct, -1 for wrong, 0 for unattempted
- Maximum Marks: 720
Focus on NCERT – it’s your best friend.
FAQs About NEET UG 2026 Registration
Q1: When does NEET 2026 registration start and end? Registration began on February 8, 2026, and closes on March 8, 2026.
Q2: Is Aadhaar card compulsory? Yes, Aadhaar-based eKYC is mandatory for most candidates. Alternatives are allowed only in specific cases (check bulletin).
Q3: Can I change my exam city later? Limited corrections are allowed during the correction window, but major changes aren’t guaranteed.
Q4: What if my live photo doesn’t match Aadhaar? Upload a certificate explaining the difference (e.g., recent haircut, glasses). NTA will review.
Q5: How many attempts are allowed? Unlimited – focus on quality preparation rather than counting attempts.
Q6: When will the syllabus be updated? The updated syllabus was released in January 2026. Download it from the official site.
Q7: Where can I get help if stuck? Use NTA helpline or email neet@nta.ac.in.