NEET UG 2026 Exam Notification: Key Changes and Application Process

The NEET UG 2026 exam notification has been released, marking the start of the application process. Candidates must adhere to new guidelines, including mandatory Aadhaar-based e-KYC and live photo capture during application submission. The deadline for applications is March 8th. This year, the registration process is stricter to enhance examination integrity, addressing past issues of duplicate registrations and identity verification errors. Additionally, students should familiarize themselves with the syllabus, which is based on NCERT's 11th and 12th-grade curriculum. Stay informed about these crucial updates to ensure a smooth application experience.

By Ambika Singh Feb 11, 2026, 17:44 IST

NEET UG Exam Notification Released

The NEET UG examination notification has been officially announced. Candidates can now begin the application process by visiting the official site at neet.nta.nic.in. The deadline for submitting applications is March 8th. This year, the registration process is notably rigorous, with multiple identity verification steps to ensure fairness in the examination.

For NEET UG applications this year, Aadhaar-based e-KYC is mandatory. Candidates must ensure that the mobile number linked to their Aadhaar is active.

Live Photo Requirement for Application

NTA has emphasized that candidates must include a live photo in their application. It is crucial to check mobile network availability before starting the application, as OTP-based verification will be necessary. A significant update for the NEET UG 2026 application is the requirement for candidates to capture their photo in real-time while completing the form. The face in the photo should occupy about 80% of the frame.

Guidelines for Photo Upload

Candidates are advised against wearing caps, glasses, or goggles during the photo capture to ensure accurate matching with the Aadhaar database. Those without a webcam can use their mobile camera to upload photos by scanning a QR code.

Additionally, applicants must upload a passport-sized photo, a scanned signature, proof of address, and other necessary documents. Identity verification will be conducted by comparing the live photo with the Aadhaar record.

The NTA has stated that these new guidelines aim to improve the integrity of the examination process. Due to past issues with duplicate registrations, identity verification mistakes, and cheating, the application process has been tightened.

Stay Updated on the Syllabus

The NEET UG 2026 syllabus is primarily derived from the NCERT curriculum for 11th and 12th-grade Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. The exam will consist of 90 questions from Biology and 45 questions each from Physics and Chemistry, totaling 180 MCQs. Students should be aware that topics removed from the latest NCERT textbooks may still appear in the NEET UG exam, necessitating a review of both the new and old NCERT materials. Candidates are encouraged to refer to the official syllabus published by the NMC.