NEET 2026

NEET UG (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test - Undergraduate) is the only entrance examination for undergraduate medical admissions in India. Conducted by the National Testing Agency on behalf of the National Medical Commission, it is the mandatory qualifying test for MBBS and BDS seats in every government, private and deemed institution in the country, including AIIMS and JIPMER, both of which were brought under NEET in 2020. With more than 22 lakh registrations each year, NEET is the largest entrance examination in India by candidate volume. The paper is held in pen-and-paper mode using OMR sheets and is offered in 13 languages, making it accessible across every state board curriculum. From the 2026 cycle the optional Section B format introduced in 2021 has been withdrawn on the recommendation of the National Medical Commission. Candidates now attempt all 180 questions in 180 minutes for 720 marks. Admission is handled through two channels: the Medical Counselling Committee runs the 15% All India Quota along with deemed, central and ESIC institutions, while the remaining 85% state quota seats are filled by the respective state counselling authorities.